The 1950s was an era of optimism and ingenuity. World War II was in the rearview mirror, the space race was ramping up, and people were eager to embrace the future. This included those in the automotive industry who pushed the boundaries of technology, engineering, and design, especially in the creation of imaginative sports car concepts.

American and European automakers partnered with coachbuilders like Bertone, Pinin Farina, and Ghia to craft vehicles that were futuristic and chic. Some designs focused on cutting-edge silhouettes and jet-inspired styling, while others were essentially race cars for the road. These innovative and ultramodern designs were especially appreciated by Southern California car designer and educator Strother MacMinn who, in 1959, published a book highlighting the best “sports cars of the future.”

This installation presents some of the cars chosen by MacMinn to illustrate the most promising aspects of sports car design of the era. Today, they offer a glimpse at what we once believed the future might hold. They were revolutionary vehicles for a revolutionary age and served to inspire a reimagining of the function and meaning of the automobile.