Current Exhibits
The San Diego Automotive Museum is a 17,000 square foot exhibit space that showcases both cars and motorcycles in distinct and sometimes thematic collections. With a mix of rotating exhibits and our permanent collection, SDAM features over 75 vehicles and motorcycles. We invite you to explore our collection and appreciate the beauty, design, style, construction, history and future – and perhaps spark a memory of your own. Welcome to our Museum!
The Plank Road
The story of the Plank Road began with the era of automobile transportation and the growing rivalry of two Southern California cities, San Diego and Los Angeles. Just as railroad towns owed their financial well-being to rail commerce, so would communities linked by good roads benefit from the automobile. Civic and business leaders quickly perceived the benefits of bringing routes and roads to their communities. Having lost a bid to become a terminus for the transcontinental railroad, San Diego was determined to beat Los Angeles to become the hub of the Southern California road network.
On Exhibit:
- 1905 REO
- 1913 Cadillac
- 1914 Ford Model T 3-Door Touring Car
- 1926 Pierce Arrow
Louie Mattar's Fabulous Car
Often seen driving around San Diego demonstrating the features of his car and telling stories about his adventures, Louie and his crew became celebrities. His non-stop drives from San Diego to New York and Anchorage to Mexico City made him a legend in his own time.
Currently on exhibit at the San Diego Automotive Museum, this one-of-a-kind car is a unique piece of automotive design visitors from all over the world can enjoy.
On Exhibit:
- Louie Mattar's Fabulous 1947 Cadillac
Featured Collection
Our collection of cars and motorcycles in the museum showcase automotive history and culture. The collection includes cars, motorcycles, objects, and ephemera.
We pride ourselves on diverse exhibits that effectively present the automotive culture of the region.
With our extensive and diverse collection of automobiles and motorcycles, the San Diego Automotive Museum is a must-see destination for any automotive enthusiast or history buff!