How a lifelong love for cars sparked a journey of restoration, innovation, and inspiration for the next generation of car enthusiasts.
For Wendell Habaluyas, cars are more than just metal and machinery; they represent passion, heritage, and a legacy of craftsmanship.
His journey into the world of cars started long before he even knew what a career was, and today, 28 years into that journey, he continues to inspire the next generation of car enthusiasts.
A Passion Born Early
“I think I was born for this,” Wendell laughs. His first word as a baby wasn’t “mom” or “dad”—it was “car.”
From that moment on, there was no looking back. By the age of 17, he was already working with cars, turning his childhood fascination into a lifelong passion and a successful career.
Wendell’s story is one that resonates with young car lovers today. It’s a reminder that when your heart is fully invested in something, even from an early age, that passion can guide your entire life.
What started as a hobby grew into a multi-faceted business, allowing Wendell to turn his love for vintage cars into a thriving enterprise.
The Iconic 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL
Among the many cars Wendell has owned and restored, one stands out: his 1980 Mercedes-Benz 450 SL with the rare AMG package. This 43-year-old beauty is not just a car; it’s a testament to the power of restoration, patience, and respect for automotive history.
For younger enthusiasts, Wendell’s dedication to restoring a classic car like the 450 SL serves as an inspiration to respect the history of automobiles.
Owning a classic car is not just about luxury or status—it’s about understanding the art, the effort, and the story behind each vehicle. Wendell’s careful attention to detail in restoring his Mercedes, making sure every part, every nut, and every bolt is meticulously perfect, speaks volumes about his devotion.
Turning Passion into Business
Wendell didn’t just keep his love for cars to himself. Over the years, he built a business empire around it. In 2023, he founded 1826 Motoring, specializing in importing vintage cars that are 40 years old and up.
His other ventures include Level 10 Wheel Specialist, which has been restoring and repairing wheels since 2012, and Porsche Parts Express, catering to special orders for Porsche parts and accessories. His service center, Primo Motore, completes the portfolio, making him a one-stop-shop for everything automotive.
Wendell’s businesses aren’t just about profit—they’re about passion, preservation, and giving younger car enthusiasts the chance to learn, engage, and grow in the car community.
Porsche: A Lifelong Love
While Wendell owns a variety of cars, his heart belongs to Porsche. “My favorite brand has always been Porsche. Coincidentally, my wife’s name is Portia,” he laughs.
Wendell’s love for the brand even extends to his family, as he has named five out of six of his children after Porsche models—Speed, short for Speedster, Laura Cayenne, Celeste Carrera, Andres Taycan, and Maria Panamera.
Wendell’s personal Porsche, a 1998 Boxster 986, holds a special place in his heart.
When I was in college, I saw the first Porsche Boxster 986 unveiled and told myself, ‘One day, I’ll own one of these.
It took him years to make that dream come true, but when he finally got his hands on the car, he spent four years restoring it to perfection.
His work on the car is nothing short of extraordinary—he replaced everything from the interior to the roof, ensuring that this car is now one of the most meticulously restored Boxsters in the world.
Wendell’s journey, from the boy whose first word was “car” to a successful entrepreneur and car restorer, is a powerful testament to passion, dedication, and love for the craft.
His message to the younger generation of car enthusiasts is simple yet profound: “It all starts with passion. Keep on pushing, keep on working.”
His story goes beyond cars—it’s about how following your passion can lead to remarkable things, how patience and dedication can turn dreams into reality, and how a love for something as simple as a car can inspire future generations.