American Motors Corporation began muscling its way into the performance car niche in the late 1960s. It was a fruitful period that saw the AMX, the Javelin, and the Rebel SST emerge from the company’s economy-car portfolio. Offered with a host of V8 engines, the evolution of these models collected fans back then, while today each has carved out a corner of the collector car market. This 1968 Rebel SST is listed here on eBay with bidding at $19,600, reserve not met. A buy-it-now price of $25,000 can put the car in your garage with certainty, bypassing the five bidders vying to win it. Drive this Rebel home from Rollinsford, New Hampshire. Curvette, thanks as always for the tip!
The Rambler Rebel was launched in 1967 on a mid-sized platform with an in-line six-cylinder engine. One year later, the car was rebranded as the AMC Rebel, distancing the model from the Rambler’s family/economy roots. The SST variant, equipped with a V8, gave buyers a reasonably-priced muscle car option. This example is powered by a 343 cu. in. eight, in fine cosmetic condition at the very least, backed by a Borg-Warner column-shift three-speed automatic. This kit produced about 235 hp with a two-barrel, or 280 hp if the four-barrel was installed. Zero to sixty came up in 7.5 seconds with a four-barrel. The seller notes that the underside is as tidy as the topside.
The interior has been restored with non-original front buckets upholstered in cloth, matched to the rear seats, and an aftermarket armrest/cup holder console. Several auxiliary gauges are mounted here and there – on the column, and under the dash both right and left of the steering wheel. I’m guessing that means the originals don’t work. But the interior is spiffy enough that a new owner could simply jump in and drive.
The SST trim was a step above in the line-up, with wheel arch moldings, faux chrome vents just in front of the rear wheels, a better grade of seat cushioning, special badging, and AMC’s mid-range interior appointments. That said, it was not a luxury car; that berth belonged to the Ambassador. But as far as looks go, this Rebel has the bigger Ambassador beat by a mile, with its short deck, sloping rear window, and long hood. I love the vintage wheels and the dark green paint. Finding a nice Rebel SST coupe for sale is not easy. That said, higher prices are accorded to the convertibles, while sedans can be found for mid four figures. What do you think of this seldom-seen AMC sports coupe?
Nice car and a great write-up!
Had a 343 in my ’68 Javelin SST and it was fun!
Small point, but the Rebel debuted in 1958.
I don’t recall the hood treatment, but that could be lost to the fog.
Looks really nice showing its muscle heritage!!