Origins of a Vintage Vision
The Nixdorf Classic Car Museum originated from the passion of car enthusiasts and the extensive private collection of Garnet Nixdorf, featuring 25 of his favourite classic cars on his sprawling 10-acre property. As word spread, demand grew for public access to this unique collection. Garnet, alongside his cousin Tim, decided to create a dedicated space for these automotive treasures by constructing a 9,500 square foot showroom. This facility showcased over 30 classic vehicles at any time and allowed for the rotation of the complete collection of restored cars.
A Family's Legacy in Classic Cars
Garnet Nixdorf's lifelong affair with classic cars began with his purchase of three Ford Coupes from the late 1940s and early 1950s, each for just $200. Over 40 years, his collection grew as he scoured North America for the finest vintage vehicles, each restored to pristine condition. This passion was inherited by his son Tim, who now owns many of the vehicles and continues the tradition of hunting for rare finds and parts to maintain and expand their impressive collection.
Expanding the Dream
Under the management of Jim Kyluik, a skilled individual who joined the family, the museum’s infrastructure was developed. Jim, sharing the same zeal for classic cars, played a pivotal role in realizing the vision of the Nixdorf showroom. Together with Garnet and Tim, and with the support of friends and car enthusiasts, the museum has grown into a respected institution in the classic car community, now housed in a 14,000 square foot facility featuring more than 70 vehicles of over 100 meticulously restored cars.
Showroom Highlights and Services
The Nixdorf Classic Car Museum is more than a mere display; it's an interactive homage to automotive history. The showroom includes everything from muscle cars to two-door convertibles and hardtops, ranging from 1936 to 2002 models including makes like Oldsmobile, Chevrolet, Ford, and Chrysler. Each car is accompanied by detailed narratives of their histories and humorous anecdotes from the collectors. The museum also offers a unique assortment of memorabilia, from vintage jukebox tunes to souvenir t-shirts, and even operates a restoration workshop specializing in "Rust to Riches" transformations.
Visit and Engage
The museum is designed to be accessible, with ground-floor washrooms and full wheelchair accessibility. Visitors can explore the vast collection, enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere, and even purchase classic car parts ranging from the 1940s to the 1960s. Group rates are available, making it a perfect destination for bus tours or gatherings of vintage car enthusiasts. For those looking to learn more, the museum’s restoration shop offers a peek at the meticulous process of bringing classic cars back to their former glory.
Nixdorf Classic Car Museum not only preserves the automotive past but actively fosters a community around the appreciation and restoration of vintage cars. Whether you are a history buff, automotive enthusiast, or simply nostalgic, the museum offers a rich and engaging experience that transports visitors back in time.
