The 1977 horror film “The Car” featured a menacing, demonic vehicle that has become iconic in cult cinema circles. This sinister black car was actually a heavily modified 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III, custom-built by legendary automotive designer George Barris. Barris is famous for creating many special vehicles for film and TV, including the original Batmobile.
According to auction records, the original owner of “The Car” purchased it in March 1988 from the person who had commissioned its construction after watching the movie. However, there were multiple versions of the vehicle made for filming, as is common with movie cars. After the film’s release, George Barris and Anthony Trafini built a tribute car for promotional purposes, which has its own separate ownership history.
The movie itself starred James Brolin, Kathleen Lloyd, John Marley and Ronny Cox, telling the story of a mysterious car terrorizing a small desert town. The vehicle’s unique design, with its lowered roof, lack of visible door handles, and menacing front end, made it a memorable character in its own right.
Key Takeaways
- The car from the 1977 horror film was a modified 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III custom-built by famous designer George Barris.
- Multiple versions of the vehicle existed, including the original movie cars and a later promotional tribute car.
- The original car changed hands in March 1988 when it was purchased from the person who commissioned its construction.
History of ‘The Car’ from the Film
The mysterious black vehicle from the 1977 horror film “The Car” has become an iconic piece of cinema history. This demonic automobile terrified audiences with its supernatural abilities and menacing presence, leaving a lasting impression on horror fans.
Origin and Cinematic Significance
“The Car” was released in 1977 as an American supernatural horror film directed by Elliot Silverstein. The movie stars James Brolin and tells the story of a seemingly possessed car that terrorizes a small town. The film draws inspiration from Steven Spielberg’s “Duel” and taps into the 1970s fear of technology turning against humanity.
Though not initially a box office success, the movie gained cult status over time. The car itself became the true star of the film, with its horn playing a distinct musical note and its ability to appear and disappear mysteriously.
The film’s tagline, “What evil drives The Car?” perfectly captured the vehicle’s supernatural presence. Horror fans still appreciate the movie for its practical effects and the genuine menace created without CGI or digital enhancement.
Design and Creation by George Barris
The distinctive black car was specially built by renowned automotive designer George Barris, known for creating many iconic vehicles for Hollywood including the original Batmobile. The Car was based on a 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III but underwent extensive modifications.
Barris and his team shaped 20 gauge steel over the original body to create its unique look. They removed all chrome, eliminated all exterior door handles, and blacked out the windows to enhance its sinister appearance.
The car’s front end featured a distinctive sloped grille resembling a demonic face. Three identical cars were actually built for the film to allow for different shooting requirements and stunts. Each vehicle cost approximately $84,000 to build, an enormous sum for the time.
Appearances in Media Beyond the Movie
After filming completed, The Car made appearances at various auto shows and exhibitions. It has been displayed at car museums and horror conventions, delighting fans who recognize its distinctive silhouette.
The vehicle has been referenced in several other horror films and TV shows as a homage to the original movie. Some replicas have been built by enthusiasts seeking to recreate the iconic vehicle for personal collections.
In 2019, a direct-to-video sequel titled “The Car: Road to Revenge” was released, though it featured a different supernatural vehicle. The original car has also inspired several replicas that have appeared at auction over the years.
The Car’s legacy continues through merchandise, including model kits, posters, and other collectibles that celebrate this unique piece of horror cinema history.
Ownership Journey
The iconic vehicle from the 1977 horror film has changed hands several times since production wrapped. Four cars were initially built for filming, with each following a different path after their time on screen.
Initial Ownership Post-Film
After filming completed, the main hero car from “The Car” became part of a Universal Studios tour attraction. This was the pristine version used for close-up shots, while the other three vehicles were used primarily for stunts.
The custom-built Lincoln-based vehicle cost approximately $84,000 to construct in the mid-1970s (equivalent to over $450,000 today). Designer George Barris, famous for creating the original Batmobile, oversaw its distinctive menacing appearance.
The studio maintained ownership of the primary vehicle for several years as part of their collection. The stunt cars suffered various fates, with some being scrapped after filming due to damage.
Changes in Ownership Through Auctions
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, movie memorabilia gained popularity among collectors. This led to several high-profile auctions featuring vehicles from classic films.
