Testimonials
What do our customers say about the quality of service at
Vintage Sports & Racing?
Here are a few satisfied clients telling of their experience:
My son and I were enjoying a day of racing at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in our e30 M3 track car when half way down the front straight there was a bang-clunk from the engine along with some oil smoke coming out of the engine compartment. Not a good sign… Our car was towed to the paddocks where we discovered a large hole in the bottom of the engine block. Time for a new engine! I was standing there talking to some of the other drivers about where to take the car since this job was beyond my skills or desire to take on. One of the instructors told me about VSR1 and Mario Langsten in Bow, NH which was not far from NHMS. So we pushed the car onto my trailer and off we went to VSR1.
Mario was there, and checked out the hole in the block. He clearly knew the S-14 engine, and surprisingly knew the history of our particular race car from well before I owned it. He was honest and told me it would not be cheap and that there was really no way of knowing what was needed until he could take the engine apart. I left the car with him and asked that he call me when he had some news.
In a few days, he called. We had broken the connecting rod on piston three, trashing the block and damaging the head at least. Probably more… Mario offered a range of options to repair the engine, including some creative and cost effective uses of used parts he already had around the shop. We decided on a path that was a reasonable compromise between cost, performance, and reliability and I authorized the work. Mario and his technicians really impressed me with their knowledge and creativity in accomplishing the repair. I visited often, and we talked through details of chamfering oil channels, porting and polishing the intake and exhaust, selection of rod bearings, software tweaks to optimize performance with the 2.5 liter modification, etc. that I would not have known otherwise.
Part way through the engine build, Mario called me with a menu of things that could improve the performance of the car and in a no pressure way offered them to me since the car was torn down. They included engine, drive train, and exhaust upgrades/repairs. This was the most cost effective time to make these modifications and I would have likely done them in the future and spent more money had he not suggested them to me. At no time did I feel pressured to pay for additional work, but instead felt appreciative that he thought to offer the performance improvements to me. I went with most of them (don’t tell my wife!) and am happy that I did since the performance improvements did what I expected based on Mario’s description.
Since picking up the race car, I have taken two e36 M3s, one with a Dinan supercharger, and a Dinan e39 M5 to Mario for work. On one of the M3s, there was an electrical problem that two other BMW specialty shops had failed to repair that was corrected at VSR1. In two instances, I had obtained quotes for other shops that VSR1 beat. I will be taking all six of our BMWs to VSR1 from now on! I highly recommend Mario and his staff…!
Aaron Penkacik
Amherst, NH
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Mario,
I’m sorry this has taken so long, but I have been absolutely swamped for the last couple weeks. I wanted to drop you a quick note on the first events with the new car. I guess the easiest way to sum it up is WOW!!! The car is fantastic!!! You and the team really put together a great package. The car has exceeded every expectation I had. As great as the car was at NHMS, the time at WGI was even better. The oldest of my BMWs is now my favorite!
You were right, it is completely different than any of the other cars I have driven. It is tighter, more solid, faster, safer and 100 times more fun than I expected. I had more than a few people stop by to check it out in the paddock. There was one comment that came from virtually everyone that saw it: “Great car! That is a clean professional build!” ( I guess that counts as two comments...)
Thanks again for the attention to detail, the responsiveness to my questions and the time you spent with me in the planning process. I couldn’t be happier with the results! Should anyone need a reference on your work, please send them my way. I’m looking forward to working with you and the team as we continue to evolve the car.
All the best,
Marty
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Mario,
Just wanted to say thanks for doing a great job with my car. Granted, it was far more than I had budgeted, but I have A/C and back-up lights that work for the first time in several years. The clutch and shifter are a massive improvement, and the replacement of the center support bearing has reduced driveline vibration quite a bit. Functioning features and a modicum of rattles make it far easier to use this M3 as a daily driver.
Also, I don't know how many people notice the little things that VSR does...like the fact that my brake warning light is no longer burning; the SI lights have been reset; the missing plug in the upper strut bearing that has been replaced; the center console has been reassembled properly; and many other things. In the grand scheme of things, I'm glad that you took the time to make things work rather than simply replacing the parts on the list.
