Customer Testimonials

Welcome to British Sports Cars

Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is well-known, both locally and around the world.

At British Sports Cars, we have been specializing in selling, servicing, repairing, and restoring all makes of new and used British and selected fine European automobiles since 1980. While our specialty is British cars, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Mini Cooper, Rolls Royce, Lotus, Austin-Healey, Triumph, MG, and Aston Martin, we also deal with European and American classics.

Our satisfied customers come from around the corner and from all over the world. We are located in beautiful San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. The beautiful Central Coast has become a renowned wine-growing area with many fine hotels, golf courses, restaurants, and nearby wineries. It is home to many British cars, from brand-new sports cars to pure vintage elegance.

Servicing, repairing, and restoring British & European automobiles since 1980.

Many of our expert technicians are British-born and trained, having a combined experience of more than 90 years, making us exceptionally familiar and experienced with the service, repair, and restoration of British automobiles. Our sales inventory features a range of both classic and contemporary cars. We also offer a comprehensive worldwide vehicle location service if we have yet to get the vehicle you desire currently in stock. We are experienced in shipping vehicles abroad and can advise on suitable shipping companies and services. We also feature a complete auto parts department to meet the diverse needs of British and European automobile owners.

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Meet our team of British car experts

 
 

About Peter Jurgens – Founder & Co-Owner

Born and raised in Sale, a small town just outside Manchester, England, Peter Jurgens has lived and breathed automobiles from an early age. By the age of 13, in 1963, he was already working on vehicles—laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion and career.

Peter trained as a factory-certified Vauxhall technician, later running his own auto shop in England while also managing a successful DJ business. Beyond the garage, Peter was an accomplished racer. He not only competed but hand-built his own cars, becoming a two-time national champion in his division. His dedication to craftsmanship and performance set him apart early on.

In 1980, Peter sought a new adventure and moved from Manchester to San Luis Obispo, California. That same year, he founded British Sports Cars, a shop specializing in service, restoration, and parts sales for British vehicles. His mission was simple: bring his expertise, passion, and deep knowledge of British automobiles to the Central Coast.

More than four decades later, Peter can still be found in the shop, usually with oil on his hands and a smile on his face, rebuilding an engine or transmission. His dedication hasn’t wavered—he continues to do what he loves every day and has no plans of slowing down.

About Justin Jurgens – Co-Owner

Born and raised in San Luis Obispo, Justin Jurgens has dedicated his life to British and early turn-of-the-century vehicles. Since joining the family business full-time in 2001, Justin has brought unmatched expertise to every aspect of the shop—from full restorations and precision engine and transmission rebuilds to advanced diagnostics on modern vehicles.

Specialized Training

Justin’s technical background sets him apart. He is factory-trained on Mini Cooper, Jaguar, and Land Rover models, making him one of the very few—if not the only—technicians in San Luis Obispo with this depth of specialized knowledge. His skill bridges the gap between antique and modern vehicles, blending old-world craftsmanship with today’s advanced automotive technology.

Passion Beyond the Shop

Automotive passion runs deep in Justin’s life. On weekends, he can often be found racing vintage cars, restoring antique motorcycles, or adding to his remarkable collection of turn-of-the-century bicycles. A true enthusiast, he is a dedicated collector of all things automotive, with a profound respect for the artistry and engineering of the past.

Leadership at British Sports Cars

In 2024, Justin became co-owner of British Sports Cars, continuing his family’s legacy while leading the business into a new era of excellence. His vision ensures that the shop remains a trusted destination for both classic restorations and modern service.

Meet Our Team: Phil Honer

Phil Honer has been an integral part of British Sports Cars since 1986. Born and raised in Sutton Coldfield, England, Phil grew up surrounded by the world of British motoring. His father worked for Jaguar, while his mother contributed her talents at Lucas. It’s no surprise that a love for fine engineering and craftsmanship runs in his blood. After completing his schooling, Phil attended Handsworth Auto Tech College, where he earned his certificates in the automotive repair industry. His deep-rooted passion for British vehicles has only grown since, making him a true expert in all aspects of their care and restoration. Beyond the workshop, Phil has a lifelong love for antique motorcycles. Restoring these machines is both a personal passion and a craft he shares with clients around the world. Many of his free hours are spent meticulously bringing vintage motorcycles back to life—a testament to his dedication and skill. At British Sports Cars, Phil leads many of our most challenging projects, from full restorations and engine rebuilds to electrical systems and fine-tuning details. With decades of experience and an unwavering passion, Phil remains a cornerstone of our team, ensuring every project reflects the pride and heritage of British motoring

Meet Our Team: Marcos Carreno

Marcos Carreno was born and raised in Mexico City, Mexico, and moved to the United States at the age of 20. From the moment he arrived, he found his passion in the automotive industry and has been dedicated to it ever since.

