If you’re a fan of the holiday classic “Christmas Vacation,” you might recall a scene in which Chevy Chase’s character, Clark Griswold, brings home an enormous station wagon as his family’s Christmas gift. But what year was that wagon?
After some research, it’s been determined that the station wagon featured in “Christmas Vacation” was a 1989 Ford LTD Country Squire. This particular model was part of the eighth generation of Ford’s Country Squire line, which ran from 1979 to 1991.
But why did the filmmakers choose this car for the movie? The answer lies in its iconic appearance. With its wood paneling and boxy shape, the Country Squire epitomizes the classic American station wagon.
In fact, the Country Squire was so beloved by Americans that it inspired countless imitations from other car manufacturers. But despite its popularity, sales of full-size station wagons declined throughout the 1980s as consumers began to favor minivans and SUVs.
Still, the Country Squire remains a cultural touchstone for many Americans who grew up riding in these cars with their families. And thanks to “Christmas Vacation,” it will always have a special place in holiday movie history.
So next time you watch Clark Griswold navigate his way through holiday chaos in his trusty station wagon, you’ll know exactly what year it is!