MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - “So, we’ve only had it about 4 weeks right now. But you can tell the detail from the hood ornament to the license plate where he bought the vehicle to the trim... to the color -- the color is spot on,” said Craig Rowley.
Craig is a self-described car enthusiast. Showing off his latest purchase -- complete with wood paneling and trim -- the Ford LTD Queen Wagon -- better known as the “Family Truckster” from National Lampoon’s Vacation.
“It definitely takes you back,” said Craig.
From the Wally World bumper sticker to the vintage luggage up above -- this nostalgic ride is all about the details.
“Craig: Got Aunt Edna on the roof... Lee: hanging out... Craig: Oh yeah... Poor thing. (Laughs).”
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Craig runs the “Battle in Bama” and Grand Finale Car Shows and recently purchased the replica from a friend in Arkansas.
“Everybody that passes stops and takes pictures -- takes pictures with their families,” said Craig.
“My initial thought was just a smile -- I said I can’t believe it is just parked out here. And we were dropping off my wife’s car -- and I said I’ve got to go over there and get a picture. My initial thought was it’s the Vacation Car. Yeah -- because it is,” said Michael & Patricia Mark.
The car also has some Vacation movie memorabilia.
“Some of the cast members signed everything -- Cousin Eddie -- he signed it. Randy Quaid. Christie Brinkley... We didn’t get her to sign it... We wish.” said Craig.
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Needless to say -- Craig is a big fan!!!
“The best thing in that movie was -- if you hate it now -- wait until you drive it. That part just gets me,” said Craig.
So how does it drive??? -- Craig starts her up. Purring like a kitten -- we’re off!
“Riding around -- it’s hilarious,” said Craig.
It’s a comfortable ride with all the modern conveniences.
“Lee: It has heat! -- Craig: oh it does. It works!” -- Much needed today as we rolled through McGowin Park!
“The fun thing is cruising down the highway -- that’s the best,” said Craig.
Vacation fans were not hard to spot! Lots of thumbs up -- double takes -- and of course phones out -- most will double back to take a second look!
“Craig: This is a fan vehicle -- this is a Family Truckster. -- Man: I love it. (Laughs). So, I couldn’t resist -- when I saw it... I’ve got to turn around. The guy in the car with me is like what are you doing? -- It’s the freaking Griswolds man -- I’ve got to turn around.”
But not everyone is a fan. -- “Craig: “I asked my son if he wanted me to take him to school -- he said no -- no we’re good. Lee: He said no? -- Craig: No... (laughs). Lee: A hard no. -- Craig: A hard no.”
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That’s okay -- there’s plenty of folks who will stand in line for a photo op.
The Family Truckster is set to make its debut -- next weekend at the “Grand Finale Hot Rod, Truck & Bike Show in Houma, Louisiana (December 12-14 at Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center).
Craig says after the car show -- he plans to put it out as a Christmas display.
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