TRANS-AM RACING

Organized by the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) in 1966, the Trans-Am racing series was originally called The Trans American Sedan Series. Its inaugural season consisted of seven races in two classes (under two-liter and over two-liter) and a total of 33 cars representing 19 different automakers participated. The idea of slightly modified sedans being driven by the most revered drivers on the best road racing circuits in North America was well received and the first round of competitions proved to be both popular and extremely competitive. But the following season proved to be even more successful as major American manufacturers such as Ford, Mercury and Chevrolet announced their participation.

The popularity of Trans-Am continued to expand thanks to a rules change that made the races more exciting by allowing professionals to compete in addition to amateurs. This opened the field to the best drivers including Indianapolis 500 heroes, Le Mans winners, NASCAR champions, and international rally stars. Soon, the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Dodge Challenger, Mercury Cougar and AMC Javelin could be seen on the Trans-Am circuit and the competition intensified as automakers vied for the prestigious manufacturer’s championship. See these exciting race cars now on display through December 13 only at The Petersen!