FYI: Discover an extraordinary collection of classic cars hidden in an old grocery store in Lansing, Michigan, curated by automotive legend Paul Gentilozzi.
Hidden Automotive Treasures in an Old Grocery Store
When thinking about barn finds, one might instantly picture fields, farms, and barns filled with classic gems. However, automotive legend Paul Gentilozzi has turned this notion on its head by revealing an impressive collection of iconic cars hidden in an old grocery store in Lansing, Michigan. Despite straying from the typical barn location, this hidden cache is an automotive wonderland.
A Secret Stash Revealed
Paul Gentilozzi, a former Trans Am and IMSA driver and Daytona 24 Hours winner, showcases his remarkable collection in a recent video from Hagerty. An old grocery store, repurposed into a treasure trove for car enthusiasts, houses some astonishing finds that are as eye-catching as they are historically significant.
Classic Cars in Pristine Condition
Gentilozzi’s collection is unparalleled, featuring vehicles that have stood the test of time in both condition and legacy. Among the crown jewels of this collection:
- 1978 Plymouth Arrow C Gas Pro Stock Car: This pristine gem was raced in 1978 and remains in its original condition, complete with a small block Chrysler 360 engine.
- 1969 Oldsmobile 442 W-30: Sporting its original paint and interior, this classic only has 28,000 miles on it.
- 1968 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28: This model, the only orange one made that year, features a dealer-installed Hurst shifter and retains its original dazzling paint.
- 1964 Corvette: This vehicle, tied to Corvette lore through a former Chevrolet engineer, stands as a testament to automotive history.
More Hidden Gems
But the surprises don’t end there. The collection also includes an array of other remarkable vehicles, each with its own unique story:
- 1938 Chevrolet Deluxe: Boasting a hand-painted woodgrain dashboard, this car remains a work of art.
- 1950 Ford Convertible: Equipped with a Flathead V8 engine, this completely original convertible is a rare survivor.
- 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 Convertible: This muscle car, featuring a bench seat and column shift, is incredibly rare.
- Neiman Marcus 1963 Corvette Stingray: Maintained by the eccentric Harry Neiman, this Corvette retains its original paint and interior.
- 1969 Chevrolet Nova Straight Six: Acquired from its 85-year-old original owner, this Nova is impeccably preserved.
- 1969 Oldsmobile Hurst/Olds 442: Standing as one of the finest Hurst/Olds in existence with unique features such as original shifters and exhaust.
- 1968 Ford Torino GT: This untouched vintage racer still has factory chalk marks visible under the hood.
- 1980s Jaguar XJS Trans Am Race Car: Notable for being the last homologation Jaguar to race at Le Mans, this car has a rich racing history with Gentilozzi.
The Significance of Preservation
While these vehicles are undeniably stunning, Gentilozzi’s collection represents more than just a display of cars. Each vehicle encapsulates a piece of racing history, from rare models to legendary race cars. It is a fascinating dive into a hidden world of automotive treasures, all preserved under the fluorescent lights of an old supermarket.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
In conclusion, Gentilozzi’s collection offers a unique and captivating glimpse into the annals of automotive history. Each car is a testament to the extensive, meticulous effort put into preserving these icons, making this hidden stash a must-see for any car enthusiast.
