9 of the Most Iconic Vehicles from Movies & TV

Some vehicles are immediately recognizable. From high octane action scenes from films or iconic scenes of your favorite television shows, these vehicles have earned a place for themselves in film and television history.

From time-traveling DeLoreans to ghost-hunting ambulance units to computer-driven muscle cars, they are more than transport, they are personalities unto themselves.

Whether it’s Batman’s Batmobile tearing its way through Gotham, KITT’s technologically advanced repartee with Michael Knight, or General Lee’s aerial stunts in Hazzard County, each car holds a place of pride in entertainment history. Each of those vehicles was painstakingly crafted to impress, inspire, and ignite our imaginations.

Come to this gallery to relive legendary scenes, be amazed at car brilliance, and pay tribute to vehicles that helped define franchises as well as generations of popular culture.

The DeLorean DMC-12 from Back to the Future is arguably the most iconic time machine in pop culture. With its stainless steel body and gull-wing doors, it's instantly recognizable. Doc Brown’s modifications added a flux capacitor and a nuclear reactor, enabling time travel at 88 miles per hour. The car made its cinematic debut in 1985 and has remained a beloved symbol of science fiction. Key scenes include the lightning strike at the clock tower and the wild ride to 1955. Its reappearances in sequels helped solidify its legendary status. Fans still flock to replicas at conventions. The DeLorean is as much a character as Marty McFly or Doc Brown themselves. It’s a nostalgic symbol of retro-futurism.

The Batmobile has seen numerous iterations, but two stand out: the sleek art-deco inspired 1989 Tim Burton version and the Tumbler from Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. The 1989 model was long and menacing, loaded with gadgets like machine guns and a self-destruct mechanism. The Tumbler, by contrast, was a military-grade tank designed for high-speed chases and evasive maneuvers, complete with a Batpod escape motorcycle. Both versions reflect Batman’s dual nature: theatrical and tactical. They're iconic for their screen presence and their roles in dramatic action sequences. The Tumbler’s roof jump in Batman Begins and the Joker chase in The Dark Knight are unforgettable. These vehicles are integral to Batman's cinematic mythology.

The Ecto-1 is a 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor ambulance converted into the ghost-hunting mobile of choice for the Ghostbusters. It’s easily identified by its siren, rooftop gadgets, and the classic Ghostbusters logo on the doors. First seen in the 1984 film, it combines retro style with paranormal sci-fi flair. Its loud, wailing siren and weathered exterior add to its character. The Ecto-1 has become a pop culture icon, appearing in sequels and the recent Ghostbusters: Afterlife. It plays a central role in mobilizing the Ghostbusters for supernatural emergencies. Few movie cars have more personality. It represents the scrappy, DIY vibe of the original team.

KITT (Knight Industries Two Thousand) is a highly advanced, AI-powered car featured in the 1980s TV show Knight Rider. Built on a 1982 Pontiac Trans Am, KITT featured self-driving capabilities, turbo boost jumps, and a talking voice interface, all decades ahead of their time. Voiced by William Daniels, KITT served as both a partner and protector to Michael Knight, played by David Hasselhoff. Its sleek black finish and red scanner light made it instantly iconic. The car symbolized futuristic tech and justice. KITT’s personality and interactivity made it more than just a vehicle—it was a co-star. Its design continues to influence sci-fi car concepts.

The General Lee is a bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger from the TV show The Dukes of Hazzard. Known for its Confederate flag roof, '01' door decals, and horn that plays 'Dixie,' it was famous for high-speed chases and daring jumps. Driven by Bo and Luke Duke, it symbolized rebellious Southern charm and became a pop icon despite modern controversy. Its unforgettable stunts made it a standout.

The Mystery Machine is the psychedelic van used by the Scooby-Doo gang. With its teal paint, orange flowers, and groovy aesthetic, it's a classic symbol of the 1970s. It serves as the transport and base of operations for Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scooby-Doo as they solve mysteries. Often seen fleeing from ghosts, the van is as memorable as the characters themselves.

Herbie is a 1963 Volkswagen Beetle from Disney's The Love Bug series. It has a white paint job, red-white-blue racing stripes, and the number 53. Herbie is sentient and can drive itself, often performing wild stunts and showing human-like emotions. Its charm and loyalty helped it win races and fans over several decades.

The Interceptor is Max Rockatansky’s 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT Coupe in the Mad Max series. Outfitted with a supercharger and built for survival, it's an icon of post-apocalyptic cinema. Gritty and powerful, it mirrors Max’s descent into a brutal world. Its aggressive silhouette and throaty roar make it unforgettable.

James Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 debuted in Goldfinger and is famed for its style and gadgetry. The silver coupe features machine guns, ejector seat, and rotating license plates. It returned in modern Bond films, driven by Sean Connery and Daniel Craig. The DB5 is synonymous with suave danger and luxury.