The General Lee: 1969 Dodge Charger – Iconic American Muscle Car
The General Lee (sometimes called simply "the General") is the famous 1969 Dodge Charger driven by Bo and Luke Duke, along with cousins Coy and Vance in season 5, in the popular television series The Dukes of Hazzard. Recognizable by its signature horn, daring police chases, and spectacular stunts—especially long jumps—the car became a cultural icon of American television.
Car Specifications
- Make & Model: 1969 Dodge Charger
- Engine: 7.2L V8 (standard)
- Horsepower: 375 hp
- Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
- Top Speed: Approx. 140 mph (225 km/h)
- Special Features: Welded doors, horn playing first twelve notes of "Dixie", roof Confederate flag decal
- TV Appearances: All episodes except "Mary Kaye's Baby"
Trivia & Fun Facts
- The car’s name, General Lee, is a reference to Civil War General Robert E. Lee.
- The horn plays the song "Dixie", giving the car a signature sound.
- Doors were welded shut for safety during stunts, requiring actors to enter through windows.
- The design was inspired by bootlegger Jerry Rushing’s car, also named after General Lee’s horse, Traveller.
- The car appeared in the 1975 movie Moonrunners, a precursor to the TV series.
- Each jump and stunt performed on the show added to its legendary status as a muscle car icon.
Appearance & Cultural Impact
The General Lee is instantly recognizable with its bright orange paint, Confederate flag roof decal, and bold numbers "01" painted on the doors. Its daring stunts and high-speed chases contributed to the popularity of the series and cemented its place in American pop culture. Fans worldwide celebrate this car through toy replicas, diecast models, and conventions.
Legacy & Modern Influence
The General Lee inspired a renewed interest in classic muscle cars and remains a symbol of 1970s American television culture. Dodge Chargers today still evoke memories of this iconic car, and collectors often seek replica builds and restored models for shows and exhibitions.
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