Rudy Heinatz Jr. will retire Dec. 31 after being in the automotive sales business for more than 40 years.

Heinatz will step down as general manager of Quinn Motors, Inc., on Route 17, just north of Short Lane in Gloucester. At Quinn Motors, he’s worked in several positions since May 1983, including 14 years as general manager, and earlier stints as a salesman and sales manager.

“With a smaller dealership you do it all,” Heinatz said. He’s enjoyed his long career in the automotive sales business, noting that the Quinn staff has been like family and he’s had many repeat customers that have made his job more enjoyable.

Heinatz said cars were a lot different in 1972, when he went to work selling them for Poquoson Motors. Cars had carburetors and points then, he said, with computerized systems coming in in more recent years.

Technicians could tinker a bit back then, he said, but now many have advanced certifications...