What a healthy gentleman.. physically and mentally with a wonderful personality. As rare and great as that Ferrari is, the star of the show was the Admiral!
To be an Admiral in the Navy you have to be very smart, to be at his age and as sharp and knowledgeable as he is, is nothing short of amazing. Simply awesome!
Its easier to be knowledegable when you are 80 than 20 you've had 4 times longer to aquire knowledge. He's lucky to not have deteriorated cognitively though.
These are the best videos Jay does; a half hour of original owner history and stories. I dig Petrolicious, and their videos are top notch, but I thoroughly enjoy the simple chat format followed by a drive. Thanks Admiral! -Aside, more classic JDM please!
Jay is a real good guy. He could have bought that car from the lady (who had no idea of the true worth of her car) on the cheap side and made a huge profit reselling it. Instead he helped her out and she made 8 times the money. Not alot of people would do that. I bet his dad was looking down at him and thinking "I taught my boy good.". This has to be one of the best episodes of Jay Leno's Garage.
Yea, but I do think he bought a lot of his cars/bikes in similar fashion. This is how it works with usually. Some old guy passes away and their wife or kids will sell his car(s) without knowledge of the real value...
✋ I apologize Admiral Phillips but this is as close to a salute as I can give you on TH-cam. Thank you for preserving this wonderful piece of history. You've done a fine job. I heard about this car 15 years ago. I watched the beautiful segment you did on Petrolious' channel about this car. I wish your family would keep it as part of your legacy, but You made a decision. It must be a heart wrenching one for you. This was Your car. It will always be your car too no matter who owns it. I know I will aways refer to it as the Admirals Ferrari in you honor sir. From one motoring enthusiast to another Thank you.
@Lassi Kinnunen I see your point But....this man loves to drive this car regardless of the cost. I'm sure his children/grandchildren would get possibly some use out of it even if it was to take it to car shows. This car is a automatic invite to some of the most prestigious motoring events in the world. This man probably would love if they drove it and and crumpled a fender or two.
I almost didn't watch this video because I thought it was just some millionaire who bought a old ferrari. So glad I read some of the comments, truly one of the best JLG ever.
Greg Fuller his story was worth more than any other superstar with a supercar, I'll tell you I haven't smiled so hard in years outside of with my family or dad, as I did when the Admiral told Jay. "you can put your hands on this wheel too" pure gold
In 1954, coming home from UCLA, I was passed on Ventura Blvd. by John von Neumann coming from Jack McAfee's shop to show Jack his new Ferrari Mondial, maybe the first in So. California. I can still hear those 4 cylinders with their unmistakeable rumble, driving behind the Ferrari. (A few years later I ended up working for von Neumann.) Great show, and a wonderful admiral; thanks.
it is incredible how, as a Venezuelan, suddenly I can find some amazing stories linked to my county's history, thank you so much Admiral Robert Phillips for sharing the story with us. What a beautiful piece of art this car is. Thanks a lot Jay, huge fan of yours, this show and, of course, all the astonishing cars you show to the world.
This is still to date, my favorite Jay Leno's Garage episode.... Thanks Rear Admiral Phillips for your service and your dedication to both our Republic, and this stunning Mondial....as I'm typing this, I have a thought that I commented before however how long ago that was, and I'm pretty sure Robert responded, I'm hoping you're still doing well, and thank you again for everything, including keeping this safe and sharing it with us.... and thanks Jay for doing what you do 👌🇺🇲
I have the utmost respect for Jay. You can tell that he respects our veterans and is humbled in the presence of high ranking military personnel. Thanks for the great videos, Jay.
Wow, what an interesting video. What made it special for me was the fact that the Admiral not only restored the car, but he actually raced it. They definitely should make a movie of the Admiral and his Ferrari.
I was born in 1955 and still love cars from then through to the 80's. They had character, even the everyday models. Custom cars were a thing in the 60's/,70's, hot rods, souped up regular cars. I grew up within walking distance of the Austin Motors factory, my father worked there. Most of the area either worked there or in suppliers like Triplex, Burmans, Lucas, Dunlop etc. A great thing was that many guys built "specials" in their yards using Austin engines, parts, a chassis then fabricating bodies from aluminium sheet. Often those parts had come "over the wall" from the factory 😨 Used for hillclimbs, rallies, shows. Hard to do that with a modern car...and probably illegal. I still subscribe to Motor Sport Magazine....and drool over cars like this Ferrari.
What a way to start my day. Incredible man and car. Heading to Caffeine & Octane in a few minutes. A joy to meet true car guys like the Admiral. Last month I met a guy who owned a '65 (?) Falcon Sprint , 289 with a 4sp. Different air cleaner, owner, "3 X 2s , you could get it as a dealer option" . How long have you had the car? "Since I was 14".
Agree! I said to my wife, that this is by far the best Jay Leno’s Garage I’ve ever seen! Not ophen I just sit there with a big smile on and almost got tears in my eyes. Thank you Jay for bringing out theese wonderfull cars, and their owners!
This wonderful man, Admiral Robert Phillips, put his blood, sweat and tears into this beautiful Ferrari not to mention money he had to borrow. Most Ferrari owners are pretentious, ostentatious, pompous, grandiloquent, rich jerks who rather drive on Rodeo drive than Mullholand Hwy., not this Admiral, he is a true car guy. I salute you sir.
Hey Rob. Maybe it would be wiser if you didnt use such sweeping negative statements about owners of any car make Ferrari or otherwise. Sounds a bit unfair and not very kind.
