Rare Solid Color: 1970 AMC Rebel “The Machine”

Mention the 1970 AMC Rebel “The Machine,” and most enthusiasts’ thoughts turn to the iconic Red, White, and Blue paint-and-stripe combination. However, not every Machine wore those shades; a limited number were ordered by their first owner in other colors from that year’s chart. This Rebel is one such vehicle, though it has undergone numerous changes throughout its life. However, it presents well as a driver-grade classic and is a turnkey proposition. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Rebel listed here on eBay. Its Canadian location isn’t specified, but the seller set the price at C$78,995 OBO.

Introduced in 1970, the Rebel “The Machine” was an example of an American manufacturer focusing on motorsport success. However, NASCAR and the Trans Am series weren’t the target audience because the company designed The Machine for drag-strip success. Our feature car is one of those vehicles, and its solid paint shade makes it stand out. However, it has undergone many changes. Ordered by its first owner in Bayshore Blue with a matching vinyl top, the car was repainted by a previous owner in its current Nissan Sonic Blue. The color is striking, but it also confirms that this AMC isn’t a genuine survivor. It retains its correct hood and wheels, which are positive attributes. One thing this classic has avoided is rust. It retains all of its original AMC steel, with no existing problems or evidence of prior repairs. The glass is clear, and the trim is in good condition.

AMC focused on straight-line acceleration when developing The Machine. Its engine bay housed a 390ci V8 developing an impressive 340hp and 430 ft/lbs of torque. It is worth remembering that manufacturers frequently under-quoted power and torque figures during this period, and The Machine’s ability to clock a 14-second ¼-mile ET off the showroom floor suggests that belief is well-founded. This car also features a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. Those hoping that this classic is mechanically original will be disappointed. The seller indicates that they increased the engine’s capacity to 409ci, upgrading the camshaft, intake, carburetor, and added Hooker headers. It has only clocked around 4,000 miles since the build, meaning that it is barely broken in. The vehicle runs and drives well, and can be considered a turnkey proposition.

One aspect of this classic that is largely original is its interior. It wears its correct Blue vinyl trim and presents very nicely. There are no genuine cosmetic shortcomings, and no evidence of abuse. The dash and pad are in good condition, and the carpet is clean. The seller added a factory AM/FM radio, while the gauge cluster beneath the dash is the only other obvious addition. This interior looks tidy and extremely comfortable and is acceptable for a driver-grade classic.

The seller claims that AMC produced 1,936 examples of the 1970 AMC Rebel “The Machine.” However, other sources quote a figure of approximately 2,362 vehicles. However, there seems to be a general consensus that the seller’s claim that only 596 cars wore anything other than the iconic Red, White, and Blue paint combination is accurate. Unfortunately, the long list of changes made by various owners during this Rebel’s life means that it must be considered a driver-grade classic, not a genuine survivor. The listing’s relatively modest statistics may reflect this. However, with all that you now know about this car, do you feel that the price is realistic?