From Route 66 to the Red Carpet: The Endearing Story of Tow Mater from Cars

Tow Mater, the loveable rusty tow truck from the Pixar film Cars, may have been a cartoon character, but his design was inspired by a real-life workhorse. Mater's boxy silhouette and signature "boom" mechanism pay homage to the 1951 International Harvester L-170, a classic truck spotted along the historic Route 66 by one of the film’s writers spotted in Galena, Kansas.

Back in the 1950s, these sturdy trucks were used for heavy-duty tasks like lifting equipment out of mines using their long booms.

Mater’s design goes beyond simply referencing a classic truck. His rusty exterior and patched-up body are a testament to American ingenuity and the “get things done” attitude.

He embodies the spirit of small-town mechanics who keep their vehicles running long past their expected lifespan, relying on a combination of creativity and spare parts. This resonates with many car enthusiasts who appreciate the character and history embedded in older vehicles.

While the original L-170 sported a baby blue paint job as seen in flashbacks within the film, Mater’s iconic look leans into a different aesthetic.

His rusted brown exterior, missing hood, and wonky headlight give him a distinct personality, reflecting the wear and tear of years on the road.

The details don’t stop there. Mater’s license plate, “A113,” is a fun easter egg for animation fans.

It’s a reference to the classroom number used by character animation students at the California Institute of the Arts, a nod to the talented artists who brought Mater to life.

Mater’s transformation from a rusty relic into a reliable friend alongside Lightning McQueen reflects the power of restoration and the enduring spirit of classic American automobiles.

He’s a reminder that sometimes, the most valuable vehicles aren’t the flashiest or newest, but those with a story to tell and a heart of gold.