About Walter Dawydiak
Walter Dawydiak is a San Francisco–based entrepreneur and the president of Cars Dawydiak, Inc., a luxury, exotic, and vintage automobile dealership and body shop he founded in 1982. What began as a single rented taxi stall south of Market has grown into a respected multi-location business serving clients across San Francisco and Marin. For more than four decades, Dawydiak has built his reputation around precision work, long-term relationships, and a deep understanding of high-end European vehicles.
Cars Dawydiak specializes in the sale, restoration, and collision repair of marques such as Porsche, Ferrari, Bentley, Maserati, Lamborghini, Range Rover, and Jaguar. The company is particularly known for iSales of vintage Porsche models, including early 911s and the 356, as well as classic Jaguars from the pre-E-Type era. Its restoration and repair philosophy centers on authenticity, with an emphasis on returning vehicles to original condition—even down to the smallest factory details. That approach has earned the company industry recognition, including being named one of San Francisco’s top auto repair shops by SFGATE in 2025.
Dawydiak remains actively involved in the business while gradually transitioning day-to-day sales leadership to a trusted team that has been in place since 2022. Alongside his automotive work, he has expanded into commercial real estate in San Francisco, continuing to invest in the local community that has supported his business for decades.
Walter Dawydiak: Giving Back to the Community
Dawydiak’s approach to leadership extends beyond the shop floor. He is known for supporting his employees in practical, often personal ways—whether helping with housing costs, covering unexpected expenses, or stepping in during difficult moments. He also takes an interest in bringing younger people into the skilled trades, helping to create pathways into careers that are often overlooked.
Outside of business, Dawydiak supports several nonprofit organizations, including Brady Therapeutic Riding, Challenged Athletes Foundation, and One More Tree Foundation, with a focus on programs that benefit children, families, and local communities. He is also a regular volunteer, contributing time as well as financial support.
Walter Dawydiak: Personal Life
Walter Dawydiak’s background reflects a mix of Ukrainian and Swiss heritage, with a family history that spans public service, journalism, and education. His mother co-founded and chaired the City College of San Francisco School of Nursing, and earlier generations were involved in diplomatic, religious, and publishing work. These influences shaped a practical, service-oriented outlook that continues to guide both his business and personal life.
He is the father of two daughters and spends his time outside of work mountain biking, road cycling, trail running, and training large-breed dogs. Across both his professional and personal pursuits, Dawydiak maintains a consistent focus on discipline, craftsmanship, and long-term commitment—values that have defined his career from the beginning.