FYI: Elvis Presley’s 1962 Lockheed 1329 JetStar has been transformed into a road-legal RV by YouTuber James Webb and recently took a trip through a McDonald’s drive-thru.
The plane that once belonged to Elvis Presley, one of the most celebrated figures in history, had been left to deteriorate in a desert for years. YouTuber James Webb, known for his channel, Jimmy’s World, saw potential in the decaying aircraft and decided to give it a new purpose.
A Legendary Jet Finds a New Life
Webb seized this one-in-a-lifetime opportunity, investing $234,000 to acquire Elvis’s iconic jet. Committed to preserving its historical charm, Webb embarked on an 18-month journey to convert the derelict jet into a luxurious, road-worthy RV without compromising its original aesthetic.
Keeping the Spirit of Elvis Alive
"I didn’t want to mess it up or cut it; I wanted to keep it exactly the same as it was," Webb shared with Supercar Blondie. Remarkably, the interior of the jet was still in good condition, allowing Webb to retain its retro look reminiscent of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
The RV’s First Big Showcase
With the transformation complete, Webb proudly presented the RV at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2024, garnering significant attention and admiration from enthusiasts.
The Ultimate Test: McDonald’s Drive-Thru
In a lighter moment, Webb decided to put the massive RV to the test by steering it through a McDonald’s drive-thru. Surprisingly, the oversized vehicle managed the challenge quite well.
- Despite its size, it approached the ordering speaker with some difficulty.
- Unable to get close enough, Webb had to shout his order for three chocolate milkshakes—a request that was met with the unfortunate news that the ice cream machine was out of service.
Webb and his revamped RV didn’t let this small hiccup dampen their spirits. They simply parked and proceeded to another fast-food eatery to satisfy their cravings.
Conclusion: A Successful Journey
From being an abandoned relic to becoming a functional and stylish RV, Webb’s project was a triumphant venture, even if it did hit a snag at the drive-thru. The iconic jet now continues to live on, captivating fans and onlookers wherever it goes.
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William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi
