Some cars carry more than people – they carry stories.

Wagon 1, a 1975 Holden HJ Kingswood Deluxe, is one of those rare machines where history, friendship, and horsepower meet on four wheels.
This Aussie classic first rolled off the line in 1975, a time when the Kingswood ruled the roads with its boxy charm and unshakeable reliability. Decades later, in 2008, it found its third home with Scott, a car enthusiast who saw more than just faded paint and factory trim. He saw potential.
Scott bought the wagon from its second owner and kept it close for years. It was a weekend cruiser, a memory-maker, and a piece of nostalgia. But the real turning point came in 2020, when childhood friend and YouTuber Alan Butler stepped in with a wild idea: “Let’s give her a heartbeat she deserves.”
With cameras rolling and spanners flying, Alan pulled out the original engine and breathed new life into the wagon by putting in a Holden 304 Fuel Injected V8 engine. It wasn’t just an upgrade – it was a resurrection. The swap transformed this Kingswood into a true street machine, still draped in old-school cool but with the power to match its presence.
Today, Wagon 1 stands as a symbol of enduring friendship and the shared passion that brings car lovers together. It’s not just about the car – it’s about the ride, the rebuilds, and the relationships forged in grease, fuel, and time.

Watch all 9 Episodes of the “Return of the Iron Lion, Holden Kingswood 304 V8 Engine Swap” on YouTube.

Wagon 2, a 1975 Holden HJ Kingwood started its journey with us in 2022, when Tess spotted the tired shell of a Holden wagon begging for a second chance. With a body colour identical to Wagon 1, the resemblance is hard to miss. Rusty, rough around the edges, and far from roadworthy – it was a fixer-upper, plain and simple. Tess bought it with a clear plan: tidy it up, flip it, and move on.

But then a bigger vision rolled in: the Wagon Wheel Plan – a bold initiative to revive these vintage wagons not just as vehicles, but as chauffeur-driven works of art. Restore these beauties to become moving canvases of culture, creativity, and community, offering unforgettable experiences for weddings, formals, and special occasions. More than just transportation, they’d be a statement – where vintage style meets modern celebration.

This time, Alan got to work behind the scenes – no cameras rolling, just good old-fashioned hands-on craftsmanship. He removed the original engine and swapped it out for a roaring LS1 V8, breathing new life (and serious horsepower) into the old beauty. The transformation was seamless, blending classic character with modern performance. With the LS1 under the hood, the wagon didn’t just look the part – it could finally drive it too.

The bodywork & paint restoration for both wagons was expertly carried out by Moff’s Body Works in the Glasshouse Mountains in 2022, bringing them back to life in their original, authentic Holden colours: Chamois (& Contessa Gold for the Deluxe Roof). Upholstery by Robbos Custom Upholstery.

Wagon Wheels was officially established in April 2025, born from a love of vintage cars and a desire to bring a touch of classic charm to modern celebrations. After months of restoration, polish, and planning, we’re proud to be opening our car doors for bookings from August 2025 onwards. Whether it’s a wedding, school formal, or styled photo shoot, we can’t wait to share our beautifully restored wagons with those looking for something truly memorable.

Click here to enquire now.