We don’t mind that it’s not exactly the same as the original, but we do care.
You can say what you want about the automotive performance of the 1970s and 1980s but the 1970s are responsible for some of the most iconic Hollywood cars. While we could write articles on each of them for days, today’s focus is on the ghost-fighting Cadillac. We’re talking about Ecto-1, the 1959 Cadillac Miller Meteor ambulance from Ghostbusters.
You say It’s not a 1959 Cadillac! You’d be right in that assessment. This 1960 model is easily identifiable by its slightly smaller fins and lack of twin bullet lights. This is not an ambulance with windows. It was originally a panel-side hearingse. The big side windows are made of black vinyl with chrome trim to imitate the shape of the window. It’s quite convincing even up close. It’s an amazing build.
This vehicle could be called a tribute car, but not a replica. Bob’s Prop Shop in Las Vegas built the vehicle. As the video shows, 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor ambulances can be hard to find. A complete Ecto-1 costume can set you back over $200,000 so there are many tribute cars to the Ghostbusters film. Your humble author was able to find a white Dodge Journey with all Ecto-1 gear and markings on the roof. You know what? It was the most coolest Dodge Journey ever.
The 1960 hearse was stripped to its core and rebuilt almost entirely from scratch. The original 390 cubic inch (6.4-liter), V8 engine is under the hood, and it produces 325 horsepower (242 megawatts) when new. Modern alternator and cooling systems help the car move along. Yes, lights and sirens are as accurate as they should.
With Ghostbusters now in theaters and Ecto-1 back in the spotlight, don’t be surprised to see more tribute cars out and about. While we love all of them, our hearts will always be attached to the Caddy.