As we continue our exploration of the most memorable cars in film history, our attention turns to yet another automotive gem from “American Graffiti.” With its impressive line up of legendary automobiles, it’s no surprise that we find ourselves drawn to this classic time and time again.
Dave’s favorite: The Iconic 1955 Chevy 150 from American Graffiti
When it comes to iconic cars in cinematic history, the 1955 Chevy 150 from American Graffiti ranks among the most beloved. Driven by newcomer Bob Falfa, portrayed by a young Harrison Ford before his Star Wars fame, this classic car has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts and film buffs alike. In the movie, Falfa rolls into town, looking to challenge the local drag racing champion, John Milner, and his ’32 Ford Deuce Coupe. But before we go under the hood of the ’55 Chevy, let’s take a look at the history of this famous automobile.
Did you know that the 1955 Chevy 150 made its cinematic debut in 1971’s “Two-Lane Blacktop” before hitting the streets in American Graffiti? Not only was it a two-time movie star but also lent its thunderous roar to audio recordings used to enhance the sound of Bandit’s Trans Am in Smokey and the Bandit (1977). Let’s explore the evolution of this remarkable vehicle throughout its cinematic career.
Two Lane Blacktop’s 1955 Chevy 150
Two Lane Blacktop may not be a household name for casual moviegoers, but racing aficionados recognize this cult classic. Starring James Taylor as The Driver and Dennis Wilson as The Mechanic, the film features the 1955 Chevy 150 as it takes the duo on their cross-country journey, as they attempt to make a few bucks by winning street races.
Gary Kurtz, an associate producer on Two Lane Blacktop, consulted renowned car builder, Richard Ruth about what type of car to use for the movie. Ruth had just built a big block ’55, and after taking Kurtz for a thrilling street racing experience in the San Fernando Valley, Kurtz knew that the ’55 was the car for the movie. Three ’55 cars were built for the film. The main vehicle featured a 454 engine with aluminum heads, tunnel ram intake, dual Holley carburetors, and a Muncie M-22 transmission, and a gray primer finish.
Kurtz was then brought in as a co-producer on American Graffiti. After reading the script, he knew Falfa needed the ultimate street machine – like the car from Two Lane Black Top, prompting him to have two of the ’55 Chevys brought from Universal Studios’ lot to be transformed for the new film.
The Chevy 150’s Epic Transformation for American Graffiti
In the realm of classic cars, the makeover of the Chevy 150 for American Graffiti was quite dramatic. The iconic ‘55 underwent a metamorphosis, featuring a powerful 454 engine with aluminum heads, a Weiand tunnel ram intake, and dual Holley carburetors, making it an absolute beast on the road. But the transformation didn’t stop there – the Chevy 150 was also treated to a sleek black finish, gleaming chrome bumpers, a new hood scoop, stylish chrome smoothie wheels, and a fully outfitted interior – the ultimate “glow-up” from its appearance in Two Lane Blacktop.
What Happened to the ’55 Chevy from American Graffiti?
According to the Jalopy Journal forum, the ’55 “camera car” was sold and modified several times, and eventually purchased by Delmer McAfee of Odessa, Texas, a fan of the film and fellow car-lover, who restored the car to its American Graffiti appearance. The car was then sold at Barrett-Jackson in 2015 for $145,000.
Why American Graffiti’s Cars Hold a Special Place in Our Hearts
The enduring appeal of the cars in American Graffiti lies in how the cars are woven into the narrative, embodying the hopes, desires, and pursuit for adventure of the main characters. These vehicles serve as extensions of the central characters, making it easy for us to connect with them. We long to join Milner in a road race, attend the dance with Steve and Laurie, pull crazy stunts alongside the Pharaohs, and share Curt’s quest for the girl in the T-bird. George Lucas masterfully captures the essence of a bygone American culture, immersing us in that idyllic summer evening of 1962 and evoking a powerful sense of nostalgia. As the end credits unveil the fates of the central characters, it’s a heart-wrenching moment that deepens our connection to these fictional individuals. We’ve become genuinely invested in their lives, and it’s a heartwarming reminder of how these cars remain important to us, not just as vehicles, but as tangible symbols of our dreams and memories.
At Visions Restorations, we share your passion for classic cars, and we are dedicated to offering outstanding classic car restoration services. If you have a vintage ride, like a 1955 Chevy, that needs restoration or customization, reach out to us. Let us bring your classic car visions to life.
Image by Tima Miroshnichenko.