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    Behind the Scenes

    From the Shop to the Screen: Bringing 80s Cop Cars Back to Life for Stranger Things

    Our team had the unique opportunity to transform classic 1980s LTDs into authentic police vehicles for the hit series Stranger Things.

    Hub City Body Shop Team

    Your Local Auto Care Experts

    December 30, 2025

    Every Project Tells a Story

    Every project tells a story. Most of ours live on the road, in driveways, or cruising down West Texas highways. But every once in a while, a project takes a turn we never could've predicted, all the way to one of the biggest television shows globally.

    Our team had the opportunity to take part in something truly special: transforming classic 1980s model LTDs into fully outfitted police vehicles for the hit series Stranger Things.

    Not Your Typical Restoration

    This wasn't a typical restoration. The goal wasn't just to make these vehicles look good, it was to make them believable. Every detail had to feel authentic to the era, from the bodywork and paint to the unmistakable 80s police aesthetic audiences instantly recognize on screen.

    We started by restoring the bodies, addressing years of wear while preserving the character that made these cars perfect for the role. From there, the real challenge began: recreating the look and feel of an authentic 1980s patrol car. The lights, markings, finishes, and overall presence had to be spot on, because on camera, every detail matters.

    A Build Unlike Any Other

    It was a build unlike anything we've ever tackled. Balancing historical accuracy with functionality required precision, creativity, and a deep respect for the era we were bringing back to life.

    Seeing our work come to life on screen is something we won't soon forget. It's a reminder that craftsmanship can take you places you never expect, sometimes even straight into the Upside Down.

    Keep an Eye Out

    Next time you're watching Stranger Things, keep an eye out. You just might spot a piece of our work rolling through Hawkins.

    Related Topics

    Stranger Things
    Movie Cars
    Restoration
    Behind the Scenes
    1980s
    Police Vehicles

    Hub City Body Shop Team

    Your Local Auto Care Experts

    Our team combines decades of local Lubbock experience with professional auto care expertise. From everyday repairs to Hollywood builds, we bring the same attention to detail to every project.

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