1922 MILBURN ELECTRIC Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-10 | The 1922 Milburn Electric is a very late example of the first generation of electric cars. Built by the Milburn Wagon Company in Toledo, Ohio, this electric car boasts a distinctive design reminiscent of a horse-drawn carriage. From 1915 - 1923, the Milburn Wagon Company crafted approximately 4,000 of these quiet, clean, and stylish electric cars that offered a stark contrast to the loud, smelly, and challenging-to-operate gasoline cars of the time. President Woodrow Wilson himself owned a 1918 Milburn Electric, which was driven around the White House grounds. Learn more at www.tbauto.org
Behind the Scenes: 1973 Jaguar E-Type Photoshoot | Classic British Icon Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-10 | Step behind the scenes as we capture the timeless beauty of the 1973 Jaguar E-Type, one of the most iconic sports cars ever built. Known in the U.S. as the Jaguar XK-E, the E-Type combined elegant design with cutting-edge engineering.Our Series 3 “2+2” model features a powerful V12 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a lengthened wheelbase, offering both performance and comfort. Designed under the direction of William Heynes, the E-Type became a symbol of British automotive excellence—so much so that the Museum of Modern Art in New York added one to its permanent collection.In this video, you’ll get a rare behind-the-scenes look at how we bring this classic grand tourer to life in a professional photoshoot. From its flowing lines to its racing heritage, the Jaguar E-Type remains a masterpiece that continues to inspire car enthusiasts around the world.#JaguarEType #ClassicCars #CarPhotography #BehindTheScenes #BritishEngineering
The 1936 Tatra 75 was ahead of its time with a backbone chassis and 4-wheel independent suspension. Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-10 | The 1936 Tatra 75 was ahead of its time with a backbone chassis, 4-wheel independent suspension, and an air-cooled four-cylinder engine. Designed by Hans Ledwinka and Paul Jaray, only 4,000 were built in Czechoslovakia between 1934 and 1939, making this rare car an important milestone in automotive history. Come see it at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum.#Tatra75 #ClassicCars #CarHistory #AutomobileMuseum #EngineeringInnovation #ThingstodoinStPete
Hoods Up Week at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum | FOX 13 Feature Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-09 | Step inside the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum during Hoods Up Week! This special event lets visitors peek under the hood of every vehicle in the collection, 76 cars from 50 manufacturers, spanning from 1899 to modern innovation.From two-cylinder pioneers to twelve-cylinder powerhouses, from early electric cars to hydrogen and air-cooled engines, this museum celebrates automotive engineering at its finest.Highlights include:1964 Studebaker Avanti with a V8 turbo, the fastest in the collection1965 Chevy Corvair Corsa with its rear-mounted engineRare sleeve-valve, hydrogen-powered, and electric vehiclesFilmed by FOX 13’s Mike Phil, this feature takes you on a tour of some of the world’s most innovative rides.📍 Visit the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, FL🔗 Learn more: tbauto.org
1973 Citroën DS Pallas Prestige groundbreaking hydropneumatic suspension #carhistory Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-03 | Meet the 1973 Citroën DS Pallas Prestige.Thanks to its revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension engineered by Paul Mages, the DS could self-level and keep driving even if a wheel was missing or a tire was blown. This system used pressurized spheres filled with oil and gas instead of conventional springs, giving the car a ride famously described as “like floating on a cloud.”With steerable headlights that followed the road, aerodynamic styling by Flaminio Bertoni, and cutting-edge engineering, the DS was decades ahead of its time—and even saved French President Charles de Gaulle’s life during an assassination attempt in 1962.🚗 Less than 200 Prestige models were ever built. Come see this rare goddess of French design at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum!
