Auto-Vino

11/18/2025

Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster at AutoVino

At AutoVino, we handle vehicles that represent the top standards of engineering and automotive history. Among these, the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster stands out as one of the most important cars of its time. This overview explains why the 300SL is considered an icon and how we keep a vehicle of this caliber in our facility.

Between 1957 and 1963, only 1,858 300SL Roadsters were built by hand, making it one of the rarest postwar Mercedes models. Each Roadster was crafted with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the high standards of craftsmanship and engineering that defined Mercedes' most celebrated era. This rarity, along with the model's racing heritage and historical significance, has established the Roadster as a highlight in prestigious collections and as one of the most reliable blue-chip automobiles in the collector market.

The evolution of the Gullwing

The Roadster, which succeeds the 300SL Gullwing, is the fully refined evolution of the SL platform. Mercedes made significant improvements to the rear suspension by implementing a lower-pivot design that enhances stability and predictability at high speeds. Additionally, the Roadster features a more accessible cabin and functional side windows, increasing its everyday usability. These updates improve the driving experience while maintaining the performance heritage that characterized the original model.

Race-derived engineering

The dry-sump M198 straight-six engine with mechanical fuel injection placed the 300SL ahead of its rivals. This race-inspired setup maintained consistent oil pressure and accurate fuel delivery long before electronic systems appeared. Housed in a lightweight tubular space-frame chassis, the car provided exceptional rigidity and high-speed stability. With its reliability and motorsport heritage, the 300SL became one of the most advanced grand tourers of its time, deserving proper care rather than simple storage.

AutoVino preservation standards

Climate control keeps temperature and humidity steady, protecting materials like paint, leather, chrome, and electrical systems from long-term damage. Clean aisles and white floors help create a controlled environment for preservation, making it easier to notice any subtle changes in a vehicle’s condition.

Mechanical care during storage

Each vehicle is connected to a monitored battery tender to maintain voltage and ensure readiness. Tires are kept at the correct pressure to prevent flat spotting and deformation. Repositioning occurs only when necessary, with minimal handling to protect the drivetrain, suspension, steering, and braking systems. This approach supports long-term mechanical health and overall vehicle integrity.

Precision handling

Movement within the facility is deliberate and coordinated. Experienced drivers and trained spotters work together to guide each vehicle precisely, using slow, controlled inputs and clear communication. This method reduces exposure and handling, maintaining the integrity of every vehicle.

Designed for long-term preservation

AutoVino offers a secure, private space for owners of high-value vehicles. Our climate-controlled storage safeguards paint, leather, chrome, and electrical parts, while monitored battery tenders and tire management maintain mechanical health. Skilled drivers move each vehicle carefully, ensuring safe handling. We are committed to the long-term preservation of your car and to meeting the high standards of serious collectors.

If you’re seeking a professional facility for a high-value car, you’re welcome to arrange a private tour.

11/14/2025

Hedley Studio Scaled Recreations at AutoVino
Sunday, November 16 • 12 PM – 4 PM • Free admission

Join us this Sunday at AutoVino for an exclusive indoor showcase featuring the exceptional craftsmanship of Hedley Studio, a UK-based creator renowned for its officially licensed electric recreations of some of the world’s most iconic automobiles.

Each vehicle is carefully crafted by artisans in a restored World War II RAF hangar at Bicester Heritage, utilizing original factory blueprints and traditional coachbuilding techniques. These creations are not toys; they are exquisite, hand-built works of automotive art.

Featured Scaled Cars on Display

• Aston Martin DB5 — The James Bond Car
A finely crafted 75%-scale recreation of one of cinema’s most iconic automobiles, built with movie-era proportions and hand-finished detailing that faithfully preserves the presence and personality of the original DB5.

• Bugatti Baby II — Official Bugatti Collaboration
A contemporary electric recreation of the 1920s Bugatti Type 35, crafted with CNC-machined components, precision engineering, and hand-finished detailing that captures the spirit and performance character of the Grand Prix original.

• Ferrari Testa Rossa J — Built from the 1957 Blueprints
A 75%-scale, handcrafted recreation built directly from Ferrari’s original 1957 design drawings, capturing the Testa Rossa’s unmistakable curves, stance, and personality with exceptional fidelity.

Each car accommodates one adult, provides genuine driving performance, and reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour — a rare combination of artistry, engineering, and capability brought to life at scale.

A Unique AutoVino Experience

AutoVino is the Northern California showroom for Hedley Studio, alongside its other locations in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York.

This Bay Area installation showcases hand-built scaled cars in AutoVino’s pristine Grand Showroom, alongside full-size Ferraris, Porsches, Bentleys, and other collector vehicles, merging world-class craftsmanship with iconic automotive design in a single location.

