Under the same roof, 80 legends of Le Mans slumber
On the occasion of the centenary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a brand new exhibition was inaugurated at the circuit museum. 80 authentic cars are present there. MotorsInside had the opportunity to admire them.
They have returned to their cradle. After shining on the Le Mans track, 80 cars are gathered in the Sarthe region at the museum dedicated to the race, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. From the first British car to triumph to the latest Hypercar, the Toyota, there are tens of thousands of dormant horses.
All these racing cars bear the marks of the race. Pieces of rubber sticking here and there on the bodywork. A cracked windshield, makeshift repairs following a collision… They have retained their authenticity. But also their charm.
Wings are growing
A large part of this exhibition is dedicated to the Ferrari/Ford rivalry of the 1960s. With the presence of red prototypes and also GT40s, in various liveries. The public can admire the powerhouse beasts that have made their mark in the history of motor racing.
Then comes the era of aerodynamics. In the early 70s, strange fins and shapes emerge at the rear of cars. Particularly on Porsches. In 1970 and 1971, the German manufacturer asserts itself in Le Mans with the 917K. This will set a standard, as the spoiler will remain inseparable from performance.
After a leap in time, Porsche continues its domination with cars that have entered the realm of legend. The cigarette brands that dress up their bodies play a significant role in this. Whether beautiful or not, these prototypes work and race towards new successes.
Reliability and German performance
Then comes the period of another German domination. Audi solidifies its dominance in the 2000s and 2010s, before Porsche – once again – takes the lead before temporarily leaving the scene. Despite these years of absence, the German team remains the most successful manufacturer here, with 19 victories.
