What Year Is the Lincoln Continental in Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” there’s no doubt you’ve noticed the iconic car that plays a significant role in the film. The car in question is, of course, the Lincoln Continental that Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) purchases to surprise his family with during the holiday season.

But what year is the Lincoln Continental in “Christmas Vacation”? Well, let’s dive into some history and find out.

The Lincoln Continental

The Lincoln Continental has been around since 1939 and has gone through various changes over the years. However, the model featured in “Christmas Vacation” is a bit of an anomaly.

The 1972 Lincoln Continental

According to sources, the car used in “Christmas Vacation” is a 1972 Lincoln Continental. This particular model was only produced for one year and was part of the fourth generation of Lincoln Continentals.

Fun Fact: The 1972 Lincoln Continental was also used in another popular movie – “The Godfather.” It was driven by Michael Corleone (played by Al Pacino).

The Details

The 1972 Lincoln Continental featured in “Christmas Vacation” had some distinct characteristics that made it stand out. For example, it had hidden headlights that were only visible when turned on. It also had a unique grille design that set it apart from other models.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of this car is its size. The 1972 Lincoln Continental was massive – measuring over 19 feet long! This made it perfect for Clark Griswold’s over-the-top Christmas decorations.

  • Overall length: 19 feet, 9 inches
  • Width: 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Height: 4 feet, 7 inches

In Conclusion

So, there you have it – the Lincoln Continental featured in “Christmas Vacation” is a 1972 model. This car has become an iconic part of the movie and continues to be a fan-favorite today.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just a fan of the movie, it’s hard not to appreciate the classic design and unique features of the 1972 Lincoln Continental.