If you’re a fan of the Christmas classic movie, “Christmas Vacation,” you must have noticed the infamous station wagon that makes an appearance throughout the film. But what is the station wagon, and why is it such a big deal? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is a Station Wagon?
A station wagon is a type of car that has a longer body than a sedan with an extended cargo area at the back. It typically comes with two rows of seats in the front and back, but some models also have third-row seating. Station wagons were popular in the 1960s and 1970s but began to decline in popularity by the 1980s due to the emergence of minivans and SUVs.
The Griswold Family Station Wagon
In “Christmas Vacation,” Chevy Chase’s character Clark Griswold purchases a new car for his family Christmas vacation – a metallic pea green 1989 Ford Taurus station wagon. The car quickly becomes a running joke throughout the film as it suffers from various malfunctions, including getting stuck under a semi-truck, catching fire, and being vandalized by Aunt Bethany’s cat.
The Importance of the Station Wagon
While the station wagon may seem like just another prop in “Christmas Vacation,” it actually represents much more than that. The car is symbolic of Clark Griswold’s desire to provide his family with the perfect Christmas vacation.
He believes that purchasing this new car will make their trip more enjoyable and memorable. However, as things start to go wrong with the car, Clark realizes that material possessions can’t guarantee happiness or perfection.
The Legacy of the Station Wagon
The station wagon used in “Christmas Vacation” has become an iconic symbol for fans of the movie. It has even been immortalized in toy form, with several companies producing replicas of the vehicle. The car’s popularity has also led to an increase in demand for classic station wagons, with some enthusiasts seeking to restore and customize them.
- Conclusion
In conclusion, the station wagon used in “Christmas Vacation” is more than just a car – it represents the struggle for perfection and the realization that happiness cannot be bought. Its legacy has left a lasting impact on fans of the film and car enthusiasts alike.