Lose yourself
Housed in a building that’s more gallery than showroom, the Dutton Garage is a playroom in which anyone with the slightest whiff of automotive interest could lose themselves. Spearheading the burgeoning classic car world in Australia, the Dutton Garage sells modern and sporting classics, too, and the criteria for what’s traded are simple – they are the best examples of the most significant cars. “Our cars are rare and exotic,” says Gavin Fernandez, a co-owner of the Dutton Garage. “They’re cars which are not readily accessible in Australia.”
A different ball game
So how does the classic car trade differ down under? “The main difference is liquidity,” explains Fernandez, who admits he’s cutting his teeth in this space. “European cars have a mature following; the buyers and sellers are sophisticated and understand the global appeal of these cars. While they’re great, Australian muscle cars, on the other hand, don’t offer the same appeal and heritage.”
Look for yourself at the quality of the diverse range of stock, from a 1924 Hispano-Suiza through to an ultra-rare Porsche 997 Sport Classic. Competition preparation is also a service the business offers, in response to the increasing popularity of historic racing in Australia.
Legacy
With a legacy of over 100 years, the Dutton name is renowned in Australia as an automotive pioneer. The Morgan Sachs Group, established by Gavin Fernandez and George Nakas 17 years ago, acquired 'Dutton Sporting Cars' in 2012, and evolved the company into the diverse business it is today. Jeff Dutton, the third-generation Dutton, remains actively involved, in the role of senior classic car specialist.
Photos: Dutton Garage