When the Jaguar XK120 first arrived at It’s Alive Automotive, it was completely “burnt to a crisp” after being engulfed in the infamous Tubbs Fire of October 2017 in Northern California. “That poor thing was nothing more than an assembly of rust, char, and bare metal,” recalls marketing director Joseph Brown.
The car needed to be “brought back to life,” says Brown. Over the next couple years, the team at It’s Alive Automative replaced the chassis, overhauled and upgraded the mechanics, fabricated and welded in the necessary body panels, prepared and painted the body, and installed a new interior and brightwork to completely refurbish the vehicle.
Today, the car’s new owner is excited to have this work of art back on the road. He recently participated in one of the shakedown runs with a senior technician at It’s Alive. With the owner’s experience in autocross driving, the drive was exhilarating, and a bit of “white knuckles” made it memorable.
“That’s what it’s all about,” Brown says. “We transition the forgotten into the unforgettable.”
THE BACKGROUND
Jeff Homsher is the owner of It’s Alive Automotive. He and his team have been involved in the repair and restoration of classic European sports cars and selective American muscle cars for more than 50 years. The company buys, sells, restores, and repairs classic European and American sports cars, including classic Austin-Healeys, MGs, Triumphs, Mercedes, Porsches, and early Corvettes. Because of Homsher’s love for all things Jaguar, however, the company specializes in the restoration of classic XK and E-Type Jaguars. It’s Alive is recognized as one of the leading Jaguar service and restoration shops not only in the Midwest but also across the country.
As demonstrated through the dramatic restoration of the XK120, the company is dedicated to restoring such beautiful automobiles, commensurate with the exacting standards required to achieve maximum performance, reliability, safety, and longterm value. To achieve this end, the company’s team combines their experience with substantive investment in state-of-the-art facilities and unique tooling.
The pinnacle of their commitment is reflected in the XKE Jaguar Monocoque refurbishment jig—a 20-foot, 18,000-pound precision T-slot table that allows the team to completely disassemble and literally cut in half a rusted or damaged E-Type Jaguar and install new floors and sheet metal with precise accuracy. The company also utilizes a ProSpot hydraulic compression spot welder to replicate factory spot welds while staying true to the original manufacturing techniques. For It’s Alive Automotive, it’s all about the details. And if your classic car is damaged, the company specializes in classic car collision repair as well. It’s Alive Automotive is a one-stop shop for classic car service and restoration.
“St. Louis is recognized as a major hub for classic car sales and restoration,” says Brown, “and It’s Alive Automotive is a major part.” The majority of St. Louis shops focus on muscle cars, however, while the company fills the niche of European classics. It’s Alive Automotive is more than a service provider, though; through its participation in local and regional car shows, as well as hosting informative DIY technical sessions, the company fosters a passion for classic cars while offering a gathering place for individuals to share stories, knowledge, and a love of automotive history.
While owning a classic car isn’t for everyone, Homsher notes, the benefits are invaluable for the right individual or family. He believes the greatest benefit is the resulting bonding: Scenic drives, popular car shows, and fine-tuning the car alongside family members become memories that many classic car lovers recall with fondness. “Classic cars take some time and thought, which definitely helps keep us seniors sharp,” says Homsher, “and they provide great entertainment and valuable life lessons for the young.”
As Homsher says, they can also be a way to diversify your portfolio. “There just aren’t many investments that bring the family together, teach the kids life lessons, create new friends and great memories, and make you money.”
If you’re curious about classic cars, then stop by It’s Alive Automotive, and ask to speak to Homsher, who will gladly provide you with assistance in repairing or upgrading your vehicle, as well as purchasing or selling your classic car.
This post was created by SLM Partner Studio on behalf of It’s Alive Automotive, which is conveniently located in St. Louis, just a mile west of St. Louis Lambert International Airport. If you would like to learn more about classic cars and the company’s services, visit itsaliveauto.com or call 314-710-6600.
