A rare 1972 Cadillac Eldorado station wagon once owned by the legendary stunt performer Evel Knievel is now up for sale in the United Kingdom. The vehicle, being auctioned through Bonhams, showcases the same boldness and extravagance as Knievel’s iconic wardrobe.
During the 1970s, Cadillac did not produce station wagons. However, aftermarket companies offered conversions, and one such company, American Sunroof Corporation (ASC), also known as American Specialty Cars, performed the work on Knievel’s Cadillac. Due to the high cost, it is believed that only eight ASC-converted Cadillac wagons exist, adding to the rarity and exclusivity of this particular vehicle.
The standout feature of Knievel’s Cadillac is that it is based on the Eldorado coupe, rather than a more practical four-door model like the 1976 Cadillac Castillian Fleetwood Estate Wagon, which was auctioned in 2020. The Eldorado coupe was part of the fourth generation of Eldorados that debuted in 1971 and was notable for being one of the few American cars at the time with front-wheel drive. However, Cadillac’s designers didn’t fully capitalize on the compact packaging of the front-wheel-drive drivetrain.
By grafting wagon bodywork onto the rear of the Eldorado’s rear door pillars, the vehicle measures a staggering 18.5 feet in length. Under the hood, it boasts an 8.2-liter V8 engine, which, despite its massive size, produces just 235 horsepower. This power output may seem underwhelming considering the substantial weight of the car.
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The 1972 Cadillac Eldorado wagon, previously owned by Knievel, was initially bought by P.B. Burnett, the owner of a produce company. After owning it for a few years, Burnett then sold it to Knievel in 1975. Remarkably, the odometer currently displays only 36,000 miles, indicating that the car has not been extensively driven. However, it does show some signs of wear and tear, including surface rust, potentially attesting to its adventurous history.
Despite its association with a famous celebrity, Bonhams estimates that the Eldorado wagon will sell for a modest sum, between 8,000 and 12,000 British pounds (approximately $9,700 to $14,600) at the current exchange rates. While it may seem like a steal, interested buyers should carefully consider the challenges associated with owning such a large left-hand drive vehicle in the UK. Shipping it to the United States, where left-hand drive cars are more common, may be an attractive option for potential buyers.
The opportunity to own a vehicle once belonging to the legendary Evel Knievel is undoubtedly a unique and exciting prospect. This rare 1972 Cadillac Eldorado wagon serves as a relic of Knievel’s daredevil legacy, showcasing his larger-than-life personality and his affinity for the extraordinary. Whether purchased for sentimental value, as a collector’s item, or to continue Knievel’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of what is possible, this Cadillac Eldorado wagon is sure to find a deserving new owner who appreciates its history and distinctive style.
