A Celebration of Porsche Passion

It's no myth that half of all of Porsche's U.S. sales are generated in Southern California. Porsches are as common on the road today as sport-utility vehicles. And because of the very hospitable climate, many of the cars that last sat in a dealership showroom 30 or even 40 years ago are still in wonderful condition. They may no longer be daily drivers, but they occupy a cherished spot in someone's garage and see daylight for special events.

Art on Wheels
The Dunkel Bros. Annual Porsche Show & Swap is one such occasion. The host of the show, a company that transports and warehouses heavy equipment for other firms, has several owners who share a serious passion for all things Porsche. The sixth annual event held earlier this year paid tribute to the Spyder, and featured elaborate displays around the company's 15-acre facility. The show has become an institution among Porsche enthusiasts (aka "Porschefiles") as the Dunkel Bros. staff and its many volunteers have developed a well-respected reputation for their style. In years past, a 356 hung perilously from a tree on the company grounds. GT2s were perched at sharp angles at last year's show. This year, a pair of beautiful 356s sat on a section of roof visible throughout the Anaheim, CA neighborhood. Of course, moving heavy equipment is what the Dunkels do best, so the crowd was certain that each vehicle was securely attached.

Vintage Rules
In fact, 356 Type A, B and C were on display throughout the grounds. Vintage Porsches indeed ruled the day, as did many other rare models. A number of well known racecars including 917s, 962s, 550 Spyders, 935s, 911 RSRs, 904s, 906s and 910s were all part of an extensive exhibit of vehicles. The Dunkels were intent on organizing vehicles by model, year and in some cases, exclusivity, and attendees were treated to some superb examples of the marque, more than 650 in all. Guests parked their own Porsches in lots surrounding the company grounds. This was almost as impressive as the sites (and sights) within the exhibit area.


Inside, the company's showroom was fashioned into a Porsche automotive museum to rival Stuttgart, as priceless vehicles were available for respectful viewing. Although this event has no affiliation with, nor approval of Porsche AG or Porsche Cars North America, it was safe to assume that both organizations were involved, with rare Porsche memorabilia also part of the exhibit.

Shop and Swap
While these items weren't available for sale, it wouldn't be a car show without a corresponding swap meet, and as this aspect was a part of the event's marquee, fans weren't disappointed. There were several acres of parts, paperwork, die-cast collectibles and other memorabilia. All available for the right price. A supermarket of performance, and those doing the shopping weren't disappointed. Even various models of severely hurt Porsches were available for sale to the discriminating buyer. Need a fender that might cost a lot more from a dealer? It's priced right at the swap meet, but just comes with a totaled car. Posters, 912 owners' manuals, 911 Turbo mouse pads; everything was there for the buying. Few went home empty-handed.