Ferrari 335 Sport wins the Peninsula Classics 2019 Best of the Best Award

February 2020

The rare combination of power, beauty and history that defines the 1958 Ferrari 335 Sport has been recognized with the Peninsula Classics 2019 Best of the Best Award. This award is “an accolade presented to the world’s most exceptional classic car.” It is chosen from an elite group of Best of Show winners from eight of the world’s major concours events. The task of choosing a winner falls to an equally elite panel of judges. Of the eight finalists, two were Paul Russell and Company restorations. Also vying for the top honor was the 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn-Kurier. A car that we restored sixteen years ago!

Accepting the award at the Paris gala was the owner, noted collector and friend of the shop Andreas Mohringer and his wife Friederike. We have been very fortunate to have worked with Andreas over the years on a number of exceptional projects. His commitment to preserving this, and many other, historically significant automobiles make him an especially worthy recipient.

The 335 Sport won Best of Show at the 2019 Cavallino Classic to become eligible for the honor. As a testament to its quality, the 335 Sport was also nominated last year after winning Best of Show at the 2018 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. A Best in Class win at its 2017 Pebble Beach debut round out a very gratifying stretch for this very special Ferrari.

We are extremely proud to acknowledge that this is our third “Best of the Best” award. The magnificent 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn-Kurier, which we restored in 2006, won the award in 2011 after winning the Concours d’Elegance of America. It was nominated for Best of the Best again this year after winning Best of Show at Amelia Island. While the perfectly proportioned 1956 Ferrari 166MM/195S Berlinetta Le Mans won the award for 2008 after winning Best of Show at Villa d’Este.

These awards are wonderful to receive, and thanks goes to a long list of talented craftsman and exceptional owners like Mr. Mohringer who make it possible for us to present our very best work.

A Gorgeous Week of Gorgeous Cars

August 2019

The 2019 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance was full of delights. The Thursday Tour d'Elegance was a day full of great driving with enthusiast crowds lining the roads. Friday afternoon's Forum entitled "A Bright Future for the Past: A Conversation with Tomorrow's Restorers", with Paul Russell, Dave Kinney and McPherson College automotive restoration students, was just one of the many excellent Forums added to the busy Monterey Week schedule. Saturday was a day for meeting vendors and prepping cars for Sunday's Concours d'Elegance.

One of the cars we supported was a very rare 1968 Howmet TX Coupe, a deafening turbine-engined LeMans race car. We had invited a retired Pratt & Whitney turbine engineer / Porsche race car mechanic to the shop for a "do no harm' recommission. It was deemed too wild to participate in the Tour, but the Concours crowds appreciated seeing and hearing it in action as it was driven up the ramp to receive the Chairman's Trophy.

A client’s 1939 Bugatti T57C Gangloff Stelvio was restored over 3 decades ago in California. We gave it a service and freshening spa treatment, and it was recognized with a Third in Class K-1: Bugatti Type 57s.

The oh-so-elegant 1938 Talbot-Lago T150C-SS Figoni & Falaschi Teardrop Cabriolet was the winner of the Gwenn Graham Most Elegant Convertible Award. This recent restoration placed First in Class J-1: European Classic Open, and ultimately was named one of four Best of Show Nominees.

50 cars. 8 car classes. Buckets of rain.

May 2019

An elite field of about 50 classic automobiles spread among 8 classes looked a bit more than damp at times during this year's Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este weekend. And yet, the participant and the cars enjoyed a great camaraderie as they met the challenge. As the past year's Best of Show winner, the wonderful 1958 Ferrari 335 Sport, n.0764, was invited to return for a special display. (Check out Remi Dargegen's articles on Classic Driver for great coverage of the whole weekend.)

The inaugural Tour along the shores of Lake Como started out with bright sunshine, and finished with a good test of suspension and brakes on the narrow streets and switchbacks along the lakeside villages and across the Swiss border. The car we were debuting, the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, was rewarded with a wipe-down that night, and a re-wax in the AM.

On the two show days (the Villa d'Este Concorso is followed the next day by an open show at Villa Erba, where the public gets to vote their preferences), it was a treat to see an old shop favorite: the 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta n.006M. It still looks spectacular after more than 20 years of concours events, road tours, and general enjoyment since our complete restoration. The judges agreed, granting it First in Class.

The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, n.2935GT, had a spectacular weekend. A great day of driving, followed by two days of admiration. This car, formerly owned by French actor Alain Delon, gained infamy when labelled the 'barn find' from the Baillon Collection at Artcurial’s 2015 Retromobile auction event. Following a complete and authentic restoration to its 1961 factory condition, it was awarded a First in Class.

Get Out and Drive

May 2019

Much is made of the Concours awards and accolades our great and historic restored cars receive - and deservedly so. Yet all dimensions of car collecting are important and rewarding. The driving experience adds so much to round out an owner's understanding of and appreciation for their classic. While an actual vintage track event may be beyond an owner's interest, there are a growing number of days-long road rallies being hosted both here and abroad. Local tours are being added on the traditional show field events, and other enthusiasts are organizing caravans leading up to an event.

The sound track, the smells, and even the dynamic image of the car is so different than the view on the lawn. There is great satisfaction in driving a good performing car while leading, or following, a companion classic along winding country roads. McKeel Hagerty from Hagerty Insurance recently hosted an event through some fondly-remembered driving roads of central California, inviting a wide-ranging mix of both concours and unrestored classics. The fall is the time for the perennial favorite Colorado Grand, with the New England 1000 and the 300SL Classic following close on its heels. Tours can be day long or week long, hosted by car clubs or private organizations, limited to a particular marque or era, or wide-open to all.

Ministering to the car collector scene across Florida

March 2019

The week began a day late, as Paul and senior technician Chris Hammond dealt with a winter weather flight delay. Arriving at the Revs Institute on Sunday evening, they just managed to get set-up for their presentations in the "Preserving the Future of the Past" program, discussing the processes and challenges encountered in the re-restoration of Miles Collier's historic 1951 Porsche 356SL in two modules and serving on a discussion panel in another.

