The real deal for car buyers

23 October 2012 - 21:38 By Edwin Naidu
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Car dealer Mark White with a poster of a funky Nissan Juke in the background
Car dealer Mark White with a poster of a funky Nissan Juke in the background

The owner of one of the most successful Nissan dealerships in the country, Mark White began life on the road in a much-loved, iconic car brand that is making a comeback after its demise 31 years ago.

Many satisfied customers swear by the caring and professional service received at Mark White Nissan in Fourways. Friendly and always willing to go the extra mile, White and his team often get referrals from the bigwigs at the Japanese car manufacturer's head office in Pretoria.

What was your first car?

Datsun 1200.

How did you get it?

My boss gave it to me as I did not have a driver's licence and it was the cheapest vehicle on the shop floor.

What did it cost?

R800.

How long did you have it?

Six months.

What attracted you to it in the first place?

It was free.

What was the most surprising thing about your car?

It went like hell for a 1200.

Tell us about your first big accident?

I drove into the back of a car coming off the Rivonia Road off-ramp. It was not a pretty sight.

You're driving down the Cote d'Azur in a Ferrari Daytona - who would be your dream passenger?

My eight-year-old granddaughter who just loves fast cars.

What's your ultimate driving destination?

It would have to be Monte Carlo.

What's your dream car and why?

The Nissan GTR, because it's a great performance car.

As a well-known car dealer and industry expert, have you found anything on the market that you simply could not resist?

The industry keeps on producing great vehicles. There are a lot of great cars out there, so it is too hard to choose.

Making peoples' car dreams come true is a passion for you. What drives you?

Henry Ford once said there's never a dull moment in the motor industry. I find that to be true in my life, too.

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