The 1959 Corvette from Animal House
Ladies and gentlemen, get ready to experience the ride of your life! The Volo Museum is proud to display the one and only 1959 Chevrolet Corvette used by Tim Matheson as “Otter” in the cult-classic comedy Animal House! This iconic Corvette wasn’t just a background prop—it was a centerpiece. Featured in press photos alongside the entire cast (including the legendary John Belushi), it graced the official movie poster and home video cover, and even inspired a series of die-cast and toy cars complete with miniature cast members..
Animal House: A Comedy That Defined a Generation
Released in 1978, National Lampoon’s Animal House became one of the most influential comedies in film history. Directed by John Landis and produced by Universal Pictures, the film broke box office records and ushered in a new wave of irreverent, college-themed comedies.
The screenplay was co-written by Harold Ramis, who later went on to co-write and star in Ghostbusters, Caddyshack, Stripes, and other legendary comedies. Alongside Ramis, the writing team included Douglas Kenney and Chris Miller, all of whom helped craft the outrageous, rebellious spirit that made Animal House an instant classic.
The film starred Tim Matheson as “Otter,” John Belushi as “Bluto,” Karen Allen, Peter Riegert, and even a young Kevin Bacon in his screen debut. Today, it remains so culturally significant that it has been preserved in the Library of Congress’s National Film Registry.
From Gift to Hollywood Star
The story of Otter’s Corvette begins in 1974, when an Oregon man purchased the car as a used sports car and gifted it to his wife. She didn’t care for it—and neither did he. Coincidentally, he worked in the transportation department at Universal Pictures. When he learned the studio was seeking a flashy sports car for Otter, he offered up the Corvette. Universal rented it from him for four weeks at a cost of just $400. After filming wrapped, the car was returned home, parked in a shed, and left untouched for decades.
A Survivor, Untouched for Decades
When the Volo Museum acquired the Corvette, it was found in remarkable survivor condition. Since 1974, fewer than 200 miles had been put on the odometer. Today, it shows just 37,000 miles total. Even better, it still wears its original prop license plate from the film and period-correct narrow whitewall tires—just as audiences saw it when Animal House first hit the big screen.
The Car Itself
This 1959 Corvette is a true time capsule, equipped with:
- Factory 283 Dual Quad V8
- 4-speed transmission
- Two tops (removable hardtop and soft top)
- Wonderbar radio
- Original paint, chrome, and soft top
The only visible changes are the black diamond-pleat interior (as seen in the movie stills), a Hurst shifter, and headers.
Documented Hollywood History
To seal its pedigree, the car comes with full documentation, including receipts and canceled checks from Universal Studios. This paper trail confirms its starring role and preserves its unique place in Hollywood and automotive history.
See It at the Volo Museum
Lost to the public eye for more than 40 years, this cinematic Corvette has finally returned to the spotlight. Visitors to the Volo Museum now have the rare opportunity to see, up close, the legendary 1959 Corvette that made Animal House even more unforgettable.
Don’t miss your chance to relive a piece of movie magic—only at the Volo Museum.
Plan Your Visit: The Animal House Corvette is Located in Showroom 3
Monday Feb. 2nd, 2026 at Navy Pier
(GROUNDHOG DAY) Ceremony time: 3:00PM
Fans are invited to cut loose and celebrate the 3rd Annual Harold Ramis Day on Monday, Feb. 2nd at Harry Caray’s on Navy Pier, honoring the extraordinary life and career of one of Chicago’s most legendary comedic minds. After two years of Groundhog Day-themed celebrations, this year’s event flips the script—trading repetition for rebellion—by spotlighting Ramis’ groundbreaking 1978 comedy National Lampoon’s Animal House, while still embracing the Groundhog Day tradition that has become the heart of the annual ceremony.
