The late Willie Mays, baseball legend, owned this 1977 Stutz Blackhawk for nearly half a century, and now it’s being auctioned on Bring a Trailer. This vehicle isn’t just a car; it’s a rolling monument to 1970s flamboyance, the kind favored by stars like Elvis Presley—who was famously photographed in one the night before his death.
A History of Opulence
The Stutz marque began in 1911, competing in the Indy 500 before fading during the Depression. It was resurrected in the late 1960s with a distinctly over-the-top design language. Former Chrysler stylist Virgil Exner oversaw the styling, resulting in a car that maximizes visual extravagance. The Blackhawk doesn’t just have styling; it is styling.
The interior is as decadent as the exterior: leather seats, lamb’s wool carpets, wood accents, gold trim, and even a fur-lined trunk. It’s a vehicle built for making a statement, not for subtlety.
Under the Hood: A Mismatch of Power and Style
Despite its extravagant appearance, the Stutz Blackhawk runs on a decidedly less glamorous Pontiac Grand Prix chassis. A 403-cubic-inch GM V-8 provides power, but its output is modest by modern standards. The three-speed automatic transmission is as smooth and unhurried as a Detroit spring thaw. This car isn’t about speed; it’s about spectacle.
Why This Matters
The Stutz Blackhawk represents a specific moment in automotive history: an era where excess was celebrated, and cars were status symbols as much as transportation. This particular example, owned by a 24-time All-Star, embodies that ethos. The car’s survival to the present day with only 17,000 miles is a testament to Mays’s care and the vehicle’s enduring appeal.
If you’re looking for a car that demands attention, this is it. But be warned: driving a Stutz Blackhawk is not for the faint of heart—or the health-conscious. The auction ends January 21, and this vehicle will undoubtedly turn heads wherever it goes.
