Presented July 2016 – June 2017
Bold European design fused with raw American power to create a class of “original hybrids” cars which have tantalized collectors, enthusiasts, and casual observers since they rolled off the assembly lines. From the 1950’s through the 1970’s, this recipe led to some of the world’s iconic automotive marvels. Powered By America: The Original Hybrid will showcase the finest examples of these exceptionally rare “hybrids,” such as the exotic Iso Grifo, the Sunbeam Tiger, and Donald Healey’s very own Nash-Healey, serial no. 001. This celebration of Euro-American “hybrids“ will open on November 7, 2016, and run through June 4, 2017.
In the mid-19th century, American engines were coveted for their brute force, durability and low cost. This created the perfect opportunity for European designers to focus on bold new body styling and design; this synergy led to the world’s most legendary automobiles. Come to learn how these unlikely collaborations came about: The CEO of the Nash Motor Company (known for their sedate family cars) met Donald Healey, famed British rally driver and auto designer, aboard the ocean liner Queen Elizabeth in 1951. From this chance meeting was born the forefather of the hybrid genre, the Nash Healey. Powered By America will tell the stories of these incredible transatlantic automotive marriages and their impact on motoring and motorsports history.
Automobile List:
- 1951 Nash Healey, serial no. 001
- 1952 Cunningham C3
- 1953 Nash Healey, Pinin farina body
- 1964 Jensen C-V8, fiberglass body
- 1965 Shelby Cobra, 289cid
- 1966 Sunbeam Tiger, initially designed by Carroll Shelby
- 1968 Iso Grifo, 427cid Corvette engine
- 1969 de Tomaso Mangusta, gullwing decklid
- 1969 Jensen FF, Four-wheel drive
- 1971 de Tomaso Pantera, sponsored by Ford Motor Company