AMC Javelin
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The AMC Javelin was a sporty coupe-type automobile in the 'pony car' class built by American Motors Corporation between 1968 and 1974. It was intended to rival other similar cars of the era such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.
1968
At launch, it was available with a variety of AMC engines from an economical 232 in³ straight-6 through three V8s, including (with the optional "Go Package") a 4-barrel carbureted 343 in³ V8. That package also included power front disc brakes, dual exhausts, and wide tires. The SST trim level gave a greater degree of luxury.
Road & Track compared the Javelin favorably to its competitors on its introduction in 1968. They felt that the lack of a "big, heavy, super-powerful engine" was an asset in such a small vehicle, and called the styling "pleasant". The non-power steering in the "quick-steering" option received poor marks, however, as did the disc/drum brakes.
A two-seat, shortened version of the Javelin was produced for the same years as the AMC AMX.
Engines:
- 232 in³ AMC I6
- 290 in³ AMC V8
- 343 in³ AMC V8, 280 hp (209 kW) and 365 ft.lbf (495 Nm) (gross)
- 390 in³ AMC V8
1971
The car was redesigned for 1971, becoming longer, lower, wider, and with more rounded and aerodynamic styling featuring prominent bulges over the wheel arches, like the then-current Chevrolet Corvette. From this year, AMX became just the top-of-the-line model for the Javelin and other AMC car lines. The Javelin featured AMC's largest ever engine at 401 in³ as an option, although from 1972 increasing fuel consumption and emissions regulations cut performance. These Javelins competed successfully in Trans-Am racing in a Penske/Donohue team. Production ceased after the 1974 model year.
Today, these vehicles are not highly valued; there is low interest in AMC vehicles in general and what there is, falls mostly on the two-seat AMX. The early cars are the most valuable, despite the powerful engines and racing success of the later versions.