After three thought provoking days at the 10th Biennial "Meaningful Car Symposium", Thursday began early, driving across Florida, and performing a pre-purchase inspection on behalf of a client along the way.

Friday morning was for meeting with the car transporters and the car owners, unloading the cars that had left our shop a few days earlier. This group included a historic Ferrari 250GT Interim Berlinetta, sent to our shop for service before Amelia and its return to the Simeone Museum for owner Luigi Chinetti Jr.

Also on the truck was the 1963 Aston Martin DB5 Convertible, debuted in 2016, and the 1937 Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster, debuted in 1995. Both cars had been back at our shop for freshening and service work in anticipation of the Amelia Island Concours weekend.

Both Friday and Saturday occupied Sales manager Alex Finigan and protégé Evan Clary surveying the available auction cars and the state of the market, and reporting back to clients.

Show day Sunday, cars start lining up before dawn awaiting access to the show field. This year we had the generous help of some students from the Auto Restoration program at McPherson College to escort and help present cars to the judges on the field. Paul was already off to his Judge's Meeting.

On the day of the Concours, the Collier Museum proudly presented the freshly restored Porsche 356SL. The red Aston Martin DB5 Convertible (pictured, above) won an Amelia Award. Two of our 'mature' restorations were top award recipients: the Mercedes-Benz 540K Special Roadster (on the right), was presented with the Chopard Timeless Excellence Award, and the 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn-Kurier (on the left), which we debuted in 2006, won Best of Show.

Lousy weather, great cars, great people.

January 2019

In spite of the pouring rain on Saturday, very few entrants declined to brave the elements at the 28th Cavallino Classic. Opening the weekend on Thursday, the 1958 Ferrari 335 Sport n.0764 was featured as one of three cars chosen for the restoration seminar. After an explanation of the development and history of the car, and the restoration process, the audience was invited to ask questions of their own about the car.

This year, event chairman John Barnes highlighted the big displacement V-12 sport racers from the late 1950s. All three of the surviving 335 Sports were center stage on the putting green at Cavallino.

Back in 2014, this extraordinary 335S participated in the track events and concorso at Cavallino, when it was awarded the Ferrari Spirit Cup. Since that time, the car has been completely and authentically restored to it’s Daytona winning livery, resulting in numerous Best of Show awards.

The 335 Sport of Andreas and Frederike Mohringer won a Platinum Award in their class. And then, among the Testa Rossas, TdFs, SWBs, Californias, Superamericas, etc, went on to be chosen for the "Best in Show" Cavallino Cup.

One Way We Give Back

November 2018

Our drivetrain specialist, Bob Lapane, had forty years of experience before joining our workshop in 2009. Over this past decade with us, he has taken on everything out of the ordinary having to do with transmissions, differentials and unique engine challenges.

Recently, Bob spent two days on the campus of McPherson College offering a hands-on group training session to current students. The focus was on rebuilding the differential of a 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300S, a car we assisted the school in acquiring as a future Pebble Beach Concours project. He also shared his vast store of knowledge with an overview on gears, bearings, and lubricants during two classroom sessions.

This is our second opportunity to pass forward some of our staff's specialized knowledge. Upholsterer Richard Barnes, named one of the "20 Top Restorers" in the October 2017 issue of Sports Car Market, gave an invaluable 2-day upholstery workshop at the school last fall, covering both pre-war and post-war materials, construction and restoration procedures. The McPherson College Automotive Restoration Bachelor's degree program covers the travel expenses, and we supply the paid staff. A rewarding experience for all involved.

Success at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours

August 2018

Two clients, three company members, and four cars - all participants in the Tour, and winners at this year's Concours d'Elegance.

Postwar Custom Citroën was one of the special classes, a marque we do not service. Then a long-term client asked us to support his endeavor to get three of his cars onto the field for this special event. It seems as though our efforts were appreciated, as all three of the Citroëns drove up onto the ramp for an award.

The lovely red 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Pinin Farina Cabriolet Series 1 was very well received when first debuted at the 2018 Cavallino Classic. On the field in Monterey, it was judged to be First in Class, amidst a very competitive group of Ferrari Grand Touring cars. The happy car owner is a returning entrant at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Eegance and, after receiving this award, was heard to say "...this never gets old!".

One of the "5 Top Performers at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance" per the Robb Report, they exclaimed:

"There were several gorgeous examples of Ferrari’s iconic 250 GT at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, but this car was stunning enough to win its class in the Ferrari Grand Touring category. The 250 GT Cabriolet, bodied by Pinin Farina, was Ferrari’s first convertible, with only about 30 “Series 1” models produced between 1957 and the end of 1962. They feature tubular steel frames and are powered by Ferrari’s 3-liter V-12. The example honored was first owned by wealthy playboy and amateur racer Porfirio Rubirosa, who was also the fifth ex-husband of Woolworth heiress Barbara Hutton."

335S wins Best of Show at Villa d'Este Concorso

May 2018

The jury has spoken, and awarded Andreas Mohringer's 1958 Ferrari 335 Sport the Best of Show honors at the 2018 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este.

Chassis 0764 won the inaugural 1959 SCCA National Championship at Daytona. The Scaglietti Spyder body is presented in the original NART blue.

The challenge for us while restoring this race car was to bring it to the show field representing its day of glory in exact detail and authentic character. When questioned as to why the number 12 was crooked and not aligned with the door opening, the answer was given that it was that way at Daytona. Lorenzo Ramaciotti, "King of Italian Design" and head of the Jury, was heard to say Only you guys would do that! Bravo!.

