In the Classic Trader Portraits section, we regularly introduce you to selected classic car dealers and specialists. In this edition we will cover the Porsche Manufaktur Vehicle Experts.

15 QUESTIONS TO FLORIAN SCHEUER FROM VEHICLE EXPERTS

PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND YOUR COMPANY. WHAT AREA DOES YOUR COMPANY SPECIALISE IN?

Vehicle Experts is a small and beautiful Porsche manufactory. For over 16 years we have been dedicated to the authentic restoration of air-cooled Porsche models.

WHEN DID YOU CATCH THE CLASSIC CAR “VIRUS”? WAS THERE A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE IN YOUR CHILDHOOD / YOUTH THAT MADE YOU AN OLDTIMER ENTHUSIAST?

Born in 1968, the vehicles of that time era were a constant companion in my life. Therefore, it is of no surprise that this has not changed until today – a key moment was not needed for this.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB – WHAT DO YOU LOATH?

To be able to witness the “resurrection” of a cultural asset such as a Porsche 356 is always a highlight, regardless of the number of restored vehicles. And my personal strive for perfection, which our customers greatly appreciate, is probably the point I like least about myself.

WHICH BRANDS RESSONATE THE MOST WITH YOU? WHICH ARE YOUR THREE FAVOURITE CLASSICS AND WHY?

The Porsche 911 has probably shaped more than one whole era with its design, so for me personally it is hard to imagine life without it. Whereby I personally find the early 356 A models even more sensual and appealing in form. I can enjoy them every day. And since US vehicles made their way into Germany in my childhood and became famous in old movies and series like “The Streets of San Francisco” or “The Big Lebowski”, it would be almost neglectful to disregard these vehicles from my memory.

WHAT WAS THE MOST OUT OF THE ORDINARY VEHICLE YOU’VE DEALT WITH SO FAR?

Porsche 356 Speedster Carrera. The Porsche 356 Speedster itself is for me a symbol of freedom from the days of yore. And that paired with the high technical art of a “Königswellen” engines and the sheer speed of the cars of that time is simply the golden standard of all things …. at least for me.

TOPIC VALUE INCREASE/MAINTAIN VALUE: WHICH HORSE SHOULD ONE PLACE THEIR BET ON NOW? DO YOU THINK THE VALUE APPRECIATION WILL CONTINUE IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS?

The pandemic has made it clear to us all how quickly times can change. During this extraordinary time, many people have realized that “fun” was a key missing element in their lives. As a result, a certain amount of rethinking has been taking place and many people are beginning to live in the “moment”. For many, a vehicle is synonymous with fun, especially when it comes to a car like a classic Porsche.

WHICH IS THE MOST UNDERESTIMATED OR OVERESTIMATED CLASSIC AUTOMOBILE FROM YOUR POINT OF VIEW AND WHY?

The real question is who determines or what determines the value of a respective classic automobile. I cannot answer this question because every classic automobile is special for a different reason for each individual and the “value” is not only a question of the monetary value but also a subjective matter.

DO YOU SEE A GENERATIONAL CHANGE IN THE MARKET FOR CLASSIC CARS? IF YES, WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT IT?

If it were not for this generational change, we would see significantly fewer classic vehicles in a very short space of time on our roads. As Porsche Manufacture Vehicle Experts, we have never restored so many Porsche 356s for 30 to 45-year-olds as in the last two years, that says it all. The enthusiasm and passion for early Porsche models will not disappear with the next generation change.

WHAT IS AN ABSOLUTE “TABOO” TOPIC FOR YOU IN TERMS OF CLASSICS VEHICLES?

GFK. For me, a vehicle must be made of steel and, if possible, as original as possible. Plastic bodies made of GFK are out of the question.

WHERE DOES THE TOPIC “CLASSIC CARS” END FOR YOU AND WHY?

At a time when modifications and individual design are more in demand than ever before, we too are slowly being pushed to new limits. If ten years ago someone bought a Porsche as “not matching”, he was already seen as an outcast. Today, it is precisely these vehicles that enjoy the greatest soar in popularity.

WHICH MODERN VEHICLES HAVE THE POTENTIAL FOR YOU TO BECOME A REAL OLDTIMER IN 30 YEARS?

All vehicles of which only a small number of units have been produced. Exclusivity as a new vehicle simply continues as exclusivity as a classic.

HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF CLASSIC CAR TRADING AND WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES?

Especially in the last three years the “wheat is separated from the chaff” and the poorly reworked vehicles will disappear from the market. Vehicles in their original paintwork, with a good and comprehensible history will continue to be traded at high prices, just like well restored vehicles.

WHICH VEHICLE DO YOU DESPERATELY WANT TO DRIVE AGAIN AND WHY?

Answering this question would, quite frankly, be impossible for me. Even though I have driven a lot of vehicles in my lifetime, there are still enough exciting and new cars for me to discover.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ROUTES YOU CAN “EXPERIENCE” IN AN OLDTIMER?

Just like the choice of vehicle, the choice of route comes down to personal preference. Your own personal routes, which you choose yourself are easily the most beautiful.

WHAT ADVISE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN “OLDTIMER NEWBIE”?

Remember, you are driving an old-timer and not a new car. Do not expect your classic car to meet these standards in terms of assistance systems, rust prevention and reliability like a modern car. Look forward to elements such as the sheer driving pleasure, the style and charm that a classic car covey to you as a driver and to its onlookers.

Author: Classic Trader

Die Classic Trader Redaktion besteht aus Oldtimer-Enthusiasten, die Euch mit spannenden Geschichten versorgen. Kaufberatungen, unsere Traum Klassiker, Händlerportraits und Erfahrungsberichte von Messen, Rallyes und Events. #drivenbydesire View all posts by Classic Trader →