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New exhibition at the Petersen Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum will unveil a new exhibition titled Legends of the Dirt on December 7, 2025. Located in the Nearburg Gallery, this exhibit will highlight significant vehicles from various off-road motorsport disciplines. Sponsored by Optima Batteries, the display will be available for visitors until January 2027, offering an in-depth look into the vibrant world of off-road racing.
Celebrating off-road racing heritage
Off-road racing represents a thrilling and demanding segment of motorsport that has fascinated enthusiasts for many years. The Legends of the Dirt exhibition showcases the extraordinary vehicles and engineering innovations that have emerged from this high-octane environment. Attendees can look forward to viewing a diverse collection of vehicles from prestigious events such as the SCORE Baja 1000, King of the Hammers, and the World Rally Championship. Additionally, the exhibition features machines from specialized racing categories, including stadium truck racing and motorcycle hill climbing.
Engineering breakthroughs on display
The exhibit will not only showcase remarkable vehicles but also explore the engineering innovations inspired by off-road racing. Advances in all-wheel drive systems, modern suspension designs, and durability technologies have all been significantly influenced by the rigorous demands of off-road competitions. Additionally, the exhibition will highlight how off-road racing has spurred the development of essential technologies such as GPS and on-board communication systems, which are crucial for navigating challenging terrains.
Featured vehicles and their stories
The Legends of the Dirt exhibit showcases several iconic vehicles that have made a significant mark in the motorsport industry. Among the highlights are Tanner Foust’s 2017 Volkswagen Beetle GRC, the 1983 Lancia Rally 037, and the twin-engine 1993 Suzuki Cultus Pikes Peak Special, famously driven by Nobuhiro Tajima. Additional notable vehicles include the 1995 Herbst LandShark, the 1970 Ford Bronco Big Oly, and the pioneering Ford Bronco that became the first to secure victory at the King of the Hammers.
An inclusive approach to off-road motorsport
Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum, highlighted the significance of the new exhibit. He remarked that it represents one of the few aspects of automotive culture not yet fully explored. The collaboration with Optima Batteries has made this initiative feasible, and Karges noted its timeliness for motorsport enthusiasts. This exhibit offers visitors an opportunity to delve into the rich history and evolution of off-road racing while recognizing the engineering innovations that have driven its progress.
Explore the legends of off-road motorsport
The Petersen Automotive Museum invites racing enthusiasts and curious visitors to delve into the exhilarating world of off-road motorsport. The Legends of the Dirt exhibition offers more than just a display of remarkable vehicles; it provides insight into how these machines have influenced the automotive landscape. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new to motorsport, this exhibit promises an engaging and educational experience.
Scheduled for December 7, the exhibition allows attendees to embark on a journey through the history of off-road racing. For further details about ticketing and exhibition specifics, please visit the Petersen Automotive Museum’s official website.