The Cars That Belong Under The Big Screen
Drive-in theaters have their own little automotive culture, and some vehicles seem almost perfectly suited for the experience. Whether you're sitting in a classic convertible, stretching out inside a massive SUV, or trying to make a tiny hatchback comfortable for two people, the right car can make movie night considerably more enjoyable. You can show up in almost anything, but certain cars seem to appear at drive-ins again and again.
1. Classic Chevrolet Bel Air
A Chevy Bel Air is a great car to pull up to a drive-in if you want to spice up your trip. With its vintage design, it's bound to stand out over any other newer model that may pull into the lot. You are bound to see heads turn if you show up to a drive-in in one.
2. Ford Mustang
A Ford Mustang would be perfect to go see a movie at a drive-in. It's sporty but can still accommodate a night out, and seeing a drive-in is bound to have multiple Ford Mustangs because it's such a popular vehicle. Having a convertible makes this car even better for drive-in movies.
3. Jeep Wrangler
Another car that is great for people who enjoy being outdoors is the Jeep Wrangler. As drive-ins usually allow you to open or completely remove portions of the Jeep, you can have an amazing experience. Just remember that putting everything back together in the dark can be less entertaining.
4. Chevrolet Suburban
If you are packing all kinds of blankets and snacks and friends to come along, a Chevy Suburban will give you that. Being able to see a movie with everyone spread out can make the experience more enjoyable. Families especially appreciate having enough space for both moviegoers and everything they decided to bring along.
5. Ford F-150
With most drive-ins, you have the option to sit in the back of your truck. If you pack some blankets or bring camping chairs, it's perfect for seeing a movie. The F-150's enormous popularity also means you're likely to see more than one during a busy showing.
6. Volkswagen Beetle
A Volkswagen Bug is iconic when pulled up to a drive-in. Not only is it iconic, but it also adds to the whole vibe. A Beetle arriving at a drive-in can look like it belongs there, even if its owner simply wanted an excuse to take the car out.
7. Chevrolet Corvette
Even though this car seems too nice to drive to a drive-in, you will see them. Having the ability to drive a convertible and watch a movie on a nice, clear night is priceless. It will surely turn heads when showing up to the drive-in.
8. Honda Civic
As the Honda Civic is one of the most common cars you will see on the road, it's safe to say you will see it at drive-ins as well. When showing up to the drive-in, the Civic is not hard to park. You might not think of it as a movie-night specialty vehicle, but its sheer popularity makes an appearance practically inevitable.
9. Toyota 4Runner
This is one vehicle that can fit a lot of friends if you want to pack your blankets and snacks to see the movie. Having enough room in the back to see a movie on your own or with friends makes it particularly useful. It's particularly useful when the weather makes sitting outside less appealing.
10. Volkswagen Bus
There aren't many cars that will take you to a drive-in and make it seem funnier than the VW Bus. With this vehicle, you can easily fit everyone who you want to watch the movie with. The distinctive styling also makes it one of the more memorable vehicles in the lot.
11. Dodge Challenger
If you're driving a muscle car, then a Dodge Challenger will give your drive-in experience the best ambiance. It's roomy enough to see the movie and can easily fit a couple. A bright or unusual color can also make the car particularly noticeable once everyone starts arriving.
12. Tesla Model 3
Driving a Tesla Model 3 to the drive-in is different than every other car listed on this list. Not only do you have access to the TV on the Tesla, but you'll have plenty of room inside the car. You may also appreciate the quiet cabin when you're sitting in the parking lot between films or listening to the radio.
13. Ford Bronco
Similar to a Jeep, you can have your windows and doors open and have the best time at a drive-in. One of the many benefits to owning a Ford Bronco is having your top off. It also brings a rugged look that fits nicely with a casual outdoor movie setting.
14. Jeep Grand Cherokee
If you don't like driving a Jeep, then the Jeep Grand Cherokee will do the job just fine. It can hold plenty of room if you're driving to a longer movie and can easily fit your kids. Folding down the rear seats can also create additional space for blankets and pillows.
15. Mini Cooper
Although this car may not fit your party of four when showing up to a drive-in, it can still be fun to show up with a Mini Cooper. Its fun and small size makes it enjoyable when pulling up to the lot. It's also easy to maneuver and park when you're arriving at a busy drive-in.
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16. Cadillac DeVille
This car is perfect to drive up to a drive-in if you want to have a classic night. You can drive around the drive-in after you're done watching and cruise with style. Your car may have more heads turned than the classic cars at a classic car meet.
17. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a practical choice for anyone who wants to combine movie night with a comfortable outdoor setup. Its rear cargo area can accommodate blankets, snacks, and other supplies without much trouble. Fold the seats down, and you've got a useful space for relaxing while the film plays.
18. Ford Bronco Sport
Just like its big brother, the Bronco, the Bronco Sport can be a nice car to drive to a drive-in. With its large cargo space, you can fit all your supplies for the night. Its compact size also makes navigating the rows of parked vehicles relatively straightforward.
19. Chevrolet Camaro
Much like the Challenger, the Camaro can provide you with the fun you desire at a drive-in. Pulling up with an older model can provide you with more heads turning than expected. If you're lucky enough to find an older model, the combination of classic styling and a classic theater setting can be especially fun.
20. Honda Odyssey
The Honda Odyssey might not have the same visual excitement as a classic sports car, but it could be one of the most useful vehicles at the drive-in. Families can take advantage of the spacious cabin, flexible seating, and generous cargo capacity while keeping everyone relatively comfortable. Once the kids are settled with snacks and blankets, you may find yourself wondering why more people don't bring minivans to the movies.
