 The prototype Darrin was unveiled to the public in September 1952 (two months before General Motors debuted the Corvette) at the Los Angeles Motorama, an event founded by "Hot Rod" and "Motor Trend" publisher Robert E. Petersen in 1950 to cater to hot rod and custom car enthusiasts.Public and media response to the Darrin was positive, with the roadster dubbed "the sports car that everyone has been waiting for.