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Collectible cars are more than mere objects of passion. They can also be valuable financial investments. Should one favor American or European models? In Lebanon, is this market booming, or does it remain a niche for the initiated?
In a world where traditional investments fluctuate with economic and geopolitical crises, collectible cars seem to hold steady. They do more than captivate enthusiasts; they also attract investors. In the United States and Europe, auction prices are soaring, and museums compete for rare models.
What about Lebanon? Between roaring American muscle cars and elegant European classics, the local market is quietly emerging, modest but promising, with a few thousand models carefully maintained by their owners. Behind the wheel, one question remains: passion or investment?
Rony Karam, FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) ambassador for the Middle East and its representative to UNESCO, tells This is Beirut that “in the world of collectible cars, anything rare is expensive.” “Some pre-war cars, now virtually impossible to find, fetch astronomical sums. But the current trend favors models from the 1970s, considered easier to drive on a daily basis,” he adds.
Three main categories dominate: sedans, coupés and convertibles, with the latter two highly prized due to their limited production.
A car’s value also depends on its history: overall condition, presence of original parts, rarity, and even appearances in films or ownership by celebrities. In short, between Marilyn Monroe and Steve McQueen, a car can be worth its weight in gold.
American vs. European: A Tight Race
American cars, bold and imposing, captivate with their power and storied history. Iconic models like the Ford Thunderbird and Chevrolet Impala remain among the most coveted. Yet European cars hold a slight edge in the market. The Porsche 911, Ferrari and Mercedes stand out for their prestige and consistently strong international demand. “In Europe, there are more cars available than in the United States, even though the American market has yet to reveal all its secrets,” notes Karam.
A Rolling Heritage Recognized by UNESCO
“According to FIVA, a classic car is any vehicle over 30 years old,” explains Karam. He adds, “More than just an object of speculation, it is regarded as a cultural heritage. FIVA is a partner of UNESCO in preserving this rolling heritage.”
Unlike modern cars, which lose value as soon as they leave the dealership, classics retain or even increase their value depending on market demand. Interest from museums and collectors can dramatically drive prices up, making these vehicles prized both for passion and investment.
Lebanon: A Passionate Yet Quiet Market
Lebanon is home to an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 classic cars, according to Karam. While the number may seem modest, it reflects a genuine enthusiasm. “Beyond their investment value, these cars carry a cultural significance. Above all, you have to be passionate,” he emphasizes.
The market remains niche, yet it is attracting a growing number of informed enthusiasts. Contrary to popular belief, their environmental impact is minimal. These vehicles make up less than 1% of the global fleet and rarely travel more than 1,000 kilometers per year. In other words, they pollute far less than the daily traffic jams on the Jounieh highway.
Passion Meets Profit
Investing in a classic car combines enjoyment with potential financial return. Value depends on the model, condition and rarity. Some vintage vehicles have even outperformed traditional investments in recent years. Yet caution is essential, as the collector’s road is not always paved with good deals.
In Lebanon, as elsewhere, collectible cars are a passion that can pay off, but only for those with patience, expertise and an eye for detail. Whether drawn to the roar of American muscle or the elegance of European classics, one principle remains: in this market, love of the engine matters as much as love of the returns.
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