Alex Manos Drives Hollywood’s Vintage Car Market to New Heights

In 2002, Alex Manos transformed his passion for classic cars into a thriving business, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Hollywood’s luxury vehicle market. After a yearlong restoration of a 1961 Lincoln Continental convertible, Manos sold the car to a casino owner for $55,000 in a deal made outside the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. This pivotal moment led him to fully commit to buying and selling vintage cars, a venture that has flourished over the past two decades.

Manos now operates the Beverly Hills Car Club, located in East Los Angeles, where he curates a collection of around 650 vintage cars. His inventory features iconic models such as the Porsche 911, Mercedes SL, Jaguar E-Type, and various classic Mustangs and Thunderbirds. These vehicles form the backbone of his business, with Manos typically maintaining five or six in stock at any time.

Celebrity Sales and Unique Vehicles

The clientele of the Beverly Hills Car Club reads like a Hollywood roster. Manos has sold cars to stars like Justin Bieber, who purchased a 1936 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Sedanca Deville after spotting it while filming a music video nearby. Bieber’s enthusiasm was evident as he inquired, “Do you take credit cards?”

Actor Jason Momoa opted for a 1929 Rolls-Royce 20 HP Doctor’s Coupe, a choice that reflects his unique taste. Manos recalls knowing Momoa from their acting class two decades earlier, underscoring the serendipity of their connection. Additionally, Tyler, the Creator acquired a quirky 1981 Rolls-Royce Camargue for a music video, while Coldplay bassist Guy Berryman made a savvy investment in a 1967 Ferrari 330GT for $90,000, later flipping it at auction for $300,000.

Despite the glamour, not every celebrity transaction concludes with a sale. Hilary Swank visited to test drive classic muscle cars but ultimately walked away empty-handed. Ben Affleck showed interest in a 2008 Rolls-Royce Phantom, only to find it sold by the time he arrived. Meanwhile, Seth Rogen faced a practical barrier: he could not operate a manual transmission.

Manos himself drives a 1960 Mercedes 300 SL roadster, valued between $500,000 and $750,000, which was once favored by celebrities including Tony Curtis and Elvis Presley. His aspirations remain high, with dreams of owning a Ferrari 275 GTB, a classic valued between $2 million and $3 million, admired by icons like Steve McQueen and Clint Eastwood.

Business Growth and Regrets

The Beverly Hills Car Club has experienced substantial growth, with Manos moving more than 50 cars each month. Yet, he acknowledges the bittersweet nature of his business. “So many,” he laughs, referring to the cars he regrets selling, especially those that appreciate significantly over time.

As he continues to cultivate relationships with Hollywood’s elite, Manos embodies the spirit of a used car salesman turned luxury dealer, blending personal passion with a keen business acumen. His journey reflects not just the allure of classic cars but also the dreams and desires of those who seek them.

This story highlights the intersection of luxury, celebrity, and nostalgia within the automotive world, underscoring how a chance encounter can lead to a flourishing business that caters to the whims of Hollywood’s most discerning collectors.