The venture is an example of how owners of classic, luxury objects can use them to raise cash in certain circumstances.

Owners of Aston Martin cars who’d rather borrow against their value to handle liquidity than sell have a new solution. 

Suros Capital, a specialist firm backed by US-based Crestline Investors, has forged a deal with the Aston Martin Owners Club. 

High inflation and a need to manage liquidity have created the opportunity, Suros Capital and the club said. 

"This past year, Suros Capital has seen a significant rise in enquiries for borrowing against classic and supercars,” Ed Blackmore, Suros Capital's business development director, said. “With strong gains likely still to be made, many car collectors would rather borrow against their asset, rather than sell and miss out on the potential of further inflation-busting rises. Additionally, we can also support car owners with sales and new purchases through our range of lending services."

Supercars as collectors' items, have surged in value in the past few years. According to the 2023 Knight Frank Wealth Report's Luxury Investment Index, classic cars have risen on average by 25 per cent, the largest biggest increase in the past nine years. 

There are certain parallels with the world of fine art, in which owners of artworks can use them as collateral to raise cash, either for non-art purposes or to finance new purchases. Given the idiosyncratic nature of this business, it tends to attract specialist lenders.

Richard Butler, director of club development, Aston Martin Owners Club, said: "In addition to the investment potential, Aston Martin owners tend to be very attached to their cars which makes it difficult when faced with justifying ownership if finances are occasionally stretched. 

Suros Capital said it has completed several deals against luxury cars in 2023. For example, a high net worth client facing a significant school fees bill was going to refinance his home but was unable to arrange the deal quickly enough. His financial advisor suggested that his Vintage Aston Martin DB6 could potentially be used instead.  Suros was approached and wrapped up a five-month loan of £75,000 in 48 hours.  

Another customer leveraged their classic vehicle to raise a 10-month loan of £200,000 to close an investment opportunity. 

Suros Capital determines the estimated value of cars by considering year, make, model, ownership history, restoration, maintenance, registration, and overall condition based on market pricing. If it is a classic model, the company will also consider any information located from auction, gallery or private sale records and liaise with car specialists.

The company offers an online, home visit or alternative location appraisal service, though a final loan offer cannot be given until the asset(s) has been inspected in person.