Car Talk with Manoj Lulla! Ft. #ferrari488pista #mercedes #amg #sls #gwagon #ferrari

Introduction

In a recent episode of NV Drives, Nishman had the pleasure of interviewing Manoj Lulla, an enthusiastic entrepreneur and actor with a passion for automobiles. Their conversation took place in Lulla's personal space where an impressive car collection was on display, showcasing his journey through the automotive world.

Early Beginnings

Manoj’s love for cars ignited at the tender age of three, when his father gifted him his very first toy car. It was this early interaction that sparked a lifelong fascination with automobiles. Recalling his childhood, Manoj shared a memory from fourth grade when a visiting guru prompted the children to express their aspirations. While many of his peers aimed to become cricketers or business magnates, young Manoj boldly declared, "I want to have 50 cars."

First Driving Experiences

At just 11 years old, Manoj began learning to drive on a Padmini, aided by a cushion for better visibility. He later tried driving an Ambassador. He humorously noted that his kids today would likely struggle with the manual transmission used in such cars, as automatic gearboxes have increasingly become the norm.

First Car Purchase

His first car purchase was a Maruti Zen Diesel, which he selected primarily for its fuel efficiency as he had recently faced financial difficulties. The Zen represented a shift from the more basic Maruti 800, offering more features and comfort.

Encountering Supercars

Manoj recounted driving a Ferrari 328 GTS at the age of 18, an unforgettable experience that was rare for someone from his background at the time. This early encounter laid the groundwork for a deep appreciation of performance vehicles.

Progression to Premium Cars

After several years, his journey led him to purchase a Skoda Octavia vRS, followed by a 911 manual model in 2005. This 911, which he bought second-hand, left a significant impression on him, particularly its driving dynamics and sound.

Manoj's first supercar was a Porsche 911 Turbo, which he purchased for its outstanding performance that bested its competitors. He mentioned how, over the years, his preferences changed from merely seeking speed to appreciating the driving experience at lower speeds, cultivating a deeper connection with vehicles.

An Impressive Ferrari Collection

Manoj also shared stories of his experience with Ferraris, specifically how he acquired a fully specced Ferrari 430 that stood out as one of only a few in the country. However, he faced challenges with service because Ferrari's dealership support for older models was lacking.

After the 430, he acquired a stunning Ferrari 488 Pista, which he was able to uniquely specify to stand out from other models. The striking color scheme, reminiscent of the French flag, coupled with tasteful interior choices, showcases Manoj’s keen eye for aesthetics.

Love for the G-Wagon

Among his collection are two Mercedes G-Wagons, each customized to reflect different aspects of his personality. The matte black G-Wagon exudes a commanding presence, while the olive green variant pays homage to a cherished childhood memory. Both vehicles demonstrate his ability to blend practicality and style.

Future Aspirations

Manoj expressed an interest in acquiring a Porsche GT3 RS in the near future, aiming to deepen his engagement with track experiences despite challenges posed by the current road conditions in Chennai.

Dream Cars

When discussing his dream cars, he shared his admiration for the Pagani and Ferrari SP3 as exemplars of automotive artistry. He articulated his desire not just for performance but for a deep, emotional connection to the craftsmanship behind the vehicle.

Advice for Young Enthusiasts

To those entering the automotive arena, Manoj emphasized the importance of fostering a genuine passion for cars beyond the surface-level allure of modern technology. He encouraged diving deeper into the car’s history and connections to appreciate the true essence of automotive culture.

Ultimately, this engaging dialogue revealed not just Manoj’s journey into the world of cars but also a nuanced perspective on car culture that balances performance with personal connection.

Keyword

• Manoj Lulla
• Car Enthusiast
• Maruti Zen Diesel
• Ferrari 488 Pista
• Porsche 911 Turbo
• Mercedes G-Wagon
• Automotive Journey
• Supercars
• Passion for Cars

FAQ

Who is Manoj Lulla?
Manoj Lulla is an entrepreneur and actor known for his deep enthusiasm for automobiles, particularly luxury and performance cars.

What was Manoj's first car?
His first car was a Maruti Zen Diesel, chosen for its fuel efficiency during a financially challenging time.

What age did Manoj drive a Ferrari for the first time?
Manoj first drove a Ferrari 328 GTS at the age of 18.

Which Ferrari model does he currently own?
He owns a uniquely specified Ferrari 488 Pista, which is known for its distinctive color and design.

What advice does Manoj give to young automotive enthusiasts?
He encourages them to foster genuine passion for cars by learning about automotive history and embracing the driving experience.