There’s a certain thrill that comes with exploring an enormous automotive salvage yard. For some, these vast stretches of land filled with rusting husks of vehicles just looks like so many decaying relics being reclaimed by the elements, but for enthusiasts, it’s so much more. Behind every dented panel, faded badge, and worn-out seat there’s a story of a different time. Countless different automobiles are to be found resting in these places; automobiles that have witnessed the highway under the sun, chauffeured families on summer vacation road trips, faithfully ferried loved ones to their jobs, and contributed to a whole lot of unforgettable moments. Any great junkyard is more than just a place where automobiles come to be picked clean and eventually scrapped, it’s a treasure trove of automotive history.

There are few places that represent this aspect more vividly than Windy Hill Auto Parts in New London, MN. Founded by Allan and Pat Bajari in 1964, this family owned auto salvage operation has grown into one of the most amazing automobile collections in the entire region. There are thousands of vehicles to be found across Windy Hill’s rolling landscape that range from standard American sedans and family cars to vintage European sports cars and rare pre-war autos. Exploring this junkyard truly is like traveling through time as a whole new chapter of automotive history waits around every turn.

These cars aren’t just historical curiosities that are merely serving as a remembrance of cars past; in many cases, the parts these autos yield allow countless other vehicles on the road to be restored to their former glory. Amongst the grassy hillsides and tangled paths and roadways there rest automobiles that can tell stories of innovation, success, failure, and endurance unlike any you’ve ever heard. Here are just a few of the most incredible finds that we discovered during our recent journey through this amazing auto junkyard.

1. 1951 Studebaker Champion

This 1951 Studebaker Champion would make a fine welcome to the history housed in Windy Hill. Located just past the gate, this stylishpost-warcarlays claim on immediate attention, with its sweeping body and unique stance-it stands out distinctly from the other hundred or so car and truck bodies that pepper this property. Prior to navigating the sprawling yard that unfolds before the curious tourist, the Studebaker offers visitors just a peek at a past automotive time and place: a good first impression.

Why It Stands Out:

• Classic post-war styling
• Distinctive front-end design
• Historic American automobile
• Well-preserved appearance
• Important Windy Hill landmark

A real vintage character in a junk car world. It has been preserved better than a lot of the cars in a scrap yard, and beneath the hood sits an excellent, well kept, six cylinder engine that comes equipped with an automatic transmission. It speaks for the age in which manufacturers began experimenting with out-of-this-world styling but hadn’t yet moved to a complete abandonment of logic and reason. It captures the imagination and the optimism of the car’s engineers, and the combination is a pleasure to gaze upon even now.

More than an antiquated machine. The Champion embodies history specifically a chapter of automotive history and the spirit of American ingenuity. It encourages visitors to recognize that each car has more than a functional existence and continues to spark the interest of enthusiasts and collectors. It is one of Windy Hill’s premier attractions.

2. 1987 Cadillac Eldorado

The 1987 Cadillac Eldorado marks a unique chapter in the story of American automotive design. Though Windy Hill is famous for classic automobiles, this luxurious coupe highlights the design themes prevalent in the 1980s. Its body style indicates a period where automakers struggled with new expectations for vehicle comfort and design as customer needs began to change. However, it is still considered a symbol of American luxury by Cadillac and gives visitors insight into a compelling phase in time.

Notable Features:

• Classic 1980s luxury coupe
• Distinctive Cadillac styling
• Remarkably preserved body
• Important transitional-era model
• Strong American luxury heritage

One thing that’s great about this Eldorado is that it really shows almost no signs of significant rust. Time has certainly passed over it for a while, but its low, cool profile is still visible, as are the classic design queues Cadillac would make famous. Its crisp lines and classic proportions are a joy to see even now, and a visitor to the collection can easily envision it back in the dealer showroom days. Its original beauty really stands out this way.

This Eldorado stands as a good representation of the era where the American automobile industry began adapting to changing economic situations and shifting luxury demands; the advent of downsized luxury coupe designs were a major theme among luxury manufacturers at that point. It might not be the same icon as some of the other Cadillacs it followed in the lineage, but it is still an interesting piece of history with its story of adaptation.

