Every marque has a legion of dedicated enthusiasts passionate about almost every model the company produced. I am probably not that devoted to AMC, but I have long admired the company for being bold and daring. The results of this creative thinking varied widely, but cars like this 1977 Matador Coupe are undeniably distinctive. It is listed for charity auction, and although it requires work, it appears to be a sound foundation for restoration. The AMC is listed here on eBay in Orange, California. Bidding sits at $1,500 in a No Reserve auction, and if the price remains within the current range, it might be an excellent and affordable project candidate.
AMC’s Second Generation Matador range hit showroom floors for the 1974 model year. It marked a shift in the company’s thinking as the Matador moved from a mid-size car to a full-size offering. Buyers could select from a relatively conventional Sedan or Station Wagon or follow this Matador’s first owner by ordering the Coupe version. The styling can best be described as distinctive as AMC focused on aerodynamic efficiency. This Matador rolled off the line in 1977, and while the Coupe sold extremely well during its first production year, volumes slumped by 60% by 1977. This classic needs work, with its combination of Powder Blue and Alpine White paint looking tired. Surface corrosion is emerging in various spots, but there is no evidence of penetrating rust. That is unsurprising because while AMC’s budget was tiny compared to the competition, it greatly emphasized anti-corrosion strategies as a strong marketing tool. The wheels aren’t original, and the bumpers are missing, but the remaining trim is in good order, and the tinted glass is crystal clear.
This Matador’s interior is a surprise packet because it has survived remarkably well. The plaid cloth trim won’t appeal to everyone, but it is free from rips and tears. There is slight wear on the outer driver’s seat vinyl and some minor seam separations, but the overall impression is that a deep clean and a new carpet set would lift its presentation markedly. One area that shows age is the pad. It is discolored, but it hasn’t cracked. Finding a replacement would be challenging, so I would probably fit a cover to prevent further deterioration. The Coupe was the premium offering in the Matador range, which is reflected in the creature comforts. The buyer receives air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM stereo radio.
Buyers could order their 1977 Matador Coupe with the venerable 258ci six under the hood, but this car’s original owner selected the range-topping 360ci V8. They teamed the motor with a three-speed automatic transmission, adding power assistance for the steering and brakes. Engine power and torque outputs were typical for the era, with the driver having 138hp and 238 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal. The result was relatively modest performance and average fuel consumption figures around 12mpg. The seller indicates this Matador is mechanically complete, and the engine will start using an external fuel source. The fuel pump is inoperative and requires replacement. Other work will undoubtedly be needed before the car is genuinely roadworthy, but the initial signs are promising.
AMC produced several models that most people wouldn’t describe as oil paintings, including the Gremlin and Pacer. However, the company was bold and daring, and this 1977 Matador Coupe reflects that approach. AMC is a distant memory, but many of its products have proven remarkably resilient. I mentioned the company’s dedicated followers, and their passion is reflected by the fact this gem has already received thirty-four bids. It is a survivor that deserves its place on our roads, but will you be the person who makes that happen?
Damm, I want, but don’t want,
Baby blue? Noooo, and the tartan seats? Nooooo.
Yes I could change it, but then it’s not original .
I know, when one of these Milwaukenosha “creations” comes up, how dare we laugh at a Panhard. It’s okay, quirky was “in”, and no other US car maker pushed the limits more than AMC. It was a merit of sorts, that ran out of steam pretty quick. This car was actually a really nice car. The 360, AMCs most popular motor, was a bit thirsty, 12mpg seems a bit low, and it’s styling was aerodynamic, but still only about 15, at best. What you did get, was a cushy ride, comfy interiors, plenty of room, stout mechanicals, okay, front kind of had that “turbine car” look, and the back, well, I don’t what that was, but it was good enough for Pete Malloy.
Removing the bumpers make these way better.
Nice set of Corvette Gen 1 or 2 bumper recreations would be spectacular and an easy bolt-on
I like the battering ram bumper deletion.
I had a 76 Matador , the 258 , it was blue in color, not that blue like this one , I drove that from central Canada to Nova Scotia , 1500 miles both ways several times , never had a problem , good on gas and it would hold it speed on the highways , that was all I wanted , then I traded it for a 78 Cougar , that was loaded , velour seats , landau roof , 400 engine , the problem I had with that was keeping the spoked wheels
with the red ensign in the middle , 4 sets were stolen , my insurance cancelled the policy and I traded that in for a Cutlass believe it was an 82
and found a new insurer ,lol
Our family had a maroon/rootbeer brown Brougham. 304, air, am/fm, crank windows, rear defog, gold pinstripes, vinyl/plaid interior and 14 inch bias whitewall tires (our 77 Delta 88 had 15 inch radials). We had the car about 8 years. I remember splicing in a second rear deck speaker from radio shack.
Wired styling? Yep. Quirky interior? Yep. Bumper delete? Yep. The big engine? Yep. Good condition? Yep. What’s not to love here? I like the color combo, too.
Recall ads…What is it? It’s a Matador! It’s magnificent! AMC pushed the limits trying to save the company. Anyone else Recall designer editions? The ultimate was the Casini edition. Sad end for storied Nash Marque.
