(Editor’s note: This not a paid advertisement.)
Six years ago, Chris Swindle put his dream into motion by opening The Car Cave, an Aiken car dealership specializing in imported vehicles you don’t see on the road every day.
Focusing first on vintage Land Rovers at first, Swindle and his team have expanded into everything from quirky Italian rally specimens to pure American muscle cars.
When walking into their Aiken location, it is almost a shock to my car guy senses. The spacious showroom is like a trail mix of various cars, some of which I have never seen in person. The museum-like open space has something for every taste.
Inside, I spot a BMW Isetta sitting next to a beefy Land Rover Defender, a classic Chevy Chevelle in perfect condition, and, a few cars down, an extremely rare Lancia Delta Integrale. It was nearly an overstimulation of cool cars, all parked neatly indoors.
“It is not a mix you see regularly. Ours comes down to what is fun to drive. It could be an underpowered Isetta. It is regularly like Christmas when new arrivals come in,” Swindle states.
Next to the showroom there is an equally impressive service department. Technicians were busy wrenching away on the many projects that Swindle will send on to the public. The shop was clean, organized, and professional. Many of the cars here are as complicated as a Swiss watch, and finding skilled technicians able to understand them is more than just a solid business decision, it is like finding an artisan with trained eyes and ears.
While the service department is focused on the inventory and existing customer base, Swindle and his team can now service virtually any imported cars.
“I’m not the best mechanic, that’s why I have these guys back here,” commented Swindle on his service team.
Car Cave is an international brand, with partners in Belgium, Cyprus, Poland, and the Middle East. This makes sourcing cars and parts easier. Cars can be properly vetted and serviced by natives before they hit the ports for shipping. Differing regions offer a variety of cars that you don’t see on the roads of North America.
“We have access to a whole different team with different ways of thinking, different languages, different resources. Dealing with stuff that is out there and weird, our rolodex gets bigger. It is all the people that we trust and have worked with for a long time. Each shop has their own contributions,” Swindle stated about his network of professionals.
There aren’t that many places where you can get cars like the ones seen at The Car Cave. Places like eBay and Bring a Trailer, both online only sites, can surely sell you one, but not offer the all-around service that Swindle and his team provides. His pages of five-star Google reviews backs up his commitment to quality and service.
“I am always concerned and care if someone is happy with what they get. The expectation level has to be set right, and I make sure I am communicating properly. I am still accessible after we have your money. If you call three years later and need help with getting a part, we will be here,” Swindle said.
Service after the sale is important with any large purchase, but with an odd car that will one day need a part or service, having a “friend in the business” will save time, money, and frustration. It is also nice to support someone local that is advancing car culture in the way that Swindle does.
“If you are into this sort of stuff, you fit into our weirdness. I’ve had some people you would never suspect walk in, start naming off some of the cars and specs. That is why you never judge a book by the cover,” said of his customer base.
Another thing I like about The Car Cave is the accessibility. Whether you are visiting to buy or just to browse, Swindle and his team are very welcome and accommodating. While some of his inventory is well into the six figures, the atmosphere is relaxed and enthusiast friendly.
“We are always open door, anyone can come in. We need younger people in car culture too. I don’t mind chatting with anyone. A lot of places don’t want you taking pictures and don’t want anyone in here,” said Swindle.
If you are interested in checking out their inventory, stop by their location in Aiken. I am sure Chris and his team can find you the dream car you have been looking for, or he may have it already in the show room.
As for me, I will see you on the road!