A million$ storyteller, too, and remarkably fit, articulate and passionate at 80+ but no surprise, as he's Navy! Admirable, Admiral! The car sold for $4.5 million at Pebble Beach as the Admiral drove the machine onto the stage, gave the Ferrari a good throaty good-bye rev, then waved to the house! A Class act. We should all be so blessed.
Dedicated his life to his country, an entire life in the USN, and a car he simply loved. Its like a person giving away his Golden Retriever, because he knows he can't take care of it. The value is utterly meaningless now; its investment broker money....the car will pop up on the web forever, in auctions.....but, it will NEVER again, be driven by a Rear Admiral who built a life, a family, a command, and a car. Thanks Jay, for seeing history down the road, and making it available, for us today.
@@captainbart, I suspect the admiral dedicated his life to serving our nation and to his family, but the car was probably just a hobby. And by selling the car, he knows that his family has the security that five million can buy, like a house for each child & tuition for each grandchild.....
My Late Uncle Harry Robinson had a similar passion for old cars. He worked for Mobile oil as an Engineer and traveled all over the world as part of his job. He was transferred to Singapore in the early 1960"s. On the weekends the local town would close the streets and host car races. You basically raced what you had. He was hooked on watching these local races. One day he heard of an old car sitting rotting in a field that had been sitting for many years. He contacted the landowner and he said that if he wanted it then it was his to haul away. When he went out to see it he discovered it was a rare Lagonda racer from the 1930's. He hauled it back to his bungalow and he & his wife slowly got it running again, no concourse restoration just enough to to run it at the local races. He was transferred to Alaska to help with the Alaska pipeline, so they packed up the car (along with another Lagonda) and spent the rest of his life in Alaska. He spend more time in repairing the cars and around 1995 he decided to ship them both to the UK for a "proper" restoration. He said that it was almost $10,000 each way per car for shipping. The cars had to be completed within a certain time period or be taxed a considerable amount. So they shipped them back to Washington and when they arrived they were stored inside the facility. Sadly the building caught fire and were completely destroyed. When I saw the pictures of the 2 cars remains I was heart broken. The cars were just melted, I called him and he just was happy that nobody was hurt. One of the cars was valued at over $300,000. and the other one was valued at $150,000. He was also President of the Lagonda and Tom Barrett one of owners of Barrett Jackson made those offers to him in the mid 1990's pre restorations to buy them. Harry traveled to Arizona yearly to go to the Barrett Jackson auction. Back then they just had one small tent in a former amusement park parking lot, NOTHING like todays international event.
We have just witnessed nothing short of history here people - free of charge - thanks to Jay's generosity. We didn't even have to pay for basic cable TV to see it, either. MUCH respect for the Admiral for both his service for so may years to our country AND to his stewardship of the car. Without people like him, special cars like this one don't exist - and without Jay's efforts, we don't get to even learn of them. THIS is what the whole hobby is about, whether it's a multi-million dollar masterpiece or a $10k restored Rambler. Those of us in it are proper stewards if we not only manage to bring an old car back from the brink, but share both it and the knowledge we've gained as a result of restoring and caring for it. As the Admirals' father said - none of us make it out of this alive - so being a good steward, as Jay certainly is, is the responsibility (and turns out, great pleasure as well) of taking care of a special old car. I try with my own and I respect anyone else who does so with theirs, especially Jay.
I met a Ferrari owner at Sears Point Raceway in Sonoma Ca. a few years ago who had a very similar perspective to Admiral Phillips. He bought a 1957 Ferrrari Testa Rosa in the late '60s for about $10,000 because he wanted to race a beautiful old Ferrari race car. I met him in the mid-90's and he told me of course he had a pretty good idea what the car was worth (yet he still raced it in SCCA) but didn't focus on that very much. He bought it to race it, he loved to race, and he intended to continue racing it. These are the owners (custodians?) of these fabulous old cars that I really am pleased to meet at the track... much more than those who only know that "these cars are cool so I think I'll get one." Admiral Phillips is one of the guys who has known for better than 50 years what he has and hasn't given a hoot about the value over those years. He bought it to race and things have worked out pretty well for him. Some times the "Good Guys" really do win!!
Gary Goodlund some people live their life within their means. They have absolutely no need for more money. This admiral is one example. Pretty cool, if you ask me!
Probably the best episode of Jay Leno's Garage. There is something so bittersweet about this episode and this car. I see it was sold for $5M and in some ways it's amazing and yet sad. The car has such a history and life and it'll be going away into some collector's storage, somehow dying away as a museum piece.
Fortunately the car went to a honest to goodness car guy. He just finished showing it at the Casa Ferrari at Pebble Beach and has been seen driving on the back roads around Milwaukee. True it was bittersweet but with a happy ending to that chapter.
This is a really good episode. I normally prefer the ones where Jay is alone with no guest, but I really liked this guy. What an awesome story, and he comes across as really kind.
I saw this gentleman on TV at the Pebble Beach concourse. His story fascinating about buying it while in the Navy ,working on it, racing it and keeping it practically the rest of his life. This car is pure and the blue a welcome change from the red. When I was a little tot in the fifties I remember these kinds of cars, sportscars with the sloping fin behind the driver head rest- Jag type D the most beautiful of all. Cars are not just machines, they are as alive as the people that designed ,built and worked on them.
