Jamal
About me
Hello, my name is Jamal and I am one of those people who is attracted to anything that moves fast with a sound of an engine, either in the air or on the road. Since childhood, building complex mechanical concepts with Legos and transitioning that into two-wheels and then four as the age allowed, the passion grew. This landed me in the universe of French, Italian and then German automotive worlds. Years back, I had an opportunity to rebuild and outfit my BMW’s engine after the twin turbos failed. One thing leading to another and seeking more power delivery out of a well-balanced drive train and chassis, I stepped into the world of the Zuffenhausen district manufacturing.
With the acquisition of the first TechArt flavored Porsche 987, whom we called a “Black Monster” due to its track setup, my wife Sarah and I began our adventures with Autocross and Social Fun drive events. Being members of Golden Gate PCA Chapter, our circle of friends grew, hence the taste for more precision and capabilities during great driving events. This led us owning a tuned-up 718 Cayman S, and a 992 Carrera 4S Cabriolet. Maybe one of these days just for fun, we will try to measure the speeds of my take off with a yoke (Vy, as Vx will be slower), and the wife behind the steering wheel?
A common question that I get asked is, which is your favorite Porsche between the 718 and 992, and my answer is very simple. Its not about the engine displacement and type or number of gears in the transmission. It is about ….The purpose of the mission. If we are thinking of autocross sessions or doing some twisties on a mountainous ride, then 718 takes the trophy. But if there are some straight stretches, the 911 is a better choice due to its wider wheelbase. But both cars are magical in their own strengths and colors.
Do you have a favorite driver?
I do. It's the person that makes me feel safe and relaxed on any type of drive. It's my wife Sarah. Knowing that Sarah can drive a semi for a bit without stressing out, that nails it. Also, a driver that can be like your wingman who harmonizes with any coordinated maneuver. Safety comes before fun no matter how you look at it. And of course, as we do more and more team drive events, that trust and know-how builds up, and you slowly have your perfect entourage.
Are you currently working on a car project?
If this question is asked among my friends, they will say that it is a silly question for Jamal. I guess that is because I always do! Having a lift in my garage, makes it as a must. But maybe we leave this question for another full episode on “what could be done to a Porsche to make it shine again?” (roar and power included!) …..or even an electric powertrain.
Is there a local auto shop you recommend?
There are a few shops that I work with if something is outside of my domain or a consultation\brainstorm is needed. But the Stevens Creek Porsche Team are my go-to guys when I need a set of parts or have questions outside of Workshop manual.
What has been your favorite drive so far?
To be honest, the best drive or even drives are all about the community. Putting our minds together during planning sessions for the season, we always bring scenery and variation to the route patterns. But it's more about the people and what we do at the destination. Picnics with large tables full of people with big smiles are the best.
Do you have any tips for those looking to get into driving and/car event?
The first thing I mention is more of a recommendation: grow into your car. Don’t go full throttle with the baddest GT3 just because you can. These are fast machines and very capable but they also have safety envelopes that are mastered only with practice, and practice takes time. Start slow and steady, and work up. No need to break the bank for 600HP from the get-go, anyway, you can’t use it outside the track legally. Its more about fun and balance. But then maybe sign it later with a Track Event and five-point harness.
What would you like to see the GGR club do?
It would be great to do cross-chapter events, where we canintermix with other members, maybe even outside the state? Meet in the middle and bring some good foods to share?
Would you be willing to participate in a future Porsche events?
With no hesitation…time permitting of course.
How many Porsches do you own?
Currently, I own two. A 718 and a 992 both of them have their own great aspects.
Member of a car club other than GGR?
I was a member of a BMW and Land Rover clubs.
Can people follow you on Instagram or Facebook?
Although I'm not on social media as Instagram or Facebook, I participate on online forums. However, the best place to connect with me is at drive events in person. Did I mention that I like to talk in details about anything mechanical.
Can people reach out to you for a driving tips if they are in your area?
Of course, not only that, but even for tech\repair tips…..the door is always open.
Is there something your GGR members who may be reading this may not know about you? (car related)
Humm? Not sure, I think my energy and enthusiasm for cars is quite obvious when you meet me in person. There are always fun stories I love to share and sometimes I’m even more geeky than I should be…LoL. From a professional perspective, I work for a Data Storage and Management company. Things that we build are what corporations and consumers use on daily basis. Anything from your email mailboxes to DreamWorks movies. I am also a pilot, a passion that I had since my childhood. A freedom in the air (at 10,000ft) is unbeatable.
For the Porsche enthusiast, can you share any tips from any or all of your Porsche?
Maintenance is the key for a healthy machine. Please don’t skip things that need to be done on time. Also, Porsches are built with Aluminum cylinder sleeves (plated\coated…etc) it is very important to use a good and engine specific oil. Flush all liquids based on designated intervals, yes, even brake lines…. And please don’t run them on idle in the months that you don’t drive them. If you need to winterize it, do it correctly.
Any Porsche stories you want to share?
Both of my current Porsches have been given a second chance through thorough rebuilds. Interestingly enough, they perform better in some cases than the new ones. Stepping through cars’ components after some mileage, you discover few things that get loose and need some TLC.
Probably the dearest story to my heart is in 1987 when I saw a beautiful 911 review on a French channel M6. The sound of that car was engraved in my brain. The commentator said that the car had a bad radio deck, but there wasn’t truly a need for it as the engine sang beautifully. He was so right!
Any future driving or event plans? (drive, events, etc)
Of course, we keep our GGR chapter busy. There are so many adventures and new routes for us to explore.
When you are done with a long day driving event and get to cafe, what do you order?
Everything looks so delicious from the places that we select as “pit stops”. I try to not overstuff myself as we usually have a drive home… Anything from a good salad to a medium done steak usually hits the spot. Plus, Sarah and I love to share the food…so we get to enjoy a variety of whatever is out there.
Doughnuts, Cupcake, or Cookie?