Most of you are probably familiar with this scene in the Flintstones credits where Fred takes the family to the drive-in for some brontosaurus ribs. The car-hop brings out an enormous serving - a serving so big it tips the car over.This scene raises a lot of questions for me. Okay, first let's take a look at the Flintstone's car. While the weight of the canopy and its frame are negligible, the wheels, dashboard, and seats (which, I'm guessing, are made of solid limestone) must be fairly substantial. In addition, you have the weight of Fred, who I'd put at about 250 lbs. Wilma and Pebbles might combine for another 125 and Dino would appear to be approximately the same size as Fred. My point is there is A LOT of fucking weight to that car.
So, just exactly how much do these ribs weigh? If, in fact, they weigh enough to overturn the Flintstone's car, how in the name of all that is holy does that petite car-hop carry them to the car by herself? She'd have to have Bam-Bam-like strength to do it! Likewise, if the ribs are that hefty, is it really reasonable to expect us to believe that two adults, an infant, and a dog-sized dinosaur could consume that much food in one sitting? I know Fred has a big appetite, but still. Something, my friends, is out-of-whack. If any of you know any paleontologists who could verify the weight of a slab of Bronto-ribs, please refer them to me.
While I'm on the subject, there is another thing that has always bothered me about the Flintstone's car. I understand how the forward momentum of the vehicle keeps the front axle in place, but what the hell keeps the rear one from just sliding out of its notch as soon as the car gets moving. This, of course, ignores the fact that the opposite problem would exist if they ever went in reverse. Some clarification here would be greatly appreciated.
