If you’ve ever heard the high-energy sound of “Dixie” blaring from a television speaker, you know the General Lee is about to make an entrance. This bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger, with its iconic Confederate flag paint job and famous “01” on its doors, is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of a television era. For many, it’s the true star of the hit show The Dukes of Hazzard. But have you ever stopped to wonder exactly what car is the General Lee?
What Car is the General Lee? The Mighty Dodge Charger
The General Lee is a 1969 Dodge Charger, a car celebrated for its powerful design and performance. The second-generation Charger, produced from 1968 to 1970, is particularly famous for its muscular fastback roofline and hidden headlights. On the show, the car was almost always seen in motion, performing gravity-defying jumps and spectacular slides. This wasn’t just for show; the Charger’s robust construction and large engine bays made it a perfect candidate for such stunts. Under the hood, the General Lee was typically powered by a massive 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 or a 440 Magnum V8, giving it the raw power needed for those famous getaways.
More Than Just a Paint Job
While its vibrant orange paint is unforgettable, the General Lee’s look was defined by specific modifications. The doors were welded shut, forcing the Duke boys to make their signature entry and exit through the windows. It also featured a push bar on the front, known as a “Dixie” horn, and those famous “01” numbers on the doors and roof. The Confederate Battle Flag on the roof, while a central part of the car’s original identity, has become a subject of significant controversy in later years, leading to its removal from modern merchandise and reruns.
The Legacy of the TV Star Car
The incredible stunts took a heavy toll. It’s estimated that over 300 Dodge Chargers were used and destroyed during the production of The Dukes of Hazzard. This has made surviving, screen-used General Lee cars extremely rare and valuable collector’s items. The car’s enduring popularity has cemented the 1969 Dodge Charger as an American icon, ensuring its place in automotive and pop culture history long after the show ended.
So, while Bo and Luke Duke were the faces of the show, it was the General Lee that truly captured our imaginations. The sight of that orange Charger soaring through the air remains one of television’s most memorable images, a testament to a car that was built for action.
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