Could Ferris Bueller’s day off really have happened?

By Simon Pampena.
As much as I wanted to believe that a high school student could have so much fun in one day, the story had to add up, numerically speaking. The deadline we have is the return of Ferris’ parents at 6 p.m. So let’s get started.
Morning – Residence Bueller
In the middle of the second period of the school day, Ferris had just taken the driver’s seat of a rare 1961 Ferrari 250 GT California Spider. According to the Chicago public school schedule, that puts us at 9:30 am. “Che bella.” It’s time to move on to Shermer High and pick up Ferris’ girlfriend, Sloane.
9:45 a.m. – Shermer High School
The shortest route from Cameron’s house to their high school is 7.5 miles. Considering the drive was in a 30 mph (48 km / h) speed zone and their car could accelerate from 0 to 100 in 6.3 seconds, I estimate they got there in 15 minutes. They spent 2 minutes at school and then they left for the big city. This mid-morning transit takes about 45 minutes, so let’s get them to downtown Chicago at 10:30 a.m.
Issue 91 of Cosmos Magazine goes on sale Thursday, June 3, 2021.
To learn more about this story, subscribe today and access our quarterly magazine in print or digital format, as well as all back issues of Cosmos Magazine.
Read scientific facts, not fiction …
There has never been a more important time to explain facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and showcase the latest scientific, technological and technical advancements. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, large or small, help us provide access to reliable scientific information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by donating or purchasing a membership today.