Halloween is just around the corner! 🎃 What better way to celebrate than by checking out some of cinema’s most iconic cars from classic horror films?
From 👻 ghoulish classics to unforgettable thrillers, these vehicles set the scene in some of our favourite spooky movies. Want to drive a modern take on these Halloween cars? Read on! 🚗
👉 Hocus Pocus
Although the villainous comedic trio of witches steal the opening of the film, the real hero is the 1991 Ford Explorer.
This mid-sized SUV was a hit in America in the early ‘90s, competing with popular models like the Jeep Cherokee. Available in both 3-door and 5-door versions, it came with a 4.0L V6 engine and became the best-selling SUV in history.
Want to grab a modern equivalent? The new Ford Explorer is set to hit the UK market in late 2024 (for pre-orders only), but here are some options you can find now:
In this Michael Myers classic, the film showcases the 1978 Ford Country Squire Wagon, an iconic family car featuring a powerful 429 V8 engine and a spacious interior. This wagon became one of America’s best-selling models in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Interestingly, the station wagon was made to carry people and luggage to and from the train station, hence the large number of seats available and gigantic boot! There’s no actual like for like comparison as these cars paved the way for hatchbacks, estates and SUVs, such as:
The eccentric Addams family has an unforgettable car: the 1933 Packard V-12.
With its dark, vintage vibe, the Packard fits right in with the Addams’ gothic aesthetic. This luxurious car was a popular choice in the 1930s, competing with Cadillac. 🖤 It was considered one of the finest luxury automobiles built in the US, featuring 160 horsepower and a three-speed manual transmission.
The 1977 Volvo 245 – one of the safest cars ever produced – ironically kills our first couple in this film! This car was produced with long trips in mind, with a high ground clearance and large volume of luggage compartments.
The second notable vehicle was the sleek Porsche 928 from 1987, representing the stylish chaos that Beetlejuice brings. It was a unique car set to replace the 911, however, the 911 lived on! The 928 was the brands flagship vehicle for many years though and was the fastest naturally aspirated production car!
We’ve all heard of Freddy Krueger, but did you know that the real star is the 1958 Cadillac Series 62?
This car is famous for its classic shape and luxurious feel. Its appearance in this horror classic cements its status as an iconic piece of cinema history.
A Cadillac is infamous in cinematography, featuring in Nightmare on Elm Street, Scarface, and The Godfather, to name a few. Its iconic shape has set the tone for what we Brits think of as a classic American car.
Heeeere’s… Johnny. Wait, no, heeeere’s the 1973 Yellow Volkswagen Beetle Sedan.
Everyone recognises the Beetle with its unusual shape, but did you know that it was commissioned in the 1930s by Adolf Hitler? It was seen as the "people's car"; an affordable, practical, and reliable vehicle which became a symbol of the 1960s.
What an excellent day for a 1972 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE.
This car would’ve driven you out of Regan at the time, with its four-door saloon and a 3.5L V8 engine. This car exudes elegance with luxurious wood and leather interior, and unique body shape.
Although Psycho was produced as a low-budget film with cost cuts throughout, there is the opposite is said about the film's car, the 1956 Ford Thunderbird.
A classic car is known for its sleek design and sporty performance, with boot space and a rear-mounted spare tyre. This was Ford's pursuit into sports car territory, and they produced this vehicle for 50 years!
In this terrifying tale, a 1972 Ford pickup truck is used by the characters, representing the rough, rural setting of the film. Its ruggedness matches the horror that unfolds, making it a fitting vehicle for such a gruesome story.
This pickup carries a chilling story that drives fear into the hearts of viewers! 🔪
Jaws may be more famous for being in the ocean, but the film features a 1975 Chevy Blazer, which embodies the rugged spirit of the coastal town.
Its sturdy design makes it a fitting choice for characters navigating the dangers that lurk both on land and in the water.
This Blazer may not hunt sharks, but it sure knows how to handle rough waters! 🦈
The classic blood red car in Carrie is the 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle, a classic muscle car.
This mid-sized vehicle was Chevrolet's most successful vehicle, with several versions of this over the years.
Another convertible on our horror list is the 1967 Ford Mustang convertible.
This stylish car was built wider and longer than previous iterations, giving it a strong road presence. It had 320 horsepower and masses of interior space for comfort.
This modern classic sees Toni Collett drive a Volvo XC70 generation 3, a five-door estate that combines luxury and functionality.
Perfect for families, or driving away from killers, the Volvo was built with long-distance in mind, with comfortable seats and ample boot space.
These iconic cars are more than just vehicles; they are integral to the stories they help tell, adding character, ambience, and even a bit of fright! As you prepare for Halloween, consider taking a ride in a modern equivalent of these cinematic legends. Who knows, maybe you'll feel a bit of that movie magic along the way! 🚘✨. Has this whet your appetite for a new car? Find your next car and get finance all in one place, with no impact on your credit score.