UPDATE 04/02/2023: Selling a classic car can be challenging, as the owner of this 1970 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is discovering. This is the third time we’ve seen the Wagon grace our pages. It failed to hit the reserve at the last auction, so we have to hope they taste success this time. Bidding reached $30,000 on that equation, but they have now listed it here on Craigslist at $37,500. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Pat L. for spotting this beauty.

03/22/2023: Whenever I see an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, it instantly conjures up images of Clark Griswold’s Beige 1970 model that was crushed during the original “National Lampoon’s Vacation” movie. This 1972 Vista Cruiser has avoided that fate and has generated plenty of interest since the seller listed it here on eBay in Escondido, California.

Some of you will find this Vista Cruiser familiar, which is understandable, considering it graced our pages in November 2022. I would usually update the original article in such circumstances, but new information makes me believe it deserves a second feature. One thing not revealed in the previous listing is that this Wagon’s exterior paint shade isn’t original. The seller states it is close to Butternut Yellow, but they haven’t confirmed that. They indicate it rolled off the line finished in Code 50 Covert Beige. The new color was only applied to the exterior surfaces, with the original shade visible around the door and tailgate frames. There is also overspray on some trim items that doesn’t make a positive impression. It could indicate a lack of care on behalf of the painter and would prompt me to negotiate an in-person inspection. This is a shame because the paint shines beautifully, and the faux woodgrain trim is excellent. The underside shots confirm the Olds is rust-free, with the Super Stock wheels adding a touch of aggression. The glass looks spotless, including the roof pieces that define the Vista Cruiser. The chrome shines impressively, with no significant damage or other issues. The seller is approachable and willing to supply additional photos for those wavering on this classic. It could be worth accepting that invitation, as it could provide clarity on this Olds and its history.

The previous listing was short on information about this Vista Cruiser’s mechanical health, but the seller has rectified that shortcoming. The drivetrain includes a 350ci V8 producing 160hp. Shifting duties fall to a three-speed automatic transmission, while the steering and brakes score power assistance. The listing confirms the Wagon is in excellent mechanical health. It runs and drives perfectly without leaks, smoke, or other issues. Adding to its appeal, the seller includes the original Build Shette, immaculate Owner’s Manual, Warranty, Protect-O-Plate, the storage pouch for those items, an ownership history, some service and parts invoices, Dealership documentation, and several Titles.

Family station wagon interiors can become pretty tired and worn, but that isn’t the case with this Vista Cruiser. The Dark Brown vinyl upholstered surfaces are excellent, and the carpet looks new. There is no UV damage or crumbling plastic, and the dash and pad look particularly good. A previous owner mounted a modern stereo under the dash, which plays through the original radio’s dash-mounted speaker. The new owner could remove this and utilize the factory AM/FM radio to preserve the interior’s originality. The seller says the air conditioning blows cool but not cold. It probably requires attention, but everything else works as it should. For those with larger families, the news this Wagon features third-row seating will undoubtedly be welcome.

I would love to know the backstory of this 1972 Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser. It would be interesting to learn why it has appeared on the market so soon, especially considering the indications are that it is with a different seller. They seem approachable, which might allow interested parties to gain some answers. It has already attracted twenty-three bids, suggesting a few people like what they see. Would you consider pursuing this Wagon further, or will you sit out this dance?