The Venn diagram of cars and modern art has a subjective amount of overlap; that is, the average person may see the two circles almost entirely separate, the enthusiast, one single shape. For those of us identifying as the latter, institutions like the Petersen Automotive Museum are like the Louvre of automobiles. We ask that you refrain from pulling any heists to score some sweet rides, but instead visit the Petersen, should you have the chance, to immerse yourself in their latest exhibit: “Legends of the Dirt,” which puts the spotlight on the machines, teams, and tech behind some of history’s most daring off-road vehicles.
From the Baja 1000 to the WRC, “Legends” features iconic off-road machines and the stories behind them. Some of the subjects highlighted in the press release are the “Big Oly” Ford Bronco, winner of the 1971 and ‘72 Baja 1000; Walter Rohrl’s 1983 Lancia Rally 037; and Tanner Foust’s 2017 Volkswagen Beetle rallycross car.
“The innovative designs and engineering found in off-road motorsports have helped push automotive technology forward for decades,” said Terry Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “Through our partnership with OPTIMA Batteries and Clarios, we look forward to sharing with our guests deep insight into an exciting form of motorsports that continues to make important contributions to automotive culture.”
On display until January 2027, “Legends of the Dirt” will be at home in the Petersen’s Nearburg Gallery. You can get more information online and reserve tickets should you be so inclined.
Copyright © 2025 MotorWeek

source