3. 1973 Chevrolet Impala

The 1973 Chevrolet Impala epitomizes one of the golden ages of American motoring. It was more than just another large sedan the fact of the matter is, large family sedans ruled the American landscape. During this golden age Chevrolet sales records fell to all-time highs, with the Impala contributing to it with its size, practicality, and family-friendliness.

Why It Matters:

• Iconic full-size American sedan
• Part of Chevrolet’s peak sales era
• Family-focused design
• Comfortable long-distance cruiser
• Historic automotive significance

In its day this Impala probably gave years of loyal service to a family. Big, comfortable cars such as this one were ideal for long car journeys, commutes to work, and even as transport for days out or shopping. This type of vehicle used to be a common sight on roads everywhere across the U.S. The car was the first affordable, comfortable and reliable vehicle for millions of Americans. In many cases, this was one of the typical family cars for the decade.

Today, this car is quietly waiting amongst its historic relatives at Windy Hill. While this car is no longer driven on journeys around the country, it nonetheless represents a piece of motoring history. Through this vehicle visitors are transported back in time, to a period where big saloons dominated. The story of changing consumer trends is evident in the vehicle.

4. Jaguar Mk2

Who would have thought to be looking for a Jaguar Mk2 in the scrap yard? Mk2’s are some of the most desirable and revered classic British sport sedans amongst collectors and restorers. Despite many years of disuse this example has managed to maintain the sophisticated styling for which it became well known, and you still recognize the style as this model.

Why the Jaguar Mk2 Is Special:

• Iconic British sports sedan
• Highly desirable collector vehicle
• Elegant and timeless design
• Strong restoration community
• Important Jaguar heritage model

You will be interested to know why this particular Mk2 made it’s way to Windy Hill. The car has lost quite a bit of it’s structure at the front, and has long since lost its much desired 6 cylinder engine, you can see how years of use and parts stripping have had it’s effect on the vehicle, however enough of its originality is still there for us to appreciate the qualities we have come to love about the Mk2. As a road legal car it has finished it’s duties, but in many ways the Jag will continue to live on. 

Parts of this car have very likely been used to help other owners restore and preserve other existing Mk2’s, so in that sense, it is part of every working Mk2 that still exists,. It is a reminder that even a “broken” classic can still give life to other cars. It provides a chapter in the history of the Windy Hill collection.

5. 1962 Chevrolet Station Wagon

1962 Chevrolet Station Wagon-This particular car is a narrative. The vastness that stretches all around it tells a story of the incredible size Windy Hill once was. It used to be that, according to long-time employees, there were in the tens of thousands of automobiles on the lot. Cars, bumper to bumper, were piled up along both sides of the adjacent highway. This wagon is an icon.

Why This Wagon Matters:

• Classic American family wagon
• Symbol of Windy Hill’s history
• Represents a bygone era
• Survived major yard changes
• Connection to automotive preservation

So many of the vehicles that were once strewn about have been crushed and recycled since the earlier days. Today the collection is very significant, but it used to be far larger, at least in memory and on film. These clear areas surrounding the wagon can tell a part of the story of how this yard has changed in this yard tells a story all of its own in its changing as only very few vehicles can illustrate history like this Chevy can. 

This station wagon just sits peacefully as just one of the surviving vehicles from this era of the Windy Hill place. It evokes a time when large family station wagons were as common a mode of transport as any vehicle could be and although so many vehicles that was once surrounding it are gone, the car is still there and it remains to be a part of a very significant part of the yard’s history for the people visiting it.

6. 1963 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible

The 1963 Pontiac Bonneville Convertible used to be the height of American car fashion. The Bonneville, in its day was a car of luxury, comfort, and sophisticated open-topped motoring. Thousands were built and cars in good condition are much sort-after in collectors circles today due to its unique styling and luxurious fittings, so let us take a look.

