Events & Tours
Carrera Panamericana, between myth and reality
The Carrera Panamericana, a 1950s spectacle, celebrated the Pan-American Highway's completion with a 3,500km race. From American grit to European flair, it showcased speed and danger.
The Carrera Panamericana, a gruelling 3,500-kilometre stage race, was conceived by the Mexican Government to celebrate the completion of the Pan-American Highway. Aimed at boosting trade between the United States and Latin America, it quickly captured the public imagination as one of the most thrilling and perilous races ever conceived.
Held over just five editions from 1950 to 1954, the race attracted numerous American entrants with specially prepared production cars. However, it was the major European manufacturers who saw the event’s advertising potential on the American market. Mercedes, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lancia, and Porsche all fielded their competition road cars, either directly or through affiliated teams.
