406: From Barn Finds to Global Buyers with Alex Manos
About this episode
Alex Manos, founder of Beverly Hills Car Club, shares his journey from a classic car enthusiast to a successful dealer with a vast inventory. He discusses his passion for classic cars, starting with a 1962 Lincoln Continental, and how he turned a hobby into a thriving business. Manos highlights the unique stories behind car acquisitions, including a serendipitous find of a Mercedes Gullwing. The episode delves into the dynamics of buying and selling collector cars, offering insights into the collector car market and the emotional connection people have with these vehicles.
Podcast Description:
In this episode of The Collector Car Podcast, I sit down with Alex Manos, founder of Beverly Hills Car Club, to talk about one of the most fascinating business models in the classic car world.
From humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest classic car dealerships in the country, Alex shares how he built a global buying machine—acquiring everything from barn-find Jaguars and long-forgotten Ferraris to everyday classics that most dealers overlook. We dig into:
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How Beverly Hills Car Club sources hundreds of cars annually
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Why condition and presentation aren't always the priority
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The truth about buying sight unseen
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Trends he's seeing in international demand
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What types of cars are getting harder to find
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Advice for collectors looking to buy or sell in today's market
Alex operates at scale in a way few in our hobby do, and whether you agree with his model or not, you can't ignore the impact he's had on the collector car ecosystem.
If you've ever wondered how large-volume classic car operations really work behind the scenes—this one's for you.
Listen in for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about supply, demand, margins, and the global appetite for classic cars.
#CollectorCarPodcast #AlexManos #BeverlyHillsCarClub #ClassicCars #BarnFinds #CarCollector #CarDealerLife #CollectorCarMarket #VintageCars #AutomotiveEntrepreneur #CarFlipping #GlobalCarMarket
🙏 Thank You to Our SponsorsA big thank you to the partners who help make the podcast possible:
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Discover Once – Simplifying the way enthusiasts document, manage, and protect their collector cars
👉 https://www.discoveronce.com - NCM Insurance – Specialty insurance solutions built specifically for collector vehicles
👉 https://www.ncminsurance.com - Metron Garage – Secure, climate-controlled collector car storage built for enthusiasts.
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Please support the brands that support the collector car community.
Do you need help buying or selling your collector car? Contact Greg directly at [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]. I know, that's a lot of emails but I answer them all...eventually:)
A special thank you to our new sponsor, Discover Once, curators of one-of-a-kind automotive adventures you'll never experience twice. Learn more at discoveronce.com/muscle.
And as always, huge thanks to RM Sotheby's for their continual support and for making so many of these automotive dreams possible.
Listen to the "Octane FM: Shift, Rev, Repeat" album on Spotify!
Stay connected with The Collector Car Podcast—find us on our Website, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, or reach out to Greg directly via email.
Join RM Sotheby's Car Specialist Greg Stanley as he brings over 25 years of experience and keen market analysis to the world of collector cars. Each week, Greg dives into market trends, interviews industry experts, and shares insights—with a little fun along the way. New episodes drop every Thursday and are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Learn more at www.TheCollectorCarPodcast.com or email Greg at [email protected].
New York to Paris auto race
"Now in 1908, there was a New York to Paris race, the famously grueling New York to Paris auto race began in Times Square. Six teams representing four nations, USA, France, Italy and Germany started the journey which went through Alaska in Siberia."
This was a famous car race from New York to Paris that happened in 1908. It was significant because it tested the endurance of cars and drivers over a long and difficult route.
The New York to Paris auto race was a historic event that took place in 1908, marking one of the first long-distance automobile races. It involved teams from different countries and showcased the capabilities of early automobiles over challenging terrains, including parts of Alaska and Siberia.
Lincoln
"automotive manufacturing plants including Lincoln in Mercury officially shifted to war production, halting civilian car manufacturing."
Lincoln is a brand that makes luxury cars and SUVs, and it's part of Ford. They are known for their comfortable and stylish vehicles.
Lincoln is a luxury vehicle division of the American automaker Ford Motor Company, known for its upscale cars and SUVs.
