Flounders 1956 Lincoln Continental From Animal House
The iconic 1956 Lincoln Continental from the classic comedy film Animal House (1978) has become an integral part of American pop culture. The film, directed by John Landis, is a masterclass in comedic storytelling, and the Lincoln Continental played a significant role in the movie's enduring popularity.
The Car That Became a Star
In the film, the 1956 Lincoln Continental belongs to Flounder, a freshman pledge at the fictional Faber College's Delta Tau Chi fraternity. The car is a symbol of Flounder's wealth and naivety, which makes it a prime target for the mischievous and trouble-prone Deltas. As the story unfolds, the Continental is transformed from a sleek, pristine vehicle to a battered, rusted hunk of junk, mirroring the Deltas' own descent into chaos.
A Star is Born
The 1956 Lincoln Continental's rise to fame was a gradual process. In the early days of film production, the car was simply a prop, chosen for its sleek design and nostalgic value. However, as the movie's script evolved, the Continental became an integral part of the story, with its own distinct personality. The car's transformation from a symbol of wealth to a representation of the Deltas' anarchic spirit added depth to the narrative, making it an unforgettable aspect of the film.
Restoring the Continental
In 2017, a team of enthusiasts embarked on a meticulous restoration project to bring the 1956 Lincoln Continental back to its former glory. The car had been sitting in a storage facility for decades, accumulating rust and damage. The restoration process involved replacing the original engine, transmission, and suspension, as well as meticulously rebuilding the interior and exterior.
The Continental's Impact on Popular Culture
The 1956 Lincoln Continental's impact on popular culture extends beyond its appearance in Animal House. The car has become an iconic symbol of 1950s America, representing a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. Its sleek design and powerful engine have made it a sought-after collector's item, with prices ranging from $10,000 to over $50,000 depending on the condition.
Interesting Facts About the 1956 Lincoln Continental
- The 1956 Lincoln Continental was the first generation of the Mark II series, produced from 1956 to 1957.
- Only 2,996 Continentals were produced in 1956, making it a rare and valuable collector's item.
- The Continental's original price was around $10,000, equivalent to over $90,000 today.
- The car's design was influenced by the 1955 Lincoln Futura concept car, which was later modified to become the Batmobile in the 1960s TV series.
Gallery of Flounder's 1956 Lincoln Continental
FAQ
What is the significance of the 1956 Lincoln Continental in Animal House?
+The 1956 Lincoln Continental represents the wealth and naivety of the character Flounder, as well as the Deltas' anarchic spirit.
How many 1956 Lincoln Continentals were produced?
+Only 2,996 Continentals were produced in 1956, making it a rare and valuable collector's item.
What is the current value of a restored 1956 Lincoln Continental?
+The value of a restored 1956 Lincoln Continental can range from $10,000 to over $50,000, depending on the condition.
Flounder's 1956 Lincoln Continental has become an integral part of American pop culture, symbolizing the excesses and rebellious spirit of the 1960s and 1970s. As a rare and valuable collector's item, the Continental continues to captivate car enthusiasts and film buffs alike.