In the 1950s and 1960s, American Motors was your go-to company for sensibly sized, economical transportation. The American compact led the way for AMC and enabled them to snag fourth place in sales in 1962, the year the seller’s convertible rolled down the assembly line. The seller’s little Rambler looks like a survivor, with at least the baby blue paint being original and tidy. Located in Poulsbo, Washington, this Nash successor is available here on craigslist for a flat $10,000. Kudos to “Curvette” for another great vintage tip!
The American debuted in 1958 as a reincarnation of the early 1950s Nash Rambler. Nash merged with Hudson in 1954 to create AMC, and the new company’s leadership placed a premium on economical, non-fussy transportation. As such, the American would roll along until 1969 and would be the last AMC product to carry Rambler badging. As the American was refreshed in 1961, the 1962 versions would only receive some safety upgrades, like the “Double-Safety” braking system with separate hydraulics for the front and rear.
This ’62 American, probably the top trim series, the 400, is one of about 13,500 compact convertibles produced that year. It has a six-cylinder engine, probably 196 cubic inches in displacement, paired with an automatic transmission. At less than 53,000 miles, we’re told it’s been “all gone through,” but exactly what does that mean? We do know that the front suspension is new, along with the brakes, tires, and radiator.
Rust does not seem to be a factor, and the paint job is from ‘62. The interior appears to be original, too, and we assume the Rambler is turn-key and ready for weekend outings to Cars & Coffee and so forth. The canvas top has been refreshed and is ready to be dropped for some nice weather rides. These cars weren’t fancy or stylish but were pretty dependable.
I think it’s cool I would be concerned about finding parts so a engine , transmission and suspension upgrades may be in its future to keep it going. Also makes me wonder if they purchased this thing at that auction hoping for a nice flip or they just like that auction house.
Nothing wrong with those little flat 196 engines, though not sure if the convertible received the overhead valve 196 in 1962 or 1963. I drove a 1959 version across country, going the long southern route in 3/1975, towing a Ford pickup rear “trailer” behind, from SF CA to Phila PA, loaded with “stuff”. No need to search for parts if this was overhauled and reliable.
The OHV engine was standard on these with the “400” trim level. This engine needs frequent head bolt re-torquing and valve adjustments. (Every 8,000 miles as I recall was the factory recommendation.)
Here is more than you ever wanted to know about this engine:
https://www.ramblerlore.com/AMC/195.6ohv/index.html
to pay 10k. 2 things you really got to have it or really like it. not seeing 10k here
Maybe I’d rather play with the Impala next to it…
or izzat a Chevelle…
Chevelle – I’m thinking ’67.
A fellow resident at my daughter’s university dorm showed up first day with one identical to this except fully restored. I thought “What a cool way to send your kid off to school.” Apparently, it was the only day she had it there though.
Very nice condition American. Would be great for just running around town and to the ice-cream shop. But $10,000 worth? Not from me. Maybe at $5,000. It’s not a bad car, just too slow for me to enjoy.
What can you get for $10k that would be this much fun? C’mon people!