The pony car market had largely run out of gas by 1974. That was the year that three of the players exited the market: the Plymouth Barracuda (from 1964), Dodge Challenger (from 1970), and the AMC Javelin (from 1968). Ironically, the American Motors product outsold both Mopars that final year. The seller has one of those ’74 Javelins and says it’s been 80% restored (what’s the other 20%?). Located near Allentown, Pennsylvania, the seller will entertain offers over $6,000, but really wants $12,000 here on craigslist. Thanks for another Kenosha tip, Rocco B.!
There were only two generations of the Javelin, 1968 to 1970 and 1971 to 1974. The last-of-the-line had beefier bumpers fore and aft to adhere to new government safety standards. Previously optional, front disc brakes became standard fare. Rather than invest it in retooling for a third generation of the Javelin, AMC opted to focus its attention on the quirky-looking Matador and Pacer models instead. Final year Javelin production numbers actually grew by 2,000 units.
This Javelin has the basic V8, displacing 304 cubic inches and less horsepower, thanks to additional emissions controls. An automatic transmission is also in play, and we assume both have been refreshed and included in the 80% restoration claim. The odometer stands at 81,500 miles, not an excessive number considering this is a 52-year-old automobile.
The interior is all-new with OEM materials that still have some plastic covers. The body looks good, but there’s no discussion of the history of the blue paint job. The seller says he/she has invested $12,000 in the car but may be willing to take half that amount. The way the financial requirements are mentioned is a little strange and more in the buyer’s favor.
“Hey Javelin”, those were some clever ads featuring Herb Edelman as the timid, meek type of person that probably would buy a Javelin. Quite the opposite from the “it’s a great car , dad, I just made it better” ads. The Javelin was the swansong of the “old” AMC, offered by anyone else, would have been a smashing success. The biggest problem? Yep, it was still a Rambler. You may think I’m being over dramatic, but growing up in Milwaukee, it wasn’t hard to miss the negative attitudes people had about AMC. Oh sure, Donohue helped some, but we never lost that until the end.
This is a great find, the coolest AMC car by a long shot, and I all but guarantee at any gathering,,,a what now??
Could be a great deal. The seller doesn’t help himself with the lousy handful of pics.
Nice car and price, even like the blue. Allentown PA? Better check underneath, photos are needed!
Pity not a manual, Id be calling.