My 28-year-old Jaguar XJ8 is up on the ramp at this independent garage in San Frediano, Florence.
Not how I planned for things to be. But after 1,100+ miles across Europe the brakes need attention and the boot release button has malfunctioned, meaning the car has confiscated my luggage.
Cue a trip to the shops to buy some clothes.
And cue also a more enjoyable trip to this lovely little Autofficina.
It was a relief entrusting the Jag to someone who knows his trade. Nico, the meccanico and owner, drove us round the block, tested the brakes a couple of times and murmured ‘discs’. Some things are universal.
Later on I felt almost proud when wandering past and seeing my old British Jaguar on the ramp in such an Italian-looking garage.
Britain and Italy have a lot in common when it comes to cars. Both countries have proud automotive histories, wonderful marques and a particular affection for beautiful machines with character.
And perhaps a shared willingness to forgive their occasional shortcomings.
My small automotive mission is to keep this old Jag on the road. Nice to get some Italian help in doing so.
