Welcome to Rick's Garage, a collection of immaculately restored automobiles that represent various eras of the Hot Rod, Muscle Car and Service Vehicles.
RICK LORENZEN
Philanthropist and Car Guy
Rick Lorenzen grew up in Wilmington, California, near the famous Lions Drag Strip and was naturally drawn towards the culture of fast cars. Rick was especially impressed by the modified Willy’s, so much so that he quickly located a 1941 coupe for $65 dollars in 1960. Rick started working on it in his friends back yard and at Jim Dugan’s Muffler Shop in Wilmington. Dugan’s built headers and chassis for Motorsport Legend Mickey Thompson.
Rick’s passion for the Willy’s is just as strong today, which is obvious by his 35 plus Willy’s in his collection, including his original 1941 Willy’s that is in the same condition as when Rick stopped working on it in 1963. Ricks’ collection is perhaps the largest gathering of the Willy Automobile under one location.
Rick’s appreciation for the car culture is evident in his collection of over 100 vintage muscle cars, hot rods and classic vehicles. Each are staged next to store front dioramas exhibiting memories that Rick holds dear and that of the Lorenzen Family history including a reproduction of the family gas station and a working 1950’s Diner. Each storefront has a story, as does each car in his collection, successfully attempting to freeze time and provide glimpse in history.