First Car at 8, Ferrari Dealer at 30: Colleen Sheehan's BMW Story
About this episode
Colleen Sheehan shares her unique automotive journey, starting with her first car, a 1930 BMW, gifted to her at age eight. Now a Ferrari dealer specializing in Enzo-era models, she discusses her dealership, Next Generation Classics, and her passion for classic cars. Colleen highlights the intricacies of car restoration, the thrill of driving vintage vehicles, and the challenges of sourcing parts. With insights into the automotive industry and her eclectic collection, including a Lancia Delta Integrale, this episode is packed with nostalgia and expertise.
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Learning manual transmission is nerve-wracking. Learning it the day before driving your first car across the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance podium at age 11? That's how classic car dealer Colleen Sheehan started.
Her first car was a 1930 BMW—nicknamed "Sputter"—that her father took as commission when a collection buyer said, "I don't care about that car." Colleen got it at age 8. At 11, she earned 3rd in class at Pebble Beach.
Sputter is extraordinary: wooden frame, cable brakes, 35 mph top speed. "If you hit a possum, the whole thing shatters...and the possum walks away cussing." Possibly the oldest BMW in America. She owns 2 of the estimated 4-5 in the US.
That passion led to Next Generation Classics, her California dealership specializing in Enzo-era Ferraris and exotic cars. While her twin brother chose computers, Colleen chose restoration, sales, and the collector car world. She names all her cars: Lancia Delta Integrale rally car "Guido," Tahoe "Betsy," second BMW "Putter."
Her dream car? Ferrari Competition Daytona 365GTB4c —only 15 ever made.
Philosophy? "I'd rather drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow."
Sputter sits in her garage, never to be sold.
Listen to Colleen's favorite episode, Dora's Datsun here - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2316026/episodes/14948807-from-datsun-to-range-rover-what-dora-s-first-car-taught-her-about-success
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cam belt
"...I have a Lancia Delta Integrale and that the cam belt snapped a while back. So it's a whole top and rebuild and getting parts for that."
The cam belt is a part of the engine that helps keep everything moving in sync. If it breaks, it can cause big problems for the engine and might need a lot of work to fix.
A cam belt, also known as a timing belt, is a crucial component in an engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. If it snaps, it can lead to severe engine damage, requiring extensive repairs.
DeLorean
"...I do have a quick story about a garage. So as all our listeners know, I own a DeLorean."
The DeLorean is a unique car that looks different from most others because it has shiny metal on the outside and doors that open upwards. It's famous for being in a popular movie about time travel.
The DeLorean is a sports car manufactured by the DeLorean Motor Company, famously known for its distinctive stainless steel body and gull-wing doors. It gained iconic status from its appearance in the 'Back to the Future' film series.
transmission
"So I had to pick up my DeLorean from somebody in New Jersey to transmission repair work."
The transmission is what helps the car change gears and move. It's like the part that connects the engine to the wheels, making it go forward or backward.
The transmission is a crucial component of a vehicle that transmits power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the car to move. It can be either automatic or manual, affecting how the driver interacts with the vehicle.
stainless steel
"...because DeLoreans are stainless steel. He had the world wide authority."
Stainless steel is a special kind of metal that doesn't rust easily. It's used in the DeLorean to give it a shiny and unique appearance.
Stainless steel is a corrosion-resistant alloy of iron, chromium, and other elements, making it ideal for automotive applications where durability and aesthetics are important. The DeLorean's body is made of stainless steel, contributing to its distinctive look and resistance to rust.
regraining
"So the regraining there of when you get very close up on your car. There's just this very, I guess, very characteristic or very unique detail to the stainless steel. So what does regraining mean?"
Regraining is a way to fix the surface of materials like stainless steel by making it look smooth and shiny again. It's like polishing your car to make it look new and clean.
Regraining refers to the process of restoring the surface finish of materials like stainless steel, often used in automotive contexts to remove scratches and imperfections. This technique enhances the aesthetic appeal and can help maintain the material's integrity over time.
Ferrari Daytona
"...it says Tahoe Road Rally. It is a Ferrari, some kind of a Ferrari Daytona."
