Top 50 TV Cars Of All Time: No. 50, The Twilight Zone

twilight-zone-the-whole-truth-1930-model-a

We are counting down the Top 50 hotrods and street cars of all time that have made an appearance in a television series, or a memorable television episode. Starting from No. 50, and counting down to our No. 1 pick, follow along with our memories, and see where your favorite show lands.

No. 50: “The Twilight Zone,” 1931 Ford Model A

Although a series as popular as “The Twilight Zone” featured countless automobiles in many episodes over its five-year run from 1959 to 1964, there is one episode dedicated to the supernatural power of a 1931 Ford Model A that makes it onto Top 50 countdown.

“You’re traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of imagination. That’s the signpost up ahead — your next stop, The Twilight Zone!” – Second season opening narration by Rod Stirling.

“The Whole Truth” aired in season two as episode 14 on January 20, 1961. Set on a large lot of beaten, used automobiles, an aged, but well-cared for Model A, is the star vehicle of this episode. After buying it from a quiet gentleman (played by George Chandler) for a paltry sum, an insincere, fast-talking used car salesman Harvey Hunnicut (played by Jack Carson) – who often stretches the truth — is pleased as punch at his most recent purchase.

Hunnicut believes he has made a deal of a lifetime, despite the seller warning him that the car is haunted, and compels whoever owns it to tell only the truth. Adding to the drama, the matter-of-fact voiceover narration of Stirling reinforces Hunnicut is a wheeler-dealer and an expert in con-jobs – and is on the threshold of The Twilight Zone, thus preparing us to come along for the ride.

Time and again, the sorcery powers of the Ford jalopy prevents Hunnicut from being truthful to his wife, employees and customers alike, and he cannot help but be compelled be honest and genuine – just as the old man said would happen.

Knowing the malady will only be lifted if he can sell the car to another foolish buyer, Hunnicut contacts the Soviet Embassy and convinces them to visit his dealership, selling the Model A as a tool to combat anti-American propaganda. Little did he know this would have a great effect on the course of history, as the new owner is none other than Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.

Photo from www.imcdb.org

After the sale is complete to the Russians, Hunnicut telephones The White House in Washington, D.C. wishing to speak with Jack Kennedy, who coincidentally, was sworn in as the 35th President of the United States the exact same day this episode aired on television.

We cannot tell a lie; this is one of our favorite episodes.

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