Mark Leonard, who is multi-lingual, brings a wealth of experience and passion for the classic car industry. Having resided in Europe for twenty-five years, Mark’s international clientele value his well-honed expertise and appreciation of the rich culture and tradition that is so integral to understanding the classic car lifestyle. As a trusted, leading authority on car values and market direction, Mark consistently brings a wealth of knowledge to those looking to buy, sell, consign, and restore a historic car.
His eclectic experiences include attending the greatest racing events of the 50's, 60's and 70's both as a child and later as an adult. With four years as a motor-sports photographer on the Formula One circuit during the mid-1970's, it set the stage for opening for business as a car dealer in Frankfurt, Germany in 1977. Later choosing to relocate to La Jolla, California in 1979, he became the franchised dealer for Ferrari and Rolls Royce. On the heels of that success and pursuing his passion for historic vehicles, he founded Grand Prix Classics in 1983.
As an active participant in historic racing, rallies, and Concours events worldwide, Mark’s unwavering drive for the industry is evident; he offers his clients the benefits of an extensive network, a wealth of industry experience, market acumen, and unsurpassed level of service.
Event participation includes:
Races: Classic Endurance Series (CER) • Historic Grand Prix Series • Goodwood Revival • Le Mans 24 Hour Classic • Masters Series• Modena Cento Ore • Monterey Motorsports Reunion • Old Timer Grand Prix • Nurburgring • Silverstone Historic Festival • Sonoma Historic Festival • Tour (de France) Auto • Tour de Espana • Spa 6 Hours
Rallies: California Mille • Colorado Grand • Mille Miglia • Rallye des Alpes
Concours: Amelia Island Concours • Carmel Concours on the Avenue • Concours Italiano • Dana Point • La Jolla Concours • Pebble Beach • Quail Motorsports Gathering
It’s about the preservation and appreciation for the classics. These timeless marvels are works of art and a joy to drive.
With a team of dedicated, multi-talented professionals, Mark offers his discerning and notable clientele a broad array of services. From buying and selling, researching automotive history, to a unique automotive restoration shop with two specialist mechanics, his extensive knowledge of the international market is unmatched.
With a minimum of 10-15 rare and unique cars always in inventory, complemented with an impressive collection of rare automotive posters, extensive library of books, magazines, videos and other memorabilia, there is much to experience…
Grand Prix Classics' clients look to Mark as the expert who will guide them to not only a car they love, but one that is a solid investment they can enjoy. Mark has had the honor of representing some of the world’s most knowledgeable collectors and several museums, in building their wonderful automotive collections. Mark has appeared as a historian on the DVD re-release of the 1966 film Grand Prix. Mark feels honored to have been a guest speaker for many automobile clubs as well as hosting club events in the Grand Prix Classics showroom.
In addition, Mark has contributed to charities such as Make-a-Wish, the Special Olympics, and other worthy medical causes like Multiple Sclerosis, Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer, and Wounded Warriors.
If you have questions about a car or would like to know more about our services, feel free to contact us:
(858) 459-3500