Mercury
"automotive manufacturing plants including Lincoln in Mercury officially shifted to war production, halting civilian car manufacturing."
Mercury was a car brand that made mid-range vehicles and was part of Ford. It was around for many years but is no longer in production.
Mercury was an American brand of automobiles that was marketed by Ford Motor Company from 1938 until 2010, known for its mid-range vehicles.
collector car
"If you own a collector car, you already know it deserves more than a standard insurance policy."
A collector car is a special type of vehicle that people often keep because it's rare, old, or has a lot of history. Because of this, they usually need special insurance that covers their unique value.
A collector car is a vehicle that is considered to be of special interest due to its age, rarity, or historical significance. These cars often require specialized insurance policies that take into account their value and unique characteristics.
NCM Insurance
"NCM Insurance specializes in agreed value coverage designed specifically for classic collector and enthusiast vehicles."
NCM Insurance is a company that offers insurance specifically for classic and collectible cars. They help protect these vehicles by providing coverage that matches their value.
NCM Insurance is a company that specializes in providing insurance coverage tailored for classic and collector vehicles. Their policies often include agreed value coverage, which ensures that the insured amount reflects the car's true market value.
agreed value coverage
"NCM Insurance specializes in agreed value coverage designed specifically for classic collector and enthusiast vehicles."
Agreed value coverage means that you and your insurance company decide on a specific value for your car when you get the policy. If something happens to your car, you get that amount instead of a possibly lower market value.
Agreed value coverage is an insurance policy feature that allows the owner and the insurer to agree on the value of a vehicle at the time the policy is written. In the event of a total loss, the owner receives the agreed amount rather than the market value, which can fluctuate.
classic collector vehicles
"designed specifically for classic collector and enthusiast vehicles."
Classic collector vehicles are older cars that people collect because they are special or rare. These cars often need special insurance because they can be worth a lot of money.
Classic collector vehicles refer to cars that are valued for their historical significance, rarity, or unique features. These vehicles often require specialized insurance due to their higher value and the specific needs of their owners.
classic cars
"...we buy and sell classic cars every day of my life, basically seven days a week. And it didn't start like that, but it started with a passion for classic cars..."
Classic cars are older vehicles that many people love because of their unique style and history. They are usually at least 20 years old and are often collected by car enthusiasts.
Classic cars are typically defined as vehicles that are at least 20 years old and often have historical significance or unique characteristics. They are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their design, performance, and nostalgia.
Lincoln Continental
"Yeah, it was a 1962 Lincoln Continental. Now, why'd you buy that? That's pretty gangster for a 16 year old kid."
The Lincoln Continental is a fancy car made by Lincoln, which is part of Ford. The 1962 version is known for being big and comfortable, making it a classic car that many people admire.
The Lincoln Continental is a luxury car that was produced by Lincoln, a division of Ford, known for its spacious interiors and elegant design. The 1962 model is part of the classic era of American automobiles, often associated with luxury and style.
electric features
"but it's had so many electric features. You know, the vent windows are electric."
Electric features are parts of a car that work with electricity instead of being operated by hand. For example, power windows can be opened or closed with a button instead of a crank.
Electric features refer to components in a vehicle that operate using electricity rather than manual mechanisms. This includes items like power windows, locks, and seats, which enhance convenience and comfort for the driver and passengers.
suicide doors
"And that- Suicide doors? At that time in my life, you know?"
Suicide doors are car doors that open the opposite way from normal doors. They can make it easier to get in and out of the back seat, but they can also be less safe if you're not careful.
Suicide doors are a type of car door that is hinged at the rear rather than the front. This design allows the door to open in the opposite direction compared to conventional doors, providing easier access to the rear seats but can pose safety risks in certain situations.
Ferrari
"...man, that guy has a lot of Porsches, man, that guy has a lot of Ferraris,..."
Ferrari is a famous Italian car brand that makes very fast and expensive sports cars, known for their racing heritage.