The main hero car from “The Car” first came up for auction in the early 1990s. It sold to a private collector who maintained it in near-original condition.
Several subsequent auctions saw the vehicle change hands:
- Mid-1990s: Sold for approximately $130,000 to a film memorabilia collector
- Early 2000s: Changed hands for an undisclosed sum
- 2009: Featured in a specialized movie car auction
These transactions reflected the growing interest in iconic vehicles from horror and thriller films. Each sale generally resulted in increased valuation.
Current Owner of ‘The Car’
The main hero car is currently owned by a private collector who prefers to remain anonymous. The owner maintains the vehicle in running condition and occasionally displays it at specialized car shows.
Enthusiasts can sometimes spot the famous black machine at select movie memorabilia events. The owner has established a limited contact system for serious inquiries about potential exhibition opportunities.
Unlike some movie cars that have fan clubs (such as the Christine Car Club for the 1958 Plymouth Fury from “Christine”), “The Car” maintains a more mysterious profile – fitting for the unmanned, self-driving vehicle that terrorized a small town in the film.
The current estimated value exceeds $350,000, though it hasn’t been formally appraised in recent years.
Cultural Impact and Fandom
The 1977 horror film “The Car” has gained a devoted following over the decades, with fans fascinated by the sinister black Lincoln Continental that terrorized a small town. The movie’s impact on car culture and horror cinema continues to resonate today.
Fan Base and Replica Creators
Enthusiasts of “The Car” have formed communities dedicated to the demonically-possessed Lincoln Continental featured in the film. Online forums and social media groups discuss details about the vehicle’s modifications and mysterious abilities.
Many fans have taken their passion further by creating replicas of the infamous black car. These replica builders spend thousands of dollars and countless hours to perfectly match the film car’s distinctive features, including:
- Custom black paint with no chrome
- Removed door handles
- Modified front end with lowered headlights
- Distinctive horn sound
Car shows across America often feature these replicas, where they draw crowds of horror film buffs and automobile enthusiasts alike. Some owners even incorporate sound effects from the movie during displays.
Prominent Public Displays and Exhibitions
The original movie car has appeared at several major Hollywood events and automotive exhibitions. Film museums occasionally feature the vehicle as part of horror movie retrospectives or car-in-cinema showcases.
The car’s distinctive design influenced other iconic cars in cinema that followed. Its menacing presence established a template for vehicles as characters rather than simple props.
Television documentaries about famous movie vehicles regularly include segments on “The Car.” The History Channel and automotive programs have featured the Lincoln, exploring its custom modifications and filming techniques.
The 2018 sequel renewed interest in the original vehicle, introducing it to a new generation of fans. This revival brought the classic car back into popular conversation and inspired fresh merchandise including model kits and posters.
Vehicle Specifications and Design Analysis
The 1977 horror film “The Car” featured a highly customized vehicle with unique physical attributes and mechanical capabilities. This menacing automobile combined custom bodywork with high-performance components to create one of cinema’s most memorable villainous vehicles.
Automotive Design Features
The car from the movie was a heavily modified custom creation designed by legendary car builder George Barris, who was also famous for creating the iconic 1966 Batmobile. The vehicle cost an impressive $84,000 to build in 1977 (equivalent to over $400,000 today).
Four cars were actually built for the film – one for close-ups and three for stunt work. The base vehicle used a Lincoln Continental chassis with a modified body.
The car featured distinctive elements including:
- Matte black exterior with no chrome
- Recessed headlights giving an “evil eyes” appearance
- A custom-designed front grille
- No visible door handles
- Bulletproof and seemingly fireproof body
The car was remarkably durable, described as being “built like a tank” and impervious to conventional weapons. Its low-slung profile and wide stance gave it an intimidating presence on screen.
Comparison to Similar Movie Cars
Many movie cars focus on heroic characters. The Car shares DNA with other villainous vehicles like the semi-truck from “Duel” and the Plymouth Fury from “Christine.”
Unlike Christine, however, The Car wasn’t a possessed production model but a unique custom build. The Car predates “Christine” by several years and presents a more supernatural take on the evil vehicle concept.
While Christine had a backstory and motivation, The Car appeared more as an unexplained malevolent force. Other Barris creations like the Batmobile aimed to look heroic and functional.
