1975 Bricklin SV-1

1975 Bricklin SV-1

This is a running and driving example of the considerably rare Bricklin SV-1.

Yes, this is not a kit car. Bricklin was a Canada-based company founded by Malcolm Bricklin under General Vehicles in 1974. Originally started as an importer for Subaru, Mr. Bricklin decided the world needed an all-new production car: the Bricklin SV-1.

"SV-1" stood for Safety Vehicle 1, as the Bricklin was designed with safety first. It had an integrated full roll cage, 20mph crash absorbing bumpers and was only available in bright colors, like the pale orange on this one. Though safety was his main concern, Mr. Bricklin would not compromise on a few details, including the very recognizable gullwing doors and acrylic-coated fiberglass panels as opposed to sheet metal and paint. These features set the SV-1 apart from pretty much every other car at the time, making it incredibly unique when new and even more unique today, as only ~1,500 SV-1's are thought to remain, and the SV-1 was the only car Bricklin produced.

On the outside, this SV-1 has been largely untouched. Though considered sacrilege amongst enthusiasts, painting over the factory acrylic panels is a somewhat popular move, as many Bricklins have begun to develop hairline cracks on the hood, roof and trunk. The unpainted acrylic panels on this example do suffer from that issue, though it is purely cosmetic. Maintaining the bright shine of the acrylic exterior panels consists of routine cutting and polishing, and this one has undergone that process very recently. A replacement roof and door in the same color is provided in the sale.

On the inside, it's had a full refresh. Nearly all the upholstery has been redone or replaced, including the seats, center console and carpets. All were done to near-factory spec. Some additional factory interior panels are included in the sale.

Mechanically, this SV-1 has also seen some work. It's been fitted with some quality-of-life improvements, such as the popular air door conversion as the factory hydraulic system that opened the doors was notoriously slow - like 15-20 seconds slow. Now they open quickly. This car has also been fitted with an upgraded radiator, as they were prone to overheating; a result of the poor ventilation for the giant Ford 351 Windsor that came under the hood. On that topic, under the hood is the factory Ford 351 Windsor engine that came standard for the 1975 model year. It runs well, idles normally and stays cool under normal driving conditions, though just like in most other Bricklins, prolonged stops cause it to rise in temperature. In cooler weather this should not be a problem.

This example has also recently gotten new control arms, ball joints and bushings in the front to replace the worn factory hardware. A new thermostat and coolant flush are also in recent service history. It also includes tons of Bricklin literature and various service receipts.

It is nice, but it's not perfect. Known issues include:
-Hairline cracking is noticeable, especially on the roof panel.
-Improper cutting techniques from a previous attempt at polishing has left a few places on the exterior dull with swirls.
-Tires are old and imbalanced, most likely flat spots
-Needs an alignment
-Speedometer and odometer inoperable, mileage unknown
-Passenger-side door moulding is missing
-Missing 1 Bricklin wheel center cap
-Carburetor could use an adjustment

We're a father and son team of car enthusiasts, set on taking good drivers and projects and turning them into great drivers and projects. This Bricklin has been repaired, driven and enjoyed with care under our ownership and is ready to see its new home, although it will be sad to see it go. Contact me with questions and I should respond within the day. Offers welcome.