American Motors beefed up the muscle car side of its business in the late 1960s. The AMX debuted in 1968 as a GT-style performance car with 2-seats. So, its closest competitor may have been the Chevy Corvette. Akin to the also new Javelin, the AMX was only offered as a standalone model for three years. This ’68 edition has been sitting in a barn for many moons, and the body has its share of issues. Hoping to be freed from its perch in Snohomish, Washington, this well-worn project is available here on craigslist for $5,500. Kudos to “Barney” for the tip!
Just 19,134 AMXs left AMC’s possession from 1968-70. 6,725 were built in the first year, and only 902 came with a 343 cubic inch V8 and an automatic transmission like the seller’s car. So, if it should happen to be numbers-matching, it would be a rare automobile after 58 years. But time and Mother Nature have not been kind to this machine, so if you plan to restore it, get your finances in order.
The history of the AMX isn’t known, but it saw enough use over the years to have the odometer turnover (something you don’t see on newer cars since they went from five significant digits to six). The body is full of dents, and the hood isn’t in the photos, but the seller says it’s there somewhere and will go with the sale.
Obviously, this AMC doesn’t run, and we don’t know what it might take to coax the engine back to life. The original color may have been silver, and the needy interior is red. The project car sports Magnum 500 wheels, which is a plus in its favor. Bring cash and a trailer, but keep your hands off the nearby Challenger as it’s not for sale.
Love that aftermarket Hard Hat style air filter!!! Ok…. Sorry…. Couldn’t resist. Even though they’re a two seater I never put an AMX in the same croud as a Vette. I always considered them as a very unique 2 seater coupe. The lines are beautifully done on these, the proportions, everything. Dick Teague did a phenomenal job when he designed these. I’m sure this one looked amazing with its silver paint and red interior, a really nice combination. I know the 343 is no 390 but I’m sure it was no slouch either. Hopefully someone can save this one and iron out those wrinkles. Great write up Russ, thank you.
Well, the last line in the ad answered my unasked question, LOL!! :-)
Some unanswered here like does the engine rotate 360*, are all the missing parts accounted for, why was it parked/partially stripped and what does the underside look like?
But whatever the answers, here’s to hoping someone brings this back to life and cares for it-yes we realize it’s “just an AMC” but it’s a chapter in the automotive book that shouldn’t be forgotten and/or neglected.
GLWTS
The ad leaves more than a little bit to be desired. This is the kind of car that serious potential buyers within driving distance will go see in person. It doesn’t really matter if the seller sends you more pictures and information, you’ve got to show up to get the deals. It’s rough, but doesn’t need significant rust repair an AMX enthusiast might find it worth the effort. There is a reason why many sellers of cars featured on this site have been highlighted multiple times, while there are a significant number of readers that complaint there aren’t any more reasonably priced cars. Both can’t be true at the same time.
Steve R