1968 Dodge Charger

Lot : SP129

1968 Dodge Charger (General Lee) Movie Stunt Car

Auctioned on SUN, 2010-04-09

Auctioned at Classic Car Auction of Toronto – Spring 2010

Sold at $ 3,630

Transmission:

Exterior Color:

Interior Color:

This is the real authentic General Lee stunt car from the Motion Picture “Dukes of Hazzard”. complete with Certificate of Authenticity. One of the World’s Most Famous Cars selling at NO RESERVE ! ! !

In response to the continued popularity of the original television series, filming of Warner Brothers “The Dukes of Hazzard” movie commenced on November 8, 2004 – twenty six years to the day of the first episode of the original TV series. The movie introduced the adventures of the famous “General Lee” along with an all star cast, to a new generation of Duke fans. A double-page feature photo of the car in flight can be found in the August 2005 issue of Hot Rod Magazine, who named The General Lee as the most influential vehicle in the history of hot rodding.

During the TV series six year run, it is reported that over 300 Dodge “General Lee” Chargers dating from 1968 to 1970 were employed in various stunts, jumps and car chases with most being destroyed in the process. Under the direction of stunt coordinator Dan Bradley, a mere 28 various Dodge Chargers were used for the movie’s incredible stunts and action scenes shot in the Clinton, Louisiana area. After filming commenced, many of the stunt car doubles were destroyed leaving a handful of survivors.

This particular 1968 Dodge Charger (Car# 011) was a notable exception reportedly surviving three separate jumps during filming. Known as a “sling car”, this specially modified stunt vehicle was used in some of the film’s most spectacular “flying” sequences. For the big jumps, legendary Hollywood stuntman and specialist Darrin Prescott utilized a unique, gas-powered catapult ramp system that could launch The General over 150 feet into the air, adding an extreme realism to the final shot.

In preparing the car for its gallant role, the original engine and transmission were removed to lighten the load and allow for additional bracing of the undercarriage. Tubular steel cross bars were installed along with a catapult hook, while the passenger interior was stripped of any unnecessary trim, including the instrument panel. Structural reinforcements such as roll bars and additional bracing were added to strengthen the chassis. All opening panels including the hood, doors and deck-lid were welded shut to increase rigidity.

Sporting its famous Big Bad Orange color and hand painted replica of the famous Confederate flag on the roof, the General was ready for battle. The recently released “Dukes of Hazzard” DVD features several behind-the-scenes segments featuring the catapult system and interviews with the stunt coordinators. Off camera, the last “successful” landing was catastrophic for this General, as it received inevitable front end and roof damage. Now considered part of film making history as a stunt veteran, this authentic and documented General Lee offered here would be the centerpiece to any devoted Dukes of Hazzard fan’s collection, or would make for an interesting restoration project.

I’m a knight, like the kind in shining armor
With my polished body gleaming
I’m a fighter and a charger
If trouble comes your way just ask for me
My friends all know me as the General Lee

Excerpt from “The General Lee” by Johnny Cash