Some cars go down in history for their role in blockbuster movies, capturing our hearts with fascinating chases and iconic rides. Each is unforgettable in its own unique manner, be it its aesthetics, symbolism, sheer power, or supporting role in the protagonist’s journey. From James Bond’s magnificent Aston Martin DB5 to several vehicles dominating street races in Fast and Furious, each is celebrated for its impact on popular culture. Here are 14 times cars became stars in blockbuster movies.
1963 Aston Martin DB5
A timeless vintage icon, the 1963 Aston Martin DB5 is an excellent car in terms of performance and its role in a specific blockbuster movie. The 1964 James Bond film “Goldfinger” featured this vehicle with weapons like guns, rockets, and seats capable of ejection. Not only was it able to increase its sales on the surface, but this movie also made the vehicle famous as the Bond vehicle. Representing luxury and sophistication, the reputation of DB5 as one of the most fascinating cars in history lives today, credited to John Stear’s special effects.
1981 DeLorean DMC
The reign of the 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 may have been short-lived, but its role in “Back to the Future” will never be forgotten. Despite its moderate performance, many people were attracted by its gullwing doors and beautiful steel body. While its role as a star in this blockbuster movie is applauded, controversy struck when the founder, John DeLorean, was convicted of drug smuggling charges. Nonetheless, this incident does not overshadow the incredible part when the car is transferred into a time machine in the movie.
1967 Ford Mustang Fastback
The Ford line has been featured in numerous movies, a notable one being “Bullitt.” Naturally, the car was picked for a chase scene due to its extreme performance and driving dynamics. The person who drove this was Steve McQueen, his acting and stunts setting new standards for chase scenes in movies. In 2020, the original Mustang used in the film was sold for $3.4 million at an auction.
1970 Dodge Charger
The 1970 Dodge Charger is featured in numerous movies such as ‘The Dukes of Hazzard,’ ‘Cannonball,’ ‘And Dirty Mary Crazy Larry’ but its best feature has to be ‘Fast and Furious.’This iconic car was driven by Vin Diesel, aka Dominic Teretto. It is one of the greatest ‘Fast and Furious’, capturing the spirit of Toretto as he modifies it after his father has left it behind.
Volkswagen Beetle
From animated movies to real-life depictions, the Volkswagen Beetle is an iconic star in blockbuster movies. These movies include Footloose in 1984, The Arrival in 1996, and, most importantly, the Herbie and Love Bug series. It is one of the cheapest yet most practical cars ever in automotive history—made for the people. In “The Love Bug,” the VW Beetle acted as a comic folly while the OFP 857 and number 53 live on from ‘Herbie.’
1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is best known for its iconic role in the blockbuster movie Smokey and the Bandit, launched in 1977. Burt Reynolds was soon associated with this vehicle and given the nickname ‘Bandit.’ The T-top roof, along with a V8 engine, defined this vehicle at the time and made it famous for its extreme performance. It is said that 3 Trans Am stunt cars were destroyed in the making of this film.
1958 Plymouth Fury
Widely known for its iconic role in the blockbuster movie, ‘Christine,’ the whole plot revolves around repairing a broken 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine. The car is haunted, a narrative adopted from Stephen King’s novel, published in 1983. While it may seem somewhat dull on the surface, considering an evil spirit that has taken over a car, the horrifying scenes in the film will surely make you shiver. Arnie Cunningham, the protagonist who wants to fix it, is unaware of its dark past as several murders have been committed.
1973 Ford Falcon XB GT
The 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT, popularly known as ‘Mad Max’s V8 Interceptor,’ is praised for its role in the movie Mad Max. Premiered in 1979, this vehicle was driven in three movies and evolved into the Pursuit Special. Mel Gibson, who played Max Rockatansky, drives this vehicle, which is the patrol force leader in an apocalyptic world. Alongside character development, this vehicle also undergoes significant changes, which helps the heroes survive.
1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor
Famous for its iconic role in the blockbuster movie Ghostbusters, the 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor is an iconic movie car. However, fans were really upset when they replaced the original 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor used in the latest Ghostbusters film in 2024 with the Ecto-1. Nonetheless, the legacy of the 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor as a star is immortal, popularly referred to as the ‘Ectomobile’, which helps Ghostbusters fight demons.
1993 Jeep Wrangler
Who would have thought that the Jeep Wrangler would be the best vehicle to navigate Isla Nublar, punctuated with Dinosaurs? Contemporary directors would rather use a sports car, but the memories attached to the 1993 Jeep Wrangler in thrilling chases cannot be forgotten. Featured in the blockbuster movie Jurassic Park, this vehicle emerges as a titan that swiftly navigates the rough terrain and assists our protagonists.
1961 Ferrari 250 GT California
The 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California is perhaps the most famous Ferrari. It was featured in the 1986 movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. It is remembered for its aesthetics, performance, and iconic role in this hilarious movie. Even though the movie used a replica, the comedic foil and its striking shade of red cannot be forgotten. In the movie, Buller borrows his friend’s dad’s Ferrari for a day, damaging it and trying to restore it to normal.
1994 Toyota Supra
The 1994 Toyota Supra is another brilliant car, featured in 2001 in the blockbuster, “Fast and Furious.” Powered by a 2JZ-GTE twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine, this vehicle is remembered for the iconic race between Brian O’Conner and Dominic Toretto. The street race was fascinating, and the reactions and cheers of the surrounding spectators enhanced the mood. The sales after the movie were astronomical, having a successful run until being discontinued in 2002.
1966 Ford Thunderbird
The 1966 Ford Thunderbird is not just an ordinary iconic blockbuster star. It carries within itself a profound message. Featured In the movie, ’Thelma & Louise,’ this vehicle symbolizes freedom and resistance against the conventional norms of society. Geena Davis, playing Thelma, uses this vehicle to escape her husband’s tyranny as she goes on an adventure with Susan Sarandon, playing Louise. The themes of sisterhood and women’s empowerment are brought to light even at the movie’s end when they drive off a cliff, refusing to bow down to the patriarch.
Audi R8
The Audi R8 is a favorite of the superhero universe, featuring in movies such as Wolverine and the Iron Man Franchise. Its role in Fantastic Four is also remarkable. This vehicle is a prominent icon in blockbuster movies. Famous for its role in Iron Man 2, this vehicle resonates with Tony Stark’s character—a symbol of luxury and class. A person of that caliber would accept nothing less than a roaring 4.2L V8 engine, living up to his thrilling lifestyle.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
No car company wants to deliver a dud. However, even though companies try their best to deliver excellent cars, some cars turn out to be lemons, breaking down frequently. This creates problems for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