I know that you'll laugh at the idea, but thanks anyway for treating my car as if it were your own.
Best,
Dan
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Dear Mario,
Thank you and your team very much for delivering me two well sorted cars this Spring! Your team successfully identified and resolved all of the issues not disclosed by the prior owner on my latest car. The result is a well running and driving E28 5 series which I can't wait to take to the track. It is a joy to drive everyday and always puts a smile on my face especially after a long day of work.
And the Coupe. The driveabilility difference between last year and this year is really amazing. Your team has worked their magic with the carbs which are now dialed in perfectly. The brakes are also great with a much better front/rear bias. It is a pleasure to drive. I now consider the Coupe "sorted" ... until next Spring :).
Thanks again for your help and patience. Like I am sure many of your customers can be, I get a bit overbearing with regard to my cars. Having two in your shop at once was difficult but your team came through with flying colors. I am always comforted to know that you will make the right recommendations and decisions with regard to proper maintenance. I think you actually save me money.
I have a busy Spring of waxing ahead of me and then I will have a VERY difficult choice on which car to take on the Sunday morning "exercise" runs. I just may have to go twice now.
Regards,
Tod Bryant
1985 5 series
1970 2800CSLink—————————————
Hey Mario,
Just wanted to say thanks. Everything is great with the car!
We did a little roll on run on the highway between the M3 and the S2K from 60-120mph on the way back. I was quite surprised that the M3 put about 3-4 Buslengths on the S2000! In my experience with the Honda that is about the same result I have found vs an E46M3 :-) Can't wait for the first autocross...
Thanks,
Bob
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Hi, Mario!
Just want to let you know that I am thoroughly happy with the work you performed on my 2002 Touring. I was particularly impressed with the fact that you identified a few additional problems that I missed and addressed them accordingly. You communicate very well and I appreciate your taking the time to explain to me each fix that you performed. My Touring is now behaving the way it should :) On the drive back to Salem, MA, it was great to finally be able to open the driver's side window. The minute I got back, I had the Touring inspected without any problems. I then spent the afternoon cleaning and waxing, just in time for a fun evening drive up the coast to Gloucester. Despite the distance, I'll gladly drive up to New Hampshire for future fixes and services.
Warm Regards,
Duncan Hsu
1974 2002 Touring
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I've installed a Kirk in a friend's car and the VSR in my own car. VSR wins hands-down. Quality of finish and material, tight fit to the B-pillar and roof, ease of installation....and knowing Mario puts a lot of thought into his creations.
Al
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Mario and crew:
Just thought I'd let you know that the stainless exhaust I ordered a few weeks ago went on perfectly--with no clearance problems or attachment issues. It looks great. The workmanship is beautiful. Thanks for taking the time to talk with me about it over the phone, too.
By the way, you didn't mention the sound. Without the resonator, it sounds terrific, starting to really wail about 4500 r.p.m.
John Smith
New Berlin, Wisconsin
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Mario,
I installed it over the weekend and have the muffler hooked up (stock replacement Anza) and I agree it really helps the low end torque. I am very pleased with the workmanship and quality. I can't believe how much lighter than the stock piece. Great sound improvement without the Borla blast.
By the way, I am a 19 time IMSA GTP winner, 2X Daytona 24hr winner and 3X Sebring 12hr winner and ran LeMans for Porsche in 962 and Jag in the Silkcut TWR Jag, so I know more torque when I feel it. Best $650 I have spent in awhile. Even if I told my wife it was $250.
Jeff
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Mario:
I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude for your services at the New Hampshire International Speedway last week. As you know, my water pump had started leaking at the seal sometime on my drive up to the track. Luckily for me, you were the person who checked my car in the tech line and noticed the leak right away. Thankfully, you were able to get another water pump installed at the track during my flagging assignment and I only ended up missing one run session. Needless to say, this probably saved my engine and maybe even my car if the pump let go during a track session.
It is not often that we get to experience such outstanding service, especially in the automotive service industry. It is obvious to me why you have become the regional E30M3 expert and why so many fellow owners have trusted you with their cars. Your willingness to go above and beyond the usual level of service is your most valuable asset, and the reason why you have been so successful. You have definitely earned my business for life and I will be letting every E30M3 owner I meet where to go for the best service around.
