Look in the car for the paper first but why not offer to take the fella to a show w/ the car?.
Seeing the interest in the car and his paintwork firsthand (or even meeting some skeptics) may make him more forthcoming w/ his box o' goodness?.
If he's agreeable to go, you may as well hand the driving over to him for the full effect too...amazing how a few burnouts in the old wheels may make him feel also it'd keep you safe to partake in a few cool ones!.
~ Pete