Collection & Archives

The Petersen Automotive Museum collection houses a large number of objects relating to the history of the automobile, with a special focus on those with a strong local connection. We consider the typical as important as the rare and seek to acquire vehicles and related artifacts that are important to automotive history even though their significance may not be immediately obvious. All potential acquisitions are measured against their relevance to the mission of the museum and evaluated individually on a case-by-case basis. Our collection is organized into four major categories: vehicles, other three-dimensional objects, two-dimensional objects, and audio/visual materials.

Media Request Form

If you are a member of the media and would like to schedule a visit, request photos or other information, or would like to receive media releases, please send us an email with your request.

Vehicles

Autos & Trucks

Passenger cars, station wagons, pickups, buses, limousines, delivery vans, SUVs, and other powered vehicles from all eras whether foreign or domestic, large or small, antique or modern, original or restored, popular or rare, military or civilian, expensive or affordable, standard or alternative power, private or commercial, street or competition.

See all >

Motorcycles & Other

Motorcycles, scooters, mini bikes and other two-wheeled vehicles (with or without sidecars, back-cars, and other attachments) from all regions and time periods whether antique or modern, original or restored, popular or rare, military or civilian, expensive or affordable, standard or alternative power, private or commercial, street or competitions.

See all >

Three-Dimensional Artifacts

Parts & Accessories

Vehicle components such as wheels, gauges, engines (and engine components), auto-camping accouterments, first aid kits, radiator badges, hubcaps, license plates, heaters, radios, child seats, vanity kits, etc.

See all >

Clothing & Driver Related Artifacts

Racing suits, logo apparel, helmets, caps, driving shoes, goggles, dusters, lap robes, gloves, etc.

See all >

Sculptures & Models

Hand-built scale models, sculptures, toys, fine art, and other similar objects from all regions and time periods.

See all >

Equipment & Tools

Jacks, diagnostic devices, wrenches, machining equipment, hand tools, factory tool kits, etc.

See all >

Other

Gas pumps, oil cans, porcelain signs, stop signals, speed limit signs, dealer sales aids, and related ephemera.

See all >

Two-Dimensional Artifacts

Brochures & Advertising

Promotional literature, postcards, magazine advertisements, dealer data books, auto show flyers and other materials relating to Foreign or American literature, postcards, truck Literature, construction equipment, fire engines, tractors, police cars, taxis, buses, ambulances, hearses, etc.

See all >