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2026 Volkswagen Tiguan ReviewCars in Popular Romance Movies
From sleek sports cars to quirky classics, the vehicles in these films help tell each love story in a unique way.Movies and cars have always shared a special connection, one that goes beyond simply getting characters from place to place. In romantic films, the right vehicle can deepen the emotion of a scene, reflect the personalities of a couple, or even play a leading role in the plot. From sleek supercars to rugged off-roaders, film history is filled with unforgettable rides that help shape heartfelt moments audiences return to again and again.
Pretty Woman – 1989 Lotus Esprit SE
Leading man Edward first picks up leading lady Vivian in his silver 1989 Lotus Esprit SE. The sports car features pop-up headlights, a 5-speed manual transmission, and a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Later in the film, Vivian also takes the Esprit for a spin, struggling with the pedals. The exotic styling of the vehicle emphasizes Edward’s upscale lifestyle and boosted Lotus’ visibility in the United States market at the time the film was released.
Dirty Dancing – 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe
In the movie, Johnny Castle, drives a black 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Sport Coupe. This 1950s-era American muscle car features rear tail fins, a gold grille, and a powerful V8 engine. In the film, Johnny locks his keys inside the car and smashes the window with a pole to get in. Johnny and Baby, his love interest, can be seen throughout the film with the Chevrolet Bel Air.
50 First Dates – 1973 Volkswagen Thing
In 50 First Dates starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, Barrymore’s character Lucy drives around Hawaii in a 1973 Volkswagen Thing. Lucy and Henry embark on a journey of 50 first dates since Lucy has short‑term memory loss and forgets him day after day. The vehicle is spotted throughout the film, as Lucy uses it as her everyday mode of transportation. The Volkswagen Thing has a 1.6L flat‑four engine, a 4‑speed manual transmission, and a top speed of 68 mph. Its quirky design matches Lucy’s carefree personality, and its open‑air capability connects visually to the laid‑back Hawaiian setting.
When Harry Met Sally – 1976 Toyota Corona Station Wagon
A 1976 Toyota Corona Station Wagon serves as the setting for the very early stages of Harry and Sally’s relationship in When Harry Met Sally. The two embark on a cross-country road trip with the 2.2L 20R engine, 96 horsepower, four-door station wagon. While being confined to the interior of the vehicle during their trip, the audience gains insight into the start of their long, intertwined relationship. The simplicity and practicality of the Corona provide a relatable backdrop that keeps the focus on the characters’ dialogue and budding connection.
The Notebook – 1946 Hudson Super Six Club Coupe
Allie Hamilton goes on a journey reconnecting with her past love Noah in the 2004 film The Notebook. The dark-colored 1946 Hudson Super Six Club Coupe serves as a bridge between Allie’s past and present lives. The Super Six is a six-passenger vehicle with a 3.5L engine. In the film, the car appears stylish and luxurious, though not overly flashy, to emphasize the well-off lifestyle that Allie is currently living. Its refined interior helps convey the elegance associated with Allie’s world, while its classic design adds to the movie’s romantic, nostalgic aesthetic.
The Love Bug – 1963 Volkswagen Beetle
Over 20 different Volkswagen Beetles were used in the filming of The Love Bug, but the primary car used is a modified 1963 Volkswagen Beetle Deluxe Ragtop. Named Herbie, this Bug is the main character in the plot with red and blue racing stripes and a 4‑cylinder engine. At the end of the film, two of the main characters, Jim and Carole, are whisked away on their honeymoon by a rebuilt Herbie. The Beetle’s unique shape and small size help give Herbie his personality in the film.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days – 1998 Ford Crown Victoria
In How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Andie Anderson plans to get Ben Berry to dump her in 10 days, while Ben tries to get Andie to fall in love with him in 10 days. Their plans to fool each other backfire, and the movie ends with Ben chasing down Andie’s 1998 Ford Crown Victoria taxicab on his motorcycle. This legendary Ford sedan is equipped with a 4.6L V8 engine with significant interior room and cargo space, making it the perfect choice for New York City cab.
Anyone But You – 1969 Land-Rover 109
The 2023 film based on a Shakespearean classic and filmed in Australia includes a few noticeable vehicles. In one standout scene, the two main characters, Bea and Ben, put on a romantic moment trying to sell their fake relationship to their families. Ben helps Bea get out of the back of a 1969 Land-Rover 109 Series IIA. This four-wheel-drive vehicle typically utilized a 2.25L four-cylinder engine with a 4-speed manual transmission. The vintage charm of the vehicle adds character to the scene.
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