Museum director Bruce Ward greeted me and walked me over to the museum.
Bruce: Anything in particular you're interested in?
Me: Quattroportes.
Bruce: There are a few in storage.
Me: May I see them?
Bruce: Sure!
We walked over to a nearby warehouse. It's the MOTHER LODE!!!
This deep blue Mexico without any brightwork caught my eye. It is so raw and unapologetic.
This Sebring was pretty badass too.
The first of many Quattroportes is on the left. It was at this point that Doug Magnon, the man behind the collection, introduced himself and proudly showed off his barn and eBay finds. The example on the right ended up providing a cornucopia of parts. Oh, and watch your step.
QP I badge.
QP I roof.
QP I interior.
I've just seen the tip of a titanic iceberg.
Two Indys.
Two Sebrings.
A few other exoticas were in the mix, like this 1950s AC.
Not registered since 1962?!
One of many QP IIIs. One of these belonged to David "Kung Fu" Carradine.
Sitting in the burgundy QP III. The black car is a Kyalami (which was never sold in the U.S.). Beyond that is a special QP I.
That QP III weight limit did not have 21st century Americanos in mind.
I see a strange compact. Is it a Fiat? A Toyota? I climb into the "driver's side" of the RHD car and see this. An Isuzu 117 Coupe!
That's a fancy steering wheel for a Japanese car.
The Isuzu looks solid and complete.
I have no idea what this is.
Aforementioned Kyalami.
Once restoration is completed on this QP I, it will be the oldest QP on the road-- in the galaxy. Maserati hardtops have even numbered VINs. This is #12, which would make it the sixth QP ever made.
The interior is almost finished.
Sticker from another QP III.
Deconstructed Khamsin.
Doug regularly takes this QP III on long road trips.
Here is the museum. The fact that I neglected to take a picture of the Jaguar XJ220 speaks volumes as to the incredible inventory on display.
This Frua Quattroporte is the highlight. It was regularly driven by the King of Spain. Bruce even showed me the tear on the driver's seat cushion caused by His Highness' toosh.
To the side of the museum, cars are being restored and maintained.
After I was done with the museum, I asked for permission to go back to the storage warehouse. I had to see those cars again!
Thank you Doug and Bruce.
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