Driving Privileges

SELECTIVE MEMBERSHIP AT PRIVATE CAR CLUBS

The dozen TV, music, and finance executives who make up the Hollywood Car Club never have to suffer Valet Shame—that uniquely Angeleno affliction where one has to skulk into the inferior of two vehicles after a business lunch or date. For after paying a onetime initiation fee of $ 15,000, each member has access whenever he wants to a Lamborghini Murcielago, a Maserati Spyder, a Ferrari Modena, or a Rolls-Royce Phantom, among other sixfigure exotic European cars.

Launched last March, the H.C.C. is similar to a country club—except, instead of playing golf, members take joyrides or leisurely weekend trips in any of the top-of-the-line cars housed in a Century City garage. In lieu of greens fees, they pay a usage fee— anywhere from $ 1,200 per day to drive the Phantom down to $700 for the runt of the litter, a Mercedes-Benz SL55 A MG.

This Friars Club for Formula One wannabes is the brainchild of Gonzalo Nieto, who came to California from Madrid in the 80s, put himself through U.S.C., and became a successful business manager. "When I got my first Ferrari, I remember it felt great for a couple of months, until I passed a Lamborghini and wondered, What makes that car so special?" says the 39-year-old C.P.A. of his promiscuous urge that prompted him to put together this automotive syndicate.

In addition to having a healthy bank balance and convincing him you would never turn in the Phantom with Red Bull stains on the sheepskin floor mats, Nieto says, here's what can separate the Accepts from the Rejects: "A few speeding tickets wouldn't be a problem, but a D.U.I. or grand theft auto would be a flag."

Potential members undergo a thorough background check—both financial and criminal—plus a chat with Nieto to see whether they are likely to fit in.

JOHN BRODIE