The Sea Lion Is The World's Fastest Amphibious Car

Sea Lion Amphibious Car. © Mecum Auctions

The Sea Lion is the world’s fastest amphibious car, featuring retractable side pods that allow it to float on water.

This prototype is part of the Larry Klairmont Collection at the Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum in Chicago. It’s powered by a 1.3-liter Mazda 13B rotary engine.

Sea Lion Amphibious Car. © Mecum Auctions

The car’s design features a monocoque section integrated into the center of the body, creating a single, strong structure. Its front and rear fenders attach directly to this main shell.

Sea Lion Amphibious Car. © Mecum Auctions

When entering the water, hydraulic actuators lift the front wheels into the wheel wells. In the water, movement is powered by a Berkeley 12 JC jet drive pump. The vehicle is entered through a single top opening, while the seating and controls remain fixed.