What Makes the Brubaker Box and Automecca Sports Van So Unusual?
Ever spot a car that makes you do a double take? The Brubaker Box—later known as the Automecca Sports Van—is one of those rare rides. Born from the creative mind of Curtis Brubaker in the early 1970s, this van wasn’t just another quirky kit car. It was a rolling lounge, a slice of California cool that stood out even among the wildest custom vehicles of its era.
What’s truly wild is how few of these vans ever hit the road. While Brubaker himself managed to build just three before his company folded, Automecca picked up the torch and produced about two dozen Sports Vans. That’s it. Today, spotting one is like finding a unicorn at your local cars and coffee.
Why Did Kit Cars Like the Brubaker Box Use Volkswagen Chassis?
Back in the day, kit car builders loved the Volkswagen Beetle chassis for one simple reason: versatility. The Beetle’s platform was affordable, reliable, and easy to modify. That meant designers could let their imaginations run wild, creating everything from dune buggies to futuristic vans, all without reinventing the wheel—literally.
For the Brubaker Box, the VW base offered a low floor and rear-engine layout, making it perfect for a roomy, lounge-style interior. It also kept costs down, which was crucial for small manufacturers. The result? Pure magic. You got a van that looked like nothing else, but underneath, it was as easy to fix as your neighbor’s old Bug.
How Does the Restored Automecca Sports Van Stand Out Today?
Fast forward to the present, and one recently restored Automecca Sports Van is turning heads again. After spending three decades tucked away in an Indiana garage, it was brought back to life in 2021. The restoration wasn’t just a quick polish and go—think bright red paint, a ceramic coating for extra shine, and a rebuilt 1.6-liter air-cooled VW flat-four engine with some modern upgrades like an EMPI carburetor and stainless-steel headers.
It’s not just about what’s under the hood, though. The van sports front disc brakes for improved stopping power, a set of surfboards mounted on the roof, and a woodgrain bumper that screams retro charm. Step inside, and you’re greeted by tufted red upholstery, a wraparound rear bench, and a period-correct Brother Aquatron VX-33 8-track player. It’s like stepping into a time capsule—one that’s ready for a beach road trip.
Why Didn’t the Brubaker Box Become a Mainstream Hit?
You might wonder why something this cool didn’t catch on. The answer’s a mix of timing and taste. In the 1970s, the market for unconventional vans was niche at best. Most buyers looking for a family hauler or a road trip machine went with tried-and-true options like the VW Type II Bus. The Brubaker Box’s angular, almost sci-fi design was a bit too far out for mainstream tastes.
There’s also the reality of limited production. With only about two dozen ever made, there was never a big marketing push or dealer network. It was a cult classic from day one—a car for the dreamers, not the masses.
What’s It Like to Drive or Own One of These Vans?
Owning a Brubaker Box or Automecca Sports Van is less about speed and more about the experience. The 1.6-liter VW engine isn’t going to win any drag races, but it’s reliable and easy to maintain. The four-speed automatic transmission keeps things simple, and the van’s compact size makes it surprisingly maneuverable.
Visibility, though? That’s another story. With just six pieces of glass—most of them up front—blind spots are a real challenge. But who cares when you’re cruising with surfboards on the roof and a lounge in the back? It’s all about the vibe.
Inside, the van feels like a rolling living room. The wraparound bench is perfect for hanging out with friends, and the 8-track player is a conversation starter all on its own. It’s a vehicle that invites you to slow down, enjoy the ride, and maybe throw on some classic tunes while you’re at it.
How Rare Are These Vans, and What’s Their Value Today?
With only about two dozen ever built, the Brubaker Box and Automecca Sports Van are among the rarest kit cars out there. That rarity has translated into real value for collectors. Recent auctions have seen bids climb past $30,000, and that’s before the final hammer drops. For comparison, that’s more than many classic VW buses fetch in similar condition.
But for most owners, it’s not just about the money. It’s about owning a piece of automotive history—a symbol of a time when creativity ran wild and anything seemed possible on four wheels.
What’s the Lasting Legacy of the Brubaker Box?
The Brubaker Box’s legacy isn’t measured in sales numbers or racing trophies. Instead, it’s a testament to the power of bold ideas and the enduring appeal of the unconventional. It paved the way for other offbeat vehicles and inspired a generation of designers to think outside the box—literally.
The big takeaway? Chasing originality in the automotive world isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments and daring to be different. Start with one bold idea this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.