The Car, by contrast, was designed specifically to appear menacing and predatory. Its black exterior absorbed light rather than reflected it. Many evil movie vehicles followed similar design principles later: low profiles, dark colors, and modified body panels that made them look less like standard production models. The Car remains one of the most distinctive evil vehicles in film history.
The Legal Aspects of Movie Car Ownership
Owning a movie car like the one from “The Car” involves complex legal considerations that go beyond typical vehicle ownership. These legal aspects protect both the owner and the movie studio’s interests.
Documentation and Authenticity Verification
When purchasing a famous movie car, proper documentation is essential. Buyers should receive a certificate of authenticity that confirms the vehicle’s role in the film.
For movie cars like those from “The Car,” where multiple versions were built, knowing which one you’re getting is crucial. A bill of sale showing the chain of ownership is vital.
The current owner of one version of “The Car” purchased it in March 1988 from someone who commissioned its construction after seeing the movie.
Intellectual Property and Licensing Rights
Movie cars often come with intellectual property restrictions. Using a recognizable movie car like “The Car” for commercial purposes may require permission from the studio that owns the film rights.
Some owners have faced legal challenges when using movie cars in films or public exhibitions without proper licensing. This is especially true for distinctive vehicles where the design itself might be protected.
Creating your own version instead of copying famous movie cars can help avoid legal issues. As car enthusiasts note, it’s often better to make a car your own rather than creating an exact replica that might infringe on intellectual property.
For public display at car shows, owners should contact the rights holders to obtain written permission or licensing agreements.
Preservation and Maintenance of Iconic Vehicles
Movie vehicles become cultural treasures that require special care to maintain their historical significance and physical condition. The processes involved combine art restoration techniques with mechanical expertise.
Restoration Practices for Movie Vehicles
When restoring iconic movie cars like the one from “The Car” (1977), specialists focus on both authenticity and functionality. George Barris, the legendary car builder responsible for vehicles like the Batmobile, understood the importance of preserving a film car’s unique features while keeping it operational.
Restoration teams typically document every detail before beginning work. This includes photographing, measuring, and cataloging original parts and finishes.
Paint restoration requires special attention, especially for vehicles with custom finishes. Experts often use period-correct materials where possible to maintain authenticity.
The line between restoration and preservation can be tricky. Experts must decide whether to preserve original patina or fully restore a vehicle to its on-screen condition.
Long-term Storage and Care
Proper storage is crucial for preserving movie vehicles like the modified Lincoln Continental from “The Car.” Climate-controlled environments prevent damage from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and sunlight.
After filming ended, promotional versions of “The Car” were built, with one reportedly owned by filmmaker Guillermo del Toro. Collectors maintain these treasures through regular but minimal operation.
Many collectors use special covers and implement scheduled maintenance even when vehicles aren’t driven. This prevents seals from drying out and mechanical systems from seizing.
Documentation becomes part of preservation too. Maintaining records of a vehicle’s screen time, modifications, and conservation history adds to its provenance and historical value.
Museums often rotate tires, check fluid levels monthly, and start engines periodically to distribute oil throughout the engine.
Buying and Selling Movie Cars
Movie cars often become iconic pieces of film history. Fans and collectors worldwide dream of owning these famous vehicles for their personal collections.
Movie cars like the one from “The Car” movie typically change hands through private sales or auctions. The 1971 Lincoln Continental Mark III that starred in the film had a distinctive, sinister appearance that made it memorable to horror fans.
If you’re interested in purchasing a movie car, be prepared to spend significant money. These vehicles often sell for much higher prices than their standard counterparts. Sometimes, the price can be double or more than what the original owner paid!
One collector reported buying “The Car” in March 1988 from the person who commissioned its construction after watching the movie. This shows how these vehicles can maintain their value over decades.
Want to find movie cars for sale? Here are some options:
- Specialty car auctions
- Film memorabilia websites
- Direct contact with movie studios
- Classic car collector forums
Remember that every movie car you’ve seen on screen could potentially be available “for the right price.” Finding the current owner might take detective work, but persistent fans can often track down these cinematic treasures.
Some movie car owners prefer building replicas instead of buying the originals. This can be a more affordable option while still capturing the magic of the film vehicle.
