HAGI MERCEDES-BENZ CLASSIC INDEX

Beyond its own story, the MBCI reveals a dynamically changing landscape. In May, when all other HAGI indices traded down or were unchanged, the MBCI gained 2.15%. In the year to date, the MBCI is up by 6.86%, while all other indices are in negative territory. Year-onyear, the MBCI has posted an advance of 16.6%, more than doubling the performance of all other indices, and in some cases outperforming other sectors by a factor of four or more.

There’s more going on here than a shortterm fluctuation. It’s down to the characteristics of the marque and also the composition of the MBCI, which includes younger, cheaper and more numerous models than other HAGI indices.

The Mercedes-Benz back catalogue has far greater breadth than those of the purely sporting and exotic marques, including saloons and high-end models produced in large numbers. This has obvious appeal for collectors diversifying beyond truly rare, high-priced exotics into cars that deliver most of what the ‘icon’ models do, but at a lower entry point and with a less intensive ownership experience.

And while in all sectors the top end is characterised today by highly selective cherrypicking, the fertile hunting ground among more mainstream cars and ‘youngtimers’ results in a higher level of liquidity and pricing transparency. Both these points apply beyond the MBCI, right across the market.

There is one thing that sets Mercedes apart, however: the custodianship of the brand provided by Mercedes-Benz Classic. The Classic progamme is an industry benchmark, and its message is clear: as a Mercedes owner, you’re part of the family. For further analysis, visit historicautogroup.com.