Over the years, Pepsi Cola has become the classic American soft drink. Its refershing, light taste reflects the effervescence and exuberant energy of the millions of Americans who have joined "the Pepsi Generation." In the 1930's, it wasn't unusual to see a Ford Woody Wagon parked outside a drugstore, inside which a family would enjoy a Pepsi at the soda fountain. As classic as the Pepsi tradition, the Woody won the hearts of a broad cross section of Americans, including farmers, growing families, modern-day-surfers and car enthusiasts everywhere. In the early 1930s, Ford was integral in helping the station wagon overcome the perception that it was merely a commercial vehicle and began to appeal to an ever growing surburban population. The first mass-produced station wagons were set on the Ford Model A chassis but, in 1932, Ford introduced a new chassis that was extended to 106. Ford also introduced the V-8 engine on affordable models that appeal to the American public. While many believed the exquisite wood panels on the Ford Station Wagon were produced at the company's Iron Mountain Michigan plant, they were actually constructed by the Murray Body Co. in Detroit and later at Baker-Rauling in Cleaveland, then they were shipped to the Ford plant for assembly. The classic Ford Wagon, the "Woody," remains an icon of American automobiling, filled with charm and nostalgia.

(1996)

Scale: 1:40