Why It Remains Important:

• Classic American convertible
• Highly sought-after collector car
• Valuable source of restoration parts
• Significant Pontiac heritage
• Supports preservation projects

Sadly, this is one of those Bonneville’s that has suffered over many decades, most of its more major components have been lost and clearly shows a history of being exposed. At first sight one may assume this vehicle beyond hope of recovery. Classic car enthusiasts may beg to differ though and not see total loss, but a source of parts and preservation.

This specific Bonneville might well just serve as a valuable source for missing parts that will not be obtainable or will be unobtainable on other 1963 Bonneville’s which owners are restoring. Salvaged parts from one of these such examples often return another vehicle back to a driveable state. Through its restoration this Bonneville serves the enthusiast community, for its legacy can live on through other Bonneville’s.

7. Renault Le Car

One of the odder finds at Windy Hill is this little French hatchback-the Renault Le Car. It stands out, sitting next to all those big American cruisers. Europe knew it as the Renault 5 and was probably the most popular little car on the continent for a while, loved for its practicality, economy and fun look. It didn’t really pan out so well in America however.

Why It Stands Out:

• American version of Renault 5
• Popular European hatchback
• Rare sight in the United States
• Sold through AMC dealerships
• Unique part of automotive history

Throughout the late 1970’s the Le Car was sold by Renault through AMC dealerships in the U.S. Although the Le Car sold very well in Europe, it failed to connect with the buying public in the U.S and never really took off with the meager sales it received. Slowly the cars began to disappear from roads all over America until they became very rare indeed. Now they rarely ever turn up.

Its placement in this collection shows the diverse nature of the display. This is a story of a brave attempt to transport the highly successful European concept to a brand new and rather hostile terrain. The success in the U.S was neither widespread or great. They are rare today.

8. 1957 Ford Custom 300

One of the more enigmatic of cars at Windy Hill is this 1957 Ford Custom 300. From the available information about the car (license plate data), it is thought that this car left the road a long time ago. Its question as to where the rest of its life was spent, before it eventually came to this scrap yard, becomes rather interesting and the vehicle’s overall completion is most fascinating given its age.

Why It’s Interesting:

• Classic 1950s Ford sedan
• Surprisingly complete survivor
• Linked to an automotive mystery
• Represents Ford’s sales success
• Important historical significance

Also demonstrating an overlooked accomplishment of today is this Ford Custom 300. Though most of the auto enthusiasts among you probably consider the 1957 Chevy Bel Air to be king of this generation, Ford actually outsold Chevrolet in the US that year. This vehicle represents an era when Ford was a powerful force in American manufacturing; millions of customers bought products from Ford that year, allowing them to outsell competitors like Chevrolet by a mile. This is evidence of that. 

The very existence of the Custom 300, itself is an interesting reminder of the past and present. But underneath the peeling paint, and tired, old body lies a story that will probably never be fully told. What questions does this Ford Custom 300’s history hold? They’re unanswered, adding another reason for people to wonder what that was connected to, from its past to today.

9. 1939 Chevrolet Master

The 1939 Chevrolet Master is one of the most fascinating discoveries hidden within Windy Hill. Tucked away among overgrown vegetation near the upper sections of the property, it feels almost forgotten by time. Its remote location makes it stand out from many of the other vehicles in the collection. Visitors who find it are rewarded with one of the yard’s most memorable sights. The scene feels more like an abandoned historical landmark than a simple old car.

Nature’s Takeover: What Makes This Chevrolet Unique:

• Rare pre-war Chevrolet sedan
• Hidden deep within the property
• Surrounded by overgrown vegetation
• Unique and striking photo opportunity
• Powerful symbol of time and decay

Decades of exposure have allowed nature to slowly reclaim the vehicle. Trees, vines, and vegetation now grow through areas that once contained passengers and mechanical components. The contrast between the car’s aging steel body and the surrounding greenery is striking. It creates a powerful visual reminder of how time affects even the most durable machines. Few vehicles in the yard illustrate this process so clearly.

