Black Book, the provider of independent valuation data for cars, trucks, collectibles and specialty vehicles, has analyzed auction prices of exotic collectibles, with particular emphasis on the Aston Martin DB5 Coupe, the Ferrari 250 GTL Lusso, and the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing. From 1977 through 2008, each vehicle appreciated in value roughly 5% annually. Since 2008, these vehicles have appreciated between 20% - 60% annually. A new, younger generation of collector has taken to this genre of exotic sports cars, and auction prices are going for a ride.

Why? Social networking has a lot to do with this activity. “Affluent collectors have been exposed to the images posted by celebrity buyers on social media sites such as Instagram, fueling even higher demand for certain exotic vehicles,” said Eric Lawrence, Director of Specialty Products at Black Book. “Younger affluent audiences want what celebrities like Floyd Mayweather and the Kardashians flash on their social media accounts, for example.”

Here is a breakdown of the appreciation trends for these three vehicles:

Black Book® is best known in the automotive industry for providing timely, independent and accurate vehicle pricing information, and is available to industry-qualified users through online subscription products, mobile applications and licensing agreements. A leading provider since 1955, Black Book has continuously evolved to ensure that it achieves its goal of delivering mission-critical information to its customers, along with the insight necessary to successfully buy, sell, and lend. Black Book data is published daily by National Auto Research, a division of Hearst Business media, and the company maintains offices in Georgia, Florida, and Maryland.