After spending four decades parked in a barn, it would be fair to expect that any classic ar would require plenty of TLC to recapture its lost youth. This 1969 AMC Javelin SST is no exception, but its next owner can commence their build with a candidate featuring solid bones. It may not have the most potent drivetrain combination, but extracting additional ponies could be a satisfying and relatively inexpensive process. It is listed here on eBay in Grafton, Ohio. The seller set a BIN of $17,500, but they will consider offers.
AMC released the Javelin in 1967 for the 1968 model year as its offering within the highly competitive pony and muscle car sectors. It possessed bold and distinctive styling, with evolutionary updates for the following year. Our feature Javelin rolled off the production line that year finished in Frost White with a Blue vinyl top. Its history is unclear, but the seller indicates it spent more than four decades squirreled away in a barn before they uncovered it around a year ago. They were surprised to discover that the car was a rock-solid survivor that should make a straightforward restoration. Its paint and vinyl are pretty tired, and both require a refresh. However, the complete absence of rust means its panel needs are minor. A previous owner cut away the passenger side rear quarter panel extension due to a minor fender bender, but the seller includes replacement steel. That’s the only spot requiring the attention of the grinder and welder because the floors, rockers, lower rear quarter panels, and shock towers are as good as the day this classic rolled off the showroom floor. Some trim pieces require restoration or replacement, but the glass is excellent.
It would be best to describe this Javelin’s interior as complete, but it needs love. Before I spent any money, I’d treat everything to a deep clean. The headliner sags, but it might be salvageable. The driver’s seatcover is tattered and torn, but a replacement is included. The back seat is excellent, and the only other item requiring replacement is the carpet. Otherwise, the dash and pad are crack-free, the faux woodgrain presents well, and there are no aftermarket additions. The new owner won’t drown under optional extras, but this SST retains its factory AM radio.
The original owner ordered this Javelin with what could be classed as the “entry-level” V8 under the hood. It is a 290ci powerhouse that sends 200hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. They added power steering but selected the standard unassisted four-wheel drum brakes. The ¼-mile ET of 16.8 seconds may not seem dazzling, but it was competitive within that market sector. The seller indicates that after four decades of hibernation, they coaxed the Javelin back to life. It runs and yard drives but requires work before the buyer can safely hit the road. The brakes don’t work, the radiator needs replacement, and the tires are old. A thorough inspection and replacement of the perishable items would also be wise, but it seems that returning the car to a roadworthy state may not be difficult or expensive.
I’ve long admired AMC because it produced some interesting and exciting cars. This Javelin SST needs love, but the lack of rust could make it the perfect candidate for someone considering a first or DIY project. AMC produced 23,286 examples of the Javelin SST in 1969, and with many succumbing to rust and neglect, this one could offer the perfect opportunity for someone to recapture its lost youth. Although values are climbing, it probably won’t be a mega-bucks classic when the buyer finishes the build. However, if they view it as a long-term investment, it could offer a reasonable financial return in a few years. Are you up for the challenge?
17.500$
Thats pretty steep for a project car but its hard to fault the amc design
My Dad bought a new 68 Javelin, traded in the 65 Marlin. The Marlin had a burned out tail light, went to the dealer to buy a bulb, and came home with the Javelin. Mom was not all that pleased, but I my brother and I sure we’re. It had a 343, and was a beautiful car.
This 69 is an awesome find, the price seems very good. The 290, 343, 360, 390, and 401 engines, are great engines. While I imagine some parts can be a challenge, there is good support for these. Especially 68-70. They were/are good handling, quick, and great looking cars. Hope it goes to a great home.
I’m sick of sellers who are so lazy that they can’t even make the effort to clean up the car a bit inpreparation for sale. This was washed on the outside, so there is no argument to support the old “barn fresh” marketing angle. Rather, it would take 30 minutes to warm up the engine, spray on some decreased and pressure wash it off to create a presentable engine compartment. I guess that communicates what the current owner thinks of this car.
Right? I don’t get it. Even daily drivers need to be cleaned out if they’re going to sell.
When I buy a “barn find” type item, I typically want it dirty and in “as is” condition. Someone selling a really clean car that has nothing done under the hood is a major red flag to me. Who knows what cheap bodywork they could have done to what might be all original paint and sheetmetal?
If you aren’t going all-in, please just leave it dirty with really good photos and I’ll decide if it’s worth it.
Well it seems the guy selling it, got it from another guy who had the same feelings about the car. MAKE MONEY! This car is a bomb. It’s pieced together for a sale. Couldn’t even line up the fenders/grille/hood. 8k car max.
Seventeen-five
Just until the bubble bursts…
He wants more than a nice driver is going for. Pass
Plenty of support from the AMC clubs for any parts. These models are well supported.
I would recommend the AMO club.
Buy for 17-18 , put 10 to 12 into the resto and you’ll be even.
Awesome looking Javelin. I’ve always loved the 1968-70 AMC Javelin. Given its original survivor condition, I’d be willing to pay between $10,000 and the asking price of $17k.
This car would look 1000% better with a cool color paint job.
And the wheels on this aren’t doing it any favors either.
Javelin SST’s can be ultra sharp….but this one isn’t…..as is.
My first car was a 1968 Javelin with 290 and AT. The engine was a strong runner. The transmission was garbage, went out twice while I had the car, and I wasn’t rough on cars.
Saw this car 4 days ago, sitting on Rt.83, been there a couple of weeks, rust under the vinyl top, interior better than I expected to see. Solid body for Ohio. Going to need a complete mechanical , brakes, fuel system, toss in some suspension work, $25k for a driver if you like these. This gem is 50 years old! Way too much dinero.
I’m always amazed the number of times that, for a featured car, someone says “I have seen it” or even “I know this car.”
’68 have ball joints or trunnions?
trunnions until the ’70 model.