Hoods Up Week! See Rare Car Engines at Tampa Bay Automobile Museum | St. Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-09-02 | Step inside one of Florida’s hidden gems — the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, just minutes from St. Pete!In this special Hoods Up Week event, every car’s engine is on display, letting you peek under the hood of history. From 1800s engineering marvels to the futuristic DeLorean, this collection showcases over 70 rare vehicles that broke the rules and changed the world.Celebrating 20 years, the museum is a family-run tribute to innovation, engineering, and automotive design. Every car is street-legal and lovingly preserved.Admission: $16 adults, $10 kids (5 & under free)Location: 3301 Gateway Centre Blvd, Pinellas Park, FLOpen every day except Tuesday Plan your visit: tbauto.org
The Perfect Place to Visit on a Rainy Day in St. Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-26 | Rainy day in St. Pete? Head to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, rare cars, cool A/C, and the perfect indoor escape!Rainy day in St. Pete? 🌴☔ Head to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park—rare cars, cool A/C, and the perfect indoor escape!
From the Wheel to the Engine | Vintage Citroën Ad (1970s) Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | This rare vintage Citroën commercial from the early 1970s tells the story of progress — starting with the invention of the wheel and leading to the birth of the modern engine.With cinematic narration and classic visuals, Citroën framed its engineering legacy as part of humanity’s greatest inventions. Before introducing the GS Birotor and its rotary engine, the ad first traced how man moved from muscle power, to steam, and finally to the automobile.A fascinating glimpse into the way Citroën blended history, storytelling, and innovation in its advertising.
Hoods Up at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum | Sept 5–12, 2025 | St Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | See automotive history from the inside out! 🚗✨From September 5–12, every hood at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum will be open, giving you a rare chance to explore the engines and engineering behind these remarkable cars. From early innovations to mid-century icons, discover what makes our collection truly unique.📍 Pinellas Park, FL🌐 Learn more: tbauto.org
NSU Ro 80 | Vintage 1967 Commercial Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Vintage commercial 🚗 The 1967 NSU Ro 80 stunned drivers with its sleek design, rotary Wankel engine, and advanced front-wheel drive. A true German innovation that earned European Car of the Year 1968.#NSU #Ro80 #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #Shorts #RetroAds #CarHistory #RotaryEngine
1967 NSU Ro 80 Commercial | Vintage TV Ad Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Step into the late 1960s with this original German television commercial for the NSU Ro 80. Famous for its futuristic styling and advanced engineering, the Ro 80 introduced the world to the Wankel rotary engine, front-wheel drive, and cutting-edge aerodynamics.This ad captures NSU’s bold attempt to redefine the executive sedan, showcasing the innovation that earned the Ro 80 the title of 1968 European Car of the Year.📺 Authentic 1960s NSU commercial🚗 Rotary engine, aerodynamic design, front-wheel drive✨ A milestone in German automotive history#NSU #Ro80 #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #RetroAds #CarHistory #RotaryEngine
Citroën SM in Action — Vintage 1970 Commercial (Short Clip) Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | A glimpse of the iconic 1970 Citroën SM commercial — futuristic style, Maserati power, and pure innovation. Learn more at tbauto.org#CitroënSM #VintageCars #ClassicCars #Shorts #CarHistory #AutomobileMuseum #TampaBay
Studebaker Avanti | Vintage 1960s Commercial Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Vintage commercial 🚗 The 1963–64 Studebaker Avanti stunned the 1960s with futuristic styling by Raymond Loewy, a fiberglass body, and available supercharged V8 power.See a Studebaker Avanti up close at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, Florida.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org#Studebaker #Avanti #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #Shorts #RetroAds #CarHistory #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
