AMC AMX

The AMC AMX is a two-seat GT-style muscle car produced by American Motors Corporation from 1968 through 1970. As one of just two American-built two-seaters, the AMX was in direct competition with the one-inch (2.5 cm) longer wheelbase Chevrolet Corvette, for substantially less money. It was based on the new-for-1968 Javelin, but with a shorter wheelbase and deletion of the rear seat. In addition, the AMX's rear quarter windows remained fixed, making it a coupe, while the Javelin was a true two-door hardtop.

For other AMC models known as AMX, see AMC Concord § AMX, and AMC Spirit § Spirit AMX.

AMC AMX
1968 AMX with "Go-Package"
Overview
ManufacturerAmerican Motors Corporation
Also calledRambler AMX (Australia)
Production1968–1970
Assembly
DesignerDick Teague
Body and chassis
ClassGrand tourer, Muscle car, Sports car
Body style2-door coupe
LayoutFR layout
PlatformAMC's "junior cars"
Powertrain
Engine
  • 290 cu in (4.8 L) 4-bbl V8 225 hp (168 kW; 228 PS) 1968–69
  • 343 cu in (5.6 L) 4-bbl V8 280 hp (209 kW; 284 PS) 1968–69
  • 360 cu in (5.9 L) 4-bbl V8 285 hp (213 kW; 289 PS) 1970
  • 390 cu in (6.4 L) 4-bbl V8 315 hp (235 kW; 319 PS) 1968–69
  • 390 cu in (6.4 L) twin 4-bbl V8 340 hp (254 kW; 345 PS) 1969 SS (only)
  • 390 cu in (6.4 L) 4-bbl V8 325 hp (242 kW; 330 PS) 1970
Transmission
  • 4-speed manual floor shift (standard)
  • 3-speed "Shift-Command" automatic on console
Dimensions
Wheelbase97 in (2,464 mm)
Length
  • 1968–69: 177 in (4,496 mm)
  • 1970: 179 in (4,547 mm)
Width71 in (1,803 mm)
Height51 in (1,295 mm)
Curb weightApproximate: 3,000 lb (1,361 kg)
Chronology
SuccessorAMC Javelin (second generation)

Fitted with the standard high-compression 290 cu in (4.8 L) or optional 390 cu in (6.4 L) AMC V8 engine, the AMX offered sporty performance at an affordable price. Despite this value and enthusiastic initial reception by automotive media and enthusiasts, sales never thrived. However, the automaker's larger objectives to refocus AMC's image on performance and to bring younger customers into its dealer showrooms were achieved. After three model years, the two-seat version was discontinued.

The AMX's signature badging was transferred to a high-performance version of its four-seat sibling, the Javelin, from the 1971 to 1974 model years. American Motors capitalized on the respected reputation of the original two-seat AMXs by reviving the model designation for performance-equipped coupe versions of the compact Hornet in 1977, Concord in 1978, and the subcompact Spirit in 1979 and 1980.

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