The Red Room: A Study in Automotive Design and Engineering
9th Jan 2026
The Red Room is the flagship exhibition at Haynes Motor Museum, featuring a world-renowned collection of over 40 red cars. Originally curated by Museum founder John Haynes OBE, the collection spans a century of motoring history, showcasing why red has become the universal colour for speed, power, and prestige.
Why Red? The Vision of John Haynes
Walking into the Red Room isn’t just about seeing cars; it’s about experiencing a visual symphony. John Haynes believed that when you place a collection of cars in a single, uniform colour, the eye stops being distracted by the paint. Instead, you are encouraged to look more closely at the styling, lines, and engineering design of each individual vehicle. From the deep crimson of early 20th-century tourers to the piercing "Rosso Corsa" of modern Italian supercars, the room explores the psychology behind the most iconic colour in automotive history.
Must-See Highlights in the Collection
To help you plan your visit, our curators have highlighted three "star" cars that define the Red Room experience:
1966 Ford Mustang Convertible
A quintessential American icon. This specific model represents the "pony car" revolution, finished in a vibrant Poppy Red that defined 1960s cool.
Jaguar E-Type Series 1
Described by Enzo Ferrari as "the most beautiful car ever made." Seeing it in its signature red highlights the fluid, aerodynamic lines that made it a legend.
Lamborghini Countach
A masterpiece of 1980s "wedge" design. In the Red Room, its aggressive angles contrast perfectly with the softer curves of the vintage models nearby.
Looking After the Collection
Our Collections team, along with dedicated volunteers, closely monitor the environmental conditions regularly checking pest traps and monitoring relative humidity and light levels.
To keep these classics pristine, we use specialized UV-filtered lighting and climate control to ensure the vibrant reds don't fade into pink over time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most valuable car in the Red Room?
The Jaguar E-Type and the Lamborghini Countach are among the most prestigious and valuable assets in the collection due to their pristine condition and historical significance.
How many cars are in the Red Room?
The collection typically features around 40 to 45 red vehicles, though this may vary slightly as cars are rotated for special displays and events.
Is the Red Room included in the standard ticket price?
Yes. The Red Room is a permanent, core exhibition and is included with your general admission ticket to Haynes Motor Museum.
Visit the Red Room at Haynes Motor Museum
The Red Room is more than a gallery; it is the heartbeat of the Museum. Whether you are a lifelong "petrolhead" or a family looking for a stunning photo opportunity, this exhibition is a must-see.
Pre-book your tickets online to save 10% on gate prices.
