ASK PAUL

When Paul Brian was 15 years old, he asked a question that would fashion a great deal of the rest of his life. The question was, "Sir, I really don't understand what your team seems to be doing--could you explain it for me?" The answer came from a man who was willing to take the time to answer the inquiry of a young man with a genuine interest in racing and cars. The answer came from automotive legend Carroll Shelby sitting on the pit wall of the 1966 Sebring 12-Hour race. From that day on, Paul and Shelby became friends and Shelby's stature as a business and racing icon helped Paul Brian through the rest of his life--even to today.

"I'll never forget that day and what it meant to me," said Paul. "I suppose that's why, when people started writing and calling with their questions about what type of vehicle they should buy, I felt a responsibility to help them through the process. The natural outgrowth of that was the "Ask Paul" feature that we now have on DriveChicago.com. I don't profess to know the correct answer, nor even think that there's a single best answer to the question of what a customer should or shouldn't buy, but I know enough to help them down the path of making a sound, sensible decision."

Over the past 11 years, Paul has guided countless callers on his Drive Chicago radio show, as well. The show, heard weekly at 8 a.m. on WLS AM890 in Chicago, is an audible version of what you'll find in print and online.

"There's a great deal of satisfaction I get when I hear back from someone who has asked for my advice and acted on it with favorable results," said Brian. "The absolute best is when they write to let me know that it's their second time looking for advice because the first time was so successful. I love that!"

Featured Question

Q. Hi Paul Brian, I was at the Chicago Auto show in February and the Nissan GTR really grabbed my attention. I need your opinion about what think is better, a Porsche or GTR?

A. Wow, Diana... that's a tough one! I guess you'd have to be more specific with which Porsche versus the GTR. I saw the Nissan for the first time in November at the Los Angeles show and thought it was hot, and the performance level appears to be commensurate with its looks, but come on... you're testing my Porsche loyalties here, aren't you?! I like the fresh look of the GTR, but there's a classic beauty in the 911 series that's timeless and makes it look like it's going 100 mph when it's parked. I haven't driven the Nissan, but those who have speak in terms that border on religious adoration! Here's the tough part, though: There aren't going to be many GTRs in the States, so if you want one be prepared to pay well over sticker for it-and make sure you write to me to take me for a ride, ok?!