Ferrari is an Italian luxury sports car manufacturer renowned for its high-performance vehicles and success in motorsports, particularly Formula 1. Iconic models include the Ferrari 488 and the Ferrari F8.
Porsche 356
"356's, some 911's, but is there a particular make model..."
The Porsche 356 is an early sports car made by Porsche, famous for its sleek design and performance. It was one of the first cars produced by the brand.
The Porsche 356 is a sports car that was produced from 1948 to 1965. It is known for its lightweight design and is considered one of the first production models from Porsche.
Porsche 911
"356's, some 911's, but is there a particular make model..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car known for its unique shape and powerful performance. It has been a popular model for many years.
The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1964. It is renowned for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout.
Rolls Royce
"Porsche, I mean, Rolls Royce, Bentley..."
Rolls Royce is a brand that makes very luxurious cars. They are known for their quality and comfort.
Rolls Royce is a luxury automobile manufacturer known for its high-end vehicles that offer exceptional craftsmanship and comfort.
Bentley
"Porsche, I mean, Rolls Royce, Bentley..."
Bentley is a brand that makes luxury cars, known for being very stylish and powerful.
Bentley is a British luxury car manufacturer that produces high-performance vehicles known for their elegance and power.
Ford Mustang
"...uch a large array of stuff. We've got, you know, Mustangs, you know, 556, 70 birds. We'll have a Land Crui..."
The Ford Mustang is a famous car that started being sold in the 1960s and is known for being fast and stylish. Many people love it because it represents fun and adventure, and it has a long history that makes it special. It's often talked about because of its cool design and powerful engine.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964. Known for its powerful performance and distinctive design, it has become a symbol of freedom and rebellion in automotive culture. The Mustang is often discussed for its impact on the automotive industry and its enduring popularity among car enthusiasts.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"We'll have a Land Cruiser, so many different things."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big SUV that is very good for off-road driving. It's known for being tough and reliable.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. It has a long history of being a reliable vehicle in tough terrains.
Gullwing
"...I'm looking for Ferraris, I'm looking for Aston Martins, I'm looking for Gullwings."
Gullwing refers to a type of car door that opens upwards, like a seagull's wings. The most famous car with this design is the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, which is a classic sports car.
The term 'Gullwing' refers to the distinctive upward-opening doors of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, a classic sports car produced in the 1950s. It is celebrated for its innovative design and performance.
barn find
"...where it was either a barn find or you stumbled across something that turned out to be a real diamond in the rough? Is there, yes, there's many."
A barn find is when someone finds an old car that has been hidden away for a long time, usually in a barn. These cars can be special because they might be in good shape or rare, making them interesting to collectors.
A 'barn find' refers to a vehicle that has been discovered after being stored away for a long time, often in a barn or garage. These cars can sometimes be valuable due to their rarity or condition, as they may have been untouched for years.
Rudge wheel
"There's a Rudge wheel, 1955, go, I mean, just, I mean, it just, it's those moments you just don't believe exist..."
Rudge wheels are special types of wheels with spokes that connect to a central hub. They were often used on older, fancy cars and have a unique look.
Rudge wheels are a type of wire-spoke wheel that were popular in the mid-20th century, often associated with classic cars. They are known for their distinctive design and were commonly used on sports and luxury vehicles.
Ford Gt350
"like yours. I had heard about an unre-stored 65 GT 350 in Cincinnati, that's where I am right now."
Ford is a big car company that makes many types of vehicles, like trucks and cars. They were one of the first companies to make cars affordable for everyday people, which changed how cars were made. People talk about Ford because of its long history and the popular cars it produces.
Ford is a major American automotive manufacturer founded by Henry Ford in 1903, known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and cars. The company revolutionized the automotive industry with assembly line production techniques, making cars more affordable for the average consumer. Ford vehicles, such as the Mustang and F-150, are often discussed for their historical significance and ongoing popularity.
car auction
"...an announcement about a single car auction. And it was not the GT 350 that I had been told..."
A car auction is where people sell cars to the highest bidder. It's a way to buy and sell special or rare cars, and many collectors go to these events.
