Some fans jokingly refer to “Stranger Things” as 80s Things. Viewers get to enjoy reliving the movies, music, fashion, and technology that debuted in the decade that marked the beginning of the Digital Revolution. Vintage vehicle enthusiasts also get to see their favourite classic cars in action.
What classic cars can you spot Stranger Things?
Naturally, characters in this retro thriller only drive cars made in the 1980s or before. Thus, the notable vehicles come from the 1970s and early 1980s. The primarily middle-class characters drive ordinary cars for this time, and some of you may even remember them!

Photo Credit: IMCDb
Chief Hopper’s Chevy Blazer
These relatively small SUVs looked boxy and unremarkable. At the same time, their durable and practical designs made them familiar sights in the 1980s. Also, Indiana police departments did deploy this model at the time, making it representative of the type of vehicles a police chief in Hawkins, Indiana, the show’s primary setting might use.

Photo Credit: IMCDb
Joyce Byers’ ’76 Pinto
Many folks remember the controversy about the Ford Pinto’s exploding gas tanks. At the same time, these vehicles offered consumers affordability, reliability, and for their time, decent gas mileage. A sensible but struggling mom like Ms. Buyers would naturally gravitate towards a Pinto in the early 1980s. Joyce Buyers drove the three-door hatchback version, but Ford also provided customers with a two-door coupe and a small station wagon.

Photo Credit: IMCDb
Steve Harrington’s BMW 733i
The wealthier character in the TV show would naturally own a tonier car. These big luxury sedans had great suspensions, providing a smooth ride in the city, countryside, or small towns. They also served as status symbols in their time, only fitting for somebody with great hair like Steve Harrington. Today, plenty of these BMW vehicles from the 1980s still operate and are relatively affordable for vintage car appreciators on a budget.

Photo Credit: IMCDb
Billy Hargrove’s Chevy Camaro
No car from the 1980s would offer a more perfect ride for a tough kid in the 1980s than a Chevy Camaro. These powerful cars packed quite a punch and were also somewhat noisy, a reflection of the image that Billy Hargrove wanted to project. GM still produces these vehicles, and vintage models attract an avid fan base. According to Motor Trend, the manufacturer intends to phase the model out in 2024 in favour of electric vehicles, possibly increasing the car’s collectable appeal even more.
Some of the Best Things Haven’t Changed Since the 1980s
Shows like Stranger Things offer a glimpse into the past. Lots has changed since the 1980s, but with many pop culture younger viewers won’t find all of those “things” strange. Many classic cars, hair styles, and outfits, like those from Stranger Things, are making a comeback; you can see them on the street, at the mall, and collector car shows. What was old is new again for a generation of Canadians.
Then there are the classics that never go away; you can count on the Wayfarer Insurance Group to provide reliable and affordable classic car insurance in Canada.