Amphicar
| Amphicar Model 770 | |
|---|---|
Amphicar Model 770 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Quandt Group |
| Production | 1960–1965 3,878 built |
| Model years | 1960–1968 |
| Designer | Hans Trippel |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 2-door cabriolet with boat features |
| Layout | RR layout |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 1147 cc straight-4 (Triumph) |
| Power output | 38 brake horsepower (39 PS; 28 kW) @ 4,750 rpm 88 newton-metres (65 lbf⋅ft) 2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 4-speed all-synchromesh manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 84 in (2,134 mm) |
| Length | 171 in (4,343 mm) |
| Width | 62 in (1,575 mm) |
| Height | 60 in (1,524 mm) |
| Curb weight | 2,315–2,324 lb (1,050–1,054 kg) |
The Amphicar Model 770 is an amphibious automobile which was launched at the 1961 New York Auto Show. It was made in West Germany and marketed from 1961 to 1968, with production ceasing in 1965.
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 manufactured in a single generation. The name Amphicar is a portmanteau of "amphibious" and "car".
A spiritual descendant of the Volkswagen Schwimmwagen, 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.
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."