Bottom Line Up Front
Stephen King’s 1983 novel Christine turned the modest 1958 Plymouth Fury—originally built only in beige—into a legendary, red‑painted horror icon that still fuels collector demand today.
How Stephen King’s ‘Christine’ Turned the 1958 Plymouth Fury Into a Cult Classic
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Image: How Stephen King’s ‘Christine’ Turned the 1958 Plymouth Fury Into a Cult Classic – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The 1958 Fury was a mid‑size sedan with clean, chrome‑trimed lines typical of late‑50s American cars. In the book and the 1983 film, King described the car as a deep, glossy red with a snarling front grille—nothing like the factory beige. That visual rewrite gave the Fury a sinister personality that car fans still picture when they think “Christine.”
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Key Design Features
- Rounded fenders and twin headlamps
- Chrome‑lined rear deck
- Optional “Fury” badge on the trunk
Performance & Mileage
Under the hood the Fury offered a 273 cu in. V8 delivering about 180 hp. It wasn’t a speed demon, but its smooth V8 and comfortable ride made it a reliable daily driver in the late ’50s. Today the car’s mileage is more about collector value than fuel economy.
Specs at a Glance
| Engine | Mileage | Price (2024) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 273 cu in. V8 | 15‑18 mpg (city/highway) | $35,000‑$45,000 (restored) |
|
Price & Rivals
Before the novel, a 1958 Fury in original condition fetched around $5‑$7 k. After the horror fame, restored models now command $35 k‑$45 k, rivaling other ’50s classics like the Chevrolet Bel Air and Ford Fairlane. The car’s pop‑culture cachet adds a premium that collectors are willing to pay.
Comparisons
- Chevrolet Bel Air (1958) – similar price, but less cinematic appeal.
- Ford Fairlane (1958) – comparable performance, lower collector demand.
FAQ
What is the fuel mileage of the 1958 Plymouth Fury?
It averages about 15 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.
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Is a 1958 Plymouth Fury worth buying for a collection?
If you love classic American design and the “Christine” story, a restored Fury can be a solid investment, especially with the red custom paint.
How did Stephen King influence the car’s value?
King’s novel turned a modest sedan into a horror legend, driving up collector interest and price by roughly five‑to‑six times.
What do you think about the Fury’s pop‑culture rise? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Source: Read Official News