A car auction is a public sale where vehicles are sold to the highest bidder. Auctions can feature classic, rare, or collectible cars, often attracting enthusiasts and collectors.
unre-stored
"...but it was the only unre-stored cheetah that had ever, that still existed..."
'Unre-stored' means the car hasn't been fixed up or changed from how it originally was. This can make it more valuable to people who collect cars.
'Unre-stored' refers to a vehicle that has not undergone restoration, meaning it retains its original condition and parts. This can significantly increase its value among collectors.
Maserati Mistral Spider
"...there was a time there was a 1967 Maserati Mistral Spider, which they barely, I believe it's like a hundred, I'd have to look at the numbers..."
The Maserati Mistral Spider is a vintage sports car from 1967. It is famous for being stylish and rare, with only a few made, which makes it special for car collectors.
The Maserati Mistral Spider is a classic sports car produced by Maserati in the 1960s. It is known for its elegant design and limited production, making it a rare collector's item today.
Maserati 3500 Vignale Spider
"So I bought another, I bought a Maserati 3500 Vignale Spider, and that car was in pieces, and then we spent like five, six years restoring it."
The Maserati 3500 Vignale Spider is a vintage sports car from the 1950s. It's known for its stylish looks and good performance, making it a sought-after model for car enthusiasts.
The Maserati 3500 Vignale Spider is a classic Italian sports car produced in the 1950s, known for its elegant design and performance. It features a 3.5-liter inline-six engine and is highly regarded among collectors for its rarity and beauty.
Porsche 356 SC
"The police are like the FBI in Germany when the 356 SC came out, they took this car back to the factory..."
Mercedes-Benz is a brand that makes fancy and high-end cars known for being very well made and full of advanced features. They have been around for a long time and are often seen as a symbol of luxury. People talk about Mercedes-Benz because of their reputation for quality and their stylish designs.
Mercedes-Benz is a luxury automobile brand known for its high-quality vehicles that combine performance, safety, and advanced technology. Founded in the early 20th century, the brand has a rich history of innovation and is often associated with prestige and luxury in the automotive world. Discussions about Mercedes-Benz often highlight its engineering excellence and the brand's influence on the automotive industry.
engine
"...they had them change the engine, put the 356 SC engine in the car from a super 90..."
An engine is what makes a car move by turning fuel into power. In this case, they are talking about changing the engine to a different type from another car.
An engine is a crucial component of a car that converts fuel into mechanical energy to power the vehicle. In this context, the speaker refers to replacing the engine with a specific variant from another model.
certificate of authenticity
"...this is all on the certificate of authenticity. They show the whole procedure and everything."
A certificate of authenticity is a paper that proves a car is real and tells its history. It helps buyers know that the car is genuine and has not been changed in a way that affects its value.
A certificate of authenticity is a document that verifies the authenticity and originality of a vehicle, often detailing its history and any modifications made. This is important for collectors and buyers to ensure the car's value.
Pebble Beach
"...he went there during car week, you know, Pebble Beach and everything."
Pebble Beach is a famous car show in California where people display and admire beautiful classic cars. It's a big event for car lovers and collectors.
Pebble Beach is a prestigious automotive event held annually in California, showcasing classic and luxury cars. It attracts car enthusiasts, collectors, and manufacturers from around the world, making it a highlight in the automotive calendar.
original color
"...it wasn't original interior, it wasn't original color. I mean, it was original color, but it wasn't original paint."
Original color means the color the car had when it was first made. Many collectors want their cars to be the same color as when they were new to keep them authentic.
The term 'original color' refers to the factory paint color that a vehicle was delivered with when it was first sold. This is important for collectors and restorers who want to maintain the authenticity of a classic car.
original paint
"...it wasn't original color, but it wasn't original paint."
Original paint is the paint that was put on the car when it was made. If a car has its original paint, it can be worth more to collectors because it shows the car's history.
'Original paint' refers to the paint that was applied to a vehicle at the factory. This is significant for collectors as it affects the car's value and authenticity. Repainting can change the car's historical value.
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