Flying Fishbowl: 1979 AMC Pacer DL Wagon

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The AMC Pacer was a quirky compact introduced in 1975. Its odd styling earned it the nickname “Flying Fishbowl” (along with others) and more glass and passenger room than anything else in its class. A station wagon was added to the mix in 1977, three years before the automobile ceased production in 1980. This 1979 wagon looks good and does run, though it has a gas leak that probably needs immediate attention. Located in Redding, California, this potential project is available here on craigslist for $5,000.

American Motors was known for taking chances with its product mix. Such as the AMX GT-style coupe (1968 to 1970) and Gremlin subcompact (1970 to 1977). The Pacer was introduced in the middle of the 1975 model year and would go on to sell 280,000 examples in the ensuing five years. Demand dropped off quickly, and just 10,000 Pacers were built in 1979, 70% of which were wagons like this one. Who remembers the movie, Wayne’s World?

Little info or photos are provided for this wagon. That includes what lies underneath the hood, which is probably an inline-six paired with an automatic transmission. This ’79 Pacer comes in DL trim, so it has more bling than the standard Pacer. The car may have 90,000 miles on it, but the seller is unsure.

The dark green paint and body look good, and the single photo of the interior also presents well. Once you fix the gasoline leak the seller says the car has, you might be good to go. Hopefully, it’s nothing more serious than a bad fuel line. If you’re inclined to search out odd or unusual vintage cars, would this Pacer fit the bill? Thanks for the tip, Tony Primo.