1963–64 Studebaker Avanti Commercial | Vintage TV & Dealer Film Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Relive the excitement of the early 1960s with these original Studebaker television commercials and a rare 1964 dealer promo film featuring the Avanti and the Lark. Marketed as “America’s only 4-passenger high-performance personal car,” the Avanti broke the mold with its fiberglass body, supercharged V8 option, and futuristic Raymond Loewy styling.This collection captures Studebaker’s push to compete with Detroit’s Big Three through bold design and memorable marketing.See a Studebaker Avanti in person at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, where it’s displayed among other groundbreaking vehicles.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org📺 Authentic 1960s Studebaker commercials🚗 Avanti & Lark featured in rare promo film✨ A true slice of mid-century automotive history#Studebaker #Avanti #ClassicCars #VintageCommercial #CarHistory #RetroAds #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
DeLorean DMC-12 | Vintage 1980s Commercial Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Vintage commercial ✨ The DeLorean DMC-12 turned heads in the 1980s with stainless steel bodywork, gullwing doors, and futuristic style. This clip from the original “Live the Dream” campaign captures the car that became a legend.See a DeLorean up close at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, Florida.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org#DeLorean #DMC12 #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #Shorts #CarHistory #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
Vintage DeLorean DMC-12 Commercial | 1980s “Live the Dream” Ad Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Step back to the early 1980s with this original DeLorean Motor Company television commercial. Marketed with the slogan “Live the Dream,” the stainless-steel DeLorean DMC-12 was unlike anything else on the road—gullwing doors, futuristic styling, and an unmistakable presence that later became a cultural icon.See a DeLorean DMC-12 in person at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, home to one of the most innovative collections of cars in the world.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org📺 Authentic 1980s DeLorean commercial🚗 Stainless steel, gullwing doors, timeless design✨ The dream car of a generation#DeLorean #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #CarHistory #RetroAds #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
1965 Chevrolet Corvair | Vintage GM Commercial Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Step back into the 1960s with this clip from an original Chevrolet Corvair TV commercial. Known for its unique rear-engine design and lightweight build, the Corvair stood apart from other American cars of its era.See a Corvair up close at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, Florida.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org#Chevrolet #Corvair #VintageCommercial #ClassicCars #Shorts #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
1965 Chevrolet Corvair TV Commercial | Classic GM Ad Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Enjoy this original 1965 Chevrolet Corvair television commercial from General Motors. The Corvair stood out in the American market with its air-cooled rear engine, lightweight design, and sleek styling. This vintage ad highlights Chevrolet’s push to showcase innovation and modern engineering in the mid-1960s.You can see a Chevrolet Corvair in person at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, where it’s preserved among other groundbreaking cars that changed automotive history.🌐 Visit: tbauto.org📺 Authentic 1960s GM advertising🚗 Chevrolet Corvair – unique rear-engine American classic🌟 A glimpse into mid-century automotive marketingPerfect for fans of classic cars, GM history, and retro commercials.#Chevrolet #Corvair #ClassicCars #VintageCommercial #GMHistory #RetroAds #CarHistory #TampaBayAutomobileMuseum
