World-renowned auto appraiser Donald Osborne recently joined comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno on CNBC's "Jay Leno's Garage" to evaluate three cars owned by famous people.
In the episode, they discuss how celebrity provenance factors into value, especially to collectors. Three cars go head-to-head, and the hosts determine which has appreciated the most over the past five years.
The first car is a 1952 Ferrari Barchetta. This one was originally purchased by William Clay Ford, Henry Ford's brother, for about $10,000. It was later used by the Ford motor company as inspiration for its 1955 Thunderbird. Enzo Ferrari customized this particular car with more Americanized features for its special new owner, making it truly one-of-a-kind.
A couple years later, an Italian-bodied 1953 Cadillac Series 62 Ghia would sell for about $3,500. There were only two of these particular custom cars made, and one was owned by Rita Hayworth's husband, Aly Khan. It blended many of the characteristics of an American classic with Italian detail.
Shortly after that, a 1955 Buick Roadmaster also sold for about $3,500. However, Leno said he bought one used in 1972 for $350 and has since modified it with more power and features. Generally, this tends to devalue the car, but that doesn't factor in the celebrity provenance of Leno.
Watch the video above to see which car has appreciated most by virtue of its famous former (or current) owner.
CNBC's "Jay Leno's Garage" airs Wednesdays at 10 p.m. EDT.