In the classic holiday film, “Christmas Vacation,” Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, is a man on a mission to create the perfect Christmas for his family. From decorating the house with thousands of lights to hosting a big family dinner, Clark goes all out for the holiday season.
But what about his car? What kind of vehicle does Clark drive in this beloved movie? Let’s take a closer look.
The Car
Throughout “Christmas Vacation,” Clark can be seen driving around in a station wagon that is often referred to as the “Family Truckster.” This unique car was created specifically for the movie and was designed to be a parody of other popular station wagons from the 1970s and 1980s.
The Design
The “Family Truckster” is certainly not your typical station wagon. It features a bright green paint job with wood paneling on the sides and a distinctive shape that makes it stand out from other cars on the road. The front of the car is adorned with an oversized grille that looks like it could swallow up smaller vehicles whole.
The Inspiration
The design of the “Family Truckster” was inspired by several different cars from the era in which “Christmas Vacation” was made. The shape of the vehicle was influenced by Ford LTD Country Squire wagons from the late 1970s, while the wood paneling was inspired by Chrysler Town & Country models from around the same time period.
Fun Facts
– The “Family Truckster” used in “Christmas Vacation” was actually created by modifying a Ford LTD Country Squire wagon. – The car’s distinctive green color was chosen because it would stand out against snow and winter landscapes.
– In one scene, Clark’s son Russ mentions that he hopes they will get to go skiing during their Christmas vacation. This is a nod to the fact that the “Family Truckster” was actually designed to look like a ski-mobile.
Conclusion
The “Family Truckster” may not be the most stylish or practical car on the road, but it has become an iconic part of “Christmas Vacation” and a beloved symbol of Clark Griswold’s dedication to creating the perfect Christmas for his family. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that this quirky car has become a part of holiday movie history.