Cavallino Classic 27

January 2018

This year's Cavallino Classic again consisted of a fine range of events and attractions for the Ferrari enthusiast. In addition to track events, the symposia are becoming more popular. This year, Paul Russell was invited to speak on the evolution of Ferrari car badging, as used by the factory and by the multiple carrozzerie who constructed the coachwork.

At the Saturday Concours d'Elegance, we debuted a lovely red with black 1957 250 GT Series 1 Pinin Farina Cabriolet, n.0783GT. Following a recent comprehensive restoration at our workshop, the car received 100 points and was awarded a Platinum in its class, making it eligible for a Major Award. The PF was then selected by the Honorary Judges to receive their Cup, for the Most Deserving Ferrari.

Three of our older restoration projects were also participating in the fun. As part of the Cavallino Cover Cars celebration, the striking 1950 Mille Miglia winner, 166 MM/195S Berlinetta Le Mans, n.0026M, was on the field on Saturday. This authentic restoration was completed by us in 2007, going on to win multiple Best of Shows as well as participating in a return to the Mille Miglia. The cover car from Oct/Nov 2000 and a long-time shop favorite, the most elegant 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta, n.0006M, also joined the special display. Plus, we enjoyed seeing the unusual red with white 1967 365 GTS California Spyder, n.9935, awarded a Platinum during its debut in 2009.

Cavallino Magazine honors 0764

October 2017

Phil Hill has referred to the 335 S as “... a race driver’s dream, one of those points in a car’s development when both power and handling peak at the same time.” “...my all-time favorite Ferrari.” Ferrari historian Michael T. Lynch referred to this Ferrari 335 Sport as "one of the most significant Ferraris'".

The last of four 335 Ss built, it was commissioned by Chinetti Motors for the American market. 0764 was built with a more rigid frame, a more powerful engine, and the pontoon-fendered body by Scaglietti. Owner Alan Connell drove it for a very successful race season in 1959, including a 1st in the inaugural SCCA National race at Daytona.

Our commission from the car owner was to present 0764 as raced at Daytona in November 1959, in its original NART blue. Technical issues always exist in any restoration, but one of the biggest challenges for this project was how to ascertain the original shade of blue. Two people were a great help in making our final decision. Luigi Chinetti Jr. photographed the car at the New York Auto Show, as well as at its racing debut at Road America. David Seielstad saw the car in the early 60s in a shop in Gaithersburg, MD.

For more on the history of the 335 Sport and the role of 0764, we encourage you to get your hands on a copy of the August/September issue (#220) of Cavallino Magazine. The October/November issue (#221) includes a full array of wonderful salon photographs of the restored car by Peter Singhof, as illustrated by the great cover shot shown here.

67th Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

August 2017

We represented three of our client's with cars at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. A fresh restoration, a restored car returning after 10 years, and a low-mileage preservation project. All three cars participated in the Tour d'Elegance.

The 1958 Ferrari 335 Sport is a car which we have been supporting while the owner enjoyed track and field events. When it was decided to have the car restored, we started the extensive research on this rare pontoon-fendered Scaglietti Spyder. Our goal was to present it as raced at the inaugural SCCA National Championship race at Daytona, in its original NART blue. Chassis 0764, driven by first owner Alan Connell, won that 1959 race. In 2017, it was judged Best in the Ferrari Competition class.

As a special guest in the Ferrari 70th celebrations, the 1950 Mille Miglia winning Ferrari 166 MM Touring Berlinetta Le Mans was invited to return to the Concours. Freshly restored by us in 2007, it was the Mille Miglia Award winner that year, and went on to Best of Show at several other events. This year, it was judged Second in the very competitive Ferrari Major Race Winners class.

The third car we presented was one we have been involved with for decades. This lovely original 608 Ivory with red 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster was awarded First in the Postwar Preservation class.

Amelia Island Concours

March 2017

The success of the 2017 Amelia Island Concours was in no way dampened by the forecast of rain on Sunday. The organizers simply moved the Sunday schedule into Saturday, rather than forfeit a full day of events. Fortunately the weather on that day was perfect. [For the complete story, we recommend the excellent coverage from Sports Car Digest.]

We were supporting two cars at the event. The distinctive 1952 Ferrari 212 Europa Vignale Coupe (n.0267 EU), whose restoration we completed in 2014, was awarded First in Class.

And assisting one of our valued European clients, the historically exciting Maserati T60/61 'Camoradi' birdcage (n.2451), was honored with a special award as the most historically important Maserati. This "Streamliner" was raced by the Camoradi team at the 1960 Le Mans.

Our thanks to Massimo Delbò, who kindly shared his photos from the weekend.

26th Cavallino Classic

January 2017

The Cavallino Classic is a three day celebration of all things Ferrari. This year we debuted the 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder, chassis n.2903GT.

The comprehensive restoration of this car was completed last August. At that time, the owner was more interested in driving the car than in showing it at a concours event. He took it home, and thoroughly enjoyed putting 600 miles on the odometer. The handsome black with tan Cal Spyder "looked like a Ferrari dressed in a tuxedo" at the Saturday Concorso d'Eleganza. Chassis 2903GT was awarded a Platinum as well as the Excellence Cup, for Outstanding Restoration Quality and Challenge.

One special note of pride for our company: the Cal Spyder project was completed by a team of younger restorers. This new generation of restoration technicians, who view their craft as a profession, are an important element in the preservation of classic cars.

Another component of our weekend was as support staff for the Birdcage Maserati T60/61, chassis n.2451, for the track and concours events. Raced by the Camoradi team at the 1960 Le Mans, this "Streamliner" was a wonderful addition to the Classic Sports Sunday field at Mar-a-Lago, where Maserati was the featured marque. When awards were announced that evening, the Birdcage was honored with the Finest Competition Cup and the Maserati Best in Class. In classic racing style, the rainy weather was not a deterrent as Paul Russell borrowed a friend's rain gear to drive the open sports car to and from the event.

Our thanks to Peter Singhof, who kindly shared his photos from the weekend.

