What Kind of Car Did Chevy Chase Drive in Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re a fan of the classic 1983 comedy film “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” you may have wondered what kind of car Chevy Chase’s character, Clark Griswold, drove on their ill-fated family road trip. Well, wonder no more! The car in question is none other than the 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire.

The Car

The Ford LTD Country Squire was a full-size station wagon produced by Ford from 1960 to 1991. It was known for its distinctive wood paneling on the sides, which gave it a classic and somewhat old-fashioned look. In the movie, Clark Griswold’s car is a metallic pea green color with wood paneling and an eight-cylinder engine.

The Importance of the Car in the Movie

The car plays a central role in “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” It serves as a symbol of Clark Griswold’s determination to have the perfect family vacation, even though everything seems to be going wrong at every turn. From getting lost on back roads to running out of gas in the desert, the car becomes both a literal and metaphorical vehicle for Griswold’s quest to make everything right.

The Car as Comic Relief

In addition to its symbolic importance in the movie, the car also provides plenty of comedic moments. From accidentally dragging Aunt Edna’s dog behind them to losing their luggage and finding it strapped to the roof of the car, the Ford LTD Country Squire becomes a source of hilarious mishaps that keep audiences laughing throughout.

The Legacy of Clark Griswold’s Car

The Ford LTD Country Squire has become an iconic symbol of “National Lampoon’s Vacation” and an enduring part of pop culture history. In fact, replicas of Clark Griswold’s car can still be seen at car shows and events today, as fans continue to pay homage to this classic piece of cinema.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the car Chevy Chase drove in “National Lampoon’s Vacation” was a 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire. From its distinctive wood paneling to its role as both a symbol and source of comic relief in the movie, this car has become an enduring part of pop culture history. So the next time you watch “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” keep an eye out for this iconic vehicle and all the laughs it brings.