10k: 360 V8: 1974 AMC Javelin SST
The AMC Javelin was the pony car offering from the always different guys in Kenosha, WI and it competed against groundbreaking Mustang/Cougar, ever popular Camaro/Firebird, and widebody Challenger/Barracuda. The Javelin was the Crystal Pepsi of the pony car golden era – not a complete failure but it offered AMC’s unique approach on the pony car formula – many were interested but few ever purchased one new. Today the Javelin is one of the cheaper and rarer of the “original” pony cars and worth a second look. Find this 1974 AMC Javelin SST for sale in Los Angeles, CA for $7,500 Buy It Now on ebay. Tip from Rod S.
The SST package was a premium option package, similar to Ford’s Mach 1 option for the Mustang, and it added some interior accoutrements, an upgraded engine and external badges. This Javelin is powered by AMC’s 360 cubic inch (5.9 liter) pushrod V8 that put out 220 horsepower when new and should be great for burnouts.
See another off-beat pony car for cheap? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com
This could be a great entry into a budget muscle car for a cash strapped enthusiast. While this one looks decent and clean it does need some attention (dash, steering wheel and rubber parts). Id like to find a shell and start a pro touring or gt build from it. I think Id start with a 6.0 gm truck engine and a tremec five speed. Then after that was all sorted I would find front and rear indepentant suspension from a chrysler- ls platform and add coilovers and bars to make it capable but comfy for a long drive. I love the front wheel arch on these and would want a wheel to accentuate that, but which one? I dont know.
The rule of thumb with AMCs is to buy the best possible body/trim condition vehicle. The mechanicals are generally cheap and interchangeable, but stuff like dash and chrome trim has long since become extremely rare. In fact, a shell is probably better suited for a custom rod rather than a full restoration. And I fully support suspension upgrades!
Supposed to say chrysler lx platform..
I agree about the front wheel arches. There is something about them and the long Lamborghini-Espada-like hood that appeal to me.