Well, it isn't and wasn't an advertisement at all. You have to see the photo-section yourself. It is simply "Barn Finds"--a photo-piece--and is an answer to the following solicitation:
Found a Ford in a field? A Bugatti in a barn? A Cobra in a carport? Then send us a photo, and tell us the story. There are still thousands of great old cars squirreled away across America, and we're looking to learn their secrets. It doesn't matter if you've bought the car, know the details, or simply heard the rumor. Send us some snapshots -- hopefully prior to the car being moved or restored -- and anything else you know about the situation. The more recently the car was discovered, and the rarer it is, the better. Post-war hardware only, please. If the car is for sale, please provide contact information too. We plan to use this great automotive folklore in a future issue. Photos can be high-res digital shots sent in via email to classic@motortrend.com; or clear sharp prints, which can be mailed to "MT Barn Finds," Motor Trend, 6420 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA, 90048.
But, when you have a car like that, sitting like that, it is the proverbial "perfect shot" for the above solicitation. The air of mystery with an unnamed owner, an "unrestorable" car that isn't for sale, sitting at a place known for restoration, just adds to the allure! The fact that most any Gull Wing sells for well into the six figures is more mystery. Last but not least the fact that your phone is ringing off the hook, and we are talking about it means the editors did their job.
If it is an issue, be wary of storing un-restorable cars that are not for sale--particularly Gull Wings. Bound to cause a fuss.
Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored