Amphicar
Amphibious automobile / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Amphicar Model 770 is an amphibious automobile which was launched at the 1961 New York Auto Show.[2] It was made in West Germany and marketed from 1961 to 1968, with production ceasing in 1965.
Amphicar Model 770 | |
---|---|
Overview | |
Manufacturer | Quandt Group |
Production | 1960–1965 3,878 built |
Model years | 1961–1968 |
Designer | Hans Trippel |
Body and chassis | |
Body style | two door cabriolet with boat features |
Layout | RR layout |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 1147 cc straight-4 (Triumph) |
Transmission | 4-speed all-synchromesh manual |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 84 in (2,134 mm)[1] |
Length | 171 in (4,343 mm) |
Width | 62 in (1,575 mm) |
Height | 60 in (1,524 mm) |
Curb weight | 2,324 lb (1,054 kg) |
Designed by Hans Trippel, the amphibious vehicle was manufactured by the Quandt Group at Lübeck and at Berlin-Borsigwalde, with a total of 3,878[2][3] manufactured in a single generation. The name Amphicar is a portmanteau of "amphibious" and "car."
A spiritual descendant of the Volkswagen Schwimmwagen,[4] and the Trippel SG6, the Amphicar offered only modest performance compared to most contemporary boats or cars, featured navigation lights and flag as mandated by the US Coast Guard — and after operation in water, required greasing at 13 points, one of which required removal of the rear seat.[2]
In 2014, the publication Petrolicious described the Amphicar as "good for one thing: fun. It’s not quick or flashy, but it’s iconic, unique and friendly. What more could you ask from a vintage car? The Amphicar might not make any sense and that’s precisely why it’s so wonderful."[5]