THE DRIVER
Name- Laura Padovano
Age- 28
Affiliation- Labyrinth904
Hometown- St. Augustine, FL
Occupation- Social Media & Marketing
The Future Track Car
VEHICLE SPECS
Year/Make/Model: 03 Nissan 350z
What engine is in the car? VQ35DE (6cyl, 3.5L)
Engine modifications and/or power adders? Cold Air Intake
Horsepower and torque: 228hp & 246tq
Cooling setup: Mishimoto Radiator
Transmission: 6-speed Manual/Rear Wheel Drive
Front and rear axle: Stock
Suspension - Tein Coilovers
Brake setup: Stock
Wheels & Tires, brands and sizes: Kumho Ecsta 200 tw with Enkei TS-10
Aero: APR Carbon Fiber Wing
Extras: Short Shifter
Full Q&A with Laura
What do you do for a living?
I own a social media and marketing company, primarily working with small businesses and entrepreneurs in North Florida.
What got you into cars?
A handful of people throughout my life have fueled my interest, but I have to credit my youth leader Ted for my love for cars. Ted was my youth leader through most of high school. He was a veteran, a mail worker, and a man of many interests, but his retirement plan was a blueberry farm. Occasionally he'd talk about cars and racing, but it wasn't until I got a job on his blueberry farm that I saw just a few of his many American-mades. From beautiful classics to rusty project cars, there was always something out there with a great story behind it. Ted's passion for his favorite American-mades definitely sparked my interest in cars.
What makes a car car show worthy?
Originality
Have you ever entered into any car show contests?
Last spring, I entered my 350z into the Girl Power Car Show in Jacksonville and won Best Import Coupe! It was a great experience, and I met so many women with some really unique builds!
Do you have any racing experience?
I do not have any prior racing experience, but I am currently prepping my 350z for the track in the new year!
What's your ultimate goal when it comes to driving?
My current goal is to push myself outside of my comfort zone and dive into something new. I also want to show other people, especially women, that through local tracks, like The FIRM, the track experience and driving instruction are accessible!
What driving plans do you have for 2023?
I plan to track my ’03 Nissan 350z and debut my ‘95 Nissan 240sx in its first show.
What is Labyrinth904?
Labyrinth904 is a St. Augustine-based car community. We host car meets, track days, cruises, and other events for car enthusiasts across North Florida. Our events are staffed by our members who volunteer their time because they are passionate about the local car scene. We partner with local business owners, artists, photographers, and other talented creatives to create unique events and experiences in a safe environment.
How did Labyrinth904 start?
It started in our driveway with a group of friends who bonded over cars, music, and food. My husband and I would have one or two friends over to detail the cars and have dinner. That quickly turned into 3 or 4 people, then half a dozen people or more. We hosted a few cruises, friends would invite friends, and we'd end up with a dozen or more people cruising down A1A or through the Ocala National Forest. After a few cruises, we partnered with a local coffee shop to host Friday night meets; the rest is history. We've partnered with local businesses to host car meets and events in Palatka, Keystone Heights, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine.