Sedans in Movies: The Untold Stories Behind Iconic Car Scenes

‍Sedans are the backbone of the American automotive industry. Let’s take a look back at some of the most popular sedans in movies that ever hit the big screen.

Cars have been part of the movie industry since they were invented. Over the years, many cars have become just as popular (if not more) than the characters or movies themselves. Some of the most iconic sedans in movies include James Bond’s Aston Martin, the Mustang from Bullitt, and more.

Sedans don’t always get the credit and appreciation that they deserve, with sportscars and luxury brands getting all the headlines. But over the years, there have been some iconic sedans in movies that simply will never be forgotten. By looking back at the biggest movies of all time and unforgettable car scenes involving sedans, we’ve come up with a complete list of the most iconic cars you’ve seen on the big screen.

‍Iconic Sedans in Hollywood

Sedans have cruised through the history of cinema, from high-speed chases in action-packed blockbusters to being the unassuming backdrop in family-driven narratives. Whether it's a car chase with a sports sedan pulsing through city streets or a symbolic journey in a small, time-worn family sedan, these four-wheeled stars contribute significantly to a movie’s success and can even attain fame in their own right.

Let’s dive into the most iconic sedans in movies of all time.

BMW 735i from The Transporter

In The Transporter (2002), you witness the precision driving of Jason Statham as Frank Martin behind the wheel of a silver BMW 735i. This action-packed movie shows the BMW as not just a luxury vehicle, but also as a getaway car built for high-speed chases and tight maneuvers. The BMW 735i is emblematic of the film's elegance and efficiency, combining a sophisticated look with the ruggedness needed for intense action sequences.

Audi A8 W12 from The Transporter 2

The sequel The Transporter 2 (2005) introduces you to another level of high-octane action, with Frank Martin upgrading to a sleek black Audi A8 W12. This sedan comes to life in a heart-pounding chase that perfectly showcases its power—6.0 liters, 450 horsepower, and is famed for Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The car encapsulates the fusion of luxury and performance that's central to the film's thrilling escapades.

Subaru WRX from Baby Driver

Baby Driver (2017) thrills you with synchronized driving and music, and it's the Subaru WRX that sets the tone in the opening heist scene. With its rally heritage and a boxer engine growl, the WRX is a sedan that hugs the road as tight as the beats hug the action. This movie revived the Subaru WRX's image as not only a reliable family car but also a vehicle capable of extraordinary feats on the asphalt.

Pontiac Trans Am from Smokey and the Bandit

Experience the chase in Smokey and the Bandit (1977), where the Pontiac Trans Am is more than a car; it's a cultural icon. The black and gold paint scheme of this sedan is as charismatic as the film's star, Burt Reynolds. The Trans Am's roaring V8 and swagger became synonymous with freedom and rebellion, reflecting the spirit of the late 70s. As you’ll see a few times in this list, the Trans Am might be a two-door car, but since it has a spacious interior and large backseat, it still meets the definition of a sedan. So don’t get hung up on the two-door vs four-door discussion!

DeLorean DMC-12 from Back to the Future

The DeLorean DMC-12 takes you on a time-traveling adventure in Back to the Future (1985). This stainless-steel sedan with gull-wing doors became the quintessential time machine. Engineered for the future with a look that still feels modern, the DeLorean was a perfect fit for this sci-fi classic, becoming every car enthusiast's dream of time travel on wheels.

Mustang GT 390 from Bullitt

The 1968 film Bullitt gives you one of the most unforgettable car chases in film history, with Steve McQueen's Mustang GT 390 blazing through the streets of San Francisco. The Mustang's raw power and timeless design are on full display, earning it a reputation as a rugged, performance-driven sedan that's as appealing now as it was then. We almost included the Mustang Boss 429 from the John Wick franchise in this list as well, but felt that Bullitt was just a little bit more iconic when it comes to the most famous movie Mustang of all time.

Dodge Charger Hellcat from Fast 9

Fast 9 (2021) introduces you to the Dodge Charger Hellcat, a beast that matches the film's high-energy and explosive stunts. Known for its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI engine and unparalleled horsepower, the Hellcat embodies the franchise's ethos: faster, more powerful, and utterly thrilling. While these movies might be getting a little more unrealistic with each release, there is no arguing about the incredible cars they’ve used over the years. And the Charger is right up there with the best of them!

Dodge Monaco from The Blues Brothers

The Blues Brothers (1980) presents the Dodge Monaco as 'The Bluesmobile'—a car with a mission from God. This sedan's epic car chases symbolize the film's irreverent humor and the Monaco’s rugged durability, as it effortlessly survives jumps, flips, and a multitude of crashes in a way that would make any car lover cringe and cheer in equal measure.

Chevrolet Camaro from Transformers

In Transformers (2007), the Chevrolet Camaro steals the show as Bumblebee, a sentient robot with a heart. Your introduction to Bumblebee in car form is a moment of pure awe—high-tech, powerful, and protective. This Camaro encapsulates the essence of the Transformers series with its ability to blend in as a stylish modern sedan and stand out as a heroic transformer.

BMW M3 from Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation

The BMW M3 makes a mark in Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation (2015) as Ethan Hunt's choice for a high-speed chase through the streets of Morocco. The M3's reputation for precision engineering and performance is evident as it navigates tight corners and impossible escapes, befitting the high stakes of the film's spy game.

Batmobile (The Tumbler) from Batman Begins & The Dark Knight

In Batman Begins (2005) and The Dark Knight (2008), the Batmobile or The Tumbler takes you into the dark world of Gotham. This isn't just any sedan; it's a military-grade, urban assault vehicle dressed in pure intimidation. The Tumbler’s design breaks away from traditional automotive styles, reveling in its role as the embodiment of Batman’s ingenuity and might.

RoboCop Police Cruiser from RoboCop

"RoboCop" (1987) shows you the future of law enforcement with the RoboCop Police Cruiser. This advanced sedan feels both utilitarian and futuristic, mirroring the cybernetic theme of the movie. The robust design and the ominous appearance of the cruiser underscore the gritty, mechanized justice RoboCop delivers on the crime-ridden streets of Detroit.

Ecto-1 (Ectomobile) from Ghostbusters

You can't miss the Ecto-1 in "Ghostbusters" (1984), where this legendary 1959 Cadillac Miller-Meteor ambulance-turned-ghost hunting machine captures your imagination. The Ecto-1 is beyond just a mode of transport; it's a beloved character, equipped with paranormal detection gear and responsible for the Ghostbusters’ timely arrivals to save the day.

Aston Martin DB5 from Goldfinger

Finally, the Aston Martin DB5 in "Goldfinger" (1964) introduces you to the sophistication of James Bond’s world. The classic lines, the ejection seat, and the hidden gadgets in this sedan are not merely features; they are intrinsic to the debonair and dangerous life of 007. The DB5's elegance and association with espionage have left an indelible mark on cinematic history. Like some of the other cars in this list, the DB5 may only have two doors, but due to its large interior and spacious backseat, it is still considered a sedan!