Five Iconic Cars from the Long Beach Grand Prix's

Five Iconic Cars from the Long Beach Grand Prix's Storied Past Will Be Showcased at the Petersen

The roar of engines, the smell of burning rubber, the thrill of high-speed competition – the Long Beach Grand Prix has been a staple of American motorsport for nearly five decades. From Formula 1's golden era to the modern IndyCar series, the streets of Long Beach have witnessed some of the most legendary battles in racing history. Now, five iconic cars that represent the Grand Prix's rich and diverse past are on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum, offering a unique glimpse into this exhilarating world.

A Legacy of Speed: Celebrating Long Beach Grand Prix History

The Long Beach Grand Prix, first held in 1975, quickly gained international renown, attracting top drivers and manufacturers from around the globe. Initially a Formula 5000 race, it transitioned to Formula 1 in 1976, hosting the world championship for eight years. This era cemented Long Beach's place on the motorsport map, with legendary names like Mario Andretti, Niki Lauda, and Clay Regazzoni battling for supremacy on the challenging street circuit. The Grand Prix later embraced IndyCar racing, which continues to this day, adding another chapter to its storied past.

The Magnificent Five: Iconic Cars on Display

The Petersen Automotive Museum's exhibit showcases five cars that embody the different eras and disciplines of the Long Beach Grand Prix. These meticulously preserved machines offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the evolution of racing technology and the bravery of the drivers who pushed these cars to their limits. The featured cars include:

1. 1977 McLaren M23 (Formula 1)

Driven by Jody Scheckter to victory in the 1977 Long Beach Grand Prix, the McLaren M23 represents the pinnacle of Formula 1 engineering of its time. Its sleek, aerodynamic design and powerful Cosworth DFV engine made it a formidable competitor, dominating the 1974, 1976, and 1977 Formula 1 seasons.

2. 1978 Lola T332 (Formula 5000)

The Lola T332, driven by Al Unser, symbolizes the powerful and exciting Formula 5000 era that preceded Formula 1 at Long Beach. This open-wheel beast, with its roaring Chevrolet engine, provided a thrilling spectacle for fans and a challenging drive for the competitors.

3. 1984 March 761 (Formula Atlantic)

The March 761 represents the Formula Atlantic series, a proving ground for aspiring Formula 1 drivers. This nimble and lightweight car provided close, competitive racing on the Long Beach circuit, showcasing the talent of future stars.

4. 1967 Eagle Mk4 (Formula 1)

Designed by the legendary Dan Gurney and driven to victory in the 1967 Belgian Grand Prix, the Eagle Mk4 is an iconic American racing car. While not directly associated with a Long Beach victory, its inclusion in the exhibit highlights Gurney's significant influence on American motorsport and his connection to the Southern California racing scene. Its beautiful lines and powerful Weslake V12 engine make it a true masterpiece of racing engineering.

5. 1995 Lola T95/00 (IndyCar)

The Lola T95/00, driven by Al Unser Jr., signifies the IndyCar era of the Long Beach Grand Prix. This car represents the shift to a new generation of open-wheel racing, featuring advanced aerodynamics and powerful turbocharged engines. Unser Jr.'s victory in this car at the 1995 Long Beach Grand Prix solidifies its place in the event's history.

More Than Just Machines: Stories of Triumph and Innovation

The exhibit at the Petersen goes beyond simply displaying these magnificent machines. It delves into the stories behind the cars, the drivers who piloted them to victory, and the evolution of racing technology. Through photographs, videos, and interactive displays, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs that have shaped the Long Beach Grand Prix's legacy. The exhibit also highlights the engineering ingenuity that has driven the development of these incredible racing machines, from the early days of Formula 5000 to the sophisticated technology of modern IndyCar.

Experience the Thrill: A Must-See for Motorsport Enthusiasts

For motorsport enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of the Long Beach Grand Prix, this exhibit at the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-see. It's a chance to get up close and personal with some of the most iconic racing cars of all time and to immerse yourself in the rich history of this legendary event. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the thrill of speed and the legacy of innovation that have made the Long Beach Grand Prix a cornerstone of American motorsport.

Plan Your Visit

For more information on the exhibit, including hours and ticket prices, please visit the Petersen Automotive Museum website.