The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is set to showcase 100 years of motorsports history in a new exhibit titled “Driven to Win: The Automobile in Competition” starting September 7. This exhibit will feature 11 race vehicles representing various competitive disciplines, from 1913 to as recent as 2018. The display will highlight the advancements in safety, reliability, efficiency, and performance that have shaped the world of racing. Let’s explore a closer look at a few of the classics on show in the exhibit:
After the tragic crash at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans, General Motors formed SEDCO (Southern Engineering Development Company) to support NASCAR and drag racing. SEDCO provided instructions on how to turn a 1957 Chevrolet 150 Utility Sedan into a race-ready “Black Widow.” The car on display, known as “Ram Jester,” was one of only six cars produced by SEDCO.
Powered by a 5.5 liter motor, the Lola T70 was a favorite among drivers and fans due to its lightweight, robust chassis, and powerful Chevrolet V-8 engine. In 1966, drivers John Surtees, Dan Gurney, and Mark Donohue achieved great success in T70 MkIIs, winning five out of six Can-Am races. After its dissolution in 2012, Lola is expected to return to international motorsport in 2025 as an electric powertrain manufacturer in the Formula E World Championship.
The 2018 McLaren MCL33 is a striking Formula 1 racer that competed in the 2018 season with drivers Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne. Despite encountering challenges, the McLaren was powered by a Renault engine, showcasing advanced technology and engineering in the world of Formula 1 racing.
In addition to these vehicles, the exhibit will also feature a 1957 Teverbaugh & Kirkland Bonneville Special, a 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona raced by Buddy Baker, and a 1986 Porsche 962 that competed in 22 IMSA races. These cars provide a glimpse into the evolution of motorsports over the years, highlighting the constant pursuit of performance and innovation on the track.
As visitors make their way through the exhibit, they will witness the evolution of racing technology from the early 20th century to the present day. Advances in aerodynamics, materials, engines, and safety features have transformed the way cars are designed and raced, leading to faster speeds and more exhilarating competitions.
“Driven to Win” also pays homage to the legends and icons of motorsports who have left their mark on the sport. From drivers like John Surtees and Fernando Alonso to iconic racing teams and car manufacturers, the exhibit showcases the passion and dedication of those who have pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the racetrack.
Motorsports has always been a driving force behind automotive innovation, with many technologies developed on the track eventually making their way into road cars. From fuel efficiency to safety features, the advancements made in racing have had a lasting impact on the automotive industry as a whole. By exploring the intersection of racing and road cars, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the role of motorsports in shaping the cars we drive today.
In addition to the cars themselves, “Driven to Win” will feature interactive displays and educational programming that delve into the science and engineering behind motorsports. From virtual racing simulators to hands-on demonstrations of racing technologies, visitors can engage with the exhibit in a meaningful and immersive way, learning about the complexities of racing and the impact it has on the automotive world.
As the Petersen Automotive Museum showcases 100 years of motorsports history in “Driven to Win,” they are not only celebrating the past but also preserving it for future generations. By immersing visitors in the sights, sounds, and stories of racing, the exhibit ensures that the legacy of motorsports will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.