If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, there’s no doubt that you remember the iconic RV that the Griswold family drove to visit their relatives in. But what type of RV was it exactly? Let’s dive into the details!
The Griswold Family RV
Throughout the movie, the Griswold family is seen driving a large, beige-colored RV with wood paneling on the sides. The vehicle is quite large and features a distinct rounded front end. This type of RV is known as a Class A motorhome.
Class A Motorhomes
Class A motorhomes are one of the largest types of recreational vehicles on the market. They are typically built on either a commercial bus chassis or a specially designed motorhome chassis. These vehicles can range in size from 26 to 45 feet long and can weigh up to 30,000 pounds.
Fun Fact: Class A motorhomes are often referred to as “land yachts” due to their size and luxurious amenities.
The Specific Model
The exact make and model of the Griswold family RV has been a topic of debate among fans for years. Some have speculated that it was a 1972 Condor II, while others believe it was a 1975 Winnebago Chieftain.
However, according to an interview with Randy Quaid (who played Cousin Eddie in the movie) on Inside Edition, the RV used in filming was actually a custom-built prop made specifically for the movie. The vehicle was created by modifying an existing motorhome with additional features like an extended roof and fake wood paneling.
- Extended Roof: The roof of the prop vehicle was raised several feet higher than normal to accommodate Cousin Eddie’s living space on the top.
- Fake Wood Paneling: To give the RV a more rustic, woodsy look, the prop designers added faux wood paneling to the exterior.
- “Sewage” Tank: One of the most memorable scenes in the movie involves Cousin Eddie emptying his “sewage” tank into a storm sewer. In reality, this was just water with food coloring added for effect.
The Legacy of the Griswold Family RV
The Griswold family RV has become an iconic symbol of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and has even inspired its own line of merchandise. From Christmas ornaments to t-shirts, fans of the movie can now own a piece of this beloved movie prop.
So there you have it – while there may be some debate over the exact make and model of the Griswold family RV, we do know that it was a custom-built prop designed specifically for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Regardless of its origins, this iconic vehicle will always hold a special place in our hearts as a symbol of holiday cheer and family togetherness.