Exploring the Evolution of Motorsports: “Driven to Win” Exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is no stranger to showcasing the fascinating history of the automobile. However, even for this renowned institution, the challenge of encapsulating 100 years of motorsports history in one exhibition is a mighty feat. Nevertheless, the museum rises to the occasion with its latest exhibit titled “Driven to Win: The Automobile in Competition,” set to open on September 7th, 2022. This remarkable display aims to celebrate the spectacle and drama of racing, featuring an impressive collection of cars that span from 1913 to as recent as 2018.
“Driven to Win” offers visitors a chance to marvel at 11 race vehicles that not only represent a variety of competitive disciplines but also highlight the technological advancements that drive these machines to victory. The exhibit delves into improvements in safety, reliability, efficiency, and performance, giving visitors a comprehensive understanding of the continuing evolution of motorsports.
Let’s take a closer look at a few of the standout vehicles that will be on display, accompanied by insights from the exhibit’s knowledgeable curators.
1957 Chevrolet 150 Two Door Utility Sedan “Black Widow” by SEDCO Gallery
This classic race car, known as “Ram Jester,” holds a significant place in motorsports history. Following a tragic crash at the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans, General Motors withdrew from official involvement in motorsport. However, they formed SEDCO (Southern Engineering Development Company) to support NASCAR and drag racing in the late 1950s. SEDCO provided instructions to customers on how to transform a 1957 Chevrolet 150 Utility Sedan into a race-ready “Black Widow.” The car on display is one of only six produced by SEDCO themselves—a rare gem that showcases the spirit of innovation and adaptability prevalent in motorsports during that era.
1966 Lola T70 MkII
The Lola T70 MkII, powered by a formidable 5.5-liter motor and equipped with a robust chassis and a powerful Chevrolet V-8 engine, quickly captured the hearts of drivers and fans alike. In 1966, drivers John Surtees, Dan Gurney, and Mark Donohue piloted the T70 MkIIs to victory in five out of six Can-Am races. Though Lola’s operations ceased in 2012, the company’s recent acquisition in 2022 has sparked excitement about its return to international motorsport as an electric powertrain manufacturer in the Formula E World Championship by 2025. This exhibit not only showcases the historical significance of the Lola T70 but also offers a glimpse into its promising future.
2018 McLaren MCL33
No motorsports exhibit would be complete without a representation of Formula 1 racing, and the 2018 McLaren MCL33 perfectly fills that role. Driven by legendary racers Fernando Alonso and Stoffel Vandoorne, this Formula 1 car, powered by a Renault engine, competed in the 2018 season. Although it may not have achieved remarkable success that year, the McLaren MCL33 epitomizes the cutting-edge technology and engineering prowess that define the pinnacle of motorsport.
In addition to these captivating vehicles, the “Driven to Win” exhibit will feature other notable race cars, including the 1957 Teverbaugh & Kirkland Bonneville Special, the first car equipped with a parachute for land speed racing, and the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona, which propelled Buddy Baker to become the first driver to reach 200 mph on a closed course in 1969 and 1970. Visitors will also have the opportunity to admire the 1986 Porsche 962 that competed in 22 IMSA races, securing an impressive seven wins.
The Petersen Automotive Museum’s “Driven to Win: The Automobile in Competition” exhibit promises to be a thrilling and educational experience for motorsports enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike. By showcasing these iconic race cars and delving into the advancements that have revolutionized the sport, the exhibit offers visitors a unique perspective on the evolution of motorsports over the past century. This celebration of competition, performance, and innovation serves as a testament to the enduring allure and excitement of racing, captivating audiences of all ages.