Delightful Distinctions in Monterey

August 2016

This year we brought 3 cars to the extravaganza that is Monterey, covering a wide range of character and interest: a thoroughly researched and freshly restored 1963 Aston Martin DB5 Convertible; the preserved, original, and fully functioning 1953 Ferrari 375MM Spyder; and an unrestored 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300S. These cars represent the broad collector car hobby: clients focused on cars for authentic restoration as well as cars demanding thoughtful preservation.

The annual road tour on Thursday was abbreviated, due to the threat from neighboring wild fires. Even in its shortened form, William Swanson delighted in driving his Aston Martin DB5 around the Carmel peninsula - convertible top down, of course.

On Friday, The Quail held court. This was the first year that one of our clients participated, choosing to enter their “as recently raced” Ferrari 375MM Spyder. While the judging is not as technical as the Pebble Beach Concours, the opinions are well-informed and knowledgeable, as the awards are adjudicated by the owners of the cars at the event. Andreas Mohringer was taken aback when his unrestored race car was awarded Best of Show, attesting that the car collector community appreciates the preservation of such a rare and important piece of history.

Saturday the McPherson College of Automotive Restoration unveiled a 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300S. It is part of the long range strategic plan for the students to use the 300S restoration as a multi-disciplinary teaching tool, to be presented at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours. Paul Russell, current Chair of the Advisory Board, believes it will give focus to the school's mission: to establish a true center of excellence for students who are serious about automotive restoration.

On Sunday, the Aston Martin DB5 was one of the many delights on the field for the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, there to be judged in a mixed group of Post War Touring cars. When purchased by our client, this car was beyond the point of preservation. With a well-researched approach, and with full support of our restoration philosophy from the car’s owners, the car was awarded a First in Class.

"Old cars need to be driven"

June 2016

If you have not yet discovered the website/podcast called CarsYeah, it is worthy of a visit (or two). Conceived and hosted by Mark Greene, CarsYeah consists of a series of interviews with inspiring automotive enthusiasts. Numbering over 500 to date, the interviewees range from the young to the old, from the great to the works-in-progress.

Our very own Alex Finigan talked with Mark about his early passions and how he and Paul built a business out of a simple philosophy: “Do something you love and you’ll never work a day in your life." Listen to Alex tell his own story at CarsYeah.

Motor City Mingle at St. John's Concours

June 2016

Long-time friend to the shop and avid automobile enthusiast Jean Jennings invites you to the dinner and fundraiser to be held in conjunction with the RM Auction at the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. John's. Should be great fun with Jean as MC and Detroit rocker Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels supplying the music.

This "Motor City Mingle" will benefit the JDRF, the only global diabetes foundation with a strategic plan to end type 1 diabetes. The event takes place on July 30 at The Inn at St. John’s in Plymouth, MI. Interested JDRF donors have the opportunity to bid on these exclusive packages regardless of attendance at the event or geographic location.

Items on offer include a High Performance Driving Package with two days of track instruction, a Super Bowl Package including 2 tickets to the 2017 game, and transportation plus lodging to enjoy 3 days of New York Fashion Week. Or, do you have a car you would like to donate? For more information, go to CONCOURSUSA.ORG.

Derek Bell drives the Porsche RS-60

May 2016

We admit it. We are huge fans of driver Derek Bell, of looking through the windscreen while traveling a famous race course and, most especially, of the sounds of a Porsche being put through its paces.

The excellent Revs Institute shared the following in a recent email: The Porsche 718 Is A Living Legacy

Porsche & Petrolicious asked if we could send our 1960 Porsche RS-60 Spyder to Sicily and have the famous Derek Bell drive the old Targa Florio race course. Talk about an opportunity too good to pass up.

Here is the video Petrolcious produced, enjoy!

Paul Russell receives Honorary Doctorate

April 2016

One of the early members of the National Advisory Board for Automotive Restoration at McPherson College, Paul Russell has served on the board for 12 years and as chairman for the last three years. He was instrumental in advocating to move automotive restoration to a four-year bachelor’s degree, helped to create a strong strategic plan for the program, and has hosted numerous events to benefit the college.

On April 30, McPherson College honored Paul Russell with an honorary Doctorate of Applied Arts in recognition of his contributions to the college, its automotive restoration program, and the collector car industry. “We’re most fortunate to have Paul involved at McPherson College,” said Amanda Gutierrez, vice president for historic automotive restoration at MC. “He demonstrates the highest standards in both his personal and professional endeavors and has a wealth of expertise that he contributes. Beyond that, he believes in the liberal arts and values the well-rounded education our students receive.”

Paul’s commitment to promoting restoration as a profession accommodates his hopes for the next generation of automotive craftsmen and connoisseurs. An award such as this not only honors the recipient, but also honors and raises the profile of an entire profession. I do feel like I am sharing this day with a whole cadre of really exceptional craftsmen, historians, patrons and others who have contributed to a successful endeavor with my name on the front door... I have been further supported by my incredible wife Barbara and our children Patrick and Kimberly, who have made their fair share of sacrifices in our life partnership.

The Revs Institute Newsletter

March 2016

We are not alone when we declare ourselves fans of the Revs Institute for Automotive Research. The good they are doing for the classic car hobby, through their archiving of automotive history for current and future scholars and connoisseurs, cannot be overstated. The Collier Collection consists of "the finest vintage automobiles, and an ever-expanding library of rare books, photographs, documents and ephemera which uniquely catalogues the evolution of automobile design and the industry's influence on modern culture".

In perfect alignment with their philosophy of sharing, they are offering a bit of history and beauty in their current series of Salon newsletters. The most recent, a story by John Lamm on the three Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantics, two of which we have had the honor to restore in our workshop, only makes us want more.

Good Work in Rwanda

February 2016

Richard Barnes, a long time employee in our upholstery department, recently returned from a very special trip to Rwanda. Over a ten day period he, along with his daughter and a handful of others, participated in an outreach program affiliated with the African New Life Church.

