Derek Mathewson is a name synonymous with classic cars, auctions, and the popular UK TV show Bangers & Cash. As the head of Mathewsons Classic Cars & Auctions, Derek has built a legacy in the automotive world. Known for his expertise in vintage vehicles, his passion for collecting, and his charismatic presence on television, Derek’s journey from a small-town car dealer to a household name is a remarkable one. But behind the business and the fame, Derek’s personal life—his family, his marriage, and his career—has had its own fair share of intrigue.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Derek Mathewson’s early life, his rise to prominence in the classic car industry, his personal life, and his estimated wealth. We’ll also explore the family dynamics that have played a major role in his success.
Derek Mathewson Early Life & Career Beginnings
Derek Mathewson was born on 13 October 1951 in the UK. Growing up with a keen interest in automobiles, Derek quickly became immersed in the motor trade. In the early 1970s, he began working in the car sales industry, initially selling modern cars and commercial vehicles. It wasn’t long before Derek’s true passion for classic cars became apparent, and he began focusing his efforts on rare, vintage vehicles.
By 1988, Derek’s ambition led him to relocate to North Yorkshire, where he established the family business, Mathewsons Classic Cars & Auctions. Over the years, his company grew from a small operation to one of the most respected auction houses for classic cars in the UK. Mathewsons specializes in the sale of vintage and collectible vehicles, and Derek’s expertise has made him one of the leading figures in the world of classic cars.
His business’s success is driven by his deep knowledge of cars, his ability to spot valuable pieces, and his keen understanding of the auction market. His passion for cars, particularly classic British marques, has been a cornerstone of his business for decades.
Rise to Fame: Bangers & Cash and Public Recognition
Derek Mathewson’s rise to public fame came in 2019 with the launch of the UKTV series Bangers & Cash. The show, which documents the day-to-day operations of his auction house, introduced a wider audience to the world of classic car auctions and the Mathewson family’s operations.
Through Bangers & Cash, Derek became a household name, drawing attention not only for his expertise in classic cars but also for his down-to-earth, relatable personality. The show’s success has only cemented his status as a TV personality, as viewers tuned in to see Derek and his team auction off rare and valuable vehicles, restoring forgotten gems, and navigating the drama of the classic car world.
Derek’s charming demeanor and passion for cars have made him a beloved figure, and the show’s popularity has undoubtedly increased the visibility of his business.
Derek Mathewson Family Life: The Mathewson Legacy
Derek’s personal life has played a key role in his success. He was married to Sue Mathewson for over 40 years. Together, they built their family business, with their two sons, David and Paul, both involved in the operation of Mathewsons. Their sons grew up with a deep appreciation for classic cars, and today, they help run the business alongside their father.
Derek’s family dynamics, including his close-knit relationship with his sons, have often been featured on Bangers & Cash, showing the importance of family in the running of the business. Despite the success and media exposure, Derek has always emphasized the role his family plays in the heart of the company.
However, Derek’s personal life has not been without its challenges. In recent years, his relationship with his wife, Sue, has come under scrutiny due to reports of an affair with a younger colleague, Vicki Ivens, which has led to media speculation about the future of his marriage. Despite these reports, Derek has largely remained private about the details of his personal relationships.
Derek Mathewson Net Worth and Business Success
Derek Mathewson’s wealth has been built over decades of hard work in the classic car industry. With a successful auction business, a prominent TV career, and a personal car collection worth millions, Derek’s net worth is estimated to be between £4 million to £6 million. His business, Mathewsons Classic Cars & Auctions, continues to thrive, with regular car auctions attracting buyers from all over the world.
In addition to his business, Derek’s wealth is augmented by his personal car collection, which includes numerous rare and valuable classic vehicles. Derek has long been passionate about collecting, and his personal collection reflects his love for classic British cars, including Aston Martins, Bentleys, and Morris vans. These vehicles are not only worth significant amounts of money but also serve as a testament to Derek’s lifelong passion for cars.
Derek’s fame as a TV personality has likely further increased his wealth, with the success of Bangers & Cash bringing additional income through royalties, appearances, and promotional opportunities.
Conclusion
Derek Mathewson’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and success. From his early days as a car dealer in Bedfordshire to building one of the UK’s most respected classic car auction houses, Derek’s career has been defined by his love for vintage vehicles. His ability to spot a valuable car, combined with his knowledge of the auction world, has made him a leader in the industry.
As a family man, Derek has also built a legacy that extends beyond the business. His sons, David and Paul, continue the work he started, ensuring that the Mathewson name will remain synonymous with classic cars for generations to come.
Despite the challenges in his personal life, Derek’s public image as a down-to-earth, passionate car enthusiast remains intact. Through Bangers & Cash, Derek has not only showcased his expertise but also provided a window into the world of classic car auctions, making it accessible to a wider audience.
As of 2025, Derek Mathewson remains a prominent figure in both the classic car world and UK television, continuing to share his knowledge and love for vintage cars with fans and viewers alike.