Barbie Movie Driving Demand for Vintage Cars

The worldwide release of Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie, starring Margot Robbie, has sparked an unexpected trend. Vintage and classic cars, specifically the ones featured in the film, are seeing a surge in popularity. This isn't limited to the collectors' market either; the general public is also showing a growing interest in these classic rides.

The Barbie Effect on Car Searches

The impact of the Barbie movie is evident on online car platforms. Auto Trader, for instance, reported a 120% increase in searches for the "Chevy convertible Corvette" since the release of the film's trailer. This trend extends beyond this specific model, with a significant increase in searches for other vintage cars as well.

Nostalgia Meets Modernity: The Vintage Car Appeal

Many believe the current interest in vintage vehicles reflects a longing for simpler times, when cars were more mechanical than digital. There's a certain charm about these vintage machines that modern, high-tech vehicles can't replicate. This trend is not about speed or fancy features; it's about the joy of driving and the nostalgia these old-school vehicles evoke.

As McKeel Hagerty, CEO of automotive enthusiast brand Hagerty, puts it, "Driving a vintage car is one of the slow hobbies, like gardening. It's about getting outside and doing things with your hands and getting a little dirty."

Barbie's Iconic Corvette

Margot Robbie, as Barbie, drives a custom electric 1956 Corvette in the film. This iconic vehicle is one of the highlights of the movie. The vintage Corvette, painted in a soft shade of pink, features an electric motor similar to those found in golf buggies. It's powered by hidden 12v batteries tucked under the rear passenger seat.

The car is also unique in that nothing on it is 'off the shelf.' Every part was custom-made for the film, resulting in a vehicle that's 23% smaller than the original Corvette. Significantly, the Chevrolet logo on the side of the car features the letters E and V depicted in blue, indicating it's part of General Motors' electric range.

The Power of Product Placement

General Motors (GM) seized the opportunity to use the Barbie movie as a platform to promote its electric vehicles. The film features not only Barbie's pink Corvette but also her boyfriend Ken's EV Hummer. The timing couldn't have been more perfect for GM, which plans to release its first electric Corvette to mark the car's 70th anniversary in 2023.

The Broader Trend: Vintage Cars and The Younger Generation

While the Barbie movie has certainly contributed to the surge in vintage car searches, it's part of a larger trend. More and more younger people are showing interest in classic vehicles. "We're seeing a real shift away from the baby boomer generation to the next generations being interested in cars," notes Hagerty.

The Vintage Car Market: Not Just for the Wealthy

Contrary to popular belief, classic car collecting isn't just for millionaires. There are many affordable options for enthusiasts who are willing to put in the time and effort to restore and maintain these vehicles. "It's not about buying the fanciest thing possible, it's about buying what you can afford and pouring your time and passion into it," says McKeel Hagerty.

The Future of Vintage Cars

According to Hagerty, every car has the potential to become a classic in the future. He explains how cars go through a 'J curve' in value – they depreciate immediately after being bought new, hit a low point, then start to increase in value. In some cases, they even surpass their original purchase price.

The sudden popularity of certain models often stems from their visibility in the media, such as movies or celebrity endorsements. For example, vintage Broncos have recently become hot commodities, a trend that wasn't present 10 or 15 years ago.

Conclusion

The Barbie movie has not only excited fans of the iconic doll but also ignited a newfound interest in vintage vehicles. The film's influence is evident in the rising demand for classic cars, particularly the ones featured in the movie. Whether this trend will continue remains to be seen, but for now, Barbie's magic has extended beyond the silver screen and onto the road.