15 Iconic American Woodie Wagons

Take a journey through automotive history and explore the timeless allure of American woodie wagons. These iconic vehicles, characterized by their distinctive wooden bodies, evoke an era when craftsmanship and adventure went hand in hand. Here are 15 of the most fantastic woodie wagons that captured the hearts of enthusiasts and became symbols of American motoring heritage.

Chrysler Town and Country Convertible

The Chrysler Town and Country Convertible stands out with its distinctive blend of wood paneling and convertible top, exuding luxury and style in the post-war automotive era. It comfortably accommodates six passengers. Measuring 5.63 meters in length and featuring distinctive wood paneling, it weighs around 2,500 kilograms. While many models were equipped with a six-cylinder engine, this particular variant has a robust 5.3-liter eight-cylinder engine, delivering 135 horsepower.

Jeep Wagoneer

Known for its rugged versatility and classic wood trim, the Jeep Wagoneer pioneered the luxury SUV segment. Its wood-paneled sides and robust off-road capabilities made it a favorite among adventurous families. Underneath its exterior, the 2024 Wagoneer has the latest Hurricane Twin-Turbo engine as standard, delivering a strong 420 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque—providing ample power for nearly any journey you embark on.

Nash Ambassador Suburban

The 1947 Nash Ambassador Suburban distinguished itself with its opulent ‘woodie’ design, emblematic of its period. This sleek four-door sedan boasted exquisite two-tone stained ash borders and mahogany panels sourced from Mitchell-Bentley, positioning it as Nash’s priciest offering during that era. It has a roomy cabin and comfortable drive, setting it apart from the rest. 

Ford Model A

Its simple yet functional design and iconic wood detailing contributed to its popularity among American families. Although it retained a four-cylinder engine like the Model T, the Model A has greater power and smoother operation, reaching speeds between 55 to 65 mph. It introduced pioneering features for Ford, including a Triplex shatterproof safety windshield and hydraulic shocks, unprecedented in the affordable car market then.

Ford Woodie Wagon

The Deluxe model of this vehicle included a 239 CID (3.9L) engine has a horsepower rating of 100hp. Ford’s Woodie Wagons earned their name due to their unique construction featuring a blend of wood and steel. These vehicles were distinguished by their wooden bodies, meticulously crafted from premium hardwoods like maple and mahogany, with panels expertly fashioned by skilled artisans.

Packard Super Eight Station Wagon

Combining luxury and utility, the Packard Super Eight Station Wagon featured a spacious interior and refined wood paneling. The car was based on the Packard Super Eight One-Sixty, sharing its entire drivetrain, including an in-line eight-cylinder, 356-cubic-inch (5,830 cc) engine that produced 180 horsepower. In 1940, it was promoted as the most powerful eight-cylinder engine from any car manufacturer.

Buick Roadmaster Estate

The Buick Roadmaster Estate exemplified elegance and power with its distinctive wood trim. This car may surprise you with its weight, tipping the scales at over 2 tons, precisely 4,508 pounds, yet its performance defies expectations. Equipped with a robust 5.7-liter fuel-injected V-8 engine delivering 180 horsepower, it proves that size and weight don’t equate to sluggishness. 

Ford LTD Country Squire

Synonymous with suburban family life in the 1970s and 1980s, the Ford LTD Country Squire highlights an expansive interior, smooth ride, and iconic wood paneling. Compared to Ford sedans, the Country Squire had a reinforced rear suspension, broader tires, and an enlarged fuel tank.

Chevrolet Caprice Classic

The Caprice PPV’s V-8 engine achieves a maximum speed of 155 mph (248 km/h), surpassing expectations. Caprice presents a comprehensive offering: ample space and comfort, excellent ride quality and handling, superior fuel efficiency, and standard features, including four-wheel anti-lock brakes and dual airbags.

Dodge Caravan / Plymouth Voyager

This car restructured the minivan segment by introducing practicality and innovative Stow ‘n Go seating. It proved highly practical, excelling in multiple areas: effortless parking due to its short front hood, ample space for a large family in the center, convenient passenger entry via a side sliding door, and straightforward cargo access through a rear hatchback.

Willys Jeep Station Wagon 

Introduced in the 1940s, the Willys Jeep Station Wagon was a trailblazer in the SUV market with its robust construction and distinctive wood-panel design. This rugged utility vehicle, equipped with four-wheel drive, is favored in rural settings. Farmers, banana growers, and coffee farmers value its robust yet lightweight design (weighing approximately 1000 kilograms when unloaded) and its agility, which proves highly beneficial on rough mountainous or agricultural trails.

Mercury Cougar Villager 

In the 1960s and 1970s, the Mercury Cougar Villager peaked in luxury and versatility. It featured sleek lines and elegant wood trim. It catered to upscale buyers seeking spaciousness, comfort, and distinctive styling, making it a favorite for long-distance travel and suburban commuting. The Mercury Cougar Villager, equipped with a 6.6-liter V8 SelectShift engine, delivers 175 horsepower.

Honda Civic Country 

Debuting in the 1970s, the Honda Civic Country represented a unique fusion of Japanese engineering and American woodie wagon styling. This car model secured Honda’s position in the auto market by offering distinctive features such as fuel efficiency, comfort, ample interior space, safety innovations, strong engine performance, and impressive handling on the road. 

Pontiac Astre Safari 

The Pontiac Astre Safari, produced in the 1970s, brought a sporty flair to the woodie wagon concept. This Astre operates on rear wheel drive, utilizing a live rear axle. Steering is achieved through recirculating ball technology, optionally enhanced with power assist. Its braking system includes solid front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. From the 1975 model year onward, power assist became an available feature.

Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser

Produced from the late 1970s through the early 1990s, the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser exemplified American luxury and utility with its full-size station wagon format and optional wood-like exterior panels. It stood alone as the final bastion of Oldsmobile’s large vehicles, powered by the iconic Rocket V-8 engine.