Feb 21 2007

Famous Cars Through History: Herbie

Posted by J. Angelo as Cars, Gadgets

Another car I consider to be famous, particularly in fiction, is Herbie. Though it’s not as intimidating as the Batmobile, loaded as the Ecto 1 or technologically advanced as K.I.T.T., Herbie sure holds his place in the hearts of film and auto aficionados.

Herbie is a Volkswagen Type 1–more commonly known as “Beetle” or “Bug.” “He” is portrayed by a 1967 L87 pearl white Deluxe Sunroof Beetle. Herbie often sports the #53 racing number, and he has been a racing Beetle in most of the films he appeared in.

Herbie first appeared in Disney’s 1969 The Love Bug, in Herbie Rides Again (‘74), Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo (‘77), Herbie Goes Bananas (‘80), and the most recent, Herbie Fully Loaded (2005).

In most of the Herbie movies, Herbie was a racing Beetle. Beetles are commonly used for drag and even circuit racing, particularly because of the easily-modifiable and -replaceable engine. However, what set Herbie apart was that he had a mind of his own. He wasn’t like other television cars who talked, though. Herbie simply acted and moved on his own accord, but did not necessarily “talk” with people. He could drive unlike any racecar driver can, and Herbie often executed unbelievable antics like driving on ceilings, walls, and even jumping over (or on top of) other cars.

Unlike other cars with “intelligence,” one thing sets Herbie apart: he can fall in love. It’s evident in most (if not all) of Herbie’s movies that some other cars also had minds of their own, but did not overtly show this like Herbie did. And in many cases, Herbie falls in love with other cars, such as a Lancia Monte Carlo and even a New Beetle.

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Comments (3)

3 Responses

manilaghia
24|Aug|2007

nice! There’s a Herbie in Manila too
Dirk
14|Aug|2008

Herbie is a wonderful car and the movies are great for fans of all ages!
http://www.lovebugcentral.com is the best fan site on all things Herbie.
This site is dedicated to the “Herbie” The Love Bug movies and all of his fans around the world. We have put together this site to honor Herbie via information, photos, interviews and contributions by Fans.
http://www.lovebugcentral.com
Bob
10|Nov|2009

Whether on the road or the big screen, Herbie the Love Bug is responsible for spreading smiles all over the country. Inspired by the adorable automobile, Operation Herbie is designed to use the popularity of the Love Bug to create awareness of children?s healthcare issues and raise funds for non-profit organizations associated with children battling illness.

Operation Herbie volunteers visit sick children in their homes and help out at events; proving a little goes a long way, as Herbie drivers pose for pictures and hand out memorabilia for families and children going through traumatic times. Founded in 2003, Operation Herbie has helped raise money and awareness for Celiac Disease, The Burn Foundation, and Make A Wish, among others.

“We decided to come up with a group and a Web site. We then got so much feedback from people all over the country who share the love for Herbie as well,” says Bob Croesus of Operation Herbie. “We want to put a smile on children?s faces and raise money at the same time.”

Operation Herbie is always looking for volunteers to help with fundraisers, events, and hospital visits. For more information or if you are interested in volunteering, call 610.657.3101 or visit http://www.lovebugcentral.com

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