If you’ve ever wondered what car is in the dukes of hazzard, you’re not alone. The famous “General Lee” from *The Dukes of Hazzard* is a modified 1969 Dodge Charger. This bright orange muscle car, with its iconic Confederate flag roof and blaring Dixie horn, became a star in its own right.
It jumped over police cars and creeks, capturing the hearts of viewers worldwide. This article tells you everything about this legendary vehicle, from its specs to its stunts and where you can see one today.
We’ll cover its history, the modifications that made it unique, and its lasting cultural impact.
What Car Is In The Dukes Of Hazzard
The star vehicle of the show is the 1969 Dodge Charger R/T, famously named the General Lee. The Charger was chosen by the show’s producers for its powerful look and performance potential.
Its long hood, fastback roofline, and wide stance screamed Southern muscle. While the show made it famous for jumps, the car was already a respected performer on the street and track.
The 1969 model year was particularly significant for the Charger. It featured a refreshed front end with a hidden headlight grille and new taillights. This gave it a mean, aggressive look that was perfect for the Duke boys’ rebellious adventures.
The Exact Model And Specifications
Not every General Lee was built exactly the same, as over 300 cars were used during filming. However, the standard specification for a screen-accurate General Lee is based on a 1969 Dodge Charger R/T.
The R/T package, which stood for “Road/Track,” included a powerful V8 engine and heavy-duty components. Here are the key specs that defined the General Lee’s performance.
- Engine: Most were powered by a 440 cubic inch Magnum V8, though some used the 426 Hemi or smaller engines for specific shots.
- Horsepower: The 440 Magnum produced around 375 horsepower, giving the car its incredible jump capability.
- Transmission: A 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission was standard, chosen for its durability during stunts.
- Paint: The iconic color was “Orange Blast,” a custom hue that appeared bright red on some TV sets, leading to its common description as “orange.”
- Modifications: All cars were heavily reinforced underneath to survive jumps. They also had the doors welded shut, forcing the actors to climb in through the windows.
Why The 1969 Dodge Charger Was Chosen
The car coordinator for the show, Henry “Hank” James, has explained the choice in interviews. They needed a car that looked fast even when standing still and could handle the brutal stunt work.
The Charger’s unibody construction was actually sturdier than many other muscle cars of the era. Its large engine bay could accommodate big block V8 engines easily.
Perhaps most importantly, the car was affordable to buy in large quantities at the time. The production needed a fleet of them, as stunts often resulted in total wrecks. The 1969 Charger provided the perfect blend of style, strength, and availibility for the show’s demanding needs.
The Iconic Design And Modifications
The General Lee’s look is instantly recognizable. It wasn’t just a stock orange Charger; it was carefully modified to create a unique identity. Every detail, from the painted flag to the missing door handles, served a purpose for the show’s characters and action.
These modifications turned a production muscle car into a pop culture icon. They also presented unique challenges for the drivers and stunt team during filming.
The Confederate Flag Roof Controversy
The most distinctive visual element is the painted Confederate Battle Flag on the roof. In the context of the show, it was presented as a symbol of Southern rebellion against the corrupt county commissioner, Boss Hogg.
The show’s creators, born and raised in the South, stated they intended it as a symbol of general rebellion, not racial prejudice. However, this imagery has become highly controversial and problematic in the decades since the show aired.
Today, the flag is widely recognized as a symbol of racism and oppression. Many replica owners choose to omit the flag or replace it with an American flag or other design. This shift reflects a broader cultural reckoning with the symbol’s meaning.
Key Custom Features And Their Purposes
Beyond the paint job, the General Lee was outfitted with specific features that became part of its character.
- Welded Shut Doors: This was done purely for the visual gag of Bo and Luke Duke climbing in through the windows. It emphasized their unconventional, rule-breaking style.
- The “01” Number: The doors proudly displayed the number 01, signifying the car was “number one” in Hazzard County.
- Dixie Horn: The horn played the first 12 notes of “Dixie,” a Southern anthem. It was used as a signature taunt or celebratory blast.
- Reinforced Frame and Suspension: Hidden from view, the chassis was heavily braced. The suspension used heavy-duty springs and shocks to handle landing from jumps.
- Roll Cage: A full interior roll cage was installed in every stunt car to protect the driver during crashes and rolls.
The Stunt Cars And Their Fate
A common question is, “How many General Lees were there?” The answer is surprising. Over the show’s seven-season run, an estimated 256 to 321 Chargers were used. They were categorized into different types based on there purpose.
Very few of these cars survived intact. Most were destroyed in the spectacular jumps and crashes that defined the show. The fate of these cars is a story of destruction, preservation, and high-value collecting.
How Many Cars Were Actually Used
The production required a constant supply of Chargers. They were purchased from junkyards, classified ads, and used car lots for a few hundred dollars each. The cars were divided into three main categories.
- Hero Cars: These were the pristine, fully detailed models used for close-up shots, promotional photos, and driving scenes that didn’t involve jumps. They had the best paint and interior details.
