The iconic ECTO-1, a 1959 Cadillac that has long been synonymous with chasing ghosts, will soon share the spotlight with a more modern counterpart in the upcoming film “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.”
In a nod to contemporary times, the Ghostbusters team has added a purpose-built Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to their fleet alongside the classic Cadillac.
Dubbed ECTO-Z, the Sprinter boasts a discreet exterior appearance typical of its model, adorned with minimal decals. However, its interior is equipped with essential ghost-fighting gear, including pull-out racks designed to carry ghost traps, proton packs, and muon scrubbers.
Unlike the ECTO-1, which necessitates a conspicuous roof rack for some equipment, the Sprinter’s panel version with a high roof allows for a more inconspicuous presence as the team navigates urban landscapes.
Mercedes-Benz proudly notes that the Sprinter marks only the second official Ghostbusters vehicle since the introduction of the ECTO-1 in 1984. Notably, while the ECTO-1 license plate originally adorned the 1959 Cadillac, it also appeared on a 1982 Cadillac-based model in the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot.
Technical specifications for the Sprinter have not been disclosed, but it is exclusively offered with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine, following the discontinuation of the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6.
With power outputs ranging from 168 to 208 horsepower and torque from 295 to 332 pound-feet, the Sprinter’s robust performance makes it well-suited for ghost-chasing endeavors.
Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Sprinter’s rear-wheel-drive configuration ensures agile maneuverability, although it appears that ECTO-Z does not feature all-wheel drive.