Marcos brings a wealth of experience with him, particularly in the world of Volkswagens. Over the years, he has built a strong background working on everything from classic air-cooled Volkswagens to modern water-cooled vans. Before joining our team, he spent many years at a local Volkswagen specialty shop, honing his skills and developing a deep appreciation for the craft.

In 2022, Marcos decided it was time for a new challenge and joined British Sports Cars. Since then, he has become an integral part of our day-to-day operations. If you stop by the shop, there’s a good chance you’ll find Marcos in the back, hard at work under a car, making sure everything runs perfectly. His dedication and expertise have made him a key member of our team.

Outside of work, Marcos enjoys playing soccer and spending time outdoors. He can often be spotted around town walking his dog or tinkering with his own Volkswagen Westfalia van. His passion for cars isn’t just a career—it’s truly a way of life

Meet Jacob Dowless – Service Writer

Born and raised right here in San Luis Obispo County, Jacob Dowless has had a lifelong passion for engines and mechanics. Surrounded by motorsports from a young age, he grew up racing and repairing dirt bikes, which fueled his love for all things automotive.

Today, Jacob brings that same enthusiasm and hands-on knowledge to his role as one of our Service Writers here at British Sports Cars. Whether you walk through our doors, pick up the phone, or send us an email, chances are Jacob will be the friendly voice ready to assist you.

When he’s not helping our customers keep their cars in top shape, Jacob enjoys playing golf, working on his motorcycles, and spending time tinkering with his own vehicles. His mix of technical know-how, approachable personality, and genuine passion for engines makes him an invaluable part of our team—and a great first point of contact for our customers.

Meet Our Team: Logan Elridge

Logan Elridge joined **British Sports Cars** in 2023 and has quickly become an essential part of our team. A longtime California resident, Logan grew up in the Central Valley where his passion for motorsports and the automotive world began early. From a young age, he raced dirt bikes and developed a natural affinity for engines, performance, and all things mechanical.

At just 16 years old, Logan started working in an auto shop, gaining hands-on experience that would set the foundation for his career. After moving to the Central Coast several years ago, he pursued his professional path as a certified technician at the local BMW dealership. While Logan thrived in the dealership environment, he was eager for new challenges and the chance to broaden his expertise. That drive led him to join British Sports Cars, where his knowledge and dedication continue to shine.

Logan’s strengths extend across **electronics, diagnostics, and the intricate workings of engines and vehicles**. Despite his young age, his background is extensive, combining years of practical shop experience with specialized training. His skill set and work ethic make him a key contributor to our mission of providing exceptional service and care for every vehicle that comes through our doors.

We’re proud to have Logan on our team and look forward to watching him continue to grow with British Sports Cars.

Meet Our Team: Tyler Henson – Shop Manager

Tyler Henson has been an integral part of British Sports Cars since moving to San Luis Obispo in 2011. As our Shop Manager and Head Service Writer, Tyler is often the first face you see when you walk through our doors—and the one making sure every customer receives expert guidance and care. A California native, Tyler grew up on his family ranch in Northern California, where he gained hands-on experience repairing equipment, managing land, and raising cattle.

These early lessons built the foundation for his strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, and mechanical know-how. Before joining British Sports Cars, Tyler served as a Shop Service Writer and Manager at Land Rover Jaguar of Monterey, where he honed his ability to provide excellent customer service while managing the needs of a busy service department.

Here at British Sports Cars, we are privileged to have Tyler on our team. His years of experience in the automotive industry—spanning both classic and modern vehicles—make him an invaluable resource for our customers. Whether you need help with a routine service, guidance on complex repairs, or simply have questions about your car, Tyler is always ready to help. Tyler’s dedication, leadership, and expertise make him a major asset to our shop and a trusted advisor to our customers.