National Lampoon’s Vacation is a classic 1983 American comedy film that follows the Griswold family on their cross-country road trip to the fictional Walley World amusement park. The film has become a cult classic and has garnered a huge fan following over the years.
One of the key elements that make this movie so memorable is the iconic car that the Griswold family drives throughout their journey. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what car they drive in National Lampoon’s Vacation.
The Family Car
The Griswold family drives a metallic pea green 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon in National Lampoon’s Vacation. The car is an important character in the movie and plays a significant role in many of the comedic scenes.
Specs and Features
The Ford LTD Country Squire was a full-size station wagon that was produced by Ford from 1951 to 1991. The 1979 model that was used in National Lampoon’s Vacation had a V8 engine with a displacement of 302 cubic inches and could produce up to 134 horsepower.
One of the standout features of the car was its wood paneling, which gave it a classic and timeless look. The interior of the car was spacious and comfortable, making it ideal for long road trips.
The Car’s Role in the Movie
The Ford LTD Country Squire played an important role in many of National Lampoon’s Vacation’s most memorable scenes. From getting lost on highways to running into trouble with law enforcement, the car provided ample comedic relief throughout the movie.
One of the most memorable scenes involving the car is when Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) accidentally drives onto a closed road and ends up driving through someone’s backyard, destroying their pool in the process. Another scene involves Clark trying to jump-start the car by connecting the jumper cables to the wrong terminals, resulting in an explosion and a shower of sparks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon is an iconic part of National Lampoon’s Vacation and has become just as memorable as any of the human characters in the movie. Its classic design, spacious interior, and comedic role in the film have made it a fan favorite for over three decades.