1970s Citroën DS Canadian TV Commercial | Innovative French Design Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Step back into the 1970s with this rare Canadian television commercial for the Citroën DS. Known for its futuristic hydropneumatic suspension, disc brakes, and distinctive style, the DS redefined what a car could be. This ad highlights Citroën’s bold push into the North American market, bringing French engineering flair to Canadian roads.📺 Vintage commercial footage🚗 Citroën DS – “The Goddess” of design and innovation🌍 Imported French engineering meets Canadian driversIf you’re a fan of classic cars, vintage advertising, or Citroën history, this piece of automotive nostalgia is a must-watch.#Citroen #CitroenDS #ClassicCars #VintageCommercial #CarHistory #CitroenCanada
1970s Citroën DS Canadian TV Commercial | Innovative French Design Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | Step back into the 1970s with this rare Canadian television commercial for the Citroën DS. Known for its futuristic hydropneumatic suspension, disc brakes, and distinctive style, the DS redefined what a car could be. This ad highlights Citroën’s bold push into the North American market, bringing French engineering flair to Canadian roads.📺 Vintage commercial footage🚗 Citroën DS – “The Goddess” of design and innovation🌍 Imported French engineering meets Canadian driversIf you’re a fan of classic cars, vintage advertising, or Citroën history, this piece of automotive nostalgia is a must-watch.#Citroen #CitroenDS #ClassicCars #VintageCommercial #CarHistory #CitroenCanada
How the Rotary Engine Works | 1970s Citroën GS Birotor Ad Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-21 | This is a rare excerpt from Citroën’s 1970s GS Birotor advertisement, showing how the Wankel rotary engine worked.Instead of pistons, the engine used a triangular rotor moving inside an epitrochoid-shaped housing. As the rotor turned on its eccentric shaft, it created chambers of variable volume — drawing in fuel, compressing it, igniting for power, and expelling exhaust. In one rotation, the engine delivered three complete combustion cycles, producing smooth, compact, and vibration-free power.A fascinating glimpse into how Citroën explained its bold rotary technology to the public in the 1970s.#Citroen #GSBirotor #RotaryEngine #Wankel #ClassicCars #AutomotiveHistory #VintageAd #CarHistory #1970cars
Mazda 787B: The Rotary Engine That Shocked Le Mans Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-20 | In 1991, the Mazda 787B made history at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Powered by the screaming four-rotor R26B rotary engine, it revved past 9,000 RPM for 24 hours straight—delivering Japan’s first-ever victory at Le Mans.#Mazda787B #RotaryEngine #LeMans #MotorsportHistory #Shorts
The Rotary That Won Le Mans: Mazda 787B’s Legendary 1991 Victory Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-20 | In 1991, Mazda made history at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the 787B, becoming the first Japanese manufacturer to win the legendary race. Powered by the radical R26B four-rotor rotary engine, the 787B wasn’t the fastest car on the grid—but it was the most reliable. While Mercedes, Jaguar, and Peugeot faltered, Mazda’s rotary screamed past 9,000 RPM for 24 hours straight, crossing the line two laps clear.This video tells the story of Mazda’s decades-long journey, the unique advantages of the rotary engine, and how the 787B became the only rotary-powered car ever to win Le Mans.⚙️ Learn how Mazda’s lightweight design, fuel efficiency, and screaming 700hp rotary gave them an edge.🏁 Relive one of the greatest underdog victories in motorsport history.If you love racing history, underdog stories, and the unforgettable sound of the rotary, this one’s for you.#Mazda #787B #LeMans #RotaryEngine #MotorsportHistory #EnduranceRacing #wankle
Felix Wankel and the Rotary Engine – From Idea to Reality Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-20 | In 1922, a 20-year-old Felix Wankel dismantled his first moped engine and began chasing an impossible dream: the rotary piston engine. After thirty years of persistence, his breakthrough came in 1954. The Wankel rotary engine was born — compact, smooth, and unlike anything before it.#Citroen #GSBirotor #RotaryEngine #Wankel #ClassicCars#CarHistory #RareCars #VintageCars #ForgottenCars #1970sCars#AutomotiveHistory #CarTok #RetroCars #CitroenFans