Standing beside the Chevrolet encourages reflection on the passage of time. Once a carefully engineered automobile built for daily transportation, it now exists as part of the landscape itself. Its transformation highlights the relationship between human innovation and the natural world. The vehicle’s condition tells a story that extends beyond automotive history. As a result, it remains one of Windy Hill’s most thought-provoking and unforgettable discoveries.

10. Austin A40

The Austin A40 is one of the rarest vehicles found at Windy Hill. Seeing one in North America is unusual, which makes its presence in the collection especially noteworthy. Styled by the famous Italian design house Pininfarina and engineered in Britain, the A40 was designed to offer something different from traditional American cars. Its compact size and distinctive appearance helped it stand apart from domestic competitors. Even today, it remains an intriguing automotive curiosity.

A British Import With European Flair:

• Rare sight in North America
• Styled by Pininfarina
• Compact British design
• Distinct alternative to American cars
• Important automotive import history

Despite its attractive styling, the Austin A40 struggled to gain traction in the American market. Its modest performance and relatively high price made it a difficult sell against larger domestic vehicles. Many buyers preferred the size, power, and value offered by American manufacturers. As a result, sales remained limited throughout its time in the United States. The car never achieved the popularity its creators had hoped for.

Today, surviving examples are increasingly uncommon, adding to the A40’s historical significance. The vehicle represents the challenges foreign automakers faced when trying to establish themselves in America. Different consumer expectations often made success difficult for imported models. Although it was never a major commercial success, the Austin remains an interesting chapter in automotive history. Its presence at Windy Hill helps preserve the story of an ambitious but overlooked British import.

11. 1976 International Harvester Scout II

The 1976 International Harvester Scout II is one of the most unexpected finds at Windy Hill. Early sport utility vehicles have become highly sought after by collectors, making it unusual to discover one that still retains so many original components. Its rugged appearance immediately reflects the purpose it was built for. Long before SUVs dominated the market, vehicles like the Scout were already proving their versatility. Today, it stands as an important piece of off-road history.

A Pioneer of the Modern SUV Era:

• Early and influential SUV design
• Rugged off-road capability
• Highly collectible today
• Retains many original components
• Important automotive milestone

The Scout helped establish many characteristics that would later define the modern SUV segment. Strong construction, practical design, and genuine off-road ability made it popular among adventurous drivers. It offered versatility at a time when few vehicles combined utility and recreation so effectively. These qualities helped create the foundation for an entirely new vehicle category. Its influence can still be seen in today’s SUVs.

Its continued presence at Windy Hill creates a direct connection between the past and present automotive worlds. As interest in classic four-wheel-drive vehicles continues to grow, the Scout has become increasingly appreciated by enthusiasts. Many collectors view it as one of the true pioneers of the SUV movement. The vehicle serves as a reminder of how far the segment has evolved over the decades. Its legacy remains strong among off-road and classic-car fans alike.

12. 1980 AMC Eagle

The 1980 AMC Eagle is one of the most historically important vehicles hidden within Windy Hill’s collection. Although it appears heavily weathered and partially scavenged today, it represents a major step in automotive innovation. Its design introduced ideas that would later become standard across the industry. Even in its current condition, it stands out as a meaningful milestone in vehicle evolution. The Eagle reflects a concept that was far ahead of its time.

A Pioneer of Modern Crossovers:

• Early crossover-style vehicle
• Permanent four-wheel drive system
• Car-like comfort with SUV capability
• Ahead of its time innovation
• Influential automotive concept

The AMC Eagle combined passenger-car comfort with full-time four-wheel drive, effectively creating an early version of the modern crossover. At a time when most vehicles were clearly separated into cars or off-roaders, the Eagle blended both ideas. However, many buyers at the time did not fully appreciate its forward-thinking design. As a result, it never achieved the commercial success it arguably deserved. Despite this, its engineering concept was groundbreaking.

Looking back, the Eagle appears significantly ahead of its era. Today’s roads are filled with vehicles built on the same principles it introduced decades earlier. Its influence can be seen in nearly every modern crossover and AWD family vehicle. The Eagle’s story demonstrates how innovation is sometimes only recognized in hindsight. Even after production ended, its impact on automotive design continued to grow.