Another classic car from the huge fleet of vehicles previously owned by Elvis Presley is currently up for auction online with Car & Classic.
The ‘King of Rock and Roll’ built up an extensive collection of cars during his lifetime, and was reported to have once purchased 30 Cadillacs in a single morning.
This car may not be from that particular set of Caddys, but the King’s 1975 Fleetwood Brougham is still an imposing piece of automotive history.
Big Boss Man
Measuring more than 5.9 metres (18.6 feet) in length, the 1975 Fleetwood was big even by American ‘land yacht’ standards.
For 1975, the Fleetwood gained an equally huge 500-cubic inch (8.2-litre) V8 engine. An output of 210hp, combined with a kerb weight in excess of two tonnes, made for leisurely progress.
A three-speed automatic transmission also contributed to the Fleetwood’s relaxed driving manners. Fuel economy is something best not mentioned.
Still, we don’t imagine the King was troubled by the price of fuel when he purchased the Brougham.
Not quite a king’s ransom
Documentation with the Fleetwood’s current owner shows Elvis purchased the car on 26 September 1974. Bought from Madison Cadillac, he plumped for options including a sunroof and a bonnet-mounted ‘Goddess’ mascot.
Costing a total of $12,512, Presley drove the Cadillac for just over a year. He then gifted it to his doctor in 1976.
Dr G. Nichopoulos used the car until 1985, when it was sold to the current owner for the first time. Now located in Sweden, the Cadillac has been with its keeper since 1990.
Let Yourself Go
Never restored from new, the Fleetwood is best described as being in ‘survivor’ condition.
The seats still wear their luxurious velour upholstery, although the deep carpets are said to be a little faded. There are also cracks in the steering wheel and other vinyl trim.
All the original equipment, including the radio, air conditioning and electric seats is still present.
On the outside, the big Caddy is noted as having a few parking dents. The huge V8 engine is currently not running, but the seller says this is due to a lack of use.
Finders keepers, losers weepers
Regardless of whether the Fleetwood needs some light restoration work, its main appeal to collectors will be the accompanying paperwork. The seller has a copy of the original order form, showing Presley’s name and signature.
Extensive provenance, including a number of photographs and a gold key, will all be included with the sale.
The Car & Classic auction for the Cadillac is set to conclude on Saturday 15 January. With plenty of bids already made, the King’s Caddy looks likely to find a new owner.
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