All the respect in the world to Admiral Phillips for his work as a first class steward of this automobile. An absolutely amazing effort restoring the Mondial to it's rightful glory. Please take note everyone, this is what a true car person is all about. Our cars may be a material possession in the end but there is no doubt when it comes to an individual such as this man and the many like him, that the automobile is so much more. Beyond what words may afford and articulate. As a Bay Area native, with family lineage of military service, at all the bases he referenced, and lastly a current & proud Oakland - Richmond resident, thank you Admiral Phillips for being an outstanding example of what our community is truly about.
Watched getting ready to go to Quail Motorsports Gathering today. This is THE BEST car video story I have EVER seen. Bravo to Admiral Phillips! What a legacy!! This is also some of Jay Leno's best work in bringing out a FANTASTIC story!!! Three thumbs up!!!!!!!
Wonderful and amazing span of the life,owning a 1955 Ferrari Mondial Series II and still being able to jump in over the side and go for a ride ahhhhh amazing!!...Thank you for the history Admiral Robert Phillips and allowing Jay to take me for a wonderful ride of your 1955 Ferrari..Wow i love your car clips...Cheers & Beers...Jay.!
I recently sold a custom lead sled Pontiac I originally purchased in highschool, some years ago, that my wife did the body work on and I did the custom paint work on. I completely understand the heartache/joy and also the want of a good steward for the history of the car... And the fear of the car show crowds.
I met this gentleman at the Rockville, MD annual car show a few years ago. He and his wife could not have been more down to earth and nicer to me and the many others that were simply in awe of this car and them as well.
I've watched every video from the beginning of this show and hands down this owner is the best ever! He is knowledgeable and explained all the cars history and features as well as a great history lesson in Ferrari heritage. If possible please seek out other great individuals like this for future presentations. Jay asked just enough questions and let the story flow from the owner's memory. Great!
Admiral Phillips... You Sir are exactly what every car guy should be.. You've enjoyed that car every which way possible, from giving a old race car life again to go and play to being a historian that I could listen to all night. Congrats on a wonderful experience.!
My favorite JLG show by far. Wonderful story and a remarkable owner. Much respect for a man who drives a Ferrari like Enzo intended and didn't just stick it away in a garage to appreciate. And of course...thank you for your service Admiral!
Astro Bob, thank you for your support. Driving the car particularly on the track was a real blast. The trip from San Francisco to New York not so much.
Military auto hobby shops are awesome. Back in '89, I (PFC) rolled in with my Firebird, and before I knew it, I had several staff nco Marines helping me. In two weeks, my junkyard special rolled out with headers, duals w custom x pipe, intake, carb, hei ignition, coil, shift kit, flex fan, cheap radio, seat covers, and finished up with an eagle globe and anchor sticker on the duck tail spoiler. Great car and even better memories. Wish I'd kept it like the Admiral did. Off topic I know. This Ferrari is a treasure.
I think the best thing by far is the attitude of camaraderie. Could you imagine if society as a whole could work like this, where everybody rolls up their sleeves and helps each other out?
I wish the Admiral and long life full of good health. Seems like a very respectable man and an awesome steward of this car. Thank you Sir and Jay for bringing us this amazing story.
I've just finished watching this video, for the third time and I still got a kick out of it. A wonderful story about a 58 year long love story told by an incredibly knowledgeable gentleman who has been a fabulous custodian of this simply beautiful car. As I got to the end, again I forgot about Jay's wonderful words to the Admiral, "Well I can't thank you enough, this has been a lot of fun and it's been a real history lesson, and thanks for preserving this piece of history, it's really great...you've had an admirable life my friend (shaking hands), you've served your country and you got to race some cars, you did all of it, so thank you so much"
Admiral Robert Phillips is an amazing man. He reminds me of Coach John Wooden. He's sharp as a tack, despite his age. His stories of his military service would make an entire video series I'm sure. I saw this car on Petrolicious awhile back and this video is even better. It would be great to meet him, shake his hand and thank him for his service.
This car becomes more beautiful, the more one looks at it. And the "French blue" makes it so special, with the Ferrari emblem on the side and the red leather seat. I will go out on a limb by saying if it had been painted in the characteristic red, it would be, yet, another beautiful vintage Ferrari, but as is, it has an enchanting aura hard to explain.
What a great guy!!! Maybe Jay needs a show where he just talks about life with gentlemen like him, old cars aren't going anywhere, these men are disappearing everyday.
You can't possibly find a more American story than a Navy Admiral buying an Italian race car from a toy dealer in the back lot of a now defunct car dealership.
Alberto Ascari You're right! I did know 3 of my grandparents, and they told wonderful stories. So did my parents. We all need to pass stories on to the next generations.
I don't have the words to express how great this story was and the Admiral's views on how historic cars should be treated are in line with mine - only on a different financial plane! What a lovely story and a lovely bloke.
The car is worth more than a bunch of paper.. back in the 50s paper money was backed by gold. Our currency today derives its ONLY value from the promise of our future taxes... they already spent this year's harvest 2500 is worth 140,000 and change in today's gold prices.. he probably spent more than that in the restoration.... it's value has nothing to do with artificial values of money.. it's a priceless work of art.. it's like selling the Mona Lisa.. really
Probably the best episode of Jay Leno's Garage ever. The Admiral and his knowledge of this vehicle and its history and his realness just blows away everything else that's ever shown up on this show.
I am still amazed by the history of this vehicle and the back then racer car driver that wanted a faster race car.... can you image the family get togethers... the car shows.. how much automobilismo was grown into his family.. simply amazing Fantastic!!!!!!!
