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In 1968 years ago, a young man began his quest to build a sports car with Porsche technology, a dream that only in 2011 reached its perfect realization with the creation of the Paulussen Beradino.
In the mid-1960s, enthusiasm for fast cars was unbroken, and for Johannes P. Paulussen, a young mechanical engineering student from Erkelenz-Borschemich in North Rhine-Westphalia, it was no different. Like many others, he idolized super sports cars like the Ford GT 40, Lamborghini Miura, and Ferrari GTO. However, as a student without financial means, he couldn’t afford such luxuries. There was no help to be expected from his parents either, as his father ran a modest carpentry business. Left with no other option, Paulussen decided to build his dream car by himself.
From Concept to Construction
Paulussen began drafting his designs in 1965, and by 1968, the construction of his sports car was underway. After 7,000 hours of meticulous work, the car was finally completed in 1975, earning registration under the name Paulussen Beradino Hardtop. By 1992, Paulussen had driven around 8,500 kilometers with his creation, but despite his initial enthusiasm, his interest began to wane. The car, while functional, had flaws—most notably, a leaking Porsche engine.
However, in 2009, Paulussen reignited his passion for the project and embarked on a comprehensive overhaul of the Beradino. Over the next two years, the car underwent significant improvements. These included its first-ever paint job, upgraded lighting, and a unique instrument panel mounted on the engine. By 2011, the “Beradino Reloaded” was ready to be unveiled to the public.
Public Debut and Recognition
In March 2011, Paulussen proudly presented his restored Beradino at the 42nd Motor Show in Neuss. The public reception was overwhelmingly positive, and the car even won the “Most Attractive Highlight” award. Further public appearances at the Classic Days at Schloss Dyck, the Düsseldorf Classic Remise, and the Essen Motor Show cemented its status as a top-restored classic car. After all these years, Paulussen's labor of love had evolved into a stunning, head-turning vehicle.
Harmonious Design and Symmetry
The Paulussen Beradino’s design is a masterclass in symmetry and proportions. Although it draws inspiration from iconic models like the Ferrari 275 GTB, Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ2, and Lamborghini 400 Monza prototype, it stands as a unique creation in its own right. Its sleek, ultra-low height of just 1.04 meters was reminiscent of the Ford GT 40, which Paulussen admired.
The car’s formal independence is seen in its long, flat windshield, a wind deflector at the front, and its convertible body. Impressively, the Beradino could transform from a fastback to a notchback coupe or a convertible with minimal effort. The balance and symmetry in both the front and rear views made it look as though it had been through multiple production cycles, though it remained a one-of-a-kind prototype.
Paulussen: The Engineer and Craftsman
Paulussen, who was 68 years old at the time of the Beradino’s restoration, built the car using both his engineering expertise and craftsmanship. He studied mechanical engineering at the Aachen University of Applied Sciences, where he focused on automotive technology. However, his father’s carpentry shop was equally crucial in bringing his dream to life, as it allowed Paulussen to construct the wooden structures required for the car’s bodywork.
Throughout his career, Paulussen taught automotive technology at a vocational college in Neuss. His passion for cars, particularly his own Beradino, and his connection with young students made him seem much younger than his years.
A Labor of Love and Precision
The Beradino’s construction was a detailed process that took seven years. For the car’s technical components, Paulussen sourced parts from various Porsche models. The engine, brakes, steering, and electrics were salvaged from Porsche 911s, while the front axle came from a Porsche 356. Other car parts, such as door hinges, instruments, and the gearbox, were sourced from a range of classic vehicles, including the Jaguar E-Type, Iso Rivolta, and VW Beetle.
The body was the most labor-intensive part of the project. Based on his drawings, Paulussen first created a 1:10 scale plaster model, followed by a full-sized plaster model supported by wooden cross-ribs. He then employed glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GRP) to build the final body, which was painstakingly laminated by hand.
The Birth of "Beradino"
The name "Beradino" was inspired by a film credit featuring the actor John Beradino, which Paulussen happened to see while watching a western at home. He liked the name and decided it was perfect for his car. Paulussen even designed the Beradino logo, which can be seen on the rear of the car and on the builder’s own branded clothing.
Specifications
The Beradino was powered by a Porsche 911 T air-cooled six-cylinder engine with a magnesium crankcase and eight-bearing crankshaft. The 2.0-liter engine, fitted with Weber carburetors, produced 110 horsepower, allowing the car to reach speeds of over 200 km/h. A four-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive completed the powertrain. The body was mounted on a steel tube frame with fiberglass body panels, and the suspension was a combination of Porsche and VW Beetle parts.
A One-of-a-Kind Masterpiece
The Paulussen Beradino stands today as a testament to Johannes P. Paulussen’s vision, craftsmanship, and dedication. After years of hard work, setbacks, and revisions, Paulussen's dream car became a reality—a unique sports car that remains a beloved, one-of-a-kind creation. From its humble beginnings as the dream of a young man to its current status as a restored classic, the Beradino has certainly earned its place in automotive history.
