Bricklin SV-1 351 Windsor
The Bricklin SV-1 (Safety Vehicle One) was Malcolm Bricklin's ambitious attempt to build a safe, affordable sports car. The SV-1 featured color-impregnated acrylic/fiberglass body panels that wouldn't show scratches, integrated steel safety cage, built-in bumpers rated for 5-mph impact, and powered gullwing doors operated by compressed air. Under the futuristic skin, the SV-1 used AMC and later Ford V8 engines with automatic transmissions. The car was assembled in New Brunswick, Canada with subsidies from the provincial government. Quality control was abysmal, the gullwing doors frequently trapped occupants, and the company collapsed financially in 1975 after producing just 2,854 cars. Despite its troubled history, the SV-1 is now a valued collectible — its gullwing doors, unique styling, and fascinating backstory make it a conversation starter.
Ford 351 cars are more desirable for parts availability. The gullwing door mechanism is the biggest maintenance headache. Body panels are color-impregnated — you can't repaint them. Check for structural rust in the steel safety cage. Join the Bricklin International Owners Club for support. These are appreciating as quirky collectibles.
Approximately 2,854 SV-1s were built 1974-1975. Early cars used AMC 360 V8; later cars switched to Ford 351 Windsor. The New Brunswick government invested heavily and lost millions. Only about 1,500 are estimated to survive.