Evel Knievel's Cadillac Eldorado Wagon Is A Rare Custom Creation

Oct. 16, 2023 12:36 PM ET byJarryd Neves For Sale /7 Comments

If you like the look of this ultra-rare custom-bodied Caddy, it's now being offered via auction in the United Kingdom.

A 1972 Cadillac Eldorado Station Wagon that once belonged toEvel Knievelis currently up for grabs via aBonhams Onlineauction.

Crafted by the American Sunroof Company (ASC), a firm trusted by GM to carry out conversions like this, this unique Eldorado is believed to be one of just eight Caddys that got the ASC treatment. According to the Cadillac Owner's Club, these special projects were so costly that few people ever ordered them.

Mr PB Burnett, a businessman with a penchant for Cadillacs, was the car's first owner. He would later sell the Eldorado to Evel Knievel in 1975, who reportedly resprayed the wagon white from its original black. The unique plate was purchased by Kelly Knievel, Evel's son, and his mother. Kelly remembers standing outside the county hall at 3 am to get this exclusive plate.

Exported to the United Kingdom in the 1990s, the Eldorado was then stashed away in a wood store for 27 years. Sadly, the vehicle lacks most of its literature, such as the service records and owner's manual. The only remaining thing is the new vehicle warranty in the glovebox.

而外部需要restorative work, the structure is in superb shape thanks to its dry storage. There's light surface rust, but the seller describes the bodywork and trim as solid. Notably, there are no signs of accident damage, and all the panels are dent-free. The chrome may have to be redone, but a light polish should bring some shine back.

Even the vinyl covering the unusual rear end appears in good shape. There is minimal lifting near the tailgate due to the surface rust. Other aesthetic flaws include a cracked windscreen and a missing hubcap. However, replacement parts should be easy to source - especially if the Eldorado is repatriated to the USA.

On the hood, you'll findthe iconic Cadillac Goddess, which has been reimagined for the all-new Celestiq.

The interior of Evel Knievel's Cadillac is covered in plush red leather. Despite their advanced age, the massive seats show very little wear. The same goes for the headliner and cabin trim, which have held up remarkably well for a vehicle of this vintage.

It's not perfect, though. The previous owner misplaced the keys, forcing them to damage the barrel to get the vehicle going again. There's also a crack in the driver's side door trim. This may be a '70s Cadillac, but it's sumptuously equipped with modern luxury features. This includes climate control, along with power-operated seats and windows.

8.2升V8引擎a source of frustration. The cylinder head and carburetor have been removed from the motor, but both parts are included in the sale. Another issue to be aware of it the factory soundproofing that will need to be replaced.

The auction ends on October 20, 2023, and the highest bid (at the time of writing) stands at £2,350 (approx. $2,860). Owing to its rarity, unique body style, and celebrity ownership, we fully expect a bidding war to erupt in the coming days. Bonhams estimates the vehicle will sell for as much as £12,000.

These days, Cadillac makes nothing like the Eldorado, let alone a custom station wagon version. The Escalade could be considered the modern-day version of these personal luxury coupes. After all, buyers have gravitated towards SUVs in recent years, and the Escalade certainly is Cadillac's biggest brand ambassador.

The all-electricCelestiqis more like the Eldorado's spiritual successor, focusing on grand design, size, and outright luxury. But withan estimated starting priceof $300,000 (before options), this longroof Eldorado will be infinitely cheaper and more exclusive.

Evel Knievel's Cadillac Eldorado Wagon Is A Rare Custom Creation

Join The Discussion

Gallery

Evel Knievel's Cadillac Eldorado Wagon Is A Rare Custom Creation

Join The Discussion

Gallery

Related Cars