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1968–1974 AMC AMX / Javelin

AMC's two-seat AMX and pony car Javelin proved the little guys could play. Mark Donohue's championship-winning Trans Am Javelin showed the racing world AMC meant business.

1968–1974 AMC AMX / Javelin — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 290ci / 343ci / 390ci / 401ci V8
  • Power: 225–340 bhp
  • Torque: 300–430 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Borg-Warner T-10 4-speed manual or Shift-Command 3-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door fastback coupe (Javelin); 2-seat sports coupe (AMX 1968–70)
  • Wheelbase: 97 inches (AMX 1968–70); 110 inches (Javelin)
  • Curb weight: 3,050–3,400 lbs
  • 0–60 mph: 6.3–8.0 sec
  • Quarter mile: 14.0–15.5 sec
  • Original MSRP: $3,245 (1968 AMX base); $2,999 (1970 Javelin SST)
  • Current value: $30,000–$55,000 (AMX 390); $20,000–$40,000 (Javelin 343/360); $50,000–$90,000+ (401 Go Pack, Machine)

Production Notes

The 1970 AMX and Javelin were available with the big 390 V8. The Machine featured a patriotic red-white-blue paint scheme. Total AMX production: approximately 19,134 across all years (1968–70 two-seater). Mark Donohue won the 1971 Trans-Am championship in the Javelin AMX.

Notable Factory Options

  • Go Package
  • Machine package
  • Twin-Grip differential
  • Handling package
  • Pierre Cardin interior
  • Scrambler package

Buying Guide

AMC muscle cars are the best-kept secret in the hobby—genuinely rare, historically significant, and dramatically undervalued compared to Big Three equivalents. The 1968–70 two-seat AMX is a unique piece of American automotive history and the only steel-bodied two-seater of its era. The 390 V8 is the most desirable engine option for the AMX. Javelins with the 343 or 360 V8 are the affordable entry point and excellent driver-quality cars. The 401 engine (1971–74) is the most powerful and desirable for the Javelin. The Machine (1970) with its patriotic paint scheme is the most collectible AMC muscle car. Pierre Cardin interior Javelins are quirky and collectible. AMC's smaller production numbers mean fewer cars survive, making them genuinely rare. The community is passionate and helpful—the AMC Forum and various AMC clubs are excellent resources.

Pros

  • Dramatically undervalued—best performance-per-dollar in the hobby
  • Genuinely rare cars with unique engineering
  • Two-seat AMX is historically significant and unlike anything else
  • Trans-Am racing heritage adds credibility
  • Passionate, welcoming community of owners

Cons

  • Parts sourcing is more difficult than Big Three cars
  • AMC V8s don't share parts with any other manufacturer
  • Smaller collector market may limit resale options
  • Less mainstream recognition than GM, Ford, or Mopar muscle
  • Rust is a significant issue, especially in fenders and floors

Restoration Tips

AMC parts can be challenging to source but a dedicated community exists. Unique AMC V8 engines don't share parts with other manufacturers. Check for inner fender rust. The AMC V8 is a stout and underrated engine family.