When Citroën Tried Rotary Power – GS Birotor 1973 Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-20 | In 1973, Citroën launched one of its boldest experiments: the GS Birotor, powered by a revolutionary twin-rotor Wankel engine. Instead of pistons, a triangular rotor spun inside an epitrochoid-shaped housing, completing three full combustion cycles in a single turn. The result was smooth, compact power unlike anything else on the road.This rare piece of automotive history shows how Citroën embraced rotary technology in its quest to redefine the car.#Citroen #CitroenGS #GSBirotor #CitroenBirotor #RotaryEngine#Wankel #FelixWankel #ClassicCars #VintageCars #CarHistory#RareCars #ForgottenCars #CitroenHistory #AutomotiveHistory
When Citroën Tried Rotary Power – GS Birotor 1973 Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-20 | This is an original Citroën promotional film from the early 1970s, tracing the history of rotary engines and showcasing the debut of the Citroën GS Birotor.The film begins with the invention of the wheel and mankind’s search for new energy sources — from muscle power to animals, steam, and finally the automobile. It then follows the long quest to create an engine that could deliver smooth rotary motion directly, leading through centuries of inventions before reaching the breakthrough of Felix Wankel’s rotary engine in 1954.With clear narration and historical footage, the video explains how the Wankel rotary engine works: a triangular rotor turning inside a specially shaped housing to complete three combustion cycles per revolution. Compact, powerful, and quiet, it promised to be the future of automotive design.The story continues with Citroën’s partnership with NSU, the creation of Comotor, and the exhaustive testing of rotary prototypes. All of this culminated in the Citroën GS Birotor — launched in 1973 with a twin-rotor engine producing 107 horsepower, smooth-shifting transmission, and advanced engineering for its time.This rare film captures the excitement of a bold automotive experiment: Citroën’s dream of bringing rotary power to the road.#Citroen #CitroenGS #CitroenBirotor #GSBirotor #CitroenHistory#RotaryEngine #Wankel #FelixWankel #NSU #Comotor#ClassicCars #VintageCars #RetroCars #CarHistory #AutomotiveHistory#RareCars #ForgottenCars #1970sCars #FrenchCars #CitroenFans
Race to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum | Hidden Gem in Pinellas Park, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-18 | Visit one of Tampa Bay’s best-kept secrets, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, just minutes from St. Pete, Clearwater, and Tampa. Step inside to see rare cars, groundbreaking designs, and engineering marvels you won’t find anywhere else. From 1920s electrics to French speed machines, every car tells a story. After exploring, kick back and enjoy a cold beer. 📍 Pinellas Park, Florida Perfect for car lovers, history fans, and anyone looking for unique things to do in the Tampa Bay area.#PinellasPark #StPete #Clearwater #Tampa #TampaBay #AutoMuseum #ClassicCars #HiddenGemFL #ThingsToDoTampa #FloridaTravel
Hoods Up Week in St Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-14 | Back by popular demand, Hoods Up Week returns to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum September 5th through September 12th. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to get a glimpse under the hoods, and see the engines that power the rare, innovative, and unique cars in our incredible collection.
Engines Revealed! Hoods Up Week at Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-13 | From September 5th through the 12th, the hoods are up at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum! Get an insider’s view of the engines and innovation behind our rare collection. Come discover the history hidden under the hood!
Hoods Up Week at Tampa Bay Automobile Museum | Sept 5–12, 2025 Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-13 | From September 5th through the 12th, the hoods are up at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum! Get an insider’s view of the engines and innovation behind our rare collection. Come discover the history hidden under the hood!
Hoods Up Week at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum by Pinellas Park Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-08-13 | From September 5th through the 12th, the hoods are up at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum! Get an insider’s view of the engines and innovation behind our rare collection. Come discover the history hidden under the hood!