Yes they were different.Friend had one new and it broke down.When the tow truck picked it up it bent at the firewall and shattered the windshield.Ins co.totalled it.
I find it ironic that this is for sale in California,where it’s illegal
to drive a car with no front bumper.
If I ever win the lottery big time, I’m starting an “Ugly Car Museum” and this will have a prominent place!
This has to be one of the goofiest, ugliest cars that I’ve ever seen. Oh wait, the Matador 4 door of the same year, lol.
BTW, Down a 1949 Nash 600 Super 2 Dr Sedan, SO….
I’d own and drive it in a New York minute!
Damn auto correct, should read, I own a. Not Down
First family car I remember was a 50 Nash AMBASSADOR. Great car. Purchased summer 50 and kept until November 59 with only routine maintenance. The only reason it was traded (for a DeSoto) was Mom developed arthritis and had trouble parking the Nash without power steering. The Airflite design provided comfort, room, reliability, speed, and a fair amount of luxury. List price $3,200. Charlie Nash and George Mason knew to build great cars
Base price for a 1950 Ambassador wasunder $2100
I recall Dad frequently saying they paid $3,200 for our Ambassador. Dad was not one to stretch the truth. I do know that ours had several accessories including heavy duty front bumpers and upscale seat covers. And this was the upper level Ambassador. But, thanks for the information. 👍
Computers 🤮 ! But without them we couldn’t find these Barn Finds! Too much reliance, is not a good idea!
I am starting one in Excelsior Springs Missouri! I have enough friends that have the “ oddball “ cars we could make a million! From Edsel wagons to lime green V8 Pinto coupes!
Agreed, that is one ugly car. If they hired a real designer or two, they might still be in business today.
Pugsy-you don’t know their history, do you? Dick Teague was among the best designers ever. But you would have to know the AMC story to understand. A saying in the early 70’s was that GM had more restroom attendants in the design center than AMC had designers.
Those seat covers look like a 1950’s used car salesman’s suit.
Law enforcement resources are stretched too thin to micromanage vehicle code infractions like this. Money, manpower and a long list of higher priorities make it a non-starter. If a bumperless car is involved in some more dire circumstance like a fender benderthen the infraction might get a fix it ticket. There are other vehicle code violations that will get law enforcement attention but it is often done in a random fashion and at the caprice of the officer. If Officer Malloy doesn’t like the sound of your glass packs and your snotty hoodlum attitude, he can pull you over everytime you and your clapped out Camaro passes the city limits
Herb Tarlick from WKRP, Cincinnati.
Odd enough to make a pretty cool prostreet.
Back in 1977, I loved the styling of the Pontiac Grand Prix, Olds Cutlass and Chevy Monte Carlo. I completly ignored the radical Marador coupe. But in 2024, I appreciate the uniqueness of this powder blue and white stunning survivor. The 5 liter V8, automatuc, piwer steering, power brakes, air conditioning and distinctive plaid interior check all the boxes for convenient driving. The Matador coupe would grab attention at any car show by its look abd the fact AMC itself has not existed for decades.
When they were introduced, I thought they were one of the ugliest cars ever.
Now I think they’re pretty cool.
Same here. Funny how that works, isn’t it?
In 77 I was 15, and remember thinking “who in the world would buy these” but they are now a lot more appealing. I remember an episode of Adam 12 where officer Malloy bought a new one and was praising it’s supposed high mpg to his buddy Reed
Or Herb Tarlick from WKRP! lol
Of course, he was the advertising “salesman” for the radio station.
Interesting design when it was introduced and now it gains accolades from earlier doubters. A perfect candidate for either an EV conversion or a GM hydrogen fuel cell conversion.
Back in the early ’80s, I had a 75 in forest green with the 306. Everyone agreed that was an ugly car, and the best description I had for it when people asked that infamous question (what’s a matador?) was that it looked like a pregnant Camaro!
Picked that car up for $500, it had the coldest AC in a car I’ve ever experienced! That was the car I learned how to fix cars with!
You must have had a 304—there were no 306’s. Or maybe you meant 360.
Correct. Don’t ask me why I typed that!
My friend in high school had one. It was gold. I don’t know what year it was but it was Slow…… and I remember the steering wheel was an “oval” shape. The heater would almost get warm by the time we made it too school.
We took turns driving. I had a 74 Gran Torino Green with 4 doors and a vinyl top. It was a gift from my Dad. He answered an add in the newspaper.
$500.00 with studded snow tires. I think it was the studded snow tires that clinched the deal. Green interior and 351. I think it was a Windsor. the way back machine has been activated.
Even without the hideous bumpers the opening photo put shivers down my spine. The ex had one of these when we met. When running it had so many vacuum leaks the barometric pressure dropped in the neighborhood. Could not keep sparkplugs from fouling. Electrical issues. The carb float stuck constantly. It leaked in rain. Wandered across lanes. Ate tires for lunch. To top things off the hood latch was right at forehead level. I still have scars in my scalp from this thing.
It should have been a sign from above but I had to learn the hard way. When we parted with it I believe someone gave $200 which was huge back then.