Where Did All the Mechanics Go?
The hypcar collection brings together models from Citroën, British Leyland/Austin, Rolls-Royce, and Mercedes, each in various conditions at the time of acquisition. We have owned and curated some of these vehicles for over 50 years, aiming to preserve them in the best possible state for future generations. Regardless of their initial state, their current pristine condition, or the journey towards achieving it, is the result of meticulous care, supported by a handpicked network of experts.
Choosing a good mechanic for servicing and maintaining a hypcar is not just critical but can be trickier than for conventional classic cars. Even older vehicles, for instance, from the early days of motoring, have a more straightforward mechanical design that technicians can easily handle. In contrast, the hydropneumatic suspension, braking, steering, and, in some cases, gear changing demand experienced hands and specialised tools for repairs. Additionally, certain hypcars (e.g. the DS) come with unique bodywork configurations where fully detachable body panels must be adjusted to the millimetre during reassembly.
Nowadays, finding a mechanic with experience across all hypcar domains is becoming increasingly challenging. Most car technicians now focus more on electronic expertise rather than the mechanical or hydraulic skills associated with hypcars. Even auto body technicians tend to replace rather than repair body panels. Furthermore, as hypcars from the 1970s or earlier become increasingly longstanding, they start to develop new issues that were previously unheard of, often displaying warning signs that are tough to detect before a catastrophic breakdown occurs. Only an expert who experienced these cars when they were brand new can easily spot whether a rolling, mechanical, or aerodynamic sound is out of the ordinary and address it appropriately.
I vividly remember accompanying my father to Citroën’s authorised workshop for repairs or servicing during my teenage years. It was an exhilarating experience to watch those mechanics at work, diagnosing and discussing solutions to fix hypcars. Unusual noises and vibrations served as early indicators; any sound deviating from the norm—be it hissing, rattling, squeezing, coughing, or knocking—was carefully assessed and dealt with immediately. A correct diagnosis was always their top priority and often led to inventive, out-of-the-box solutions!
The last generation of skilled mechanics who worked on hypcars during their production era is now largely retired or nearing retirement, and they are certainly not getting any younger. This makes it challenging to find professionals specifically qualified in hydropneumatic systems, resulting in a rapid decline in this knowledge. It is now crucial to seize the last opportunity to pass on this expertise to the younger generation.
Therefore, we encourage young people to overcome their hesitations and dive into vintage restoration! Let’s celebrate and preserve the incredible wealth of knowledge held by the older generation of mechanics. Environmental concerns should take a back seat for these vehicles, as they no longer serve as a means of transport. Instead, they are valued as precious symbols of bold technological innovation and the ultimate expression of freedom in industrial design.
