If you are a fan of the classic holiday movie “Christmas Vacation,” you may have found yourself wondering who currently owns the RV that was used in the film. The iconic vehicle, which played a prominent role in the film’s plot, has become a beloved symbol of the Griswold family’s misadventures.
While it may be disappointing to learn that the RV used in the movie was actually just a prop and not a real vehicle, there is still some interesting information to be uncovered about its whereabouts.
Firstly, it is important to note that there were actually two RVs used during filming. One was a fully functional 1983 Ford Tioga Arrow, while the other was a modified 1972 Condor II motorhome that was used for interior shots.
According to sources, both RVs were purchased by John F. Maura Jr., a collector of Hollywood memorabilia, after filming wrapped. Maura reportedly paid $55,000 for both vehicles and kept them in his personal collection for several years.
In 2014, however, Maura decided to part ways with the RVs and put them up for auction through Profiles in History, a California-based auction house specializing in Hollywood memorabilia. The auction took place on July 28th and 29th of that year and included over 1,100 items from various films and television shows.
The two Christmas Vacation RVs were sold as part of lot #850 for an impressive $40,000. While it is unclear who purchased them at the time, it is safe to assume that they are now in the hands of another private collector or museum.
It is worth noting that while these are the only known functioning RVs used during filming, there were also several other mock-up versions created specifically for stunts and special effects. These mock-up vehicles were not actual motorhomes but rather shells designed to look like them.
So while we may never know exactly who currently owns the Christmas Vacation RV, we can take comfort in the fact that it is likely being well taken care of and preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In conclusion, while the RV used in Christmas Vacation was just a prop, it has become a beloved symbol of the film’s enduring popularity. Although it has changed hands several times since filming wrapped, it remains an important piece of Hollywood history and a cherished memory for fans of the movie.