While Scott Chivers and his Ratarossa YouTube channel are best known for bringing life to down-and-out Ferraris, a new video reveals that not every restoration project has to originate from Maranello. This time, viewers check out a dilapidated UK mansion that houses a collection of sad classic cars waiting for attention.
Exploring A Mystery Mansion
Chivers’ adventure centers around a UK estate with dozens of vehicles on the adjacent land. We’re told upfront that the location is secret, which is why there are no images of the building’s exterior. The flood-damaged manor also serves as a warehouse for an extensive vehicle parts inventory. Chivers mentions that the presumably empty indoor pool holds some cars, but viewers aren’t treated to the spectacle.
A scan of the grounds reveals an interesting mix of aging European cars, including numerous Jaguar sedans, several Mercedes-Benz models, and a pair of Jensen Healey convertibles. Curiously, a 1970s-era Chevrolet C-10 pickup and a second-generation Plymouth Voyager minivan give US automakers a presence in the collection.
Asian brands aren’t left out, either, as we see a rusting Honda Civic and a shiny Subaru Legacy wagon among the vehicles. Keen watchers can enjoy a game similar to Where’s Waldo, trying to spot all the different brands and models in the background.
Checking Out Numerous Project-Ready Jaguars
Perhaps invoking his own excitement and experience with restoring downcast vehicles, Chivers expresses enthusiasm for several Jaguar sedans in various stages of decay. No information gets shared about the vehicles’ particulars, but these appear to be smallish sedans from the 1960s, like the Jaguar S-Type.
A close-up look at exterior features highlights the attention to detail Jaguar infused in each car like the door handles and window vent controls. There’s also praise for wire wheels which are very much things of the past.
Exploring German-Themed Restoration Possibilities
More exploring reveals a BMW 2002 Tii coupe that seems ready for a life beyond this grass and tree-covered field. Chivers points out that an overall solid body with minimal rust makes this Bimmer well-suited for a project. While the engine’s condition is unknown, a mostly intact and original interior is appealing.
Chivers is also eager for a Volkswagen GTI Mark I that brings back his experience with a similar vehicle. Like the BMW, this GTI has only minor rust and dings, so restoration isn’t out of the question