Though the group was small the results were not. With most paying for the trip out of their own funds, the money they raised went towards supporting the people of Rwanda. The team was able to supply food for 18 families for a month, deliver donated clothes and medical supplies (as well as a few soccer balls), help fund a women's skill center and day care, and sponsor three children to go to school for a year. Richard remains committed to buying three sewing machines for the next class of graduates, so they can make money to sustain themselves. He is also ensuring that a very grateful 14 year old girl - named Grace - has the chance to further her education.

If you would like to offer your thanks and support for Richard's efforts, please contact him via .

Cavallino Classic celebrates 25 years

January 2016

The Cavallino Classic 2016 celebrated its 25th gathering of Ferrari owners, enthusiasts, and spectacular cars. One of the highlights of this years event was a special display consisting of Best of Show winners from the prior Classics. We were very pleased that the current car owners of four of our previous winners brought their cars to sunny Florida: 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa (Scuderia Cup, 2014); 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 Alloy Berlinetta (Gran Turismo Cup, 2012); 1950 Ferrari 166 MM/ 195 S Berlinetta Le Mans (Scuderia Cup, 2008); 1949 Ferrari 166 MM Barchetta (Scuderia Cup, 2007 & 1999). Then on Classic Sports Sunday at Mar-a-Lago, the lovely 1950 Berlinetta Le Mans was awarded First in Class.

At the request of the organizers, Paul Russell did a presentation during the Thursday Symposium. There has been a great deal of interest in the 'barn-find' 1961 250 GT SWB California Spyder, one of the cars from the Baillion Collection. This was a wonderful opportunity to have a discussion about the points to consider when deciding whether a car is a preservation project, or a seemingly original car with a great patina that, upon closer inspection and further research, deserves to be returned to its original condition. Our thanks to George Carrick and Keith Bluemel for their contributions to the discussion and to Keith for sharing photos from the seminar.

Restoration Story Books for Sale

Winter 2015

Many of today’s top concours events include originality in their judging criteria. In preparation for presenting a restoration project at such an event, we assemble pertinent documents and images in support of our thought processes, offering historical context for the decisions taken during our authentic restorations. On the day of the show, these pages of research and references are assembled in a simple ring binder and shared with judges, car owners, and enthusiasts. On our website, those familiar with the Portfolio section will be aware that we often include a slide show of images illustrating the restoration process, and always share a slide show of the finished car.

It seemed to us that a logical next step would be to create a printed book containing all three of these components: The Research, The Restoration, and The Results. With the kind permission of the car owners, we can now offer two books we have recently completed: The Ferrari 212 Vignale Coupe No.0267 EU, and The Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa No.0724 TR. Available through the on-line book publisher Blurb, all ordering, printing, and delivery is handled by them. We will continue to put our emphasis on the preservation of these great cars, and publish more books only as time allows.

McPherson College Industry Award

November 2015

Paul Russell, current Chair of the Advisory Board, is especially proud to report that McPherson College Automotive Restoration was announced as Industry Supporter of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards 2015. The Industry Supporter award recognizes "the 'outside world' - in the form of companies, organizations, institutions or individuals whose core business lies away from the international historic car industry…". This year, International Historic Motoring Awards "paid tribute to the way America's McPherson College is educating the historic car preservers of the future with its innovative four-year Automotive Restoration degree program."

Amanda Gutierrez, Vice President for Automotive Restoration, said: "This is a wonderful recognition of everyone who has worked so hard to make the automotive restoration program a success – our campus community, alumni, advisory board and supporters. This is the international stage affirming the quality and value of what we've built during the last 40 years."

McPherson College Automotive Restoration was in fantastic company among the other finalists for the award. These included such well-known organizations as: Hagerty Insurance, Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations, Porsche Motorsports North America, and The Royal Automobile Club.

This award further recognizes the momentum of the program moving into a multi-year strategic plan to solidify the Automotive Restoration program at McPherson College as the center of excellence for students serious about automotive restoration. Part of that plan involves utilizing the restoration of a Pebble Beach eligible classic, such as a Mercedes-Benz 300S, to demonstrate the highest levels of restoration skills, time management, goal setting, budgeting, and teamwork. If you know of a good restoration candidate, please contact us!

Portfolio: 166 Spyder Corsa

November 2015

The 1948 166 Spyder Corsa, chassis 016 I, has been added to our Portfolio section. The first Ferrari to be raced in the US, and the first Ferrari to win a US race - driven by the great Briggs Cunningham. This historic Spyder was authentically restored on behalf of the renowned Revs Institute Collier Collection. Pictured here during the Cunningham Gathering held during the 2013 Historic Festival at Lime Rock Park (CT).

Lime Rock Historic Celebrates M-B Competition Cars

September 2015

The Sunday in the Park Concours d’Elegance, held during Historic Festival 33 at Lime Rock Park (CT) this Labor Day weekend, was an amazing lineup of Mercedes-Benz competition cars, presided over by driving greats Jochen Mass and Stirling Moss. Our portfolio of work was well represented, as some of the show winners consisted of former restoration and current preservation clients.

The dramatic 1930 'Count Trossi' SSK (center picture), a restoration we completed in 1993, was awarded Best of Show.

The authentically restored 1939 W154 'Silver Arrow' (race number 6, above), debuted on the Lime Rock track in 2009, won First in the special feature class.

True to the philosophy of The Revs Institute and Miles Collier, that proper preservation and public education includes exercise and demonstration, the 1939 Mercedes W154 GP car was given some spirited runs around the track during the weekend’s historic racing activities, piloted by the great F1 and Le Mans veteran Jochen Mass.

Also on hand were two 300SL Roadsters, which we preserve in running condition for their owners. One Roadster won the Preservation class, and the other (shown above) won the 300SL class.

