The iconic car from the original 1984 Ghostbusters movie is a heavily modified 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor Futura Duplex. This vehicle, famously known as the ECTO-1, started its life as a combination ambulance-hearse, a type of car known as a "professional car." The filmmakers discovered the rusting vehicle in a Los Angeles junkyard and transformed it into the ghost-catching mobile command center we all recognize.
The modifications were extensive. The roof was raised to accommodate the ghost containment system, and the car was outfitted with an array of fictional equipment like the P.K.E. Meter on the passenger side, a super-trap on the rear bumper, and the prominent Proton Pack rack on the roof. Its distinct appearance is completed by a fresh coat of white paint, the "ECTO-1" license plate, and the classic Ghostbusters logo decals.
The ECTO-1 is more than just a prop; it's a character in its own right, known for its rattling engine and tendency to break down at inopportune moments, adding to the film's charm. The car's specific model details are a point of pride for fans, as it represents a unique piece of automotive and film history.
| Feature | Specification | Note |
|---|
| Base Vehicle | 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor Futura | A "endloader" combination car (ambulance/hearse) |
| Engine | 6.4L V8 | Cadillac's 390 cubic inch engine |
| Movie Debut | Ghostbusters (1984) | Found in a state of disrepair |
| Primary Color | White | Painted for the film |
| Role | Mobile Laboratory/Transport | Carries all the team's gear |
| Fictional ID | ECTO-1 | Name derived from "ectoplasm" |
| Key Feature | Roof-mounted equipment | Includes ghost trap, ladder, and sirens |
