'Rain Man' car up for auction

November 28, 2012 12:00 AM

A 1949 Buick Roadmaster used in the Oscar-winning 1988 film "Rain Man" is going on the auction block in California, with the final sale slated for December 14.

The car is one of two used in the filming of the movie and was often the featured ride of the film's stars, Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. The two-door comfortable has the same beige exterior and red leather interior that it had in "Rain Man," along with a two-speed Dynaflow automatic transmission, The Daily Mail reports.

The vehicle has undergone some auto repair, including an upgraded rear suspension originally used to handle the weight of the camera equipment and crew members during filming. Many of the movie's scenes took place in the car, as the main characters used it to go on a cross-country road trip.

"The car is a crucial character in the film," said Margaret Barrett, director of entertainment & music memorabilia at Heritage Auctions. "The plot essentially revolves around this beautiful vehicle, making more than just a piece of screen-used memorabilia. It's the catalyst for the entire movie."

Opening bids are set at $40,000, but the car is expected to pull in at least $80,000 in the sale. 

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