A Study in Contrasts at Pebble Beach

August 2015

Fresh from our workshop, following a cosmetic body and upholstery restoration, we brought Ferrari’s first production long wheelbase (LWB) 250 GT California Spyder, chassis number 0919GT. This Scaglietti body was fitted with covered headlights, and a number of features unique to the first Californias. After the Tour d’Elegance, followed by Friday’s day of coastal cruising, and then looking quite elegant on the show field, the owners and crew were well pleased with its 2nd place result amongst a very strong class (M-1: Ferrari Grand Touring).

The other Ferrari we brought to Monterey was an unrestored “barn-find”, the 1961 short wheelbase (SWB) California Spyder from the Baillion Collection. This car was one of a hundred or so classic European cars tucked away for decades on a farm in France. Some of the cars from this collection will require significant resources to bring them back to life. This car is no exception.

Before the event we performed a mechanical recommissioning, offering the new owners the option to drive it on the Tour. There was a lot of talk on the day as to whether an old, unrestored, dusty car has any right to be on the Pebble Beach show field. The public clearly enjoyed this study in contrasts.

A meaningful award from Villa d’Este

May 2015

The historic Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza has been held since 1929 at one of Italy’s most elegant locations on Lake Como. It is comprised of a very select field of 50 classic and 10 current concept cars. This year the weather was as gorgeous as the cars on display over the Saturday and Sunday events.

The owners of a 1952 Ferrari 212 Europa Vignale Coupe, debuted last fall following our authentic restoration, were very pleased to be invited to participate in the 2015 Concorso. Two generations were in attendance as the car received a stream of well-deserved compliments and applause from the viewing public.

The Jury was also very impressed with the car, deeming it worthy of the Trofeo BMW Group Classic award for the “most sensitive restoration”. Sensitive Restoration is a way of recognizing the attention paid to authentic detail while utilizing the methods and materials of the original builders. Our congratulations to the father and son team who supported our efforts all through this challenging project.

To restore, or not to restore

March 2015

At the Revs Institute Connoisseurship and the Collectible Car symposium in Naples (FL), Paul Russell was invited to speak to the concept of informed research when considering the philosophy of a restoration. Specifically, regarding the extremely rare 1942 Mercedes-Benz 540K Spezial Aktion Panzer-Limousinen recently added to the host's collection. Joining Paul for this discussion was Michael Shanks, an archaeologist at Stanford University (CA). Michael offers his summation of their conversation on his all things archeological blog. Wide-reaching and thought provoking, history's ruin - the case of an automobile covers many of the issues that anyone who is dedicated to preserving fine automobiles struggles with every day.

Amelia Island Concours

March 2015

This year, the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance celebrated Mercedes-Benz Sports Cars in addition to honoring Sir Sterling Moss and the 60th Anniversary of his Mille Miglia win. The 1939 Mercedes-Benz W154 GP 'Silver Arrow', which we had restored a few years ago for the Collier Collection, was one among the many wondrous race cars on special display.

Two of our current projects, one a full restoration and the other a preservation undertaking, were on the Concours field for judging. The Figoni & Falaschi custom design on the 1939 Delahaye 135 MS Torpedo Grand Sport was deemed to be the Most Elegant French Coachwork. And the extremely rare and original mid-engine 1965 Ferrari Dino 166P/206P placed First in the 1960-1990 race car class.

Cavallino Classic "375"

January 2015

For the Ferrari enthusiast, the Cavallino Classic continues to impress. We were responsible for four Ferraris during the event: two authentically restored and two authentically preserved. For Paul and the owner of the 375 MM Spyder n.0382, the long weekend started with their participation in a 375 symposium for the Cavallino Classic Lecture Series. Chassis no.0382 had, rather notoriously, been stored for decades before our client purchased it. We are proud to be recommissioning this authentic example of a pedigreed racer for a client who values originality while demanding that the car continue to be race-ready. At the Saturday Concorso, n.0382 was awarded the 375 Cup.

This client’s philosophy is also evident in his custodianship of the 1965 166/206 P Dino. We recently rebuilt the ignition system and the transaxle (which included a great deal of custom machine work) after they had failed during Bahamas Speed Week. At Cavallino the owner was thrilled to take it to the track on Friday for some warm weather testing. Then on Saturday the Dino was awarded a Platinum in the Preservation Class along with the Scuderia Ferrari Cup for Best of Show, Competition. A wonderful result for this 1965 World Hillclimb Champion.

Our two restored cars well represented the other side of the collector hobby during the Saturday Concorso. The Belgian ENB 1958 Le Mans 250 TR was awarded a Platinum along with the Competizione Cup for finest track/racing Ferrari. The subtly striking black with green 212 Europa Vignale Coupe was awarded a hard-won Platinum, and also won the Excellence Award in its class at the Classic Sports Sunday at Mar-a-Lago.

Also on Sunday, the 1939 Delahaye 135MS Torpedo Grand Sport (class winner at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours) joined the Ferrari weekend, and won its class Excellence Award and the Most Elegant Convertible award.

Fall Festivals

October 2014

This fall we have been excited to attend some local car shows. While most of our clients live outside the New England area, Paul received permission to share a few of these great cars with the public. The Historic Festival at Lime Rock Park is always a great way to spend the weekend. While last year we participated in the track events with the 1948 Ferrari 166 SC, this year we joined the Sunday in the Park Concours with a lovely 1956 silver/blue Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. Larz Anderson Auto Museum, home to America’s Oldest Car Collection, hosts a series of marque-themed Lawn Events on their extensive grounds over summer weekends. We displayed the extremely rare (and preserved, not restored) 1958 Ferrari 335 S race car for all to enjoy at the Tutto Italiano day. Late September, we took a Pebble Beach winning, bright-red, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing to display at The Boston Cup, held on historic Boston Common, where Paul was honored to present the Restoration Award to the owners of a 1964 Porsche Carrera.

