It isn’t unusual for an owner to become so devoted to a classic that they name it. Therefore, meet Rosie. She is a 1966 AMC Rambler American Rogue that looks great and has some desirable factory options. The seller is its fourth owner, confirming that its maintenance has followed a “money is no object” philosophy. It runs and drives well, making it a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Jim Q for spotting the Rogue listed here on eBay in Vancouver, Washington. The bidding sits below the reserve at $3,550, with a week remaining in the auction.
AMC released its Third Generation American range in 1964, with the Rogue released in 1966. This first-year example has an interesting history, having been owned by several genuine AMC enthusiasts. Its story is easy to trace, thanks to documentation that includes the original Sales Receipt. Finished in Antigua Red and Frost White, this car makes a positive first impression. It doesn’t have a rust-free history, with a previous owner eliminating its minor issues by replacing both lower rear quarter panels. There are a couple of slightly rough spots, and the color match isn’t perfect. However, the car is presentable, and addressing those couple of shortcomings would be relatively cheap and easy. Otherwise, the seller says that this Rogue is rock-solid. The contrasting hood stripes are a later addition, applied by the previous owner to recreate the look from that year’s promotional brochure. The seller took that concept a step further by sourcing a spotless set of genuine Turbo-Cast wheel covers. They look great, but the original wire covers are also included for enthusiasts preferring authenticity. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear.
AMC marketed the Rogue as a sporting variant for the budget-conscious, but this car’s first owner added a few desirable factory options. They equipped the vehicle with the optional 232ci six, a three-speed Flash-O-Matic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The 232 was a willing performer, with power and torque figures of 155hp and 222 ft/lbs that were considered quite respectable in 1966. There’s plenty of positive news about this mechanically original classic. The previous owner pulled the motor, resealed it, painted it, and refreshed the engine bay before bolting the six back in. The seller replaced virtually the entire braking system, so the car stops on a dime. They also rebuilt the original carburetor and fuel pump, confirming that this beauty runs and drives extremely well. The tires have plenty of tread, but they recommend replacing them due to age. Otherwise, this beauty is ready to hit the road with its new owner at the controls.
This Rogue’s interior is extremely tidy, with only one tiny tear on the driver’s seat that could be blind-patched. The Red vinyl isn’t badly worn, with only mild seat stretching. The dash looks excellent, although the wheel exhibits typical rim wear. However, it remains very presentable, and with air conditioning, bucket seats, a console, and a pushbutton radio, it should be quite comfortable. The A/C requires some attention, but it sounds like there are no severe problems. The previous owner replaced the condenser and dryer, and had the compressor professionally rebuilt. They removed the belt and the wire to prevent excessive wear until they recharged the system, which never happened. Therefore, a recharge and refitting those two items might be all that is required for the system to blow ice-cold.
I think I like Rosie because it reflects a history of devoted ownership. The desire to recreate the look from that year’s promotional literature is admirable and helps this classic stand out. Its needs appear fairly minor and could be addressed at the winning bidder’s leisure. The 1966 Rambler American Rogue isn’t the most desirable car on the planet, and the reserve will probably be relatively low. Monitoring the auction could be worthwhile, because you might have the chance to become the new owner of an affordable classic.
Sheesh, and you thought I prattled on,,,always appreciate a concise listing, but SHE went on and on. Reason I say she, is men, generally don’t name their vehicles, especially “Rosie”. I always chuckled when I saw some guy with a woman’s name on the hood of their truck, like some lost love. The exception there were funny names, like “Miss Behaven”. It’s just a machine, pally.
From what I gathered from the novel she wrote, a woman named Margaret bought the car new in Merritt Island, Fl. Been there many times, and didn’t skimp none. I think Ken is from thereabouts. I read, this car cost her just over $2500, or the most expensive American, when a base 220 was about $1849. Obviously, this was the top of the line, and looking at it, nothing was spared. If anyone needs to see what an original, low mileage car is like, it doesn’t get any better than this. Once again, almost 300 viewers, and 12 bids to a sorry bid of $3550( going up in $50 increments). The seller sure seems genuine, but sadly the wrong time to try and make a bundle on “Rosie”. Regardless, it’s a fantastic find.