Rescuing a 1935 Audi 225 Cabriolet After 50 Years of Decay Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-07-31 | This 1935 Audi 225 Cabriolet sat rusting away in Florida for over 50 years—until our team brought it back to life. After a 6-year restoration, including hand-fabricated hubcaps and recast parts, this historic beauty now shines like new. A true labor of love. #Audi225 #ClassicCarRestoration #BarnFind #AntiqueCar #BeforeAndAfter
1953 Grégoire | Rare French Classic at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-07-31 | Step into automotive history with the 1953 Grégoire — a rare French classic on display at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, FL. 🇫🇷🚗Designed by engineer Jean-Albert Grégoire, this postwar innovation featured lightweight aluminum construction, front-wheel drive, and a unique vision for the future of automobiles. Only a handful were ever built, making this one of the museum’s most extraordinary treasures.📍 Visit the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park — minutes from St. Pete, Clearwater, and Tampa. Explore rare cars, groundbreaking designs, and enjoy a cold beer after your tour. 🍻Tags/Hashtags:#TampaBay #PinellasPark #StPete #Clearwater #ClassicCars #AutoMuseum #FrenchCars #Gregoire #1950sCars #HiddenGemFL #ThingsToDoTampa
The Most Unique Place to have a beer by St Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-07-30 | Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience near St. Pete, Florida? The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum isn’t just home to rare vintage cars and groundbreaking engineering—it’s now the most unique place to grab a beer!Explore 20th-century innovation and design while enjoying a cold brew from Motorworks Brewing in our brand-new bar area. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just looking for something different to do in the Tampa Bay area, this hidden gem is worth the stop.✅ Unique vintage and prototype vehicles✅ Cold beer from local favorite Motorworks Brewing✅ Located in Pinellas Park, FL – just minutes from St. Pete📍 Open daily | Bar hours: 12 PM – 4 PM🎟️ Learn more or plan your visit: tbauto.org#StPeteThingsToDo #TampaBayMuseum #MotorworksBrewing #CraftBeerFlorida #VintageCars #HiddenGemsFlorida #AutomobileMuseum #BeerAndCars
The Evolution of Cars in 45 Seconds | Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-07-24 | From steam-powered giants to futuristic speed machines, watch 250+ years of automotive evolution in just 45 seconds! Featuring rare, iconic, and game-changing cars through history.👉 See them in person at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, where innovation meets design.📍 Located in Pinellas Park, Florida🔧 Vintage tech, real stories, epic machines.#carhistory #automotiveevolution #shorts #vintagecars #tampabayautomobilemuseum #carsoftiktok #classiccars #museumtour #carenthusiast #automobilehistory #thingstodoinflorida #thingstodostpete
See the 1982 DMC-12 DeLorean at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-06-25 | Shift into the past with our new DeLorean tee! Snag yours online or at the museum, then check out the real 1982 DMC-12 while you’re here! tbauto.org
Tracta A Turns Heads at Le Mans Watch Party in Sebring Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-06-20 | On Saturday, June 14, motorsports fans gathered at Sebring International Raceway for a special Le Mans Watch Party hosted by the Automobile Racing Club of Florida (ARCF) and ACO USA.Held inside the Gallery of Legends, the event featured live coverage of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a catered lunch, and optional hot laps on the track. Among the highlights was the rare 1929 Tracta A—a groundbreaking front-wheel drive race car and 1930 Le Mans class winner—brought by the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum.Displayed alongside icons like the Porsche 917K, the Tracta stood out for its unique engineering and racing legacy. It offered guests a rare glimpse into early endurance racing innovation.Events like this bring history to life, connecting past and present through the cars that shaped motorsport.Learn more at tbauto.org
24HR LE MANS WATCH PARTY Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-06-20 | Last weekend at Sebring, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum rolled in its stunning 1929 Tracta A for the ARCF & ACO-hosted Le Mans Watch Party.#ClassicCars #CarMuseum #lemans24h #sebring12
Inside the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum: Rare Cars, French Engineering & Hidden Gems Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-05-01 | If you're a car enthusiast or a fan of mechanical innovation, this is a must-watch! Join WTSP Tampa Bay 10 and GDL photojournalist Greg Garbers as they take you inside the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum — a hidden gem packed with rare vintage cars from around the world.With 76 of 92 cars currently on display, the museum showcases unique vehicles that represent groundbreaking automotive engineering, including French classics, wood-framed models from the early 1900s, and even a 1965 all-wheel-drive Mustang. You’ll also hear the incredible story of the 1953 Hotchkiss Gregor Coupe that may have inspired the Chevrolet Impala.🔧 All restorations are done in-house by a passionate team preserving automotive history, one innovation at a time.📍 Visit: tbauto.org
1929 TRACTA A Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-22 | The 1929 Tracta A is an incredible piece of automotive racing history. This front-wheel-drive endurance race car won 1st in its class at the 1930 24 Hours of Le Mans. Crafted exclusively for racing, this unique vehicle is one of only four produced in 1929 specifically for the Le Mans competition. Notably, our number 27, was skillfully driven by Fernand Valon and Jean-Albert Grégoire in both the 1929 and 1930 races. The car completed the demanding event both years. Learn more at www.tbauto.org
1770 FARDIER DE CUGNOT Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-22 | Nicolas-Joseph Cugnot invented the world’s first self-propelled vehicle, and as a result, he holds the distinction as the world’s first automotive engineer. His Fardier, a wheeled cart, was a groundbreaking engineering achievement that ran on steam power. When the steam rose to a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure, a piston was driven into a cylinder. He also invented a rotary valve that was activated by the piston to let the steam in and out of the machine’s two cylinders.
