If you’re a fan of the classic comedy movie “European Vacation,” you might have noticed a bright orange car that appears throughout the film. This car is actually a significant part of the movie’s plot and has become an iconic symbol of the film.
The Car’s Role in “European Vacation”
The orange car is a rental vehicle that the Griswold family, the movie’s main characters, use to travel across Europe. They rent the car in London and drive it through France, Germany, and Italy during their vacation.
Throughout their journey, the car becomes a source of many problems for the Griswolds. It breaks down multiple times, gets stolen, and even catches on fire at one point. Despite these mishaps, they continue to use it until they finally get into a major accident with it towards the end of their trip.
The Car’s Design
The orange car is a 1983 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon. It was chosen for its unique design and vibrant color, which made it stand out on screen. The car’s wood paneling on its sides was also a popular feature on station wagons at the time.
Trivia
– The car used in filming was actually painted orange specifically for the movie.
– The license plate on the car reads “Wagon Queen Family Truckster,” which is a nod to another famous station wagon from National Lampoon’s Vacation.
– The same car model was also used in other popular movies such as “Rain Man” and “The ‘Burbs.”
Legacy
The orange car has become an iconic symbol of “European Vacation” and has even inspired merchandise such as t-shirts and die-cast models. It has also been referenced in other media such as TV shows like “Family Guy” and “The Simpsons.”
In conclusion, while the orange car may seem like just a prop in “European Vacation,” it actually plays a significant role in the movie’s plot and has become an iconic symbol of the film. Its unique design and vibrant color have made it a memorable part of pop culture history.