Wayne Carini, star of Chasing Classic Cars, has built a legendary career restoring and uncovering rare vintage vehicles, including a prized 1954 Hudson Italia and a Porsche 356B Cabriolet.

In the heart of Connecticut, Wayne Carini, the charismatic host of the hit show “Chasing Classic Cars,” has captivated audiences with his passion for vintage automobiles.

Known for his uncanny ability to uncover rare and stunning vehicles, Carini’s journey from a boy in a small car repair shop to a celebrated car restoration specialist is nothing short of extraordinary.

Born in 1951 in Portland, Connecticut, Carini was destined for a life surrounded by cars.

His father, Bob Carini, owned a collision repair and restoration shop, where young Wayne spent countless hours reluctantly helping out. “I was just a kid who wanted to play with my friends,” Carini recalls, chuckling at the memory.

But everything changed during a family vacation in 1960 when his father took him for a ride in a brand-new Ferrari. “That moment was a revelation. I felt the power and beauty of that car, and it ignited a passion in me that has never faded.”

As a teenager, Carini initially dreamed of pursuing a degree in architecture, but his father had other plans. “He made me an offer I couldn’t refuse: half of the family business,” Carini said.

Accepting the challenge, he quickly honed his skills, working on classic cars like Packards and Duesenbergs alongside his father. “Those were formative years. I learned the ins and outs of restoration, and it was a labor of love.”

In 2008, Carini made his television debut as the host of “Chasing Classic Cars,” a series that would become a staple for car enthusiasts. The show, now entering its 17th season, follows Carini as he travels the country in search of hidden automotive gems.

“People often ask me how I find these cars,” he explains. “It’s all about building relationships and knowing where to look. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of knocking on doors.”

One of the most thrilling discoveries featured on the show was a Pierce Arrow that had been locked away in a garage for over 50 years.

“When I opened that door and saw it sitting there, I couldn’t believe my eyes,” Carini recalls, his voice filled with excitement. “It was like finding buried treasure.”

While Carini is known for his talent in hunting down rare cars, he also relies on a dedicated team to help restore them. Among his closest collaborators was Roger Barr, a childhood friend and skilled mechanic.

“Roger was the brain behind a lot of our projects,” Carini admits. “His expertise was invaluable.” Unfortunately, Barr had to leave the show due to a leg injury, but his contributions remain an integral part of Carini’s story.

Over the years, “Chasing Classic Cars” has attracted numerous celebrity guests, including the likes of Jay Leno and Tim Allen.

“It’s always fun to share the passion for cars with others who appreciate them as much as I do,” Carini says. He himself has made guest appearances on various automotive shows, further solidifying his status in the car community.

Among Carini’s prized possessions is a stunning 1954 Hudson Italia, a vehicle he pursued for nearly four decades. “It was a collector’s dream,” he states proudly.

“Only 26 were ever made, and I was determined to find one.” His quest was even covered by the New York Times, showcasing his dedication to preserving automotive history.

Another gem in Carini’s collection is a Porsche 356B Cabriolet, unveiled at the 1959 Frankfurt Auto Show. “It’s one of my favorites,” he admits.

“Only around 1,600 of these were produced, so it was a challenge to acquire one.” The sleek lines and powerful engine make it a standout in any car show.

Carini also boasts a 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SL Roadster, a model revered for its performance and elegance. “This car was the pinnacle of luxury at the time,” he explains. “It could go from 0 to 60 in just 7.5 seconds. Today, well-preserved models fetch upwards of $150,000.”

His collection also features a 1926 Bentley Touring, a testament to pre-World War II automotive excellence. “This was a time when Bentley dominated the industry,” Carini notes.

“The Touring model was a marvel, larger and more powerful than its competitors.” It’s no surprise that this classic has become a highlight at prestigious events like the Greenwich Concours d’Elegance.

Carini’s affection for the Jaguar E-Type series is evident in his ownership of a Jaguar XKE convertible, hailed as one of the most beautiful cars ever made.

“Enzo Ferrari himself called it the most beautiful car,” Carini recalls with a smile. “It’s a true classic that combines style and performance.”

Among his rarer finds is a 1960 MGA 1600 Coupe, a model that represents Britain’s post-war automotive renaissance. “This car was a game-changer,” Carini explains. “It featured front disc brakes and a powerful engine, making it a favorite among American collectors.”

The Ford Falcon Spirit, a 1963 model, also holds a special place in Carini’s heart. “This was the first Ford to feature a V8 engine, laying the groundwork for the Mustang,” he says. “It’s a stylish classic that every collector dreams of owning.”

One of the most unique cars in Carini’s collection is a 1948 Avis Devon, a three-wheeled Roadster that is incredibly rare. “Only 13 of these were ever made,” he states. “I didn’t even find this car; it found me. The owner reached out after seeing my work on TV.”

Despite his impressive collection, there’s one car that remains on Carini’s wish list: a 1960 Ferrari 250 SWB. “That car has always been my dream,” he confesses.

“I’ve worked on restoring several, but their price tag can reach up to $10 million. One day, I hope to add it to my collection.”

Beyond his work in the automotive world, Carini is a dedicated family man. Married to Laurie for over 40 years, the couple has two daughters.

Their eldest, Kimberly, was diagnosed with autism in childhood, inspiring Carini to support autism research through charity events. “It’s important to give back,” he emphasizes. “I want to make a difference for families like mine.”

Wayne Carini’s life is a testament to passion, dedication, and the pursuit of dreams. With a net worth estimated at over $25 million, much of it stemming from his television work and business ventures, he continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world.

“Every car has a story,” Carini concludes. “And I’m just lucky enough to be part of some of the best ones.”

As he gears up for another season of “Chasing Classic Cars,” one thing is certain: Wayne Carini will keep searching for treasures hidden in garages, ensuring that the legacy of classic cars lives on for generations to come.