Historic Racing Lincoln 'La Bestia del Norte' Joins DFW Car & Toy Museum Collection

The 1954 Lincoln Cosmopolitan Coupe known as "La Bestia del Norte" (The Beast of the North) has been added to the automotive legends display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum as part of the Ron Sturgeon Collection. This historically significant racing vehicle has competed in La Carrera Panamericana rally an impressive 11 times, serving as a lasting symbol of automotive engineering excellence and competitive racing spirit.

The original Carrera Panamericana was established in 1950 to celebrate the completion of the Pan-American Highway in Mexico. The event quickly gained recognition as one of the world's most challenging races due to its treacherous terrain and demanding pace. Lincoln vehicles dominated the stock car division during the early years of the competition, securing the top four positions in both 1952 and 1953.

Following the revival of the Carrera in 1988 as a modern rally event honoring the original race's legacy, this particular 1954 Lincoln underwent comprehensive modifications around 2005. The vehicle was originally used as a race car during the 1970s before being converted to modern rally specifications specifically designed to withstand the extreme conditions of contemporary La Carrera Panamericana competitions.

The vehicle received extensive upgrades including modern rally enhancements to its drivetrain, braking system, electrical components, safety features, and suspension. These improvements were specifically engineered to handle the punishing road conditions and intense competition characteristic of the Mexican rally. Museum visitors can explore additional information about current exhibits and visiting hours at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.

Ron Sturgeon, owner of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, emphasized the vehicle's significance, stating that it represents the essential elements that make La Carrera Panamericana so compelling—power, endurance, and rich historical context. The museum takes pride in showcasing La Bestia del Norte in Fort Worth, allowing visitors to experience firsthand a machine that has conquered countless miles through Mexico's most challenging rally stages.

The iconic Lincoln now joins more than 200 classic and rare vehicles alongside over 3,000 collectible toys in the museum's expanding collection. The institution continuously rotates its exhibits throughout the year, ensuring fresh experiences for returning visitors. The museum's extensive automotive collection provides context for understanding the evolution of racing technology and the enduring appeal of motorsport history.