The Javelin was AMC’s entry in the pony car game in 1968. At 55,000 units the first year, it represented about 20 percent of overall production, which had to please the AMC powers-that-be. The Javelin was based on the Rambler American platform (just as the Mustang was a Falcon under the skin) and would run through 1974. This first year Javelin looks to be a nice survivor that may only need new paint to be a show-off car once again. It can be found in Vacaville, California and here on craigslist for $14,000. Thank you to MattR for bringing this unmolested sporty car to our attention!
As an independent with fewer resources, American Motors wasn’t able to offer a variety of body styles like their competitors. A 2-door hardtop coupe would have to suffice, although AMC did manage to come up with the AMX – a GT-style 2-seater – to help draw traffic into dealer showrooms. AMC built 26,000 of the upscale SST models for 1968 (remember the Super Sonic Transport?) and just under 9,000 of those came equipped with the 343 cubic inch V8 like in the seller’s car. We don’t know if it has a 2 or 4-barrel carburetor, but it’s said to be a numbers-matching car that runs excellent with an automatic transmission.
We’re guessing this Javelin has lived in a dry climate most or all of its life as rust doesn’t seem to be hiding anywhere in the photos provided. The car has received one repaint over time and the prep work was done poorly as paint is flaking off the roof and sides of the car. Otherwise, it would look good. The interior has been redone and – whether or not NOS materials were used – it presents very well and looks quite inviting for a road trip. An inspection of the undercarriage reveals what looks to be a newer or refurbished fuel tank along with a set of glasspacks to help make the car sound tough.
The seller says the Javelin has just 65,000 miles on it. So, if that’s the case, it’s only average about 1,250 miles a year over time. The original owner’s manual has been saved, along with a book listing all the maintenance done. Not bad after 53 years! Because it’s an AMC product, the Javelin doesn’t command the same kind of money on the open market as other cars do. $25,000 seems to be top dollar on a ’68 Javelin, according to Hagerty, so investing in a quality paint job will keep you at or below market value and give you a sweet ride for weekend outings and Cars & Coffee.
I think ’68 was the best looking year for these.
I find the bare metal of the roof a bit of a concern. How hard would it be to cover that with some primer before rust sets in?
Seems to be a Southern California malady. 4-5 year old Nissan’s seem to be about the same as this AMC !
Definitely not original , or repro of original seat covers. Optional arm rest is hard to find.
That armrest looks too wide. My memory of these was the rest that usually came with console and Shift Command was narrow. I could also be wrong. Still this seems an excellent starting point.
I like the looks of the Javelin over the AMX. The AMX with its shortened wheelbase 98” looks stubby from the side view. The early Javelin looks more balanced.
It doesn’t matter, I will take ONE of Each.
What was a bucket of battery acid dropped on the roof and ran down the rear quarter panel?
Bad paint prep? Paint just fell off?
javilin pretty close toa cuda? AMX punches ’em both out to real sports…
My Mom had a 68 Rebel SST with a 343 4 Barrel, Gave those Ford and Bowtie Boys a Run for the money. This looks like it could be a lot of fun. Not many left, Someone save it please.
I have a 68 Rebel SST in my garage
Steve, you seem to be a true believer. We were Rambler, Jeep, International Harvester. Spent many hours in Kenosha marshalling yards as a kid. Dealer Drive in the summer was a big deal in those days. We have a 67 Ambassador and 53 Hudson Hornet we are proud to still own.
Yes I had a 68 SST 343 Carter 4 Barrel Borg Warner T10 4 speed with a posi rear end. I would drive the big 3 guys absolutely crazy. Wish I still had that car
Had a Red over Saddle ’68 SST 343 4 barrel, late in its life cycle in the early ’80’s. Not pretty but its small block would regularly clobber late model slugs.
Was Mom in a hurry to get the groceries home before the Ice Cream melted? Do you know if she got any tickets with this car? Drive safe you ‘all and make sure you fasten your seat belts.
I like it,but not enough to pay that much,then get prep and paint done,but hopefully a true blue AMC fan will snag it,and do it up right.
Does anyone know if this is still available for purchase
The ad is still up if you click the link at top. Hit reply and you can email or it appears they listed their phone number as well.
I sent him an offer and hopefully he will respond.
Are replacemet seat covers avail for AMC today in the proper colors?
The “color” here would certainly satisfy today’s newer drivers.
Could this have been a vinyl roof car?
I just sold a 73 Javelin, 304, auto, Pierre cardin with 58,000 on it for $13,000, original owner. This car should go for about 7 to 8 grand at the most. Nice car but not worth what they are asking.