Further afield, the 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa n.0724 was invited by Ferrari to participate in their celebration of 60 years in the USA. The “Race Through the Decades 1954-2014” event displayed 60 historic cars along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Black tie dinner and charity fundraiser aside, the extraordinary collection of cars were on view for all to see.

Pebble Beach Tour & Concours d'Elegance

August 2014

By all accounts, this year’s Monterey Week was action-packed. After a flurry of activity in our shop to get all the cars ready, the days in California were relatively calm. On Thursday, the three cars entered in the Concours were driven by their owners on the Tour d’Elegance around the Monterey peninsula, and a grand time was had by all. [Pictured top to bottom: 1952 Ferrari 212 Europa Vignale Coupe; 1939 Delahaye 135MS Torpedo Grand Sport; 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa Scaglietti.]

With no breakdowns or damage during the 85-mile drive, the cars needed only a simple clean and detail to be ready for the show field on Sunday. Amongst a very strong class of twenty Testa Rossas, the yellow with red stripe, 1958 Le Mans race car was awarded Second. The exceptionally elegant metallic green with black 212 was overshadowed by the Best of Show Ferrari 375MM in the same class. The handsome and unusual Figoni & Falschi Delahaye Torpedo Grand Sport was awarded First in its class.

Yes, we do Ferraris

August 2014

Our crew proudly gathers around an assembly of unique and beautiful cars prior to their debut at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Clockwise from top: 1939 Delahaye 135 MS Torpedo Grand Sport; 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa; 1958 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa; 1952 Ferrari 212 Europa Vignale Coupe. With the exception of the 166SC, first shown at the 2013 Lime Rock Historic Festival, the other three are recently completed restorations.

A Terrific Trio at Amelia Island

March 2014

Another wonderful weekend at the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. We brought three cars to the event, shown here in the early morning. The 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa won an Amelia Award in the Ferrari Racing class. The 1958 Ferrari 335 S Scaglietti Spyder was awarded the McIntosh Trophy for "the best sounding car on the field". Read more about these two cars in our Cavallino Classic 23 news (January 2014). And the "most elegant" 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S 'Saoutchik' Torpedo Roadster was awarded the Mercedes-Benz Star of Excellence.

Best Ferraris at Cavallino Classic 23

January 2014

The 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa continues to impress. Originally owned by Briggs Cunningham, chassis 016-I was the first Ferrari to win a race in the U.S. We were commissioned by the Collier Collection to bring it back to its 1950 Watkins Glen race configuration. At the Cavallino Classic Concorso event on Saturday, the team of judges viewed the field with a critical eye to authenticity, and decreed the 166SC to be the Competition Ferrari Best of Show. Additional honor was bestowed when the judges awarded the 166SC the Chief Judge Emeritus Cup, for the "best restoration in authenticity and research" on the field.

We were also excited to assist with the very rare 1958 Ferrari 335 S Scaglietti Spyder, the same model that clinched the world sports car championship in Argentina. Chassis 0764 was ordered by Luigi Chinetti and displayed at the NY Auto Show before a notable racing career at Road America, Watkins Glen, Midlands Texas, etc. Earlier this month our client entrusted us to give the car a look-over before purchase, and a quick race-prep before this weekend. As delighted as he was when presented with the Competition Ferrari Best of Show at the Mar-a-Lago Classic Sports Sunday, he was especially gratified by the Cavallino Ferrari Spirit Cup. To decide this award, the judges put emphasis on the car and driver's performance on the track Friday, the car's history, and its presence on the lawn Saturday.

First in Class at St. Michaels Concours d'Elegance

September 2013

While we are known mostly for our restoration work, we are equally proud of the cars we preserve. Honoring the patina of a classic car is a path that we feel should be seriously considered when possible. Shown here is a wonderfully original 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. Unrestored but properly maintained by us, and repainted due only to minor body damage, this is simply a great car.

Frank and Beverly Spellman have been enjoying the use of this car for decades, both at concours events and on road rallies, usually fully accessorized. Most recently, they showed it at the St. Michaels Concours d'Elegance on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland. Dr. Spellman writes "We won best in 'Post War Open Sports Cars' class … Put the original whitewalls on for the event." We think the old girl looks spectacular.

Best of Show at Lime Rock Historic Festival

September 2013

The 2013 Historic Festival at Lime Rock Park in CT was excellent. Even though the weather was frequently threatening, it could not dampen the spirited three days of on-track vintage racing, a Cunningham Gathering, plus the Sunday in the Park Concours.

This year we brought two cars whose restoration completion was specifically targeted for this event: a 1952 Cunningham C-3 and the 1948 Briggs Cunningham Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa to be debuted at the Concours. The C-3 was one of many C-3s grouped together for the Marque feature, and the historic 166SC won Best of Show at the Sunday Concours. More importantly it was the first time that the Collier Collection saw the finished 166SC after a two year restoration. Our mandate was to bring this car, the first Ferrari to win a race in the U.S., back to its precise 1950 Watkins Glen configuration. They were more than pleased with the results.

The Ferrari was displayed with the other four cars the Collier Collection brought to the event from Naples, FL. A truly great outing for all participants, celebrating multiple aspects of the collector car hobby.

A New Journey for the Saoutchik

August 2013

For the past 35 years, one of our constant doctrines has been an insistence on quality, for the craftsmanship and for the cars, and on behalf of our clients. We have never advocated that the restoration of a classic should be done solely for monetary return, and truly believe that the ultimate reward for an owner is in the pursuit of their personal passion. That being said, we acknowledge that many of our former restorations have set record prices at auction.

The 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S 'Saoutchik' Torpedo Roadster is a great example of a spectacular car, with an acknowledged 'perfect' restoration, and owners who love the sport and hobby of classic cars. Our entire team enjoyed collaborating with the Andrews family during the extensive research and rebuilding process, which led to Best of Show at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in 2012. With an eye to new automotive experiences, the Andrews family decided to include the Saoutchik in the 2013 RM Auction at Monterey. Auction houses play a unique role in the current collectible car market, creating a world-wide interest in and competition for the great cars. We wish the new owners many miles of happy motoring.

