REVVED UP
Meet Alex Manos, Founder of Beverly Hills Car Club
Written by Cary Schultz | Photography by Rami Garcia
Driven by a passion for classic cars, Alex Manos has journeyed from the bustling streets of London to the sun-soaked boulevards of Beverly Hills. The son of a music journalist father and a former music publicist mother, Manos' love for vintage automobiles was ignited by the unique charm and character of his parents' cherished 1960s Volvos. Today, Manos is the proud owner of the Beverly Hills Car Club, a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and the enduring appeal of these iconic vehicles.
Growing up, Manos developed a love for classic cars during the cherished English tradition of Sunday drives. Fondly reminiscing about his family squeezed into his father's green Volvo Amazon or his mother's 1966 Volvo 1800S Coupe (crème with red leather interior), he says, "My dad would drop me off in the morning in the Amazon and we would sing along to The Clash on the way to school, and my mom would pick me up and we would sing our hearts out to Whitney Houston. It was so much fun. People would leave notes on the car saying how much they appreciated it and if we ever wanted to sell the car to call them." In 1995, Manos' mother, a courageous spirit and hard worker, moved the family to the United States with only one month's rent in her pocket, hoping for a better life in Beverly Hills. This bold move laid the foundation for Manos' future endeavors in the classic car industry. Unbeknownst to him, the purchase of his first classic car, a 1962 Lincoln Continental, would change his life.
Some years later he purchased another 1961 Lincoln Continental Convertible that he restored from the ground up. It took him over a year to do so. On the final day the car was completed he took it for its first spin down Sunset Boulevard. What ensued was a chance encounter with a well-to-do stranger that led him to sell his beloved car and take on a new project. He recalls, "I pulled over in front of the famous Chateau Marmont hotel and we spoke on the side of the road for two hours until we shook hands and he purchased my restored Lincoln." This life-changing encounter inspired him to transform his passion for classic cars into a thriving business, the Beverly Hills Car Club. As a graduate of Beverly Hills High School, to Alex, Beverly Hills is more than just his home; it's a lifestyle that embodies the pursuit of excellence.
The road to success wasn't without challenges for Manos. He candidly shares his struggles, from costly mistakes to entrepreneurial uncertainties. However, he demonstrates resilience which has been the key to his success, asserting, "You can't stay in the failure, as that's not an option." Through perseverance and a determination to overcome obstacles, Manos built the Beverly Hills Car Club into the renowned establishment it is today.
Alex working on his Lincoln Continental 23 years ago
Today, the Beverly Hills Car Club offers a diverse range of classic cars, from affordable options like a 1978 Triumph TR7 for $4,950 to exclusive models such as the 1938 Jaguar SS100 3½ Litre for $325,000. With nearly 450 cars in stock at any given time, the club is one of the largest European classic car dealers in the world. Running the company requires constant vigilance, understanding market trends, and anticipating future shifts in the industry. The dedicated team of nearly 50 staff members ensures excellent customer service and offers cars at wholesale prices, making the Beverly Hills Car Club a world leader in the European classic car market. Manos lives by the mantra, "Quitters Never Win and Winners Never Quit."
Not only does Manos credit his parents' influence in shaping his musical tastes and passion for classic cars, but he also acknowledges their work ethic and determination as driving forces behind his own success. From listening to Miles Davis, Bob Marley, and The Clash, to singing along with Whitney Houston during childhood car rides, Manos has always been immersed in a world where music and cars go hand-in-hand.
As the classic car world evolves, Manos recognizes the importance of adapting to changing tastes and market demands. He notes that cars from the '80s and '90s, which he never considered to be classics 20 years ago, are now in high demand. The younger generation's exposure to classic cars through video games, films, and television shows has also played a significant role in shaping their preferences. Popular models among enthusiasts today include Porsches, '80s Mercedes, and JDM cars.
Among Manos' personal favorites are the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” and the 1967 Ferrari Long Nose GTS 275, two models that hold a special place in his heart. These cars, he believes, possess a certain magic and fascination that is difficult to describe but undeniably alluring.
In addition to running a successful business, Manos is passionate about giving back to his community. He works closely with A Place Called Home, a Los Angeles-based non-profit empowering local youth and providing educational support in South Central LA. He lights up as he shares stories of inviting kids from the organization to his dealership, showing them the possibilities that arise when you follow your dreams. "It's about giving back," he says, "and helping the next generation see what's possible."
Looking to the future, Manos envisions the Beverly Hills Car Club leading the way in the classic car market and inspiring younger generations to appreciate the beauty and history of these vehicles. With determination, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Manos has created a legacy that goes beyond the walls of the Beverly Hills Car Club. His story serves as a testament to the power of pursuing one's dreams and the joy that comes from sharing that passion with others.