The Ferrari Daytona is a famous sports car made by Ferrari in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's known for its speed and beautiful design, and many car enthusiasts love it.
The Ferrari Daytona, officially known as the Ferrari 365 GTB/4, is a classic sports car produced by Ferrari from 1968 to 1973. It is renowned for its powerful V12 engine and sleek design, making it a highly sought-after collector's item today.
Nissan 300Zx
"...t's hear all about the color choice. So the 1990 Nissan 300ZX. So it is black or was originally black."
The Nissan 300 ZX is a fast sports car from the late 80s and early 90s that many people love for its looks and speed. It's part of a long line of Nissan sports cars.
The Nissan 300 ZX is a sports car that was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s, known for its performance, sleek design, and advanced technology for its time. It is part of Nissan's Z-car lineage and remains popular among car enthusiasts.
Enzo era Ferraris
"So my specialty has always been Enzo era Ferraris, basically kind of like the 70s and older Ferraris."
The Enzo era is the time when Enzo Ferrari was running the company, and it includes many famous Ferrari cars from the 1940s to the early 1980s. These cars are very popular among collectors.
The Enzo era refers to the period when Enzo Ferrari was actively involved in the company, particularly during the 1940s to the early 1980s. This era is known for producing iconic models that have become highly sought after by collectors.
Ford Model
"... stuff, newer Ferraris. Currently, I have like a Ford Model A, a couple of Panterras. I just sold a Porsche ..."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that many people could actually afford. It changed how cars were made and helped a lot of families own a car for the first time.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, making car ownership accessible to the masses. Its introduction revolutionized the automotive industry and paved the way for modern manufacturing techniques.
Ford Model A
"Currently, I have like a Ford Model A, a couple of Panterras."
The Ford Model A is a car that Ford made between 1927 and 1931. It was well-liked because it was affordable and dependable.
The Ford Model A was a popular car produced by Ford from 1927 to 1931. It was known for its affordability and reliability, helping to establish Ford as a major player in the automotive industry.
Porsche Turbo S
"I just sold a Porsche Turbo S."
The Porsche Turbo S is a fast and powerful version of the Porsche 911 sports car. It has a turbocharged engine, which helps it go really fast and handle well.
The Porsche Turbo S is a high-performance variant of the Porsche 911, featuring a turbocharged engine that delivers exceptional speed and handling. It is known for its luxurious features and advanced technology.
dealer
"...you're a dealer or a broker or you consign."
A dealer is a person or business that sells cars. They usually have their own cars to sell and are officially allowed to sell vehicles.
A dealer is a licensed individual or business that sells vehicles, often owning the inventory they sell. They typically have a physical location and are authorized to sell new or used cars.
broker
"...you're a dealer or a broker or you consign."
A broker is someone who helps people buy and sell cars without owning them. They connect buyers and sellers and usually get paid for their help.
A broker in the automotive context is an intermediary who helps buyers and sellers connect. They do not own the cars but facilitate the sale for a fee, often providing expertise and market knowledge.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...I sold him a 1966 Corvette and he's sending it back to me to sell."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car known for its sleek design and speed. The 1966 version is a classic model that many car enthusiasts admire.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car that has been in production since 1953. The 1966 model is part of the second generation, known for its iconic design and performance capabilities.
Ferrari F40
"I want a F40 and so I find them one and just kind of the middleman in the process."
The Ferrari F40 is a famous sports car made by Ferrari in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It's known for being very fast and is considered a classic among car enthusiasts.
The Ferrari F40 is a legendary supercar produced by Ferrari from 1987 to 1992. It is known for its lightweight construction, powerful twin-turbo V8 engine, and iconic design, making it one of the most sought-after collector cars.
Lamborghini Diablo
"I sold a Lamborghini Diablo SBR from Australia last year and just random guy email wanted to sell his car and happened to know who might be looking for one."
The Lamborghini Diablo SBR is a high-performance sports car with a powerful engine and a unique design. It's part of Lamborghini's lineup of supercars and is known for its speed and style.
The Lamborghini Diablo SBR is a special variant of the iconic Diablo sports car, known for its powerful V12 engine and aggressive styling. It represents a significant era in Lamborghini's history, showcasing the brand's commitment to high-performance supercars.