I've been watching this channel since 2009, I always wait for the Sunday night upload and get on my laptop, use my headphones to listen to all the details of the entire show, but I have to say, this is the only show that I was affected by it emotionally, and I think its the story, the car, and the man behind it all. So Jay thank you for sharing and educating me about such a historical car like this beauty Queen Ferrari.
Admiral Robert Phillips, you were and still are an amazing man, Sir. "I was'nt looking for making money, I was looking for a racing car". My utmost respect to you, Sir ! Take care of yourself, Admiral, you are a road model for many. Thank you.
One of the best Jay Leno video ever, I keep on watching it again, everything is perfect, the car, the Admiral and Jay... I guess we pretty much all agree there. Thanks guys
One of the most special cars, in terms of rarity and automotive racing history, Jay has had on his program. I would think this car would go for at least 10 million because of what it is and it’s pedigree (58 year the same owner of such a rare car)! I’d consider 10 million a steal.
What a healthy gentleman.. physically and mentally with a wonderful personality. As rare and great as that Ferrari is, the star of the show was the Admiral!
82 years old if he got it in 1960 aged 24!
Agreed. God bless him
I was thinking the same thing. He oozes discipline.
@@stangetz534
"Discipline"???
Is that a real word?
What does it mean?
(That's a real question in current year)
This make me be ok with the fact that I am starting to get old... It's gonna be fun!
Whoever this mans grand kids are, hopefully don't take this great man for granted. What a great story behind such a beautiful car
To be an Admiral in the Navy you have to be very smart, to be at his age and as sharp and knowledgeable as he is, is nothing short of amazing. Simply awesome!
Not to mention spry for 80 years old. I'm 44 and don't think I would have looked as good getting into that.
Its easier to be knowledegable when you are 80 than 20 you've had 4 times longer to aquire knowledge. He's lucky to not have deteriorated cognitively though.
rimmersbryggeri keep yourself busy. Keep yourself engaged.
There is that expression "I've forgotten more than you know" and there is actually some truth to that.
Couldn’t agree with you more. This was a privilege to watch.
Admiral Robert Phillips is an American treasure to behold. He exhibits the essence of what a man should aspire to be.
If anyone is wondering the car sold for $5,005,000 at pebble Beach in 2018.
Why did he sell it?
Cool update thanks.
@@777lucifero 22:55
Simo he’s old as hell man
i was short on 5000$ dammm , ill buy it back next time ")
Absolutely loved hearing the owner's story on how he bought it when he was in the Navy.Very beautiful car.
This is the one you need to watch. The admiral telling the story and driving it like it was ment to be driven th-cam.com/video/HpfJ1b-X7p4/w-d-xo.html
These are the best videos Jay does; a half hour of original owner history and stories.
I dig Petrolicious, and their videos are top notch, but I thoroughly enjoy the simple chat format followed by a drive.
Thanks Admiral!
-Aside, more classic JDM please!
Hell yeah brother. More JDM cars !!!!!!!!
John -thanks for the link! Great story and cinematography!
@@EVILSPAWN1003 thank you so very much for the link! Much better story IMHO.
Jay is a real good guy. He could have bought that car from the lady (who had no idea of the true worth of her car) on the cheap side and made a huge profit reselling it. Instead he helped her out and she made 8 times the money. Not alot of people would do that. I bet his dad was looking down at him and thinking "I taught my boy good.". This has to be one of the best episodes of Jay Leno's Garage.
uberaudioexperience Would you please give my racing channel its 1475th Subscribe
Yea, but I do think he bought a lot of his cars/bikes in similar fashion. This is how it works with usually. Some old guy passes away and their wife or kids will sell his car(s) without knowledge of the real value...
I agree to do that was a classy move, few people would do the same.
Of course I agree ... but the highest level is not mentioning it in any way : )
Jay never sells his cars.
One of the all-time best episodes of Jay Leno‘s Garage.
Willy Lamb 🤙
The Ferrari F40 was the best episode.
Couldn't agree more. What an amazing story.
@Joe Varga four me it was the best episode.
One of my favorites too along with the Chrysler 300G episode.
This is one of the few shows where Jay isn't constantly interrupting the guest because this guest has such an amazing story!
Well first he's older than Jay. 😒😒
Jay doesn’t really interrupt, he adds to the conversation.
I agree, love j l ❤️
The Admiral is an encyclopedia. This video was a gorgeous history lesson. Thanks for showcasing this Mr. Leno.
Lets pray, and hope the 20 - 30 kids see the value in these stories.......
Fascinating! This guy is in his eighties & he's in better shape than most of America
Not a lot of burgers and fries there :-)
@Salvador Dalí says you....you don't know most americans
✋ I apologize Admiral Phillips but this is as close to a salute as I can give you on TH-cam. Thank you for preserving this wonderful piece of history. You've done a fine job. I heard about this car 15 years ago. I watched the beautiful segment you did on Petrolious' channel about this car. I wish your family would keep it as part of your legacy, but You made a decision. It must be a heart wrenching one for you. This was Your car. It will always be your car too no matter who owns it. I know I will aways refer to it as the Admirals Ferrari in you honor sir. From one motoring enthusiast to another Thank you.
👍🏼👌🏼👍🏼
@Lassi Kinnunen I see your point But....this man loves to drive this car regardless of the cost. I'm sure his children/grandchildren would get possibly some use out of it even if it was to take it to car shows. This car is a automatic invite to some of the most prestigious motoring events in the world. This man probably would love if they drove it and and crumpled a fender or two.
