Higher CO2-related VED scales and London’s new £25 top congestion charge fee are giving the capital a bad image internationally, said Nick Lancaster.

“They are iniquitous,” he said. “The higher London charge is a retrograde step because people around the world are seeing the city as one of the most expensive in which to drive a car.

“Most Ferrari owners in London have low annual mileages, perhaps 3,000 miles.

"But people who work hard to buy expensive sports cars won’t easily allow their personal freedom to be affected by politicians.”

Lancaster thought the measures would do little to affect HR Owen’s sales of new cars, but people considering used luxury cars might be put off by the cost of going in and out of the centre of London.