Net Worth Ranker
What Is Wayne Carini’s Net Worth?
Wayne Carini, a prominent figure in the world of classic car restoration and the host of “Chasing Classic Cars,” has accumulated a significant fortune over his career. As of 2025, Wayne Carini’s net worth is estimated to be $20 million. This financial success is primarily attributed to his television career, his ownership of multiple car businesses, and his extensive work in the classic car industry.
Carini’s Career and Income Streams
Wayne Carini’s career is multifaceted, encompassing television, business ownership, and specialized car restoration. His most visible role is as the host of “Chasing Classic Cars,” a documentary series that premiered in 2008. The show aired 204 episodes over 17 seasons, concluding in 2021. “Chasing Classic Cars” aired on the Motor Trend channel, formerly known as the Velocity Channel. While the exact per-episode salary Carini earned from the show isn’t publicly disclosed, similar reality TV hosts can earn anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000+ per episode, depending on the show’s success and their level of involvement.
In addition to his television income, Carini owns and operates three car-related businesses in Portland, Connecticut. These include F40 Motorsports, Continental Auto Ltd., and Carini Carozzeria. F40 Motorsports focuses on the buying and selling of vintage cars. Continental Auto Ltd. is a collision repair shop. Carini Carozzeria is a restoration shop specializing in high-end exotic vehicles. The financial details of these businesses are not publicly available, but businesses like these can generate significant revenue, especially given Carini’s reputation and expertise. Revenue depends heavily on the volume of cars bought and sold, the complexity of the restorations, and the demand for collision repair services.
Carini’s expertise in classic car restoration has also led to work for high-profile clients, including David Letterman, Ivan Lendl, and members of the DuPont family. The specific amounts Carini earned from these clients are not public information, but such specialized services can command high fees. Restoring a classic car to concours condition can easily cost tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the rarity and complexity of the vehicle.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Wayne Carini was born on October 13, 1951, in Portland, Connecticut. His early exposure to the automotive world came through his father, Robert Carini, who owned a collision repair business in Glastonbury, Connecticut. Robert Carini’s shop specialized in classic, predominantly American cars. From a young age, Wayne worked at his father’s shop, initially sweeping floors for $5 a week. This early immersion into the automotive industry shaped his career path.
Although he attended college with the intention of becoming a teacher, Wayne ultimately returned to the automotive world, taking over his father’s business in 1973. He transformed the shop into a classic restoration and dealership. This transition marked a significant step in his career, allowing him to focus on his passion for classic cars and build a reputation as a master restorer.
Carini’s passion for classic cars was ignited at the age of nine when he experienced a ride in a 1960 Rosso Chiaro 250 SWB Ferrari. He further honed his skills in Ferrari restoration under the guidance of Francois Sicard, a former racing mechanic and Ferrari expert. This mentorship was crucial in establishing Carini’s expertise in restoring high-end exotic vehicles.
Real Estate Investments
Wayne Carini’s real estate holdings also contribute to his overall net worth. In January 2014, he purchased a 13-acre property in Portland, Connecticut, for $1.15 million. The property features an 11,000-square-foot home. While property values can fluctuate, this investment represents a significant asset and likely has appreciated in value over time, contributing to his overall financial standing.
Philanthropic Activities and Personal Life
Wayne Carini resides in rural Connecticut in a log home with his family. He is an avid supporter of autism awareness, driven by his own daughter’s diagnosis at an early age. While his philanthropic activities don’t directly impact his net worth, they demonstrate his commitment to important causes and enhance his public image, which can indirectly benefit his career and businesses.
“Chasing Classic Cars” and Media Appearances
Wayne Carini’s foray into television was somewhat accidental. Producers discovered him through a New York Times article and approached him about creating a show. “Chasing Classic Cars” debuted in 2008 and ran for 17 seasons. The show’s popularity and Carini’s role as the host significantly boosted his public profile and earning potential. The exact financial details of his contract with the Motor Trend channel are not publicly known, but successful television personalities can command substantial salaries and royalties.
In addition to “Chasing Classic Cars,” Carini has made other media appearances, further increasing his visibility and potential income. These appearances can range from guest spots on other automotive shows to endorsements and collaborations with related businesses. The financial impact of these appearances varies but contributes to his overall earnings.
Business Ventures: F40 Motorsports, Continental Auto Ltd., and Carini Carozzeria
The financial success of Wayne Carini’s businesses is a significant component of his net worth. F40 Motorsports specializes in the buying and selling of vintage cars. The revenue generated by this business depends on the volume of cars sold, their rarity, and the market demand. High-end classic cars can command prices ranging from tens of thousands to millions of dollars, and Carini’s expertise and reputation in the industry position him well to profit from these transactions.
Continental Auto Ltd., a collision repair shop, provides a more stable and consistent income stream. While the margins on collision repair may be lower than those on classic car sales, the demand for these services is generally consistent. The shop’s revenue depends on the volume of repairs, the complexity of the jobs, and the rates charged.
Carini Carozzeria, the restoration shop specializing in high-end exotics, represents a niche market with high earning potential. Restoring classic exotic cars requires specialized skills and knowledge, and clients are often willing to pay a premium for top-quality work. The revenue generated by this business depends on the number and complexity of the restoration projects undertaken.
Other Assets and Investments
While specific details about Wayne Carini’s other assets and investments are not publicly available, it is likely that he has diversified his portfolio to include stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments. These investments can contribute to his overall net worth and provide a buffer against fluctuations in the classic car market.
Net Worth Trajectory
Wayne Carini’s net worth has likely grown steadily over the years, driven by the success of “Chasing Classic Cars,” the profitability of his businesses, and his strategic investments. While there may be fluctuations based on market conditions and business cycles, his expertise and reputation in the classic car industry provide a solid foundation for continued financial success.
