Accelerating Away: The Motorway Age 1940s – 1960s

As the economy recovered after the Second World War, austerity gave way to an era of consumer-led mass consumption. By 1969, there was one car on the road for every 5 people in the UK and motoring was rapidly transforming Britain’s society, culture, landscape and towns.

1954 Triumph TR2

The first of the famous TR series of Triumph sports cars, the 1954 Triumph TR2 represents this era. Developed to compete with successful designs from rival manufacturers such as MG and Jaguar, the TR2 achieved motor-sport success at international and amateur levels.

1959 Austin Mini Seven

The classic 1959 Austin Mini Seven is on display in the area - this is one of the oldest in existence. Production of the original Mini continued until 2000 by which time over 5 million had been built; the best-selling British car ever.

>>Buckle Up: Motoring through Challenging Times 1970s