Microcars Take Center Stage at the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix with Lane Motor Museum's Collection

by Bernard Martin

Lane Motor Museum features 150 unique cars and motorcycles.

The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is set to transform into a showcase of micro automotive wonders with a spotlight on the Lane Motor Museum who will be bringing some rare microcars from their extensive collection. The PVGP, known for its celebration of automotive history, has designated microcars and microtrucks as one of the spotlights for the entire show, to complement the Mini Marque of the Year.

Jeff Lane will take the stage on August 3 at the #PVGP to share insights into his remarkable collection. The Lane Motor Museum is renowned for its eclectic assortment of rare and unique vehicles, and this year.
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Lane Motor Museum's Microcar Collection

Founded by Jeff Lane, the Lane Motor Museum's roots trace back to his childhood fascination with cars, inspired by his father Gene's love for MGs. ​

Jeff's first car, a 1955 MG TF, now on display, kickstarted his lifelong passion. In the late '90s, realizing his eclectic collection was outgrowing his Nashville home, Jeff envisioned a museum to share his unique cars with the public. From restoring his first MG at age 12 to acquiring rare finds like a 1960 Dodge Power Wagon and a 1973 Citroën SM, Jeff's enthusiasm for automobiles runs deep, influenced by a family history deeply connected to the automotive world.
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HOW IT HAPPENED
"I had been talking to Jeff for several years about creating a spotlight show for Microcars at the PVGP, and each year he had a business conflict and had to be in France.  In 2023, I turned around and saw Jeff just as I was finalizing plans for Lyn Hiner to be our featured artist at the Cortile Italian Car Show.  Before I can get a word in, Jeff states, "Before you even ask Bernie, I can't make it to the 2023 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix but I've moved our Board Meeting for 2024 and I can be there!"   ~ Bernie Martin

What is a Microcar?

Microcars, characterized by their diminutive size and lightweight design, have a unique place in automotive history. Often featuring quirky styling and innovative engineering, these compact vehicles were popular in post-war Europe and are known for their efficiency and affordability.  

Some notable examples of microcars include the Messerschmitt KR200, a three-wheeled cabin scooter, stood out for its unconventional design and tandem seating arrangement. The Peel P50, recognized as the world's smallest production car, boasts a single front door and minimalistic features. Each of these microcars holds a distinctive charm, embodying the creativity and practicality that define this tiny category of vehicles.
Microcar Spotlight

In addition to the Lane Motor Museum showcars, microcar owners are invited to join this special spotlight area, creating a diverse display of these charming vehicles. It's a rare opportunity for enthusiasts and the public alike to get up close and personal with these pint-sized treasures that have left a big impact on automotive culture.
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PVGP 2024 Microcar
​Featured Shows

• ​​Microcars and microtrucks spotlight for the all 17 car show at Schenley Park
• Mini Marque of the Year celebration.
• American Car Show features Nash Metropolitan's and American Bantams
• Asian Car show features JDM Kei Trucks
• BMW Car show features Isetta
• Cortile Italian Car Show features Autovetture Piccole
• Special showcase open to microcar owners.