Food, Wine & the Car Museum Lounge

Savor delicious Neapolitan pizza freshly baked in our 900° oak-fired oven, or indulge in gourmet sandwiches made to order. Pair your meal with estate wines from Woodside Vineyards. AutoVino offers a cozy indoor atmosphere, perfect for escaping the rain—whether you're attending the Hedley Studio showcase or watching the 49ers game.

Relax in the Car Museum Lounge and watch the 49ers and other NFL matchups on two 7×12-foot screens with immersive stadium-style audio — the perfect way to spend a rainy Sunday.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

Help support local families by donating non-perishable food items to the AutoVino Thanksgiving Food Drive. Captain Dave and the Menlo Park Fire Department Station 1 will collect all donations from AutoVino and deliver them to families in need.

Join Us This Sunday

Experience Hedley Studio’s hand-built scaled cars, savor exceptional food and wine, enjoy the indoor escape from the weather, and participate in a welcoming community afternoon — all at AutoVino.

AUTO VINO | 380 INDUSTRIAL ROAD | SAN CARLOS

11/12/2025

Cars & Cabernet: Thanksgiving Edition at AutoVino
Sunday, November 16 • 11:30 AM – 2 PM

AutoVino’s signature Sunday event, Cars & Cabernet, returns for a special Thanksgiving edition, combining exotic cars, gourmet cuisine, and estate-grown wine in a celebration of craftsmanship, gratitude, and community support.

Admission is free.

Enjoy a vibrant mix of exotic and collector cars along with handcrafted Neapolitan pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, and estate-grown wines in the open-air Wine Garden at AutoVino.

Thanksgiving Food Drive Partnership

During this giving season, AutoVino partners with Captain Dave Bragg and the Menlo Park Fire Department Station 1 to support Second Harvest of Silicon Valley.

All donations collected at AutoVino will go directly to local families in need this Thanksgiving. This grassroots effort aims to foster gratitude and share support with our neighbors. Every can, box, and bag makes a difference.

The Wine Garden Experience

The Wine Garden, shaded by wide umbrellas and lined with grapevines, is the social center of Cars & Cabernet. Guests easily move between the car display and the outdoor patio, where the aroma of oak-fired pizza fills the air. Neapolitan-style pizzas, tri-tip and salmon sandwiches, and fresh salads are served alongside estate wines from Woodside Vineyards.

Come for the Cars and Stay for the Food & Wine

Lunch at AutoVino offers fresh, made-to-order dishes prepared by Chef Nick and Pizzaiolo Nate. Guests can enjoy gourmet burgers, tri-tip steak sandwiches, and marinated salmon salads served from the restored 1955 Flxible Bus Diner. Nate bakes authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas in a 900-degree, oak-fired oven using 48-hour fermented dough. The food is quick, fresh, and perfectly complements the casual vibe of the Wine Garden.

Everything is prepared on-site and served in the open-air comfort of the Wine Garden, where guests enjoy fresh food, estate wines, and conversation surrounded by cars and community. The atmosphere is casual yet refined — a place that reflects AutoVino’s commitment to quality and genuine hospitality.

Estate Wines from Woodside Vineyards

The Wine Garden features estate wines from Woodside Vineyards, known for their small-lot production in the Santa Cruz Mountains. A chilled Chardonnay pairs well with salmon and salads, while Pinot Noir complements pizzas nicely. Zinfandel pairs perfectly with tri-tip and oak-fired dishes, and King’s Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent match for burgers and heartier meals from the Flxible Diner Bus.

F1 Caffè — Locally Roasted Coffee

Guests often begin their visit at the F1 Caffè truck, where they can enjoy locally roasted Peruvian coffee from San Carlos. The menu includes espresso, cappuccino, cold brew, lattes, and iced tea—each made to order by skilled baristas. It's an ideal spot for early arrivals to relax with coffee and talk about cars before lunch.

Families, Friends & Four-Legged Guests

The Wine Garden welcomes everyone—families, friends, and car enthusiasts. Resident Labradors, Daisy and Honey, happily greet visitors. Many guests bring their dogs to relax in the shade and enjoy the friendly patio atmosphere. With tasty food, local wine, and a warm environment, it’s a perfect spot for both people and their pups.

For Those Displaying Their Cars

Owners of rare and exotic vehicles are encouraged to arrive before 11:00 a.m. for front-row display placement and photo opportunities. Early arrivals help maintain the layout organization and ensure a smooth entry process. AutoVino staff will oversee parking and vehicle movement to guarantee the safe handling of each car.