De Tomaso Pantera
"...right now I have a Dave's Masso Pantera. I'm selling that's having some engine work done and some of the parts got caught up waiting on them..."
The De Tomaso Pantera is a sports car made in Italy that has a powerful engine and a unique look. It was made for over 20 years and is popular among car enthusiasts.
The De Tomaso Pantera is a mid-engine sports car that was produced from 1971 to 1992. It is known for its distinctive design and powerful performance, combining Italian styling with American muscle, as it was powered by a Ford V8 engine.
engine work
"...that's having some engine work done and some of the parts got caught up waiting on them..."
Engine work means fixing or improving the engine of a car. This can involve a variety of tasks to make sure the engine runs well or to make it faster.
Engine work refers to any maintenance, repair, or modification performed on a vehicle's engine. This can include tasks like rebuilding, tuning, or replacing components to improve performance or restore functionality.
Lancia Delta
"So what are my personal cars? I have a Lancia Delta intergralle and that the cam belt snapped a while..."
The Lancia Delta is a small car that was popular in racing events. Some versions of it are really fast and loved by car fans.
The Lancia Delta is a compact car that gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly for its success in rally racing. The Delta Integrale variant is especially revered for its performance and handling, making it a sought-after model among enthusiasts.
classic automotive cars
"...the kids coming out, the people coming out of these colleges that specialize in these classic automotive cars, it's very desirable for shops because you're..."
Classic automotive cars are older cars that people often collect or restore. They can be special because of their design and history, and working on them requires different skills than modern cars.
Classic automotive cars refer to vehicles that are typically at least 20 years old and are often valued for their historical significance, design, and craftsmanship. Mechanics who specialize in these cars require specific skills due to their unique engineering and technology compared to modern vehicles.
Porsche
"...whether you're going to like a Porsche specialty shop or a Ferrari specialty shop, there's some finesse for each that you're going to have to learn..."
Porsche is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes fast and luxury sports cars. They are popular among car lovers for their performance and design.
Porsche is a German automotive manufacturer known for its high-performance sports cars, SUVs, and sedans. The brand is particularly famous for models like the Porsche 911, which has a rich motorsport heritage and a strong following among car enthusiasts.
Austin Seven
"the Concourse de la Danse was doing a exhibit with Austin Sevens. And BMW had bought the rights to basically recreate the Austin Seven."
The Austin Seven is a classic small car made by the Austin company. It was popular in the early 20th century and helped many people learn to drive.
The Austin Seven is a small car that was produced by the Austin Motor Company from 1922 to 1939. It is often credited with helping to popularize motoring in the UK, being affordable and easy to drive.
Pebble Beach Concours
"And so when I was 11, the car was entered in the Pebble Beach Concours. And I ended up driving it across the podium."
The Pebble Beach Concours is a fancy car show in California where people show off classic cars. It's a big deal in the car world, and many rare cars are featured.
The Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is a prestigious annual car show held in Pebble Beach, California, where classic cars are displayed and judged. It is known for showcasing rare and historically significant vehicles.
electric starter
"Probably had an electric starter, but beyond that."
An electric starter is a part of a car that helps start the engine using electricity, instead of having to crank it by hand like in older cars.
An electric starter is a device that uses an electric motor to start an engine, replacing the need for a hand crank. This innovation was significant in making cars easier to operate, especially in the early 20th century.
Ferrari 365
"...ok. The you have to tell me the year, but it's a Ferrari 365 GTB4C. So we'd love to hear about it."
The Ferrari 365 GTB/4 is a classic sports car known for being very fast and stylish. It's a favorite among car collectors because of its history and design.
The Ferrari 365 GTB/4, also known as the Daytona, is a classic sports car produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, celebrated for its powerful V12 engine and sleek design. It is highly regarded among collectors and enthusiasts for its performance and iconic status in automotive history.
Comp Daytona
"So it's the Comp Daytona and those were basically 1969 to like 73. So the Daytonas are so interesting."
The Comp Daytona is a special racing version of the Ferrari Daytona. It's built for speed and competition, and only a few were made, which makes it very rare.
The Comp Daytona, or Competition Daytona, is a racing variant of the Ferrari Daytona, designed for high-performance and competitive racing. Only a limited number were produced, making it extremely rare and valuable.
