HARFORD COUNTY, Md. (WJZ)– It’s the American Dream– start with nothing, and through hard work build success.

Mike Schuh has more about a graduate of Overlea High School who is able to enjoy the product of all his hard work.

Steve Ramsey, a Ford and Harley dealer, collects and restores the cars mostly from his youth.

“It’s just a lifelong enjoyment,” he said.

As a kid, he bought cheap cars, improved them and sold them for more than he paid. Success at that and other car ventures has led to a custom barn that houses about half of his extensive collection.

He has mostly Fords, like the rare Ford GT.

“I probably want to be buried with it,” Ramsey said.

He’s also partial to Chevys, trucks, bikes, race cars and memorabilia.

He has such good taste, that national TV shows have visited him.

That’s all well and good, but for him, he can find joy just being here looking at these rolling sculptures appreciative of what he’s earned and what Lady Luck has given.

“I don’t think it’s any different than anyone else who has a hobby that gets a little out of hand,” Ramsey said.

But without regard to their value– some are worth a lot– he drives all of his cars, some harder than others.

Bought fully finished or rebuilt from basket cases, most have large V8s. It seems like he’s trying to repaint his driveway two black stripes at a time.

“I’m 58 this month, and I still enjoy it every time I do it,” Ramsey said.

Besides the car business, Ramsey also competes in offshore ocean fishing tournaments where prize money can top a million dollars.