I almost didn't watch this video because I thought it was just some millionaire who bought a old ferrari. So glad I read some of the comments, truly one of the best JLG ever.
Greg Fuller Mate if you like this watch the Admiral on Petrolious. What a great story.
Greg Fuller his story was worth more than any other superstar with a supercar, I'll tell you I haven't smiled so hard in years outside of with my family or dad, as I did when the Admiral told Jay. "you can put your hands on this wheel too" pure gold
I can listen to this guy forever. So humble and knowledgeable at the same time. Beautiful car ❤
As a Bay Area native I can't believe a man of such character called this crazy place home. Sadly, a dying breed.
Anchors Aweigh!
I could listen to this guy tell stories until he ascends.
Agreed.
agree
To a higher plane of existence?
That’s was hilarious. Got me good.
haven't even watched the video and I had to like your comment
Stunning. And what a gentleman. This is an incredible story and car.
In 1954, coming home from UCLA, I was passed on Ventura Blvd. by John von Neumann coming from Jack McAfee's shop to show Jack his new Ferrari Mondial, maybe the first in So. California. I can still hear those 4 cylinders with their unmistakeable rumble, driving behind the Ferrari. (A few years later I ended up working for von Neumann.) Great show, and a wonderful admiral; thanks.
it is incredible how, as a Venezuelan, suddenly I can find some amazing stories linked to my county's history, thank you so much Admiral Robert Phillips for sharing the story with us.
What a beautiful piece of art this car is.
Thanks a lot Jay, huge fan of yours, this show and, of course, all the astonishing cars you show to the world.
This is still to date, my favorite Jay Leno's Garage episode.... Thanks Rear Admiral Phillips for your service and your dedication to both our Republic, and this stunning Mondial....as I'm typing this, I have a thought that I commented before however how long ago that was, and I'm pretty sure Robert responded, I'm hoping you're still doing well, and thank you again for everything, including keeping this safe and sharing it with us.... and thanks Jay for doing what you do 👌🇺🇲
I have the utmost respect for Jay. You can tell that he respects our veterans and is humbled in the presence of high ranking military personnel. Thanks for the great videos, Jay.
Wow, what an interesting video. What made it special for me was the fact that the Admiral not only restored the car, but he actually raced it. They definitely should make a movie of the Admiral and his Ferrari.
The Admiral's Ferrari!!
A fantastic man and a fantastic car
I was born in 1955 and still love cars from then through to the 80's.
They had character, even the everyday models. Custom cars were a thing in the 60's/,70's, hot rods, souped up regular cars.
I grew up within walking distance of the Austin Motors factory, my father worked there. Most of the area either worked there or in suppliers like Triplex, Burmans, Lucas, Dunlop etc.
A great thing was that many guys built "specials" in their yards using Austin engines, parts, a chassis then fabricating bodies from aluminium sheet. Often those parts had come "over the wall" from the factory 😨
Used for hillclimbs, rallies, shows.
Hard to do that with a modern car...and probably illegal.
I still subscribe to Motor Sport Magazine....and drool over cars like this Ferrari.
What a way to start my day. Incredible man and car. Heading to Caffeine & Octane in a few minutes. A joy to meet true car guys like the Admiral. Last month I met a guy who owned a '65 (?) Falcon Sprint , 289 with a 4sp. Different air cleaner, owner, "3 X 2s , you could get it as a dealer option" . How long have you had the car? "Since I was 14".
Probably the best and most interesting Jay lenos garage I've ever seen. An amazing man and car. Thanks Jay!
Fraser P Totally agree!
Agree! I said to my wife, that this is by far the best Jay Leno’s Garage I’ve ever seen! Not ophen I just sit there with a big smile on and almost got tears in my eyes. Thank you Jay for bringing out theese wonderfull cars, and their owners!
I totally agree.
Absolutely.
I agree!
This wonderful man, Admiral Robert Phillips, put his blood, sweat and tears into this beautiful Ferrari not to mention money he had to borrow. Most Ferrari owners are pretentious, ostentatious, pompous, grandiloquent, rich jerks who rather drive on Rodeo drive than Mullholand Hwy., not this Admiral, he is a true car guy. I salute you sir.
Rob Mardo very well articulated statement sir, great use of grandiloquent. perfect word to describe irresponsible purchases of a vast scale
Hey Rob. Maybe it would be wiser if you didnt use such sweeping negative statements about owners of any car make Ferrari or otherwise. Sounds a bit unfair and not very kind.
Some Ferrari owners have worked their backsides off to achieve the dream of owning a Ferrari for the love of the design, engineering and history.
@@Michael-gr6fv Have you?
@@shelbyavant5081 I have indeed
A million$ storyteller, too, and remarkably fit, articulate and passionate at 80+ but no surprise, as he's Navy! Admirable, Admiral! The car sold for $4.5 million at Pebble Beach as the Admiral drove the machine onto the stage, gave the Ferrari a good throaty good-bye rev, then waved to the house! A Class act. We should all be so blessed.
Thanks for the update.
The auction site says it sold for $5,005,000. A bargain, considering.
Sold for 5.005 million exclusive of fees.
That means the buyer paid all the fees, the full 5 million went to the admiral.
Dedicated his life to his country, an entire life in the USN, and a car he simply loved. Its like a person giving away his Golden Retriever, because he knows he can't take care of it. The value is utterly meaningless now; its investment broker money....the car will pop up on the web forever, in auctions.....but, it will NEVER again, be driven by a Rear Admiral who built a life, a family, a command, and a car. Thanks Jay, for seeing history down the road, and making it available, for us today.
