WHERE IT BEGAN
The Beginning of My Alfa Romeo Journey
After serving in the military in Europe, I moved to Texas, where I was introduced to Alfa Romeo. A chance encounter with a 1963 Giulietta Spider at a mechanic’s shop sparked my passion for Alfas. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to restoring these cars, with my first restoration completed while in College in 1986. At Auto Italia Sportiva, we specialize in high-quality reproductions for vintage Italian cars, focusing on craftsmanship and preserving original features.
HOW TIME AFFECTED
A Lifelong Love for Alfa Romeos
I am a passionate car enthusiast who has owned over 60 Alfa Romeos, focusing on 750, 101, and 105 series models, and currently owns 17 Alfas Romeos. This passion stems from childhood experiences in Puerto Rico, where my father owned classic cars that left a lasting impression. The glass-top fifties Ford Victoria and a yellow 1957 convertible were particularly memorable among these. The joy of driving these cars along the Island beaches or country roads, surrounded by family, music, and laughter, created cherished memories.
MY LONG EXPERIENCE
Building Community Through Restoration
I tinkered with Alfas all through College. Back then, you had to buy several parts cars to find enough spare parts to restore one. I learned to do almost everything needed to maintain and keep my vehicles running. Working (playing) with these vehicles allowed me to meet and build on relationships throughout the years I still maintain after 40-plus years. I was not alone; someone was always there to help and assist me. It was and still remains a community today as it was then.
MY PASSION
From Commercial Banking to Craftsmanship
After College, it was time to earn a living. With the exception that I continued to make wiring looms from my home garage while pursuing a career path in Commercial Banking that lasted two decades, my passion remained dormant, and vehicles were stored for all that time at a warehouse.