Noise Awareness: Please be considerate of San Carlos neighbors by minimizing engine revving and high-RPM demonstrations near and inside the facility.

Honoring Our Heritage

Cars & Cabernet embodies Italy's tradition of blending speed with craftsmanship. Early racers, like Enzo Ferrari, often celebrated their wins with a bottle of Chianti or Barolo, symbolizing pride and precision. This same spirit is reflected in AutoVino, where fine cars and estate wines are showcased together as expressions of design, discipline, and craftsmanship—all to be enjoyed responsibly.

Cars & Cabernet: Thanksgiving Edition at AutoVino
Sunday, November 16 • 11:30 AM – 2 PM

AUTO VINO | 380 INDUSTRIAL ROAD | SAN CARLOS

11/10/2025

11/06/2025

San Mateo Cars & Coffee at AutoVino
Sunday | November 9 | 10 AM – Noon

A Bay Area Gathering for Car Enthusiasts

Every month, AutoVino hosts a relaxed morning meet-up for car owners, collectors, and enthusiasts from across the Bay Area, called San Mateo Cars & Coffee. The parking lot fills with Ferraris, McLarens, Porsches, Lamborghinis, and vintage classics. This impressive display attracts families, friends, and first-time visitors who appreciate outstanding design and craftsmanship.

Sneak Peek — Hedley Studios Showcase

This Sunday, our Cars & Coffee community will have an exclusive first look at the latest addition to Hedley Studios’ network of display sites in the U.S. Already established in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, Hedley Studios has chosen AutoVino as its new location in Northern California. Here, three of their hand-built, small-scale electric masterpieces will be on display and available for order.

On display:

• Bugatti Baby II – a ¾-scale recreation of the 1920s Type 35 Grand Prix car, meticulously hand-built with modern electric performance.

• Ferrari Testa Rossa J – built with Ferrari Classiche using 1957 blueprints, handcrafted with precision and authentic detailing.

• Aston Martin DB5 Jr – a two-seat homage to the 1963 Bond car, engineered with elegance and timeless British craftsmanship.

Each model is handcrafted in the U.K. at a 75 percent scale and can reach speeds of up to 50 mph. Displayed alongside full-size Ferraris, Paganis, and Porsches, these drivable art pieces showcase the precision and passion of the AutoVino experience.

Supporting the Community

This month, AutoVino is collecting non-perishable food donations to support Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and its outreach through the CalFresh (California’s SNAP) program. Your contributions will help provide healthy meals for local families in need. We encourage guests to bring canned goods, pasta, rice, cereal, and other shelf-stable items. Donation bins will be located near the entrance.

Family and Dog Friendly

AutoVino is proud to be a part of the San Carlos community, where families and car enthusiasts of all ages come together to enjoy something special. We warmly welcome dogs! Our friendly Labrador Retrievers, Honey and Daisey, will be on-site to greet both guests and their furry companions. They are cherished members of the AutoVino family—calm, social, and always ready to welcome everyone.

The F1 Café

The F1 Café will be open during the event, offering Papachay Peruvian Coffee, which is locally roasted in San Carlos. This coffee is sourced from the founders’ high-altitude farms in the Andes and is celebrated for its natural sweetness and clarity.
Guests can also enjoy light breakfast options, including fresh pastries, muffins, and baked goods—ideal for a quick bite while exploring the area or chatting with fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you arrive in a Ferrari or on foot, with a camera or a leash, you will find a welcoming crowd that shares your appreciation for cars, craftsmanship, and community.
Join Us Sunday

San Mateo Cars & Coffee at AutoVino
📍 380 Industrial Road, San Carlos
🕙 10 AM – Noon

10/20/2025

The Discipline of Detail: The Quail 2025

At the recent Quail event, Horacio Pagani met Cullen from Diamond Car Care Systems, a top master detailer. Cullen maintains Pagani’s factory test cars, ensuring they are thoroughly prepared after each event. Based at AutoVino in San Carlos, he applies the same precision to every vehicle he handles.

Pagani’s Philosophy

From his early years at Lamborghini to founding Pagani Automobili, Horacio Pagani built a reputation for precision and balance. Each model reflects his belief that engineering and design must work together seamlessly, with every detail intentionally crafted and each surface enhancing performance.

Cullen’s Work

During The Quail, Cullen was responsible for preparing and presenting Pagani's fleet. At AutoVino, he applies the same meticulous approach to client vehicles. This includes washing, surface preparation, correction, using protective measures, and documenting inspections. His goal is to preserve each car's originality and ensure it is ready for storage, display, or driving.

