Driver's SEAT

Motoring expert and WhichCar presenter Elise Elliott visits classic-car lover Jen Eagles in her equally magnificent Melbourne home.

- Elise Elliott

The first thing that strikes you about Jen Eagles is her eyes; they’re an arresting Tiffany Blue. Fitting, then, that this mum and former model owns a vintage Mercedes-Benz in a matching hue. Jen’s 1970 280SL Pagoda is an automotive icon – all classic lines and head-turning elegance.

Jen’s home – which she shares with her property developer husband, Glenn, their two teenage boys and Mila, the family’s beloved golden retriever-cocker spaniel – is likewise a showstopper. The grand house, located in a sought-after suburb in Melbourne, was designed by local architect Nicholas Day; inside, the timeless interior carries the signature of the couple’s favourite designer, David Hicks.

But as beautiful as the home is, Jen says her favourite room is the spacious garage that houses her prized possession: that marvellous Mercedes.

Have you always appreciated handsome cars and houses?

My father has always been car-mad. As the eldest of five daughters, I didn’t have much choice when it came to automotive stuff. Dad taught me how to change the oil, water, and even the tyres, which is fortunate because my first car was a 1970 Hillman Hunter that always broke down.

My house appreciation developed a little later, around the time I met my husband (22 years ago!). I was in real estate back then and sold one of Glenn’s properties.

Is there a story behind the purchase of the car?