Purchase this 1970s amphibious ATV featuring four-wheel steering.

      Jen Kennedy via Facebook Marketplace

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      Modern ATVs and UTVs are highly capable, yet there’s an older design that can rival them—and then some. Recently listed on Facebook Marketplace, this 1970 Coot features four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and an amphibious capability. A seller from New Jersey is asking for $3,800.

      Coot Inc. was among several small manufacturers producing amphibious ATVs during the 1960s and 1970s. Founded in 1964 by Carl Enos Jr., an 18-year-old mechanic, as detailed on a page by current ATV maker Mudd-Ox. The unique aspect of the Coot is its articulated hull, which is divided in the center, allowing the two sections to pivot side-to-side. This design helps maintain wheel contact with the ground when traversing uneven surfaces.

      Jen Kennedy via Facebook Marketplace

      The 1970 model comes with a 0.5-liter Tecumseh four-cylinder engine and has both high and low ranges for its four-wheel drive system. Standard single-axle steering was available, but with its four-wheel steering, this ATV functions almost like a smaller version of the U.S. military’s LARC transport. Coot promoted it as a versatile alternative to various vehicles including snowmobiles and garden tractors, supporting that claim with an owner’s manual featuring off-roading tips illustrated with cartoons.

      Based on a 1973 price sheet found on the same historical page, a basic model with four-wheel drive and two-wheel steering was priced at $2,065 at that time. The four-wheel steering option was an additional $110, and a trailer could be purchased for $460.

      Mudd-Ox

      The original Coot company began in San Francisco but later relocated to Cedar Park, Texas, before closing down in 1985. In 2006, Columbus Industries from Fairview, Illinois, launched a modernized version called the Coot 2, though it did not achieve the same success as the original. Production ceased after the 2008 model year, potentially due to fully-equipped versions being priced around $20,000—comparable to a well-appointed compact car at that time.

      At its current price on Facebook Marketplace, this classic model could be a worthwhile purchase. It’s more straightforward and considerably more capable than an Amphicar or custom amphibious conversions that occasionally appear. This classic Coot certainly seems like it would be enjoyable to have around.

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