- Stunt Cars: Built for durability, not beauty. They had full roll cages, reinforced frames, and often simpler engines. Their paint and decals were only as good as needed for the camera shot.
- Push Cars: These were bare-bones shells used for scenes where the car was being towed or was a static prop. They might not even have had an engine.
The Famous Jump Scenes And Destruction
The jumps were the show’s signature. Stunt coordinator Jack Gill and a team of brave drivers perfected the technique. A ramp was placed just out of camera view, and the car would hit it at a precise speed.
Landings were brutal on the cars. Axles bent, frames cracked, and engines were damaged. Most stunt cars were used for only one or two jumps before being scrapped or used for parts. The most famous jump, over the patrol car of Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane, was repeated many times with different cars.
Surviving Examples And Their Value
Today, surviving General Lee cars are extremely rare and valuable collectors’ items. It’s believed only a handful of original screen-used cars exist. Their authenticity is often verified by Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) matched to production records.
At auction, a verified original General Lee can sell for well over $100,000. High-profile sales have reached into the $200,000 to $300,000 range. Accurate modern replicas, built from 1969 Chargers, also command high prices, often between $50,000 and $150,000 depending on quality.
Building Your Own General Lee Replica
For many fans, owning a piece of this history is a dream. Building a replica is a major project that requires significant time, money, and mechanical skill. It’s not just about the orange paint; it’s about capturing the details that make the car authentic.
You have two main paths: a full restoration from a donor car or purchasing a modern kit or turn-key replica. Each has its own challenges and rewards.
Finding A Donor 1969 Dodge Charger
The first and most difficult step is finding a suitable 1969 Charger to use as a base. Rust-free bodies are rare and expensive. You’ll need to check the frame rails, floor pans, and quarter panels carefully for corrosion.
Many builders start with a project car that needs total restoration. The VIN will tell you the original engine and trim, but for a replica, you can modify it as needed. Be prepared for a long search and a high initial cost for a solid donor vehicle.
Essential Modifications For Accuracy
To build a screen-accurate replica, you must go beyond a simple paint job. Here is a checklist of the essential modifications.
- Paint and Decals: Use “Orange Blast” paint. Source accurate “01” door numbers, “General Lee” door lettering, and flag decals (or an alternative).
- Door Handles: Remove the exterior door handles and weld the door seams shut for the correct look.
- Horn: Install a Dixie horn kit, which includes a separate compressor and trumpet.
- Wheels and Tires: The show used American Racing Vector wheels (style VN309) with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires.
- Interior: The seats were typically black vinyl. A roll cage is essential for safety if you plan any spirited driving.
- Engine: While a 440 Magnum is period-correct, many replicas use modern crate engines for reliability, like a 5.7L Hemi.
The Cultural Impact Of The General Lee
The General Lee transcended its role as a TV prop to become a lasting symbol in American culture. It represented freedom, rebellion against authority, and good old-fashioned fun for a generation of viewers. Its influence can be seen in other media, car culture, and ongoing debates about its imagery.
Even with the controversies surrounding it, the car remains a powerful icon of 1980s television and automotive design.
Influence On Car Culture And Media
The show’s success created a massive surge in interest in the 1969 Dodge Charger. Values for the model increased, and it became a staple of car shows and muscle car meets. The General Lee also appeared in countless other forms of media.
It featured in video games like “The Dukes of Hazzard: Racing for Home” and the “Forza Horizon” series. Documentaries and TV specials continue to analyze its stunts and legacy. The car’s design has inspired everything from hot wheels toys to custom truck builds.
Legacy And Modern Perspectives
Today, the General Lee exists in a complex space. For many, it evokes pure nostalgia for a simpler time in television. The sight and sound of the car jumping is an unforgettable piece of childhood memory.
At the same time, modern audiences rightly critique the use of the Confederate flag. This has led to edits in reruns, disclaimer warnings on streaming services, and thoughtful discussions among fans. The car’s legacy is now a blend of admiration for its automotive prowess and a critical examination of its symbols.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind Of Car Was The General Lee?
The General Lee was a modified 1969 Dodge Charger R/T muscle car. It was chosen for its powerful engine, sturdy construction, and aggressive styling that fit the show’s action-packed theme.
How Many General Lee Cars Were Destroyed?
Nearly all of the estimated 256-321 cars used in filming were destroyed. Most were wrecked during stunt jumps and crashes. Only a small number of “hero” cars used for close-ups survived the production.
Can You Buy A Real General Lee From The Show?
It is extremely rare, but possible. Authenticated screen-used cars occasionally appear at high-end auctions or through private sales. They are very valuable, often selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars due to their rarity and pop culture status.
Why Did They Climb Through The Windows?
The doors were welded shut as a distinctive character trait for Bo and Luke Duke. It was a visual gag that emphasized there rebellious, non-conformist nature and became one of the car’s most memorable features.
What Happened To The General Lee After The Show?
Most cars were scrapped. Some surviving cars are in private collections, museums, or occasionally displayed at car shows. A few were also used in the 2005 film adaptation and subsequent reunions.