@@captainbart, I suspect the admiral dedicated his life to serving our nation and to his family, but the car was probably just a hobby. And by selling the car, he knows that his family has the security that five million can buy, like a house for each child & tuition for each grandchild.....
My Late Uncle Harry Robinson had a similar passion for old cars. He worked for Mobile oil as an Engineer and traveled all over the world as part of his job. He was transferred to Singapore in the early 1960"s. On the weekends the local town would close the streets and host car races. You basically raced what you had. He was hooked on watching these local races. One day he heard of an old car sitting rotting in a field that had been sitting for many years. He contacted the landowner and he said that if he wanted it then it was his to haul away. When he went out to see it he discovered it was a rare Lagonda racer from the 1930's. He hauled it back to his bungalow and he & his wife slowly got it running again, no concourse restoration just enough to to run it at the local races.
He was transferred to Alaska to help with the Alaska pipeline, so they packed up the car (along with another Lagonda) and spent the rest of his life in Alaska. He spend more time in repairing the cars and around 1995 he decided to ship them both to the UK for a "proper" restoration. He said that it was almost $10,000 each way per car for shipping. The cars had to be completed within a certain time period or be taxed a considerable amount. So they shipped them back to Washington and when they arrived they were stored inside the facility. Sadly the building caught fire and were completely destroyed. When I saw the pictures of the 2 cars remains I was heart broken. The cars were just melted, I called him and he just was happy that nobody was hurt. One of the cars was valued at over $300,000. and the other one was valued at $150,000. He was also President of the Lagonda and Tom Barrett one of owners of Barrett Jackson made those offers to him in the mid 1990's pre restorations to buy them. Harry traveled to Arizona yearly to go to the Barrett Jackson auction. Back then they just had one small tent in a former amusement park parking lot, NOTHING like todays international event.
What a great guy! Could listen to him talk Ferrari all day!
We have just witnessed nothing short of history here people - free of charge - thanks to Jay's generosity.
We didn't even have to pay for basic cable TV to see it, either.
MUCH respect for the Admiral for both his service for so may years to our country AND to his stewardship of the car.
Without people like him, special cars like this one don't exist - and without Jay's efforts, we don't get to even learn of them.
THIS is what the whole hobby is about, whether it's a multi-million dollar masterpiece or a $10k restored Rambler.
Those of us in it are proper stewards if we not only manage to bring an old car back from the brink, but share both it and the knowledge we've gained as a result of restoring and caring for it.
As the Admirals' father said - none of us make it out of this alive - so being a good steward, as Jay certainly is, is the responsibility (and turns out, great pleasure as well) of taking care of a special old car.
I try with my own and I respect anyone else who does so with theirs, especially Jay.
I met a Ferrari owner at Sears Point Raceway in Sonoma Ca. a few years ago who had a very similar perspective to Admiral Phillips. He bought a 1957 Ferrrari Testa Rosa in the late '60s for about $10,000 because he wanted to race a beautiful old Ferrari race car. I met him in the mid-90's and he told me of course he had a pretty good idea what the car was worth (yet he still raced it in SCCA) but didn't focus on that very much. He bought it to race it, he loved to race, and he intended to continue racing it.
These are the owners (custodians?) of these fabulous old cars that I really am pleased to meet at the track... much more than those who only know that "these cars are cool so I think I'll get one."
Admiral Phillips is one of the guys who has known for better than 50 years what he has and hasn't given a hoot about the value over those years. He bought it to race and things have worked out pretty well for him. Some times the "Good Guys" really do win!!
Gary Goodlund some people live their life within their means. They have absolutely no need for more money. This admiral is one example. Pretty cool, if you ask me!
Probably the best episode of Jay Leno's Garage. There is something so bittersweet about this episode and this car. I see it was sold for $5M and in some ways it's amazing and yet sad. The car has such a history and life and it'll be going away into some collector's storage, somehow dying away as a museum piece.
Fortunately the car went to a honest to goodness car guy. He just finished showing it at the Casa Ferrari at Pebble Beach and has been seen driving on the back roads around Milwaukee. True it was bittersweet but with a happy ending to that chapter.
@@tlbcar3565 nice to know and thanks for adding a bit of a closure to this.
@@photojournalists You might like this URL for more driving video: th-cam.com/video/HpfJ1b-X7p4/w-d-xo.html
Huge respect for the car and owner. This is what it's all about folks.
What an incredible guy...incredible car, joy to watch. Started this on my phone and had to stop it to put it on the TV.
This is a really good episode. I normally prefer the ones where Jay is alone with no guest, but I really liked this guy. What an awesome story, and he comes across as really kind.
The personality in that car is overflowing. Looks like a blast to drive too.
I think I've watched this video 3 or 4 times and I enjoy it more and more each time. This gentleman and his vehicle are truly a treasure.
Jan, I have done the same, thanks for your appreciative comment.
I saw this gentleman on TV at the Pebble Beach concourse. His story fascinating about buying it while in the Navy ,working on it, racing it and keeping it practically the rest of his life. This car is pure and the blue a welcome change from the red.
When I was a little tot in the fifties I remember these kinds of cars, sportscars with the sloping fin behind the driver head rest- Jag type D the most beautiful of all. Cars are not just machines, they are as alive as the people that designed ,built and worked on them.
Goosebumps, goosebumps, goosebumps all day......
