Not being a part of the Big Three undoubtedly put AMC at a disadvantage among U.S. automakers, but that certainly didn’t stop them from producing some satisfying cars, including a few memorable luxury offerings. For 1970, the Ambassador SST was the brand’s flagship, with the package letters standing for Super Sport Touring. This one here on Facebook Marketplace appears to be a well-preserved example overall, and is said to have been under the original owner’s care until he was 92 years old. It’s located in New Ulm, Minnesota, with the asking price of $9,900 not sounding unreasonable based on the condition here. We’d like to thank reader Zappenduster for finding this one and sending us the tip here!
The seller tells us that he’s the car’s second owner, and as you look around this AMC, it becomes apparent that this one has received a lifetime of good care and maintenance. A relative of the original buyer told him that the Ambassador has never been driven in the winter, plus it’s also reported to have always been kept inside when not in use. This one is listed as a survivor, and if the term is used correctly, that means it’s still wearing the original coat of paint. A few cosmetic issues are said to exist, but they’re not very obvious, at least not unless the car is under close scrutiny. I’m not seeing anything glaring on the exterior that would make me want to take any immediate action to make improvements.
While the Ambassador may not have been as plush inside as a Cadillac, it was quite luxurious for an AMC product, and it’s great to see that this one is equipped with power windows. What’s probably more important than the number of features here is the interior’s condition, which appears close to immaculate, unless I’m missing something. The blue color complements the exterior nicely, and by ’70 standards, those seats look fairly supportive and comfortable.
1970 was a time for growing spurts of V8 engines at AMC, with the 290 being replaced by a 304 and the 343 eliminated in favor of a 360. This one is equipped with the latter, and it’s of the 2-barrel variety. The mileage is stated as 65,201, so if that’s accurate and the mechanics have been properly maintained, there may still be some dependable life left here. The 1970 Ambassador SST is one of those cars that could be considered underrated, as it had some serious competition from the big boys during this period. However, I find myself admiring this one and wouldn’t mind it taking up some real estate in my garage. How about you?
Beautiful car, the writer mentions power windows and I see both power steering pump and a/c compressor but no booster at the master cylinder. Strange choise.
Air conditioning, the smaller 304 V8, and automatic transmission were standard on this model. Power steering and power brakes (disk or drum) were optional, as were electric windshield wipers.
I have a 1971 Ambassador which is essentially the same car but not in nearly as good condition. The main difference in equipment versus the one offered here is mine has crank windows and power front disk brakes. (A panic stop with the manual drum brakes must be a frightening experience!)
Would be a great sleeper with a 390 or a 401. If you are driving a four door, you really need something bad*** under the hood.