We had the opportunity to conduct a short interview with Thomas Hientz. He is a member of the management board of SML CarGroup, one of the leading specialists for all aspects of classic cars and luxury sports cars in Europe.
1. How has the SML CarGroup developed in recent years?
When we opened our company at the end of 2018, the focus was entirely on high-quality car detailing for collector and enthusiast vehicles. Building on this, we have gradually expanded and developed our business areas. Trading in high-quality classic cars and luxury sports cars is now an integral part of our business. We have also been a certified master mechanic for classic vehicles since 2023. All of our business areas, including storage and event location in addition to those already mentioned, are coordinated and mutually beneficial. This gives us great flexibility and allows us to serve our customers directly and professionally in many areas.
2. How do you assess the current market development?
I am quite optimistic about the future of our scene. Of course, economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions have also left their mark on our industry. In addition, many classic vehicle models have fallen in price again in recent years. However, if you offer the right vehicles at reasonable, standard market prices and then set yourself apart from others in terms of service, professionalism and transparency, then you can achieve lasting success. Especially in Germany and Central Europe, we should sometimes be a little more positive and not talk ourselves down about everything. Innovative ideas are needed – and that’s what we offer.
3. What makes you different from other companies?
Our advantage is that, as already mentioned, we cover a large part of what our customers want “in-house” through various services. For example, customers who have stored their vehicle with us do not have to take it elsewhere for servicing, but receive customer services and repairs directly from us. If they want to sell their vehicle, this can also be done directly at our premises. This enables us to provide customers and their vehicles with all-round support in all areas. In addition, we are technically state-of-the-art. In the preparation area, we have our unique light tunnel, which creates maximum transparency, and our storage facilities are state of the art in terms of security technology. You can simply feel at home with us!
4. Which events do you have planned for this year?
Just a few weeks ago, we expanded our in-house event location with a new seminar and conference area. We want to invite companies and organizations to hold their meetings and conferences here in future. In addition to these external events, we organize our own large classic car meeting on the last sunday in October, which has grown steadily over the last few years. In addition, we currently organize a pleasure tour once a year for customers and interested parties in a small group. This year’s route leads through the southern Black Forest to the Route des Crêtes in France. This picturesque trip with selected hotels and excellent culinary experiences in a small group will take place from September 18-20, 2025.
5. What is your dream car and all-time favorite?
I actually have a favorite vehicle from every era, as I find it difficult to compare a vehicle from the 1950s with a vehicle from the 1990s. But one of my absolute favorites in terms of technology, design and aesthetics is definitely always the Ferrari 250 GT Lusso. If I had to choose a classic that is suitable for everyday use, it would be a Porsche 993 Turbo, which is just my generation. But I also love driving my Triumph TR6. For me, it’s pure driving pleasure – the sound, the simplicity, the open-top driving into the sunset. And the car proves it: The joy of driving classic cars doesn’t always have to be expensive!
Please find more information on the SML CarGroup and Thomas Hientz here www.sml-cargroup.com
