See classic Route 66 cars at the Detroit Auto Show
Detroit Free Press reporter Eric Lawrence checked out some notable classic cars that drove down historic U.S. Route 66.
- The “Route 66 Centennial Exhibition” will be held at the Detroit Auto Show, showcasing classic and modern cars.
- This exhibit has been designated by the U.S. Commission as an Official Route 66 Centennial Project.
- Vehicles on display include a 1934 Buick, a 1965 Ford Country Squire, and a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro.
The Detroit Auto Show features several classic cars from historic Route 66.
The exhibit, dubbed the “Detroit Auto Show: Route 66 Centennial Exhibition,” has been designated an official Route 66 Centennial Project by the U.S. Route 66 Centennial Committee, according to Detroit Auto Show organizers.
Exhibit organizers say the exhibit features nine classic and modern Route 66-inspired vehicles.
Sam Clemmett, executive director of the Detroit Auto Show, said in a December 2025 statement that the Motor City Automobile Conference is the perfect place to celebrate the legacy of the famous Route 66.
“What better place to celebrate the adventurous spirit of Route 66, the highway that has connected cars, culture and community for the past 100 years, than right here in the Motor City,” said Clement.
What types of cars are on display?
According to the Route 66 Centennial Committee, the following vehicles are on display:
- 1934 Buick Model 61 Club Sedan
- 1961 Chrysler 300C
- 1965 Ford Country Squire
- 1966 Mercury Cougar
- 1969 Chevrolet Camaro
- 1992 Land Rover Discovery
Where else will the exhibits be displayed?
The exhibit will be part of a year-long exhibit at the American Automobile Museum in Tacoma, Washington, according to the Route 66 Centennial Committee.
In addition, we are planning to exhibit at the following events.
- Route 66 Centennial National Kickoff in Springfield, Missouri.
- Route 66 Centennial Caravan Parade
- AAA Route 66 Road Fest
- Main Street of America movie premiere
