As though to prove the complex mutation of his vehicle, the President would take visitors to his Texan ranch in Johnson City (presumably called that in case he ever got lost?) for a drive in his 1961 model, the first year of Amphicar 770 production. As he approached the lake on his property, LBJ would feign that his brakes had failed, frightening his passengers. Only for him to gently ease the floating car safely into the water, in which it chugged happily along at its regulation 7 knots. Ho-ho-ho!

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In case you would like to emulate President Lyndon Baines Johnson’s waggishness, we have such a vehicle right now at Beverly Hills Car Club, a versatile 1968 Amphicar 770 that is finished in a captivating Beach Sand White combined with a striking white over blue interior. To further enhance the exterior, this 770 is equipped with a convertible soft top, giving you the option to enjoy the cool ocean breeze on a sunny day.

Featured amenities include a fender-mounted antenna, dual-rearview mirrors, sun visors, vent windows, quarter windows, analog clock, door pockets, water-proof upholstery, bench seating, and vent windows.

If you’re in search of a weekend cruiser that offers a unique experience, this Amphicar presents an opportunity for an adventure on both land and sea. Don’t miss a chance to create timeless memories with this mechanically sound 770.

When the Amphicar first appeared in 1961 it featured navigation lights and flag as mandated by the US Coast Guard.

The Amphicar was assembled with quality pieces. The rear-mounted 1147cc engine came from a Triumph Herald, the legendary UK runabout; Mercedes-Benz supplied the suspension and brake components; and the transmission internals were Porsche pieces. It was the Quandt Group who manufactured the Amphicar; Quandt’s conglomerate of businesses headed by Herbert Quandt owned significant stakes in Mercedes and BMW.

The car would then motor off into the waves.

Presumably as a marketing gimmick, the Amphicar was put through a number of impressive watery adventures. In 1965 a pair of Amphicars navigated Alaska’s Yukon River. And in September that year another pair crossed the English Channel; and there was a further crossing of the Straits of Gibraltar from Spain to Morocco.

Despite being a very heavy car, there is no vagueness with its controls; although the brakes can be a little soft, as can be the handling, Amphicars are terrific fun to drive.

Indeed, 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.’

-Alex Manos, Owner