Stories Behind Iconic Movie Cars
Motorin’
Along with the briefcase from Pulp Fiction, or the One Ring from The Lord of the Rings, some of the most iconic props in movies are cars. While they’re usually recognizable for their looks or function, audiences may not know that many of these vehicles have just as interesting stories behind the scenes.
RoboCop: 6000 SUX
The director of RoboCop, Paul Verhoeven, decided he wanted a Ford Taurus to serve as the model for the movie’s law enforcement cars after he saw one pass by the set. He also gave the villains’ cars the model “6000 SUX” as a dig at the Pontiac 6000, the Taurus’ competitor. Sometimes car companies have to do their own work, though.
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The Spy Who Loved Me: 1976 Lotus Esprit Series I
When it comes to product placement, the James Bond franchise is a car manufacturer’s dream. For The Spy Who Loved Me, the PR Manager of Lotus parked their new model right in front of the producers’ offices without any branding to entice them. It wasn’t long until the producers figured out it was a Lotus, contacted the company, and secured a vehicle for the movie.
Smokey And The Bandit: 1977 Pontiac Trans Am
Although the Trans Am seen in Smokey and the Bandit wasn’t anything too new, the movie’s release pushed its fame to even greater heights. In the following year, sales for the Trans Am jumped up by almost 25,000 units! Pontiac was no doubt a fan of the movie, just like the makers of this next car.
Back To The Future: 1981 DeLorean DMC-12
It’s no secret that the DeLorean Motor Company wasn’t doing so great before Back to the Future came out. However, after the movie’s success thrust the car back into the spotlight, John DeLorean sent a letter to the filmmakers to thank them. It’s not the only time-traveling car, though.
