If you’re a fan of the comedy classic National Lampoon’s Vacation, you might be wondering what kind of car the Griswold family drove on their cross-country adventure. The car in question is a 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire, a station wagon that became an iconic symbol of the film.
Overview
The Ford LTD Country Squire was a full-size station wagon produced by Ford from 1950 to 1991. The vehicle was known for its spacious interior and classic wood-grain paneling on the exterior. In National Lampoon’s Vacation, the Griswold family drives a 1979 model, which was one of the last years that this model was produced.
Exterior Features
The exterior of the car is distinctive and memorable, with its wood-grain paneling and boxy shape. The front of the car features two rectangular headlights and a simple grille with an emblem in the center. The rear of the car has vertical taillights and a flat bumper.
Wood-Grain Paneling
The most recognizable feature of the car is undoubtedly its wood-grain paneling. This design element harks back to earlier times when cars were made with real wood panels on their sides. In reality, however, these panels were made from vinyl appliques that mimicked wood grain.
Interior Features
Inside, the Country Squire was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and luggage. The Griswold family famously packed their car to the brim for their cross-country trip. Some interior features include:
- Eight-passenger seating capacity
- Rear-facing third-row bench seat
- AM/FM radio with cassette player
- Air conditioning (optional)
- Cruise control (optional)
Performance
Under the hood, the 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire was equipped with a 5.8-liter V8 engine that produced 140 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The car had a three-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. While not particularly fast or efficient, the Country Squire was a reliable and comfortable car for long trips.
Legacy
National Lampoon’s Vacation helped to cement the Ford LTD Country Squire as an iconic symbol of American family road trips in the 1980s. The car’s distinctive wood-grain paneling and boxy shape have made it instantly recognizable to movie fans around the world. Today, well-preserved examples of this classic station wagon are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
The 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire is an unforgettable part of National Lampoon’s Vacation and has become an icon of American pop culture. Its spacious interior and distinctive exterior make it a classic symbol of family road trips in the 1980s, while its reliable performance has made it a beloved collector’s item for many car enthusiasts today.