In Pixar’s Cars, what type of vehicle is Sheriff of Radiator Springs?

Sheriff of Radiator Springs is a 1949 Mercury police car in Pixar’s Cars.

Sheriff is one of Radiator Springs’ longtime residents and acts as the town’s law-enforcement vehicle. His design reflects a classic American police cruiser, with a black-and-white body, a roof light, and styling based on a 1949 Mercury Eight. Michael Wallis, a Route 66 historian, voiced the character.

The character is sometimes confused with Doc Hudson because both are older cars who represent the town’s past. Doc is based on the Hudson Hornet, while Sheriff’s identity is tied to the Mercury model. In the story, Sheriff first pursues Lightning McQueen after the race car damages Radiator Springs’ main road and flees from the local authorities.