We Celebrate our 35th Year!

June 2013

Gullwing Service Company (now DBA Paul Russell and Company) was incorporated on June 1, 1978. By the fall of that first year we already had a full workload, specializing in the mechanical restoration of 1950s Mercedes-Benz in our three-bay garage in Topsfield, MA (shown here). By 1983 we had outgrown those premises and that limited specialty, and moved to our current workshop in Essex, MA. Since then our physical plant, range of services, and variety of marques have all grown far beyond Paul's original expectations. More...

Atlantic adds to Best of Show honors

May 2013

Ralph Lauren's 1938 Bugatti T57SC Atlantic Coupe swept the podium at Villa d'Este this weekend. Awarded People's and Children's Choice by popular vote at Villa Erba, and the Coppa d'Oro at the Villa d'Este Concorso, it went on to be awarded Best of Show for the weekend. We are honored that Mr. Lauren still enjoys displaying our restoration craftsmanship 23 years after the Atlantic won Best of Show at the Pebble Beach Concours in 1990. More...

Excellence at McPherson College

May 2013

The Paul Russell Award for Excellence was presented to TAYLOR ADAMS during McPherson College's Celebration and Awards Convocation on May 3. In recognition of "outstanding commitment to the preservation of automotive craftsmanship, history, and technology", this monetary award is a tangible result of the fundraiser held November 2012 [see News Archives] for McPherson's Automotive Restoration degree program. Our thanks again to all the generous sponsors, attendees, and donors who helped make this award possible.

Power the Future at McPherson

April 2013

McPherson College staff and senior auto restoration student Casey Maxon visited with car collectors, restoration specialists, and others in the collector car industry while at the Amelia Island Concours d' Elegance. These enthusiasts shared their passion for classic cars and the growing importance of involving the next generation in the endeavor. This well produced video includes alumni and friends of McPherson College from Mercedes-Benz USA, Hagerty Insurance, and our own Paul Russell - recently appointed chair of the National Advisory Board for the McPherson College automotive restoration program.More...

Connoisseurship and the Collectible Car

March 2013

The 7th Biennial Symposium on Connoisseurship and the Collectible Car, hosted by the Revs Institute for Automotive Research, is now behind us and was another provocative, educational, and inspiring four-day event. This is the third of the seven symposia in which we have been invited to be a member of the faculty - an honor and a privilege. This year marked a significant presence of Stanford University students and faculty, as the Revs Institute takes a foothold in the university curriculum, and fulfills Miles Collier's vision of incorporating the historical, cultural, and technological significance of the automobile into the entire curriculum at Stanford and beyond.More...

Storytelling at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum

March 2013

Our very own Drivetrain Specialist, Bob Lapane, will be one of the guest speakers at the first ever MotorMouth: Insider Series, "an evening of fascinating tales from those who have made careers out of their love of the automobile". At the Larz Anderson Auto Museum in Brookline, MA on Thursday, March 21st. For tickets and more information click here.

Cavallino Classic XXII

January 2013

We sent a truckload of cars to the Palm Beach area for this important South Florida weekend. There were no scheduling conflicts with the Scottsdale weekend this year, but there was a conflict for Ferrari racing fans who wanted to attend the Ferrari Challenge N.A. event at Daytona International Speedway. More...

Scottsdale Auction Results

January 2013

Alex Finigan, our Sales and Brokerage expert, attended the 2013 Scottsdale Auctions on behalf of three different clients. Continuing a long and complimentary relationship with Gooding & Company, Alex represented the owner of the 1959 Porsche RSK which sold for a new world record price of $3.135M, including the 10% buyer's premium.More...

Saoutchik Roadster is Restoration of the Year

December 2012

Latest News from the International Historic Motoring Awards:

"Restoration of the Year was won by the ‘Avant-Garde Torpedo Roadster’ the 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S with coachbuilt body by Jacques Saoutchik. Following a meticulous restoration by Paul Russell and Company, which saw members of the restoration team travel from the USA to Germany to see two similar Saoutchik-bodied cars that still had their original lizard skin interiors, this car took the Best of Show award at the 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.More...

Funds Raised for McPherson College

November 2012

Paul Russell and Company was pleased to host a fundraiser on Saturday, November 3, 2012, for the benefit of the McPherson College Automotive Restoration Program. The centerpiece of the event was a celebration of our 2012 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Best of Show winner, the 1928 Mercedes-Benz 680S Saoutchik Torpedo Roadster. With the support of our generous sponsors, we were able to present a check to Amanda Gutierrez, McPherson College vice president for automotive restoration, for almost $60,000.More...

To learn more about the McPherson Auto Restoration Program, visit www.mcpherson.edu/autorestoration.

Cavallino Classic XXI

January 2012

The 2012 Cavallino Classic was a sunny showcase of important Ferraris both with and without racing lineage. The field offered up something to admire for every sort of Ferrari enthusiast, from the rugged 1963 GTO to the refined elegance of a 1951 212 Export Spyder Vignale. It was a beautiful day to be a Ferrari admirer. We presented two cars, one a fresh restoration and the other a preservation project. Both cars did very well, as they received 2 class awards and 3 major awards. Our sincere thanks and congratulations go to both of our enthusiastic and committed car owners. More...

Autobahn-Kurier wins Louis Vuitton Classic Concours Award

April 2011

The magnificent 1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Autobahn-Kurier, which we completely restored in 2006, has been awarded the coveted Louis Vuitton Classic Concours Award for 2011. Only those cars that have won Best of Show at a major concours event during the year are considered. A jury of specialists decide the winner, based upon the elegance and refinement of the interior and exterior coachwork, the mechanical beauty, the appropriateness of form and function, as well as the authenticity, historical importance, and rarity.More...