Piston is car crazy

Maxiell got love of autos from grandfather

Terry Foster / The Detroit News

AUBURN HILLS -- Grandfather James Maxiell worked magic, and Jason Maxiell fell under the spell.

Back home in Carrollton, Texas, James Maxiell restored broken down Cadillacs.

They were not in good shape when he got them, but he saw the potential in each. He'd go into the garage and shine them up, purchase spare parts and get under the hood. Eventually he'd turn a coughing engine into a purring machine.

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Young Jason observed it all. He learned how automobiles work, and he fell in love with the process of turning jalopies into classics.

Now Jason Maxiell is the one kicking tires and working under the hoods.

The Pistons forward has a growing collection of classic cars. Two are on display this week at the Dub Magazine exhibit at the North American International Auto Show at Cobo Center.

One is a pearl-colored 2008 Range Rover. But the one Maxiell loves most is a red and black 1970 Oldsmobile Classic. In fact, he's so careful with it, Maxiell said it's too special to drive.

"I just love the look and the shine of it," Maxiell said. "... I have a car in Texas I just cruise around in. But this one I don't drive at all. It is personal."

Maxiell's collection now numbers seven and he said he has no intention of stopping. Obtaining a four-door 1957 Rolls Royce is his dream car, Maxiell said.

"I owe it all to my grandfather," Maxiell said. "I am following in his footsteps."

You can reach Terry Foster at (313) 222-1494 or terry.foster@detnews.com.

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