NASCAR: Design & Innovation
Experience the evolution of America’s most iconic motorsport—from early stock cars to today’s cutting-edge Next Gen machines. Discover the engineering, speed, and legendary drivers that defined each era.
SPECIAL APPEARANCE
NASCAR's Austin Cameron
Rescheduled to June
Meet NASCAR driver Austin Cameron during an exclusive meet-and-greet while his #16 Winston West car is on display. Get an up-close look at the car and connect with the driver behind the wheel.
About the Exhibit
Explore the Technology Behind the Next Gen Era
NASCAR’s modern Gen-7 platform represents the boldest redesign in the sport’s history. From independent rear suspension and modular chassis systems to improved aerodynamics and 670-horsepower engines, these cars bring unprecedented performance, safety, and street-car authenticity to the track. Step inside the exhibit to see how engineering advancements are reshaping competitive racing today.
Cajon Speedway
NASCAR’s identity was shaped on local tracks like Cajon Speedway, where grassroots racers built their own machines and pushed the limits of what stock cars could be. This exhibit traces that evolution—from hand-built short-track legends to aerodynamic, high-horsepower modern racers—showing how innovation, community, and competition fueled the sport’s rise.
Cars on Exhibit
1973 Dodge Charger
#96 Ray Elder Winston West Car
A Charger driven by six-time NASCAR Western Series champion Ray Elder—a pioneer of West Coast stock-car racing.
1985 Firebird Trans Am
#99 Mark Norris Cajon Speedway Car
A Firebird built and raced by three-time Cajon Speedway champion Mark Norris—driver, builder, and local racing icon.
1989–1990 Buick Regal
#99 John Borneman Jr. Cajon Speedway Car
A three-time Cajon Speedway champion, raced by one of Southern California’s most iconic short-track families.
2008 Toyota Camry
#16 Austin Cameron NASCAR Winston West Car
The car driven by two-time Winston West series runner-up Austin Cameron, one of San Diego’s most accomplished racers.
2008 Chevrolet Camaro
#55 Ron Esau Cajon Speedway Car
A tribute to West Coast racing legend Ron Esau, driven by a Winston Cup, Southwest Series, and Truck Series veteran.
2014 Monte Carlo
#10 Dave Arce Lucas Oil Modified Series Car
A hand-built Modified series racer from engine builder and driver Dave Arce, showcasing West Coast racing innovation.
2017–2019 Chevrolet Camaro
#27 NASCAR Chevrolet Camaro
An 800-horsepower Hendrick Motorsports Camaro, capable of topping 200 mph and raced during the final Gen-6 seasons.
2018 Toyota Camry
#28 Sheldon Creed ARCA Championship Car
Sheldon Creed’s ARCA Championship–winning Camry, representing the early career of a future NASCAR Truck Series champion.
Gen-7 Toyota Camry – 2024
Next Gen
A full Gen-7 NASCAR body and chassis, illustrating the advanced engineering behind modern stock-car design.
Upcoming Exhibits
Formula One Stories
March 1 – June 14, 2026
Numinous Hypercars:Titans of Speed
Coming Soon!
June 2026 – September 2026
Permanent Galleries
Discover our year-round galleries showcasing the icons, innovations, and culture that shaped life on wheels
Exhibit
Explore rare collections, rotating exhibits, and hands-on experiences that bring automotive history to life.