Fast Times with Patrick Dempsey

Whether in front of the camera or driving a race car, the actor makes everything look easy. We talked to the man formerly known as McDreamy about his role in Michael Mann's forthcoming Ferrari movie, embracing stoicism, and becoming an eyewear designer.

- KEVIN SINTUMUANG

IMAGINE THIS: IN YOUR EARLY 20S, YOU'RE ALREADY ONE OF AMERICA'S biggest heartthrobs. By your late 30s, you are America's biggest heartthrob. Then you decide to try your hand at being a race-car driver and land on the podium at Le Mans, one of the world's most grueling endurance races. Next you become co-owner of a racing team. Now you're 57, still racing a bit, and you just landed a role in Michael Mann's forthcoming Ferrari movie, because, oh yeah, you're still an incredibly handsome actor. That's Patrick Dempsey. We caught up with him from his home in Maine to find out how he keeps his charmed life in balance.

Esquire: Early in your career, after the movie Can't Buy Me Love, you did the thing that I wish most people would do with their first big payday: You bought a sick vintage car-a 1963 Porsche 356 Cabriolet instead of a new one off a lot.

Patrick Dempsey: I didn't see a lot of exotic cars growing up. Every now and then, you'd see stuff in Maine in the summertime. It wasn't until I got to L. A. that I was absolutely blown away: "Oh my God. People actually buy these cars and they're on the road?" I couldn't believe it. I saw the 356 with a FOR SALE sign. It was the best investment I ever made. But I love my Porsche tractor, too. It's got a great sound to it.

ESQ: I didn't know Porsche made tractors! And now you're collaborating with Porsche Design on glasses. Let's talk about that.