Jay Leno Unveils New Restored Wraith with Jeff Dunham
New Revelations: Jay Leno & Jeff Dunham Unveil The Wraith, the Ultimate Movie Car
Jay Leno and Jeff Dunham have once again united their love for cars and comedy to bring us an episode that no car enthusiast or movie buff should miss. This time, they’ve got their hands on one of the most mysterious and iconic cars to ever grace the silver screen—the Dodge M4S, famously known as “The Wraith.” This legendary vehicle, featured in the 1986 cult classic film The Wraith starring Charlie Sheen, isn’t just another movie prop; it’s a piece of automotive history, brought back to life through meticulous restoration. Let’s dive into this unforgettable episode from Jay Leno’s Garage and explore why this car continues to captivate audiences decades later.
A Cult Classic Reborn
For those who grew up in the ’80s, The Wraith isn’t just another action-packed movie; it’s a nostalgia-laden gem. The Dodge M4S, which stars as the Wraith in the movie, is not just a visual spectacle, but a technological marvel of its time. With a design that screams futuristic, even by today’s standards, this car was ahead of its time. Built by Dodge as a prototype, the M4S was never meant to see the light of day beyond the movie screen. However, its sleek lines, low-slung body, and incredible performance made it an instant legend.
Jay Leno, a well-known car collector and historian, has a penchant for unearthing these automotive treasures and bringing their stories to life. In this episode, he’s joined by Jeff Dunham, a fellow car enthusiast and comedian, who shares Jay’s deep appreciation for rare and unique vehicles. Together, they embark on a journey to explore the history and engineering behind the Wraith, taking viewers along for a ride that’s both educational and entertaining.
The Wraith: More Than Just a Movie Prop
The Dodge M4S wasn’t just another car; it was a statement. Built by Dodge in collaboration with PPG Industries, the M4S was a pace car prototype designed to showcase advanced technology. It boasted a mid-engine layout and a twin-turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine, which was capable of producing a jaw-dropping 440 horsepower. In an era where most cars struggled to hit 200 horsepower, the M4S was a beast that could reach 194 mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
Jay and Jeff delve deep into these technical details, highlighting the engineering brilliance that made the M4S so special. From its aerodynamic design to the innovative use of lightweight materials, every aspect of the car was crafted with performance in mind. But what truly sets this car apart is its backstory—the way it captured the imagination of moviegoers and car enthusiasts alike, becoming a symbol of speed, power, and mystery.
Restoring a Legend
Bringing the Wraith back to life wasn’t an easy task. Over the years, the car had fallen into disrepair, with much of its original glory lost to time. However, thanks to the dedication of a team of skilled restorers, the Dodge M4S was painstakingly restored to its former glory. Jay and Jeff walk us through the restoration process, discussing the challenges and triumphs of bringing such an iconic vehicle back from the brink.
The restoration wasn’t just about making the car look good—it was about preserving its history. From sourcing original parts to recreating the car’s unique features, every step of the process was a labor of love. Jay and Jeff share their admiration for the craftsmen who took on this monumental task, highlighting the importance of preserving automotive history for future generations.
Behind the Scenes: The Wraith’s Cinematic Journey
One of the highlights of this episode is the behind-the-scenes stories that Jay and Jeff share about the making of The Wraith. For many fans, the car itself was the star of the movie, stealing the spotlight from its human co-stars. Jay and Jeff discuss how the M4S was chosen for the role, its impact on the film’s success, and the legacy it left behind.
From its dramatic chases to its high-octane stunts, the Wraith was the epitome of ’80s cool. The car’s otherworldly appearance and unmatched performance made it the perfect fit for a movie that blended supernatural elements with classic revenge themes. Jay and Jeff bring these stories to life, giving viewers a glimpse into the magic of movie-making and the role that cars play in creating cinematic history.
The Drive: Experiencing the Wraith
No episode of Jay Leno’s Garage would be complete without a test drive, and this one is no exception. Jay and Jeff take the Wraith out for a spin, putting its performance to the test on the open road. Despite being over three decades old, the M4S still delivers a thrilling driving experience, with its powerful engine and precise handling providing a taste of what made it such a standout in the 1980s.
As they navigate the twists and turns, Jay and Jeff share their thoughts on what it’s like to drive such a rare and unique vehicle. The sense of history is palpable, and the thrill of driving a car with such a storied past is evident in their smiles. For car enthusiasts, this segment is a dream come true—a chance to see one of the most iconic movie cars in action, driven by two of the most passionate car lovers in the business.
Why The Wraith Still Matters
So why does the Wraith continue to captivate audiences, even after all these years? Jay and Jeff explore this question, discussing the car’s lasting impact on both the automotive world and popular culture. The Wraith isn’t just a car; it’s a symbol of an era, a time when cars were more than just transportation—they were statements of style, power, and individuality.
The Dodge M4S represents a time when car manufacturers weren’t afraid to push the envelope, to create something that was as much about art as it was about engineering. It’s this spirit of innovation that Jay and Jeff celebrate in this episode, reminding viewers why cars like the Wraith are so important to preserve and cherish.
The Final Verdict
By the end of the episode, it’s clear that Jay Leno and Jeff Dunham share a deep appreciation for the Wraith and what it represents. The car isn’t just a piece of metal and rubber; it’s a piece of history, a testament to the creativity and passion that drives the automotive world. Whether you’re a fan of the movie, a car enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this episode of Jay Leno’s Garage is a must-watch.
