Business Details
36 Years
experience
Classic Car Restoration & Sales in Lenox, MA
Donovan Motorcar Service was founded in 1990 by Brian Donovan, a lifelong automobile enthusiast whose passion for classic cars led him to transform his engineering career into a dedicated automotive venture. Our team specializes in the service, restoration, and sale of vintage British, European, and domestic automobiles, including iconic brands like Jaguar, Mercedes, Porsche, and BMW. With decades of hands-on experience, we have earned a reputation as a trusted partner for both routine maintenance and full-scale restorations. Our facility in Lenox, Massachusetts, houses a renowned vintage racing team and offers clients the opportunity to engage directly with our mechanics throughout their vehicle's service process.We prioritize transparency, personalized communication, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every client feels connected to their car's journey. From technical expertise to community-building events like car clinics and wine tastings, we blend craftsmanship with a shared love for automotive heritage. Our commitment to excellence has made us a globally recognized name in the classic car world, serving enthusiasts who value both tradition and innovation.
Services
Auto Restoration
Vintage Car Sales
Mechanical Repairs
Vintage Racing
Vehicle Storage
Parts Supply
Car Clinics
Technical Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We specialize in vintage British, European, and domestic automobiles with 30+ years of focused expertise
- Our facility hosts a nationally recognized vintage racing team for enthusiast engagement
- We provide direct communication between clients and mechanics throughout service projects
- We offer complimentary vehicle detailing with every service appointment
- Our team maintains international recognition for complex restoration projects
What people say
Excellent service quality
Transparent communication
Expert restoration work
Personalized attention
Prompt repairs
Services
Auto Restoration
Our comprehensive restoration services combine decades of experience with specialized techniques for vintage British, European, and domestic automobiles. From engine machining to bodywork, our craftsmen preserve automotive heritage while ensuring modern reliability. Clients receive regular updates and direct communication with technicians throughout the process.
Vintage Racing
As one of North America's most successful vintage racing teams, we offer competitive racing programs for Jaguar enthusiasts. Our Client Program allows owners to participate in historic circuits with professionally maintained race vehicles while maintaining their personal car collections.
Vehicle Storage
We provide secure, climate-controlled storage for classic vehicles undergoing service or long-term preservation. Owners receive regular updates and access to their vehicles, with complimentary washing and vacuuming included for all serviced vehicles.
Mechanical Repairs
Our expert technicians handle everything from routine maintenance to complex diagnostics for vintage automobiles. With six dedicated service bays and a focus on transparency, we ensure prompt, reliable repairs with clear communication throughout the process.
Vintage Car Sales
We offer curated vintage car sales featuring meticulously maintained and restored vehicles. Our inventory includes rare models from iconic brands, with full documentation and service history to ensure buyers receive premium classic automobiles.
People
Brian Donovan
Founder
Brian Donovan founded the company in 1990 after a successful engineering career at GE. A passionate vintage racer, he leads the Jaguar Vintage Racing Team and oversees all restoration projects with hands-on expertise in classic automobiles.
Questions
What types of vehicles do you specialize in?
We specialize in British, European, and domestic vintage automobiles including Jaguar, Mercedes, Porsche, BMW, and classic American muscle cars.
Do you offer vintage racing participation opportunities?
Yes, our Client Program allows owners to participate in vintage racing events with professionally maintained race vehicles while preserving their personal collections.
What service areas do you cover?
While based in Lenox, Massachusetts, we serve classic car enthusiasts nationwide through our restoration and sales programs.
Can I observe my vehicle's service process?
Yes, we encourage direct interaction with our mechanics and provide regular updates throughout all service and restoration projects.
Do you provide vehicle storage options?
We offer secure, climate-controlled storage with complimentary vehicle maintenance for cars undergoing service or long-term preservation.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Boo Sparx
May 17, 2022
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Brought my 1960 VW Bus to these "so called experts" to rebuild the engine. I should have known I was in trouble when asked by the mechanic what the torque setting on the heads were!? They had no idea what they were doing with VW's. They are a British car shop. 1,800 miles after the rebuild the valve cooked in cylinder number four. How did that happen?! The genius they had working on my engine put the air circulation shields ON TOP of the cylinders instead of the bottom.
You would do XACTLY that if you wanted to cook an air cooled engine slowly. Completely destroyed my engine. Sadly I moved right after the rebuild and experienced the engine meltdown 1,500 miles away. When notified about the problem I was told to ship the engine back so they can take a look at it (after I sent them pictures) They charged me just under 5K for a rebuild that lasted 1,800 miles. They took no responsibility for the engine failure and the owner would not return my calls or certified letter sent to remedy the situation. See pictures of their handy work. BEWARE!
You would do XACTLY that if you wanted to cook an air cooled engine slowly. Completely destroyed my engine. Sadly I moved right after the rebuild and experienced the engine meltdown 1,500 miles away. When notified about the problem I was told to ship the engine back so they can take a look at it (after I sent them pictures) They charged me just under 5K for a rebuild that lasted 1,800 miles. They took no responsibility for the engine failure and the owner would not return my calls or certified letter sent to remedy the situation. See pictures of their handy work. BEWARE!
Pat Rosta
Jun 14, 2021
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We were from out of state, and anxious to get home, when the convertible roof on my husbands brand new car malfunctioned and wouldn't close, only half way into the trunk. In the process both sides of the hard roof became gouged-brand new car! One phone call to Donovan's and within 15 to 20 minutes they dropped their work and managed to get the hard top settled and the trunk closed. The issue was with the machinery of the car, and by looking, reading the care journal and simply 'knowing his stuff' Scott and his crew had it under control without any further new damage. Everyone there was kind, patient and helpful! GREAT EXPERIENCE!
Jerry Bush
May 11, 2021
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A great professional car service center. Their attention to detail, the knowledge of the mechanics and communication was above my expectations. Scott and his crew not once hesitated to call me and inform me about the things they thought needed to be done. I feel this communication is a important part of getting a car serviced. They set up a detailing service for me and the work was also outstanding. For professional service and top of the line work i highly recommend Donovan's Motorcar Service. They will not let you down!
James Gagner
Mar 19, 2021
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Broke down & was able to limp my car into their shop. They went above & beyond to help me. Car was repaired quickly, correctly & with full explanation of the issue.
Jason Feingold
Feb 11, 2021
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BUYER BEWARE - I confirm a lot of these other comments - they are awful at communicating their bills, which skyrocket once you get in the door. They are masters at finding problems, underestimating them and then explaining how they bill grew so much so fast. Beware of their STORAGE FEES while they work on your car - I'd spend thousands of dollars and they then also jack me for storage fees. Really disappointing, going to look for another shop.
Mohan Rao
Jun 02, 2020
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If you have a Jag in the North East this is the place to go to get it some TLC. There's nothing Brian and team don't know about E-Types. Dean will take care of all queries with patience. He's a real car enthusiast. Especially for these older sports cars. My 1967 E-Type is taken care of only by them.