Sincerely,
Robert Sweeney
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In early 2002 I purchased my first E30 M3, intending for it to spend most of its time on the track. The car appeared to be solid and well maintained. I began the '02 track season and had a blast with the car. After returning from Watkins Glen, I noticed some unnatural noises coming from the motor. After doing some research I chose to bring my car to VSR for repair.
Mario was most interested in my situation and solving my problems. He has given my car a strong rebuilt motor and a new lease on on-track life. My experience with VSR has been outstanding. There have been no band-aid fixes, just thorough repair with an eye on the total solution. Mario exceeded all of my expectations and has made my car better than I'd ever imagined it could be. I'd recommend his services without reservation to anyone on any budget.
Duncan Burke, 1990 BMW M3
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I acquired a 1971 BMW Bavaria 18 months ago. The car was very clean with only 54,000 miles. I bought this car to drive and enjoy during nice weather. I live in Ohio, so that means about 6 months a year.
After having the car for 12 months, I realized that many things on the car needed attention. I did not feel comfortable with any local mechanics (many refused to work on the car). Finally, I came across Mario while searching the Internet. I decided to ship the car 700 miles to New Hampshire, because I felt Mario knew exactly what I wanted. I am very pleased to say that this was a very smart decision. I really enjoyed working with Mario and feel that his service and recommendations were top notch.
Now, with a new front end, new Weber carbs, new fuel lines, repaired breaks, etc., my Bavaria drives and handles like new. I look forward to working with Mario in the future as I plan to keep the car a long time.
Martin Haas
Martin_haas@sadiatech.com
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"I just wanted to say "THANK YOU" for the terrific work you did on my '90 M3. The car drives great, no more cacophony of bearing and shifter noise and no more brake shimmy. The car has not been this much fun to drive since I bought it this past July.
I appreciate your attention to detail and being so thorough in your inspection of the car. I am confident now that the car has good maintenance baseline from which to start my ownership records. I'll certainly be planning to bring the car back to you for future service and hopefully upgrades.
By the way, in case I didn't mention it before, you came very highly recommended to me by Fred Fergusson of BMWCCA club racing (J-stock E30-M3). I've already told Fred how pleased I am with the outcome.
Please keep an eye out for me for any black driver's seats that can replace my permanently reclined seat. Thanks again..."
Jonathan Selig
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My 320i and I have been together since it was new, 19 years and 180,000 miles ago. When fresh oil started blowing out the tailpipe, it became clear that it was time for a heart transplant. The suspension had been tweaked a bit, which made the stock motor feel even more anemic.
VSR gave it a rebuilt, more aggressive motor with a bunch of other breathing and handling refinements that have turned my baby into a terrific toy -- streetable in city traffic but fun with the hammer down, too. I now refer to it as “The Little Screamer”. It handles unbelievably well and, with an additional 1700 rpms before redline, has enough guts to avoid being such a rolling chicane on the track. I love my car again!
Ellie MacDougal
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My first contact with Mario was browsing an interesting BMW web site. One of his cars was featured for sale, modified with a Euro engine transplant, suspension upgrades, and a beautiful paint job. I fell in love with the car, though I was in California and the car was in New Hampshire. After several phone conversations, where we went over the car in detail from front to back, I got the impression Mario was meticulous and discerning when it came to detail. His ability to describe the few insignificant blemishes the car had gave me the confidence to buy the car sight unseen. And I have never been sorry. His creation has been one of the best cars I have ever owned.
In addition, Mario has been a great resource. Through my continued relationship with him, he has helped me with maintenance and upgrades. When it comes time to purchase another car, I will speak with Mario first.
Ray Barber
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Here's one of our customer's comments about our Wild Knob:
"This thing is gorgeous! I haven't even installed it in my car yet (I will this week) but I just love holding it! It's titanium and has a curved top with an " W///" in it. It's almost too beautiful to use, but since the car is also gorgeous, it's going in!"
T. Hull