1946 MATHIS VL333 Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-22 | The Mathis VL333, developed between 1942 and 1945, was a response to the economic and material constraints of its time. Only nine prototypes were made during the war, hidden from the Germans as any work on civilian automobiles was forbidden. The VL333 was crafted for three occupants and featured a lightweight design with a three-wheel, three-seat configuration. Its body was built from 20-gauge aluminum sheet metal, with strength derived from over 6,000 welds in its unitized structure, rather than an underlying chassis.
1975 Citroën GS Birotor Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-22 | The 1975 Citroën GS Birotor is the Car of the Week!Unveiled at the 1973 Frankfurt Auto Show, this car was a surprising departure for Citroën. Rather than fitting the innovative Wankel engine into their flagship DS model, Citroën opted for the mid-level GS, a newer and fresher design. The Birotor differed greatly from the standard GS. Most significantly, it featured a twin-rotor Wankel engine that produced 107 hp and a top speed of 109 mph. The Birotor also featured a 3-speed semi-automatic C-Matic transmission, a more luxurious interior, and flared fenders. However, all of this led to a 70% higher price tag.Despite offering a unique driving experience with its smooth-running and torque-rich twin-rotor Wankel engine, the GS Birotor faced multiple challenges. Introduced during the global oil crisis, it had the worst fuel economy (18 mpg) among Citroën's passenger cars, which made it a tough sell. The combination of high price, emerging reliability issues, and disappointing fuel efficiency led to the model's demise, with only 847 units produced.The experiment faced further setbacks as few Birotors made it past 20,000 miles without needing an engine replacement due to worn seals. To mitigate the impact on warranty claims and parts supply, Citroën offered to buy back the cars from owners, a move that many accepted. However, the financial repercussions, coupled with the investment in the Comotor plant and other issues, led to the downfall of both NSU and Citroën.Only around 250 Birotors are believed to exist today and our model is considered the only one in the US that runs. Learn more at www.tbauto.org
Happy Easter Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-22 | Happy Easter from all of us at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum! We thought our 1942 Tatra T87 would be the perfect ride for the Easter Bunny this weekend!🐰
ABC Action News Visits the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum – 20th Anniversary Feature Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-04-07 | Join ABC Action News reporter Sean Daley as he takes a spin through the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, Florida! In this special 20th anniversary feature, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at our one-of-a-kind collection of over 70 rare and innovative vehicles—from the world's first SUV to the iconic DeLorean.The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum celebrates the groundbreaking engineering and design that changed automotive history. Every car in our collection was a rule-breaker in its time—and yes, they’re all still street legal!📍 Visit us in Pinellas Park, FL🕒 Open daily (except Tuesdays)🎟️ Adults: $16 | Kids (6–17): $10 | 5 & under: Free🌐 Learn more: www.tbauto.orgSubscribe for more videos and rare car features from the museum!#TampaBayAutomobileMuseum #ClassicCars #CarMuseum #DeLorean #EngineeringHistory #ABCActionNews #TampaBay #AutomotiveInnovation
Tampa Bay Automobile 20th Anniversary Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2025-03-20 | The Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, founded by the late Alain A. Cerf, celebrated its 20th anniversary on March 19, 2025. The museum showcases a unique collection of vintage cars that highlight creativity and innovation in automotive engineering. Alain Cerf, who also founded Polypack, was an avid collector of vintage vehicles, reflecting his passion for engineering feats. Since his passing in August 2024, his sons have continued his legacy, managing both the museum and Polypack. The museum offers visitors a chance to explore rare vehicles and groundbreaking designs that have shaped automotive history. Learn more at www.tbauto.org