Can't wait to rewatch this vid with my pop. He is also 82, former Navy, and a lover of old automobiles. Thanks for this Jay.
5thdquest very nice!
Wonderful guy, wonderful car. I love the way Jay treats the Admiral with due respect.
alpcns Would you please give my racing channel its 1475th Subscribe
With pleasure.
All the respect in the world to Admiral Phillips for his work as a first class steward of this automobile. An absolutely amazing effort restoring the Mondial to it's rightful glory. Please take note everyone, this is what a true car person is all about. Our cars may be a material possession in the end but there is no doubt when it comes to an individual such as this man and the many like him, that the automobile is so much more. Beyond what words may afford and articulate. As a Bay Area native, with family lineage of military service, at all the bases he referenced, and lastly a current & proud Oakland - Richmond resident, thank you Admiral Phillips for being an outstanding example of what our community is truly about.
Watched getting ready to go to Quail Motorsports Gathering today. This is THE BEST car video story I have EVER seen. Bravo to Admiral Phillips! What a legacy!! This is also some of Jay Leno's best work in bringing out a FANTASTIC story!!! Three thumbs up!!!!!!!
Wonderful and amazing span of the life,owning a 1955 Ferrari Mondial Series II and still being able to jump in over the side and go for a ride ahhhhh amazing!!...Thank you for the history Admiral Robert Phillips and allowing Jay to take me for a wonderful ride of your 1955 Ferrari..Wow i love your car clips...Cheers & Beers...Jay.!
You might enjoy watching the Petrolicious video of this car from a couple of years ago: th-cam.com/video/HpfJ1b-X7p4/w-d-xo.html
Amazing story and machine! Thanks for sharing Jay and Admiral! 👍
Seldom do I comment on anything Jay, but from the bottom of my heart, thank you for this chapter of history!
Easily my favorite guest on this show. I saw this car at the Cavallino Classic in 2009 and it's absolutely glorious in person. Perfect!
I recently sold a custom lead sled Pontiac I originally purchased in highschool, some years ago, that my wife did the body work on and I did the custom paint work on. I completely understand the heartache/joy and also the want of a good steward for the history of the car... And the fear of the car show crowds.
I met this gentleman at the Rockville, MD annual car show a few years ago. He and his wife could not have been more down to earth and nicer to me and the many others that were simply in awe of this car and them as well.
I've watched every video from the beginning of this show and hands down this owner is the best ever! He is knowledgeable and explained all the cars history and features as well as a great history lesson in Ferrari heritage.
If possible please seek out other great individuals like this for future presentations.
Jay asked just enough questions and let the story flow from the owner's memory.
Great!
Admiral Phillips... You Sir are exactly what every car guy should be.. You've enjoyed that car every which way possible, from giving a old race car life again to go and play to being a historian that I could listen to all night. Congrats on a wonderful experience.!
Thanks, it was quite a ride!
Man, what a national treasure. And the car is pretty cool too. The bar has just been raised for 82 years of age.
My favorite JLG show by far. Wonderful story and a remarkable owner. Much respect for a man who drives a Ferrari like Enzo intended and didn't just stick it away in a garage to appreciate. And of course...thank you for your service Admiral!
Astro Bob, thank you for your support. Driving the car particularly on the track was a real blast. The trip from San Francisco to New York not so much.
Military auto hobby shops are awesome. Back in '89, I (PFC) rolled in with my Firebird, and before I knew it, I had several staff nco Marines helping me. In two weeks, my junkyard special rolled out with headers, duals w custom x pipe, intake, carb, hei ignition, coil, shift kit, flex fan, cheap radio, seat covers, and finished up with an eagle globe and anchor sticker on the duck tail spoiler. Great car and even better memories. Wish I'd kept it like the Admiral did.
Off topic I know. This Ferrari is a treasure.
I think the best thing by far is the attitude of camaraderie. Could you imagine if society as a whole could work like this, where everybody rolls up their sleeves and helps each other out?
Learned a lot about cars in the base auto craft shop. Snap on tools, lifts, paint booth, staff ASE mechanic, had everything!
Absolute works of art-both the Admiral and the car. Best Leno’s Garage episode ever!
I wish the Admiral and long life full of good health. Seems like a very respectable man and an awesome steward of this car. Thank you Sir and Jay for bringing us this amazing story.
Thank you, so far so good.
If that story, and that car, doesn't give you goosebumps then you have no soul
Man, what a great back story about this car. He retells the story as if it happened yesterday. This was a fun watch.
Nathan, that is because to me it was like just yesterday.
That car and man were made for each other,wonderful
I've just finished watching this video, for the third time and I still got a kick out of it. A wonderful story about a 58 year long love story told by an incredibly knowledgeable gentleman who has been a fabulous custodian of this simply beautiful car. As I got to the end, again I forgot about Jay's wonderful words to the Admiral, "Well I can't thank you enough, this has been a lot of fun and it's been a real history lesson, and thanks for preserving this piece of history, it's really great...you've had an admirable life my friend (shaking hands), you've served your country and you got to race some cars, you did all of it, so thank you so much"
I did not spend money on this to make money. Amen Admiral
Have A Blessed Day
Admiral Robert Phillips is an amazing man. He reminds me of Coach John Wooden. He's sharp as a tack, despite his age. His stories of his military service would make an entire video series I'm sure. I saw this car on Petrolicious awhile back and this video is even better. It would be great to meet him, shake his hand and thank him for his service.
