Cool Camper: 1952 Oscar Meyer Weinermobile – Flagged For Removal?

September 29, 2023 Update – We confirmed Craigslist users flagged the post of this Oscar Meyer Weinermobile. Unfortunately, we don’t know the reasons why it was removed, but we would not be surprised if the Oscar Meyer company did not take too kindly to see one of their former promotional vehicles being allegedly used as an eight-person camper.

For the car collector who has everything, chances are very good they do not have an Oscar Meyer Weinermobile in their garage. Most enthusiasts don’t have a large building to house a typical Weinermobile, but that’s a different story.  Used by the Oscar Meyer company as a promotional vehicle since the Depression era, the Weinermobile is perhaps the most iconic of such rides.  Typically relying on a custom fiberglass body over a truck frame and powertrain, the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile’s construction has varied widely over the ninety years it has existed.

We’ve never come across a Weinermobile for sale until now.  This 1952 Oscar Meyer Weinermobile for sale, first spotted in September 2023 on Craigslist in Langley, British Columbia, Canada, might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.  Offered for $3,600, we believe that figure is in Canadian dollars, meaning it’s only $2,664 in US dollars right now.  Even better, the seller hints, “Or Best Offer.”

While the seller does not provide powertrain specifics. The details section of the ad notes this Weinermobile features a six-cylinder diesel backed by a five-speed manual transmission.  The seller notes that they use their Oscar Meyer Weinermobile as a camper that can sleep up to ten slender people, but with no interior pictures provided, you’ll have to ask for proof of how that’s accomplished.  Weinermobiles of this period used Dodge Chassis, but since this example is based in Canada it’s quite possible a different design was used for that market.

The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is not just a promotional vehicle; it’s an icon of American pop culture. For nearly nine decades, this peculiar and whimsical hot dog-shaped automobile has captured the imagination of people across the United States. Its journey through time is a fascinating tale that spans generations, marketing brilliance, and a profound love for hot dogs.

1920s-1930s: The Inception of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile

The story of the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile begins in the late 1920s when Carl G. Mayer, the nephew of Oscar Mayer, joined the family business. Carl had a vision to take the company’s products to the streets in a unique and eye-catching way. The idea was simple yet brilliant: create a vehicle shaped like a hot dog to promote Oscar Mayer’s delicious sausages.

In 1936, the first Wienermobile rolled off the assembly line in Chicago. It was a 13-foot-long, mustard-yellow vehicle with a metal chassis and a fiberglass bun-like body. With its oversized wheels and realistic hot dog appearance, this creation became an instant hit.

1940s-1950s: The Wienermobile’s Post-War Expansion

During World War II, the Wienermobile production halted as resources were diverted for the war effort. However, after the war, the Wienermobile returned to the streets triumphantly. These post-war Wienermobiles featured improved designs, including more detailed bun texture and the iconic Oscar Mayer logo.

The 1950s marked the beginning of an enduring tradition—the Oscar Mayer Hotdogger program. College graduates were hired to become “Hotdoggers,” driving the Wienermobile across the country, promoting the brand, and handing out wiener whistles, a popular promotional item. This program boosted the Wienermobile’s visibility and created a unique and coveted job opportunity for young adults.

1960s-1970s: The Wienermobile Gets a Makeover

As the 1960s dawned, Oscar Mayer decided it was time to modernize the Wienermobile. The result was the “New Look” Wienermobile, introduced in 1969. This version featured a sleeker design with a fiberglass body, complete with more prominent condiments and a larger, friendlier face. The new look was a hit, and it became an iconic symbol of the era.

In 1970, the Wienermobile reached new heights when six hot dog-shaped vehicles were dispatched to tour the United States. Each of these Wienermobiles was named after a different U.S. state, further endearing the vehicle to the American public.

1980s-1990s: Wiener Whistles and Nostalgia

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Wienermobile continued its mission to promote Oscar Mayer products across the nation. It became a staple at parades, festivals, and special events. The Wienermobile’s Hotdoggers handed out thousands of wiener whistles, cementing the association between Oscar Mayer and the iconic sound of a whistle that could be heard at family picnics and cookouts all over America.

During this time, the Wienermobile also underwent some notable transformations. The “Wienermobile II” was introduced in 1988, and in 1995, the “Weinermobile Wannabes” arrived, smaller versions of the iconic hot dog on wheels.

2000s-Present: Keeping the Wienermobile Rolling

As we entered the 21st century, the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile continued to evolve. In 2004, the “Wienermobile Mini” joined the fleet, a smaller and more fuel-efficient version of the classic hot dog on wheels. 2008 Oscar Mayer celebrated the Wienermobile’s 75th anniversary, showcasing its enduring appeal.

One significant development in recent years was the launch of the “Wienermobile Run,” a nationwide campaign that allowed people to vote for their favorite Wienermobile, leading to a nationwide tour for the winning vehicle. This campaign tapped into the nostalgia associated with the Wienermobile while keeping it relevant in contemporary culture.

In 2020, the Wienermobile made headlines by adapting to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of in-person events, the Hotdoggers took to social media and virtual platforms to continue engaging with fans. This adaptability highlighted the Wienermobile’s resilience and its ability to stay connected with its audience.

The Wienermobile’s Enduring Legacy

The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is more than just a promotional gimmick; it symbolizes American marketing ingenuity, nostalgia, and the enduring love for hot dogs. From its humble beginnings in the 1930s to its continued presence on the roads of America today, the Wienermobile has remained a beloved and iconic vehicle.

Its legacy extends beyond advertising and promotions. The Wienermobile has become a part of American culture, with appearances in movies, television shows, and countless photos with fans young and old. It has also inspired fan art, fan clubs, and even Wienermobile-themed merchandise.

As it enters its ninth decade, the Wienermobile stands as a testament to the power of creative marketing, the enduring appeal of nostalgia, and the simple joy of a good hot dog. It remains a rolling symbol of fun, laughter, and the American spirit, reminding us that sometimes, a giant hot dog on wheels is just what we need to brighten our day. So, the next time you see the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile cruising down the street, be sure to wave and remember this remarkable promotional vehicle’s rich history and legacy.

The MotorWeek Retro Review Channel features an actual road test of a late 1980s version of the iconic Oscar Meyer Weinermobile:

If you have the garage or yard space and the need to add something truly unique to your electric car collection, then this 1952 Oscar Meyer Weinermobile for sale may be the ride for you.  You’ll need to get more details from the seller to confirm what specific powertrain this example features and whether it was a originally used by the company to promote products in Canada.

If you are serious about buying this Oscar Meyer Weinermobile, you can start the conversation by using the contact information provided by the seller in their Craigslist ad.  When you connect, please mention that you saw their unique camper featured here on GuysWithRides.com. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

Show or go: What would you do with this Oscar Meyer Weinermobile for sale? Please comment below and let us know!