Developed over a period of 15 years at a cost of $25 million, the Amphicar debuted at the 1961 New York International Auto Show as the first fully amphibious vehicle sold to the public. Resembling a crossbreed of a 1957 Thunderbird and a Glasspar ski boat, it was motivated by a rear-mounted Triumph four-cylinder engine that drove the rear wheels. On land, the Amphicar drove like any other small European automobile of the day. Upon reaching a boat ramp, the doors’ special watertight seals were locked into place, the front luggage lid was locked, and the car was driven slowly into the water. A lever then directed the engine’s power to dual rear propellers, and off the Amphicar went. The “captain” would steer the craft using the front wheels, which served as rudders. Putting the car into reverse while in the water would spin the propellers in reverse, serving as a brake, much as on conventional boats. For returning to shore, both the rear-wheel-drive and the propeller drive could be operated at the same time.

About 3,878 Amphicars were built between 1961 and 1968.

The example offered here is finished in the beautiful hue of Lagoon Blue—one of four factory colors offered—and presents well with very solid bodywork, some 15 years after a cosmetic restoration. Recently demonstrated by its enthusiastic owner of eight years in southwestern Ontario waters, it performed well both on and offshore, and he notes that it cruises nicely at 60 mph. Within the last several years it has had some of its chrome refinished and received two new tires, brakes and brake lines, bearings, bilge pumps—one automatic and one manual—as well as a new starter and fuel pump, invoices for all of which are on file. Parts for the Amphicar are readily available from Gordon Imports of California. Accompanying are original manuals, parts books, advertising, a tool kit, two oars, an anchor, and a fire extinguisher.

This is sure to become a crowd favorite wherever it is taken by a new owner, drawing attention as only “the car that swims” can.