RennZeigen III Brings German Icons to Ramapo College

A fall showcase at Ramapo College

The biennial RennZeigen III returned to Ramapo College of New Jersey with a crisp autumn backdrop and a perfectly curated field. Hosted by Bergen County Cars & Caffe and organized by Tony Boniello, the all-German gathering delivered exactly 100 show cars on the front lawn. Meanwhile, the adjacent paddock held an overflow of sports and supercars that could not fit the feature display. The timing proved ideal. Cooler air and vivid foliage framed a day built for enthusiasts, owners, and families.

Boniello’s formula is simple and effective. He focuses on quality, variety, and a relaxed pace. As a result, the event flowed easily from early arrivals to awards. Attendees walked tidy rows of significant models representing every major German marque. Moreover, conversations between judges and owners added a personal touch to the technical excellence on display. The setting made the cars feel accessible, even when their specifications were anything but ordinary.

Porsche dominated the field

Porsche showed in force. A striking group of 992 GT3 RS models lined the lawn, each in different colors and trims. Additionally, two S/T special editions drew crowds, one in a deep emerald green and another in gray wearing a “69” roundel. Boxsters and Caymans turned heads as well, including Spyder RS and GT4 variants. The breadth of modern performance sat comfortably alongside the classics.

Heritage had its shine. A bright yellow 914 owned by Robert LaForty earned the People’s Choice award. In class judging, Joel Medina’s 993 RS tribute topped Porsche Air-Cooled. Meanwhile, Gino Lucci’s GT3 captured Porsche Water-Cooled honors. Altogether, the brand’s range—race-inspired, analog, and contemporary—proved why Porsche passion runs so deep.

Standout winners across German marques

Competition in the Mercedes-Benz ranks was stacked. Despite a 300 SL Roadster in the mix, Kevin Esposito’s 560 SL took first place on merit and presentation. Even so, the 300 SL claimed Cars & Caffe’s Choice, a fitting nod to its allure. Elsewhere, a pale yellow 1972 Opel GT dominated the Open German class, while Richard St. Louis’s 1995 Porsche 911 RSR won Competition Cars.

BMW judges faced tough calls. Ultimately, Warren Seifer’s 2002 Z8 rose above the field, taking first in class and Best in Show. The Z8’s clean design resonated with spectators and judges alike. For a dose of history, an unrestored Volkswagen Kübelwagen offered a rare wartime artifact. According to owner Manfred Rein, it was built on December 30, 1944, and left the factory on January 4, 1945. Notably, the range of eras—from prewar utility to modern exotics—made the show feel like a living museum.

Owners’ stories add color

Behind every car stood an owner with a story. Seifer’s Z8 reflects his eye for understatement. Beyond a set of Alpina 19-inch wheels, it remains as delivered, complete with cold air conditioning, ample storage, a strong sound system, and the optional hardtop. The odometer turned 13,000 miles on show day, a milestone that underscored the car’s usability.