Vintage Car Logo Button-Up for Car Enthusiasts Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2024-12-19 | Available now on TBAUTO.ORG
1982 DeLorean DMC-12 at the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2024-09-17 | Designed by Colin Chapman of Lotus, the DeLorean's X-frame backbone chassis fulfills promises of strength, durability, and environmental compatibility. The stainless steel body, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro of Italdesign, is renowned for its sleek lines and aesthetic finesse. It not only guarantees enduring durability but also eliminates the necessity for extensive painting. The exterior further enhances the car's futuristic appearance, adding to its undeniable allure.Beneath the distinctive exterior lies the heart of the DMC DeLorean – a 2.7-liter V6 engine, crafted under license from Renault, producing an impressive 132 horsepower. Coupled with a manual transmission, the engine delivers a delightful driving experience. The car's independent suspension on all corners and excellent brakes ensure a fantastic driving performance, making every journey memorable.The DeLorean DMC-12 was the brainchild of John DeLorean, with significant contributions from William T. Collins, the chief engineer and designer, and Michael Loasby, an experienced engineer from Lotus. This talented team combined their expertise to create a vehicle that remains iconic.Despite its tragic conclusion in the face of economic and political challenges, the DeLorean's design and aesthetics continue to fuel rumors of attempts to resurrect this iconic brand. Explore the legacy of the DeLorean DMC-12, a symbol of innovation and enduring style in the world of automobiles.Learn more at tbauto.org
Reviving Salvador Dalí’s Rainy Taxi at the Dali Museum in St Pete, FL Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2024-09-12 | Salvador Dalí, the grandmaster of surrealism, was celebrated for his eccentric and thought-provoking creations. Among his most playful works was the "Rainy Taxi," first unveiled at the 1938 International Surrealist Exhibition in Paris. But the Rainy Taxi's journey didn’t end there. Dalí recreated it in New York in 1939 and later in his hometown of Figueres, Spain, using his own prized Cadillac. The original installation in Paris featured a vintage taxi, modified to rain inside, drenching mannequins seated in the car. The effect was both shocking and humorous, turning the familiar into the fantastical—a true embodiment of surrealism’s unexpected juxtapositions.In a tribute to Dalí's genius, the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum has collaborated with the Dalí Museum in St. Pete, Florida, to revive this iconic piece of surrealism. The result? The "Rainy Rolls," a modern-day homage that carries forward the spirit of Dalí's original creation.The centerpiece of this revival is a 1933 Rolls-Royce Sedanca. Instead of real rain, Alain Cerf, founder of the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, devised an innovative rain panel system that creates the illusion of rain inside the car without causing any damage. The result is a surrealist illusion—a rain shower on wheels—perfectly encapsulating Dalí’s vision.Peer through the window, and you’ll find yourself in Dalí’s world, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and where rain inside a car is just the beginning of the journey.Learn more at TBAUTO.ORG
Hoods Up Week at St Pete Automobile Museum Tampa Bay Automobile Museum 2024-09-09 | Hoods Up Week returns to the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum in Pinellas Park, FL on Sunday, September 8th!This popular and exciting week-long event offers visitors the opportunity to explore the mechanics of our unique collection of cars by seeing under the hoods.Hoods Up Week is included with admission to the Museum and runs from September 8th & 9th and 11th - 15th. We look forward to seeing you!