AutoVino’s Role

At AutoVino's San Carlos facility, we emphasize precision in our daily routines. Our environment is clean, secure, and climate-controlled to preserve high-value vehicles over the long term. Each car is managed by experienced professionals who follow established procedures to keep it in top condition.

Private Consultation

For questions about detailing and paint care, contact Keith at Diamond Car Care Systems in AutoVino, San Carlos. To schedule a private consultation, call him at 408-561-3859.

10/14/2025

Unrivaled Precision at AutoVino
The Pagani Huayra Returns to the Facility

The Pagani Huayra returns to the AutoVino facility, smoothly transitioning from the outside world—whether at the track or during an exhilarating drive—into our secure and pristine environment. This transition highlights the vehicle's exclusivity and the meticulous care it receives.

Precision in Motion

As the Pagani glides through the facility, every turn and maneuver is executed with expert precision. The team's skill ensures the Pagani navigates around the ultra-rare Porsche 964 Flat-Nose safely and smoothly, reflecting the high level of expertise involved.

Demonstrating Expert Care

Our experienced spotters and operators manage each vehicle with utmost professionalism, ensuring that every movement is conducted safely and securely. This dedication to precision and care differentiates AutoVino.

Discover AutoVino’s Unmatched Care

If you are looking for a premium storage solution for your high-value car, schedule an appointment with us to experience the precision and dedication that define AutoVino.

10/12/2025

When Legends Roll In: Bruce Canepa’s Porsche 959 Sport Steals the Show at AutoVino

A rare supercar from the 1980s. A perfect Sunday morning. A visit from one of the most respected figures in the automotive world.

This morning at AutoVino, we had the honor of welcoming a bit of automotive royalty: Bruce Canepa, the renowned collector and restorer from Scotts Valley, who brought along his impressive Porsche 959 Sport.

Built in the late 1980s as a technological showcase, the Porsche 959 exceeded expectations by combining twin-turbo performance with all-wheel drive, composite bodywork, and engineering inspired by rally racing.

What Bruce brought today was no ordinary 959. It was the Sport variant — one of only 29 ever produced worldwide. This model is a stripped-down, high-horsepower version designed for pure speed and driver engagement. Seeing one in person is a rare experience, and watching it pull into our Wine Garden was unforgettable.

Pizza, Pinot, and Porsche

We all enjoyed the sunshine with Neapolitan-style pizza, our gourmet weekend menu, and estate-grown wine from Woodside Vineyards. Great cars, relaxed vibes, and plenty of stories were shared over glasses and slices.

Mark Your Calendar for Next Week

If you missed it, don’t worry! Following Sunday’s Cars & Cabernet event will bring it all back: world-class cars, live music, small-batch wines, and gourmet food in a unique setting. Come by, bring a friend (or your pup), and enjoy a Sunday with us!

10/06/2025

Lamborghini Diablo SV — The Last of the Analog Supercars

A Turning Point in Lamborghini History

The Lamborghini Diablo SV captures the essence of Lamborghini’s performance era in the 1990s, a time when raw power and driver engagement were paramount. Produced from 1995 to 1999, with fewer than 300 units made, the SV (Super Veloce, meaning “super fast”) prioritizes performance over refinement. Its hand-built 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine delivers over 500 horsepower to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. With no traction control or electronic aids, the Diablo SV stands out as one of the last supercars that provides a pure mechanical driving experience.

Engineering with Intent

Lamborghini designed the Diablo SV for pure driving pleasure, eliminating all-wheel drive and electronic dampers to enhance responsiveness and create a direct connection to the road. Its 5.7-liter V12 engine, hand-assembled in Sant’Agata, produces 510 horsepower, increasing to 530 in later models with variable valve timing. With a 0–60 mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed exceeding 200 mph, the Diablo SV offers impressive performance and a raw mechanical connection that modern supercars struggle to match.

A Rare Japanese-Market Example

This Lamborghini Diablo SV was initially delivered to Japan, a country known for its meticulous preservation practices and passion for high-performance engineering. During the 1990s, Lamborghini produced only about 40 right-hand-drive SVs worldwide, with many going to Japan, where the culture of ownership emphasized precise maintenance, originality, and long-term care. These models featured a clean European body design, unencumbered by the oversized bumpers and lighting regulations required in the U.S., which gave them a more authentic and lightweight appearance.

In Japan, it was common for these vehicles to receive polished stainless steel or titanium exhaust upgrades, reflecting a local enthusiasm for craftsmanship and refinement of sound. As a result, many of these SVs have remained in remarkably original condition—typically maintained indoors, seldom driven, and treated as pieces of automotive art. Today, they are considered some of the most sought-after vehicles in existence, thanks to their rare right-hand-drive configuration, exceptional preservation, and a cultural heritage that highlights Japan's deep respect for mechanical perfection.

