The Museo de Autos Nicolini: Peru's haven for antique automobiles

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As the organiser of a number of international endurance rallies, Bart Kleyn gets to see some interesting sights. He reports on an excellent discovery he made while reconnoitring for a rally in Peru.

Considering the weather conditions in the northern hemisphere, it becomes evident that organising a rally like the Peaks of the Andes in South America has its distinct advantages. However, the perks extend beyond the balmy climate. Last year, we reported on a possibly unique Renault in a local history museum in Argentina. This time, the surprise was in Lima, Peru, at the Nicolini Collection. As his name suggests, Señor Nicolini is of Italian descendance, having made his fortune with a pasta business and, like anyone with Italian bloody coursing through their veins, he has a great passion for cars.

Much to my surprise, being a first-time visitor to Peru, I did not anticipate encountering such a rich automotive heritage. The majority of the vehicles in the museum have been unearthed in Peru. The latest addition to the yet-to-be-restored section of the museum is a Jaguar XK140 drophead.

The assortment of cars is diverse, ranging from the rare and unassuming 1935 Datsun Type 14 to the majestic and exceptionally rare Pierce Arrow 1603 seven-seat tourer, and the flamboyant 1935 Auburn Speedster with its great supercharged straight-eight.

Jorge Nicolini, the owner, has a particular fondness for the Auburn, having driven it in the Bariloche 1,000 Millas, an rally around Patagonia, where he proceeded to win the concours d’élégance. His greatest source of pride, however, is the unique 1915 Wanderer Sport. Even Audi representatives came over to certify the car, which stands as the only one of its kind in the world. Jorge is still puzzled about how this car found its way to Peru amidst the hostilities of 1915.

In-house restoration is meticulously undertaken for various components, including bodywork, electrics, engine, upholstery, woodwork, paintwork and chroming. A team of ten individuals is dedicated to the restoration process. A Riley is nearing completion, two E-types are currently in progress, and a Mercedes 130H (arguably the predecessor of the Beetle) is next in line. All restoration work is executed with meticulous attention to detail and strives to meet the highest standards.

Our hope is that the yellow Rolls-Royce Phantom II with silver door handles and ornaments will retain its unique patina, with only the mechanical parts undergoing restoration.

Words and photographs: Bart Kleyn

Participation in the Peaks of the Andes is still possible, more information can be found here.

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