This car becomes more beautiful, the more one looks at it. And the "French blue" makes it so special, with the Ferrari emblem on the side and the red leather seat. I will go out on a limb by saying if it had been painted in the characteristic red, it would be, yet, another beautiful vintage Ferrari, but as is, it has an enchanting aura hard to explain.
Chico, I fully agree, I use to just sit and look at it when it was in my garage.
This just makes me smile! What a beautiful car & story. Thank you Admiral, for preserving such a jewel. God speed!
Mike, it was my pleasure!
I could listen to this Admirals stories forever. His love of this car is romance novel worthy and rightly so.
One of my favorite episode, true passion !!!
As a retired USN gearhead this in my opinion is one of Jay's best , and sure wish I could have met Robert.
This is by far the best episode of jlg. What an interesting historian. He truly has a passion for this car.
Possibly the BEST Jay Leno's Garage episodes ever. Wonderful story, could be a movie. So happy for Admiral Robert Phillips. What a wonderful story.
What a great guy!!! Maybe Jay needs a show where he just talks about life with gentlemen like him, old cars aren't going anywhere, these men are disappearing everyday.
Wow what a life this guy has lived I can only imagine, a great man he is.
Bravo Admiral 👏🏽
78755477 78755477 Would you please give my racing channel its 1475th Subscribe
You can't possibly find a more American story than a Navy Admiral buying an Italian race car from a toy dealer in the back lot of a now defunct car dealership.
Rambler dealership.
@DC Thats already understood........
This is just a beautiful story over all. This Admiral has just a couple years on me but way more luck and tenacity. I wish you all the best!
This may be the best episode yet. Admiral Phillips is so passionate and knowledgable - I could listen to him talk about this car all day.
When Jay started the engine, 32:29 it SHOOK my laptop and made the left speaker BUZZ!
For more of this motor sound you might try TH-cam Petrolicious - The Admiral's Ferrari
The Admiral is the real treasure here. Thank you Mr. Leno for another amazing episode!!!
36 minutes and 44 seconds are not enough, I don't have grandparents but I imagine this is the old stories kind of experience, wow bellissima macchina
Alberto Ascari You're right! I did know 3 of my grandparents, and they told wonderful stories. So did my parents. We all need to pass stories on to the next generations.
I don't have the words to express how great this story was and the Admiral's views on how historic cars should be treated are in line with mine - only on a different financial plane! What a lovely story and a lovely bloke.
I just love the Admiral. What a man he is!
The Admiral is worth way more than the car.
Thank God that we have had officers of the quality of Admiral Phillips in the US Navy.
Love that body style...
He drove it cross country! Tough duty... NOT !!!
@john mac Talk about the car, talk about the Admiral, but for God's sake, don't talk about your petty political nonsense.
The car is worth more than a bunch of paper.. back in the 50s paper money was backed by gold. Our currency today derives its ONLY value from the promise of our future taxes... they already spent this year's harvest
2500 is worth 140,000 and change in today's gold prices.. he probably spent more than that in the restoration.... it's value has nothing to do with artificial values of money.. it's a priceless work of art.. it's like selling the Mona Lisa.. really
A poor Mexican orphan is worth more than the car.
This is the best Jay Leno's episode !!!!!! The admiral is a character!!!
What a guy. Absolutely amazing episode. One of the best. Thank you Jay for carrying on with these great shows.
Probably the best episode of Jay Leno's Garage ever. The Admiral and his knowledge of this vehicle and its history and his realness just blows away everything else that's ever shown up on this show.
Hands down one of the top 10 stories about cars!!!!! Simply awesome... lost for words
I am still amazed by the history of this vehicle and the back then racer car driver that wanted a faster race car.... can you image the family get togethers... the car shows.. how much automobilismo was grown into his family.. simply amazing
Fantastic!!!!!!!
I've been watching this channel since 2009, I always wait for the Sunday night upload and get on my laptop, use my headphones to listen to all the details of the entire show, but I have to say, this is the only show that I was affected by it emotionally, and I think its the story, the car, and the man behind it all. So Jay thank you for sharing and educating me about such a historical car like this beauty Queen Ferrari.
The Admiral knows his car inside and out
terry breedlove Would you please give my racing channel its 1475th Subscribe
Admiral Robert Phillips, you were and still are an amazing man, Sir. "I was'nt looking for making money, I was looking for a racing car". My utmost respect to you, Sir ! Take care of yourself, Admiral, you are a road model for many. Thank you.
Oh man... what a guy. National treasure. Love his passion.
By far the best automotive personal story i’ve heard. I love the owners passion and dedication and how he never got into it for the money
That is a beautiful car.
Absolutely Gorgeous
One of the best Jay Leno video ever, I keep on watching it again, everything is perfect, the car, the Admiral and Jay... I guess we pretty much all agree there. Thanks guys
Great story! This is a prime example of buying what you love
Just hearing the pre-drive conversation is an absolute and complete joy. J.L's.G. is consistently the best car review/showcase program ever.
This was one of best presentations I have had the pleasure to watch. Thank you Admiral and Jay for sharing an incredible automobile. Truly AWESOME!
What an absolute champion . I have so much respect for you Sir.
Definitely a top-5 car in the history of your Show and The Admiral is a top guy as well.
What an absolutely beautiful car.
Class, pure unadulterated class. I could listen to that man all day.
One of the most special cars, in terms of rarity and automotive racing history, Jay has had on his program. I would think this car would go for at least 10 million because of what it is and it’s pedigree (58 year the same owner of such a rare car)! I’d consider 10 million a steal.