While the original AMX is a coveted two-seater muscle car based on the AMC Javelin, it was discontinued as a stand-alone model almost as soon as it debuted, with production lasting only between 1968 and 1970. While the AMX moniker remained, it was demoted to an option package for the Javelin, then disappeared in the U.S. after the car’s production ended in 1974. In 1977, AMC revived the AMX name for the final year of Hornet production, and it was offered again as an optional package rather than as a separate model. With just over 5,200 such-equipped cars produced, these aren’t exactly common nowadays, making this 1977 AMC Hornet AMX here on Facebook Marketplace somewhat of a rarity. This one’s in Merrick, New York, and for a V8-powered example, the $8,700 asking price sounds like a reasonable starting point for negotiations. Jack M., thanks so much for your tip here!
1977 was the only year the AMX package was available for the Hornet, adding about $800 to the car’s cost and available only on the hatchback. However, for just a little over $150, buyers could also spring for a 304-cubic-inch V8 engine instead of the standard inline-six. The former is what’s under the hood here, with the seller reporting it to be the factory component, featuring an upgraded intake manifold and carburetor on top. AMC used a TorqueFlite transmission supplied by Chrysler for these cars, which came with an automatic transmission; the manual unit was only available with the 6-cylinder.
The seller describes his car as a solid original. While no specific details are provided about the exterior, the panels appear to be in good condition, with no apparent signs of corrosion. AMX buyers in ’77 had only four colors to choose from: Alpine White, Lime Green, Sunshine Yellow, and Firecracker Red, with this one wearing the latter. The paint fade isn’t bad and looks fairly consistent in most sections except for the driver’s door, which appears brighter and shinier than the rest so that this area may have been resprayed at some point.
Most of the interior appears to be nicely preserved, and it was thoughtful for AMC to include a gauge cluster mounted in front of the shifter. This one also features air conditioning, with everything inside stated to be functioning, down to the seat belt and key buzzers. The seller calls this a great-driving vehicle, and for the period, I feel AMC hit the mark with its AMX package. What do you think?
A V8 with A/C Nice.
James Bond, Man with the Golden Gun. Great chase scene with this car
Spiral roll river jump…they got the shot on the first take.
Extremely well-preserved, considering where it is located. Surprised it is still available. Undercarriage pics would be nice. Could be lots of fun.
It does seem like a reasonably priced car. Unfortunately it highlights the lack of interest in some makes and/or models. You see a lot of complaining about the lack of affordable enthusiast oriented cars, yet many off brands languish waiting for buyers. Even the “it will draw a crowd at coffee and cars” proponents are slow in the uptake. It’s a nice looking car and seems to a good choice for someone to get into the hobby at a reasonable price. Even located in the New York City metropolitan area hasn’t helped.
Steve R
Always thought that these and the CryCo twins were the best compact coupes in the early to mid seventies. Could have been a stick with the six.
Sweet little ride.
Love them . Never saw one at any local shows but it that is not a calling card for the 80’s what is ? Love the optional wheels and everything looks in tact . Car belongs in California or somewhere like that . Great find , not a lot of money .
I had a friend in high school who had one, but not sure what engine she had. I dig the AMC Hornet hatchbacks. I would consider this one.