This 1990 Ford LTD Country Squire is the high-zoot wagon of choice, with the full complement of wood paneling and leather. Not only that, this one also features the heavy-duty trailering package, which added the “K”-code 3.55 rear axle with a limited slip, dual exhaust, upgraded cooling capacity, and more. It remains in survivor-grade condition with a nicely preserved interior and under 100,000 miles. Find it here on eBay where bidding is over $3K and the reserve is unmet.
Check out the rear spoiler – this wagon had everything. The trailer package really gives this wagon some extra appeal, as it has the ability to haul and tow, which makes it as practical as it is iconic. The powertrain – the venerable 5.0L 302 V8 – is about as American as you can get, and the obvious association with National Lampoon makes it a fan favorite of every age.
Thankfully, this example is nothing like the one immortalized on the silver screen. The leather seats appear to be in excellent condition despite the mileage being well beyond time-warp status. The seller notes the “Light Sandalwood” surfaces remain soft to the touch, and he doesn’t believe the rear seat was ever used. Door panels and carpets are said to also be in excellent shape.
Under hood, someone has done a nice job detailing the engine, which presents well for having close to 100K miles on it. The seller notes it has been driven sparingly since 2014 and still retains the date-coded Motorcraft spark plug wires from 1990 (not sure that’s a selling point.) Still, it emphasizes how original this Country Squire remains, which makes it a standout.
The National Lampoon car was a Buick Roadmaster, wasn’t it? Anyway…I always thought this gen of FORD looked very CHEVY-like.
According to reputable movie websites, the Griswold Family Truckster was a customized 1979 Ford LTD Country Squire
No it was a modified Ford Country Squire.
Good thing there’s a rear spoiler to keep those back wheels firmly planted on the interstate! :)
…AAANNNDDD keep the dust off the rear window!!
I think the purpose of the rear spoiler was actually to help divert dirt from the back window.
“If you think you hate it now, Wait till you drive it!”
Wasn’t granny strapped to the Truckster’s roof?
Aunt Edna!
Getting harder and harder to find a nice one of these! Wish I had money to buy it!
Trailering package but no hitch?
I believe that spoiler was intended to direct air flow down to push the exhaust away from passengers who sat in the rear jump seats when the tailgate window was open
White just doesn’t look good on these, too bad it’s not a dark color to really make the interior pop.
In your opinion…
That rear spoiler is actually an air deflector. The idea is that because of the shape of the body, the rear window would get really dirty really fast. In theory, the air deflector would force air down the back of the car, keeping that window clear. It sorta worked, but not well.
I had the Mercury version of this car on my lot years ago when I still had a used car lot. I took it home one night, loaded it up with 9 other friends that night & we all went bar hopping. Good times!
I had several of these over the years when the kids were young. Both my wife and I enjoyed the ride, performance, versatility, and fuel economy. I always thought the 1966-1970 were the best looking years. Unfortunately it is almost impossible to get any exterior or trim replacement parts since 1991 was the last year they were made.
When you want the high money on your car, get it tuned up and get the A/C up and running. Make sure everything else works as well. Good looking wagon.
I agree Tim.
and no dog leash hanging off back bumper ???