Are you a fan of the classic comedy movie “National Lampoon’s Vacation”? If so, you probably remember the iconic car that the Griswold family drove on their cross-country road trip to Walley World. The car in question was a 1979 Wagon Queen Family Truckster, which was a modified version of the Ford LTD Country Squire.
The Design of the Car
The Wagon Queen Family Truckster was designed to be a parody of American station wagons from the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its design was intentionally over-the-top and exaggerated, with features like wood paneling, oversized headlights, and an absurdly long body. The car’s bright metallic pea green color was also a deliberate choice, meant to stand out onscreen.
The Modifications
To create the Wagon Queen Family Truckster, filmmakers started with a 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire station wagon and added numerous modifications. These included:
- Custom fiberglass body panels to extend the length of the car
- A fake wood paneling finish applied using vinyl stickers
- Additional headlights and taillights added for comedic effect
- A giant metal grille on the front of the car
- A luggage rack mounted on top of the car, complete with garish green straps
The Legacy of the Car
Despite being a fictional creation for “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” the Wagon Queen Family Truckster has become an enduring cultural icon. The car has been referenced in numerous other movies and TV shows over the years, and even inspired a real-life replica built by custom car builder George Barris.
Conclusion
So there you have it – everything you ever wanted to know about the car in “National Lampoon’s Vacation.” From its ridiculous design to its enduring legacy, the Wagon Queen Family Truckster is a true pop culture classic. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that this car is a symbol of the outrageous humor and irreverent spirit that made the movie such a beloved classic.