Classic car museums are some of the best places on Earth to see beautiful vehicles. Some venues have been around longer than others, with the Isle of Man Motor Museum being one of the most recent. Opened in 2015, this museum is home to over 400 vehicles. It was founded by the father and son team of Denis and Darren Cunningham. We’re taking a closer look at what visitors can see when they visit.
Classic car collection
The main attraction is definitely the expansive classic car collection. The display covers over 100 years of motor history, ranging from a 1903 Turner-Miesse steam car to a 2005 Toyota BB Open Deck. There are many historically important cars, such as a 1965 Lincoln Continental limo used by US Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara. Another is the 1953 Humber Super Snipe tourer built for Queen Elizabeth II on her Coronation tour of the Commonwealth.
Other important cars are a Citroen DS19 Decapotable, TVR Tuscan Challenge racer, Cadillac V16, Facel Vega Excellence and Fiat 2300S Coupe Ghia.
Steam
The Isle of Man is known for the narrow gauge steam railway that runs from Douglas to Port Erin. The steam collection builds on that legacy, featuring a variety of cars. They include White, Turner-Miesse, Doble-Delage and Stanley steam motors.
Motorbikes
Given the Isle of Man’s connection with the TT, it’s only natural the museum would have an impressive collection of motorbikes. There are over 200 motorbikes on display, with one of the earliest models being a 1902 Clement. There are plenty of models to see, such as Velocettes, Kawasakis, Hondas and Sunbeams.
The motorbikes are housed on two mezzanine levels. This mezzanines provide a unique perspective, as visitors can view ground floor exhibits from a different angle.
