In the fifth episode of #GivingLifeColour | The Talk Show, HB BODY and Jane Sabanikou welcome Gary Mavers, a renowned British actor and passionate car restorer, known for his YouTube channel Classic Obsession, where he brings vintage cars back to life with care and craftsmanship.
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Gary shares how his love for restoration began as a hobby during breaks between acting jobs, a creative outlet that soon turned into a lifelong passion. His very first project, at the age of 25, was a 1965 Mercedes 230 SL, originally owned by an eccentric hairdresser. The car was a shocking pink, but after a year of meticulous work, Gary transformed it into a timeless Old English White.
For him, authenticity is key. He aims to preserve every car’s originality, except when the colour simply doesn’t suit the vehicle or its era. A fan of the bold, lively shades of the ’60s and ’70s, Gary admits his favourite colour is yellow.
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Among his many restorations, he recalls one of his most unique projects: a Mercedes 600 Limousine once owned by the last Prime Minister of South Africa, P.W. Botha. Bringing such a car back to its former glory was a challenge, but also a point of pride. As Gary explains, “making the car justice and doing a good job makes me feel proud.”
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Choosing the right colour, however, is never simple. Each classic car carries its own story, and that history often influences the final decision. He also shares details about a rare Bentley he restored , the first of only 41 ever produced, a true piece of automotive history.
When asked what his signature colour would be, Gary smiles: “a sunny yellow.”
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Colour is very important in our lives. It affects our mood, the way we think, and the way we drive.
– Gary Mavers
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