From the front clip to the paint shade and the V8 under the hood, much has changed since this AMC Javelin SST rolled off the line in 1972. The upgrades weren’t merely to personalize this classic, but to unlock significant performance gains. It is a tidy, rock-solid driver that is ready for action with its new owner behind the wheel. The seller has listed the Javelin here on eBay in Clear Lake, Minnesota, with an asking price of $18,900 OBO.
I have long admired AMC because it produced some pretty interesting cars on a shoestring budget. The Javelin is a perfect example, remaining in production for seven model years. The company introduced its Second Generation update in 1971, with our featured car rolling off the line the following year. Before we delve into the changes, it is worth noting that this beauty is claimed to be rust-free. That is good news for those who don’t want to wield a grinder or welder. The car underwent many changes during the 1990s. These included replacing the hood and front fenders with panels from a 1970 AMX while retaining its correct SST grille. I don’t see this as a bad move, because I’ve always preferred these fenders to the later versions that look quite “heavy.” The builder also took the opportunity to change the color. Its panels now wear Loden Green Metallic, a shade available on the Jeep color palette from 1977 until 1979. Since several decades have passed, the seller admits there are small cosmetic imperfections. However, the paint retains a healthy shine, and the panels are straight. The trim and glass are in good condition, and the Javelin rolls on period-correct aftermarket alloy wheels.
The first owner ordered this Javelin with a 304ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The car retains most of its original mechanical components, although the 304 has vacated the premises in favor of an upgraded 360ci powerplant. The 1972 Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 150hp and 245 ft/lbs for the 304. The 360 pushed those figures to 195hp and 295 ft/lbs, and since this motor appears to wear an improved intake and carburetor, it might deliver a few additional ponies. The seller indicates that the aluminum radiator, battery, tires, belts, hoses, and speedometer cable are new. It runs and drives well, and can be considered a turnkey proposition.
Trimmed in Black vinyl and featuring bucket seats, a console, and touches of woodgrain, this Javelin’s interior is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The seller indicates a small, repairable split on the passenger seat base as the only upholstery issue. The remaining vinyl looks nice, and the carpet and dash are clean. The original headliner failed years ago and was replaced by a plastic card that looks okay. Other changes include a retro-style stereo and a tachometer mounted where the clock used to be.
I acknowledge that this 1972 AMC Javelin SST won’t appeal to everyone. The changes will undoubtedly upset purists, but I suspect each was made to improve the breed. The 360ci V8 definitely ticks that box, and should provide an entertaining driving experience. Interestingly, the updates haven’t dampened interest, because the listing statistics suggest people like what they see. Whether that translates into sales success is anyone’s guess, but it only takes one person for this Javelin to find a new home. Do you think that will happen?
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