**Revival of Classic Automobiles in Saint John Draws Enthusiasts Worldwide**
Over the weekend, Water Street in Saint John became a mesmerizing display of automotive history as approximately 40 Bricklins, both young and old, lined the streets, inviting New Brunswickers to marvel at these iconic vehicles and even experience sitting behind the wheel.
The Bricklin, a beloved car produced in Saint John and Minto during 1974 and 1975, holds a special place in the hearts of many, with only around 3,000 cars ever being manufactured before production ceased, leaving New Brunswickers missing out on over $23 million in tax dollars.
To mark the 50-year milestone since the birth of the Bricklin, enthusiasts from around the globe congregated in New Brunswick, showcasing an array of these vintage vehicles. Among the magnificent display was a unique black Bricklin with a black interior, identified as a prototype for an unreleased model named the Chairman, owned by Steven Stratton, Chairman of Bricklin International, a longstanding club established in 1976 boasting approximately 240 members.
Hailing all the way from Virginia for the festive gathering, Stratton’s passion for the Bricklin was ignited at a young age, at the sight of the distinctive gull-wing doors. Today, with two Bricklins in his possession, including the exclusive Chairman model, Stratton’s dedication to preserving these classic cars is unwavering.
The spirit of the Bricklin community is embodied in the mission of Bricklin International, not solely focused on uniting enthusiasts but also dedicated to ensuring the longevity of these cherished automobiles. Stratton emphasized the collaborative effort required to maintain and repair the cars properly, advocating for ongoing preservation efforts to keep them on the road for generations to come.
With an extensive online forum serving as an archive for repair and maintenance resources dating back to the early 2000s, as well as the Bricklin Magazine, offering insights into the car’s history, repair tips, and captivating stories from owners, the club continues to foster a thriving community of Bricklin admirers worldwide.
The legacy of those dedicated to enhancing the Bricklin experience, like Terry Tanner, the former head of manufacturing at Bricklin in New Brunswick, who later established repair shops in Michigan and Virginia, has been instrumental in shaping the current state of these classic cars. Tanner’s relentless pursuit of perfection and innovation set a high standard for those carrying on his work today.
Bob Hoffman, owner of Bob’s
Over the weekend, Water Street in Saint John became a mesmerizing display of automotive history as approximately 40 Bricklins, both young and old, lined the streets, inviting New Brunswickers to marvel at these iconic vehicles and even experience sitting behind the wheel.
The Bricklin, a beloved car produced in Saint John and Minto during 1974 and 1975, holds a special place in the hearts of many, with only around 3,000 cars ever being manufactured before production ceased, leaving New Brunswickers missing out on over $23 million in tax dollars.
To mark the 50-year milestone since the birth of the Bricklin, enthusiasts from around the globe congregated in New Brunswick, showcasing an array of these vintage vehicles. Among the magnificent display was a unique black Bricklin with a black interior, identified as a prototype for an unreleased model named the Chairman, owned by Steven Stratton, Chairman of Bricklin International, a longstanding club established in 1976 boasting approximately 240 members.
Hailing all the way from Virginia for the festive gathering, Stratton’s passion for the Bricklin was ignited at a young age, at the sight of the distinctive gull-wing doors. Today, with two Bricklins in his possession, including the exclusive Chairman model, Stratton’s dedication to preserving these classic cars is unwavering.
The spirit of the Bricklin community is embodied in the mission of Bricklin International, not solely focused on uniting enthusiasts but also dedicated to ensuring the longevity of these cherished automobiles. Stratton emphasized the collaborative effort required to maintain and repair the cars properly, advocating for ongoing preservation efforts to keep them on the road for generations to come.
With an extensive online forum serving as an archive for repair and maintenance resources dating back to the early 2000s, as well as the Bricklin Magazine, offering insights into the car’s history, repair tips, and captivating stories from owners, the club continues to foster a thriving community of Bricklin admirers worldwide.
The legacy of those dedicated to enhancing the Bricklin experience, like Terry Tanner, the former head of manufacturing at Bricklin in New Brunswick, who later established repair shops in Michigan and Virginia, has been instrumental in shaping the current state of these classic cars. Tanner’s relentless pursuit of perfection and innovation set a high standard for those carrying on his work today.
Bob Hoffman, owner of Bob’s