Chrysler Daytonas
"...and those were basically 1969 to like 73. So the Daytonas are so interesting. They're one of my favorite c..."
The Chrysler Daytona is a sporty car from the 1980s that looks cool and is fun to drive. It's one of those cars that people who like classic cars really enjoy.
The Chrysler Daytona is a sporty coupe produced in the 1980s, known for its aerodynamic design and performance-oriented features. It was part of the growing trend of sporty cars during that era and has a dedicated following among collectors.
Ferrari Daytona Spider
"...Ferrari only made 122 Daytona Spiders, but they only made 15 Comp Daytonas."
The Ferrari Daytona Spider is a version of the Daytona that has no roof, making it a convertible. Only a few were made, which makes it very special and valuable.
The Ferrari Daytona Spider is a convertible variant of the Daytona, with only 122 units produced. It is known for its open-top design and luxurious features, appealing to enthusiasts and collectors alike.
power steering
"the Comp Daytona is a front engine V12 with no power steering. So it's very heavy."
Power steering makes it easier to turn the steering wheel of a car. Without it, the steering can feel very heavy, especially when parking or moving slowly.
Power steering is a system that helps drivers steer the vehicle with less effort by using hydraulic or electric assistance. Without it, steering can be much heavier and more challenging, especially at low speeds.
V12 engine
"the Comp Daytona is a front engine V12 with no power steering. So it's very heavy."
A V12 engine has twelve cylinders arranged in a V shape, which helps the car run smoothly and powerfully. It's often found in high-end sports cars.
A V12 engine is a twelve-cylinder engine arranged in a V configuration. This design allows for smooth power delivery and high performance, making it popular in luxury and sports cars.
grand touring car
"It's a grand touring car. So, you know, those cars are definitely a certain kind of feel, but it's like a more masculine kind of car."
A grand touring car is a type of car made for long drives at high speeds, offering both comfort and performance. They are built to be enjoyable to drive over long distances.
A grand touring car, often abbreviated as GT, is designed for high-speed and long-distance driving, combining performance with comfort. These cars typically feature powerful engines, luxurious interiors, and a focus on a smooth driving experience.
Ferrari 348
"...that was just perfect. So yeah, we rented a 1994 Ferrari 348 Spider, which was an awesome car to drive."
The Ferrari 308 GTS is a stylish and fast sports car from the late 70s and early 80s. It's well-known for being a fun car to drive and looks great.
The Ferrari 308 GTS is a classic sports car produced in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its distinctive design and mid-engine layout. It gained fame for its performance and has become a symbol of Ferrari's legacy in the sports car world.
Lancia Stratos
"...you got a lot of stratoes, obviously. That's, you know, an icon car,..."
The Lancia Stratos is a famous sports car that looks very unique and was built for racing in the 1970s. Its design helps it handle well on the road.
The Lancia Stratos is a legendary sports car known for its distinctive wedge shape and success in rally racing during the 1970s. It was designed specifically for rally competition and features a mid-engine layout, making it a highly agile vehicle.
Mitsubishi Lancer
"...made me think Italian version of a Subaru WRX or Lancer Mitsubishi Lancer, either. So I guess it gets a ..."
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a small car that is known for being fun to drive, especially in its sportier versions. It has a history of being used in racing, which makes it popular among car fans.
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a compact car that gained popularity for its performance-oriented variants, particularly the Lancer Evolution. Known for its rally heritage, the Lancer has been a significant player in the automotive world, especially among enthusiasts who appreciate its sporty characteristics.
Subaru Wrx
"...aid either it made me think Italian version of a Subaru WRX or Lancer Mitsubishi Lancer, either. So I guess ..."
Nissan Maxima
"...erfect. Oh, that is perfect. What was the Nissan Maxima? We didn't even talk about the Nissan Maxima."
The Nissan Maxima is a larger car that is comfortable and has nice features. It's a good choice for families who want a reliable car.
The Nissan Maxima is a full-size sedan that has been known for its combination of performance and luxury features since its introduction in the 1980s. It is often praised for its spacious interior and smooth ride, making it a popular choice for families.
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