The Voice of a Mechanical Era

No modern car sounds quite like the Lamborghini Diablo SV. Its 5.7-liter V12 engine produces a mechanical yet melodic roar—a pure expression of combustion without the aid of turbos or software. Many models designed for the Japanese market feature polished exhaust systems from brands like Larini and Tubi Style, each revealing a distinct aspect of the engine's character. The sound is unmistakable: a heavy pulse at idle that transforms into a metallic snarl, peaking in a spine-tingling crescendo above 7,000 rpm. Flames sometimes emerge during overrun, highlighting an era when excess was celebrated. The sound is not engineered; it’s elemental—an authentic signature of a truly alive machine.

Collectibility and Legacy

The Diablo SV, with a total production of just over 280 units, is one of the rarest and most celebrated models in Lamborghini's history. It features the final V12 engine built before Audi's acquisition, preserving the brand's raw, analog character. This model signifies the end of an era defined by mechanical precision rather than digital control.

The SV serves as a bridge between two worlds: the rebellious, hand-built spirit of the Countach and the technical refinement introduced with the Murciélago. Today, collectors value the SV not only for its performance but also for its purity—offering an unfiltered connection between the driver, engine, and road. As appreciation for pre-digital supercars grows, the value of the Diablo SV has surged into the high six figures, reflecting both its historical significance and lasting emotional appeal.

Why Collectors Trust AutoVino

Vehicles of this caliber deserve more than just storage; they require proper stewardship. That’s why owners trust AutoVino. Our climate-controlled facility in San Carlos is secured 24 hours a day, providing each car with protection under ideal conditions. We utilize advanced fire suppression systems and monitored access to ensure the highest level of safety. Our team is trained in the handling and preservation of high-value, exotic, and collector vehicles, ensuring that each car remains mechanically sound, cosmetically flawless, and ready for its owner when needed.

Private Storage for Extraordinary Cars

Collectors choose AutoVino for one reason: trust. Every car we care for represents more than just an investment; it’s a legacy of design and engineering that deserves to endure. At our San Carlos facility, we protect, maintain, and present vehicles with unwavering attention to detail. Schedule a private tour to experience firsthand how AutoVino preserves the world’s most exceptional automobiles.

AUTO VINO | 380 INDUSTRIAL ROAD | SAN CARLOS

10/03/2025

A Pre-War British Masterpiece — The 1933 MG L-Type Magna

About the Car

Launched in 1933, the MG L-Type Magna marked a key moment in MG’s “Triple-M” era—Midget, Magna, Magnette—strengthening the brand’s reputation for affordable sports engineering. The L2 two-seater combined a lightweight design with smooth six-cylinder performance.

Mechanical Details

The powertrain has a 1.1-liter overhead-cam six-cylinder engine that generates about 41 horsepower. It features twin SU carburetors and a four-speed manual transmission, enabling precise shifting. The braking system uses cable-operated mechanical drums, a typical feature of cars from the pre-war period.

Inside, the dashboard is made from burled wood and features distinctive octagonal Smiths instruments. The car sits on chrome wire wheels secured by traditional knock-off hubs, a hallmark of early British sports cars.

Designed as a “light six,” the L-Type seamlessly combines the sophistication of a touring car with the small size of a nimble roadster, embodying a mix of agility and elegance that reflects MG’s early philosophy.

Historical Significance & Rarity

Produced between 1933 and 1934, fewer than 600 MG L-Types were built, including only 90 L2 roadsters. This model bridged the gap between the Midget and Magnette, marking MG's transition from lightweight trial cars to refined sports tourers. The L-Type featured hand-formed aluminum bodywork, sweeping fenders, Art Deco instruments, and an early cross-flow cylinder head. Today, surviving examples are rare and highly valued, reflecting MG's evolution into an internationally recognized icon.

Preservation at AutoVino

At AutoVino, classic cars like this MG are kept to museum-quality standards in a climate-controlled gallery. Surrounded by fine wine, wood-fired cuisine, and curated automotive design, each vehicle's surfaces—from polished chrome to aged leather—are carefully maintained. More than just storage, AutoVino celebrates craftsmanship and history every day.

For Car Owners and Collectors

If you own a rare or collectible car, consider storing it at AutoVino. We offer secure, climate-controlled storage to keep your vehicle in showroom condition while displaying it among other enthusiasts who value authenticity and heritage.

AUTO VINO | 380 INDUSTRIAL ROAD | SAN CARLOS