“Yo, peep this super rare car collection left in a church! 😱”
The story behind this collection goes way back to the 1960s, when Ad Palmen, a car lover from Dordrecht, the Netherlands, got into the business of buying and selling vehicles. As time went by, Palmen found himself with a bunch of cars he couldn’t sell and others that just caught his eye. So, he decided to keep these special cars for himself, giving them all the love and attention they deserved.
## A curious collection that piqued the neighbors’ interest
The cars were tucked away in warehouses and even in a church, hidden from the prying eyes of the public. The locals in Dordrecht, curious about Palmen’s passion, tried to catch a glimpse of the cars, but always respected his privacy. “We lived near there for 15 years and wanted to see the cars, but never got the chance,” one neighbor confessed to The Sun.
However, as time went on, Palmen’s health started to decline, and he eventually decided to part ways with his collection of 243 cars that he had lovingly cared for over the years.
## Unveiling a remarkable collection in pristine condition
When auctioneers Nico and Nick Aaldering stepped into the warehouses and the church to assess the cars, they were met with a sight to behold. They discovered unique and rare models, such as a Lancia Aurelia B20, a Jaguar E-Type, an Alfa Romeo 2600 SZ, and a Mercedes-Benz 300S Roadster. The collection featured cars from different eras and brands, including classics from Ferrari, Ford, BMW, and Alpine, all in superb condition.
“It’s a diverse collection, unlike anything we’ve seen before in such great shape,” the auctioneers remarked. “Every engine held up over time, as Palmen made sure to start them regularly to prevent any deterioration,” a statement mentioned.
### The auction of Europe’s best-kept secret collection
Considered one of Europe’s most well-preserved and secretive collections, the auction drew interest from buyers worldwide. Every car found a new home, with some being bought by the same person, whose identity remains a mystery to safeguard their privacy.
Ad Palmen’s story and his extraordinary collection stand as a testament to his dedication and love for classic cars. His meticulous care and selection of unique vehicles showcase a deep understanding of the automotive world, making this collection a true gem for car enthusiasts everywhere.
