Is the Car From the Movie Vacation Real?

By Robert Palmer

Are you a fan of the 1983 comedy film “National Lampoon’s Vacation”? If so, you’ve probably wondered if the iconic car from the movie is real.

Well, the answer is yes and no. Let’s dive into the details.

The Car From “National Lampoon’s Vacation”

If you’re not familiar with the movie, “National Lampoon’s Vacation” follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to Walley World. Along the way, they encounter a number of mishaps and misadventures. One of the most memorable elements of the film is their car – a metallic pea green station wagon with wood paneling.

The Car in Real Life

So, is this car real? In short, no.

While there were certainly cars like this on the road in the 1980s, there was no specific model or make of car that matched what was seen in “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” Instead, the filmmakers created a custom car for filming.

The Creation of The Family Truckster

The car used in filming was dubbed “The Family Truckster.” It was created by modifying a Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon. The modifications included adding fake wood paneling made from vinyl and extending the chassis to make it longer.

Fun Fact: The car was actually painted yellow before being repainted metallic pea green for filming.

The Legacy Of The Family Truckster

While “The Family Truckster” may not have been a real car, it has certainly left its mark on pop culture. It has become an iconic symbol of road trips and family vacations. There have even been replicas made by fans and enthusiasts over the years.

  • One replica sold for $100,000 at auction in 2013
  • The band Weezer featured “The Family Truckster” in their music video for the song “Buddy Holly”
  • The car was also featured in a Super Bowl commercial for HomeAway vacation rentals

Conclusion

So, while “The Family Truckster” may not have been a real car, it has certainly become a memorable part of film history. Its unique design and quirky style have made it a beloved symbol of road trips and family vacations. While you may not be able to buy one for yourself, you can certainly appreciate its place in pop culture history.