1972 Olds Vista Cruiser Is a Wagon With a View

In the days before SUVs captured the hearts and driveways of millions of Americans, station wagons were chariots of choice for families on the go. Now, thanks in part to the nostalgic memories of adults who grew up in the back of those wagons, wagon values have been on the rise. And few models are generating as much interest as the Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, like the one recently listed for sale on eBay Motors.

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No ordinary wagon, the Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser’s trademark features are factory-installed glass panels in the roof. In addition to providing better opportunities for viewing Mount Rushmore and other tourist attractions on road trips, the windows lend an open and airy feel. That gives the Vista Cruiser (and its stablemate Buick Sportwagon) an appeal that other wagons can’t match.

Road Trip Fun for the Whole Family

A 1972 model from the last year of production, this Vista Cruiser is as modern an example as you’ll find. Original features include front disc brakes, seat belts, and other safety and convenience items not found in earlier models.

Another unique feature of the Vista Cruiser is a forward-facing third row, from a time when most competitors used a rear-facing third seat. The forward-facing seats maximize the enjoyment of all those roof windows, which include sun visors for riding off into the sunset. The second split row tips forward for easier third-row access, just like in a modern SUV.

An interesting note is that although the Vista Cruiser was based on a midsize Olds Cutlass, it is considered a full-size wagon. That’s because the wagon rides on a five-inch longer wheelbase than the sedan to maximize rear passenger room for lounging and enjoying the view. That extra length is visible in photos, where the back doors seem disproportionately long compared to the ones in front.

Ready for a Road Trip

Because most wagons saw tough duty as family workhorses, few were cared for well enough to remain on the road 50 years later. Fewer still are in anything close to the condition of this example, which gleams inside and out. The Vista Cruiser’s Matador Red paint and woodgrain panels could pass for new, and all chrome and hard-to-find badging remains in good condition.

The Vista Cruiser’s off-white upholstery is an unusual choice for a family truckster, but it appears to have stood the test of time with no rips, tears, or other damage. The only modifications from stock include an Olds 442 sport steering wheel, additional instrumentation, and an aftermarket stereo under the dash. Options include factory air conditioning, which is still in place.

Recent mechanical work includes a new dual exhaust system, an FST Holley-style four-barrel carburetor, and a rebuild of the original 350 cubic-inch V8. Tasteful upgrades include BF Goodrich tires mounted on 17-inch American Racing 500 wheels, 442 badging inside and out, and lowering springs for a more aggressive stance.

This turnkey classic could be your new vacation getaway vehicle with summer right around the corner. Place a bid and start making plans. Mount Rushmore may never have looked better.