AMC Javelin Source 1969 AMC Javelin in Bad Orange The AMC Javelin was a “pony car” built by the 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. - AMC Javelin Video Tour Video / Movie Socialize this page 1968–1970 Comment "We want your comments" Have your say When AMC debuted the Javelin in 1968, the full production version of one of the AMX prototypes that was shown around the USA during the 1966 AMX project tour, it was available with a variety of AMC engines from an economical 232 in³ straight-six through three V8s, including (with the optional “Go Package”) a four-barrel carburetted 343 cu in (5.6 L) V8. That package also included power front disc brakes, dual exhausts, and wide tires. The SST trim level gave a greater degree of luxury. In mid-1968 the AMX 390 in³ (6.4 L) engine was offered as a Javelin option. A “Big Bad” paint (neon brilliant blue, orange and green) option was available on Javelins and AMXs in 1969 and 1970. The “Mod Javelin” Package included an unusual roof mounted spoiler and twin blacked-out fake air scoops on the hood. American Motors supported the AMX and Javelin with a full range of “Group 19” dealer installed performance accessories. These included a dual four barrel cross ram intake manifold, a high performance camshaft kit, needle bearing roller rocker arms, dual point ignition, and much more. Road & Track compared the Javelin favourably 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. Many journalists also complained about AMC’s safety-style interior saying it was dull or bland. A two-seat, shortened version of the first generation Javelin model was produced for the same years; the AMC AMX. Source 1970 AMC Javelin SST with "Go Package" Engines   132 cu in (3.8 L) AMC I6, 145/155 hp (108/116 kW)(gross) (one-barrel or two-barrel) 290 cu in (4.8 L) AMC V8, 225 hp (gross) 343 cu in (5.6 L) AMC V8, 280 hp (209 kW) (gross) 390 cu in (6.4 L) AMC V8, 315/325 hp (235 kW) (gross)   1971–1974 The Javelin was restyled in 1971 to incorporate various elements that had been desired modifications to the earlier Javelins for racing in the Trans-Am circuits. A roof spoiler became integral. The fender bulges racers made to accept wide racing tires was adapted, but the way AMC stylists arched the fenders over the wheel wells begged for criticism from the media; “...like the Corvette, but less graceful...” A wide range of engines and transmissions were offered from an economical 232 in³ (3.8 L) I6 to the potent four-barrel 401 in³ (6.6 L) AMC V8, that featured high compression, as well as forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods dynamically engineered for 8000 rpm. The interior of the Javelin was made non-symmetrical where nearly every component is unique to its position. This was in contrast to the economy focused Hornet (Cavalier prototype in 1966), which was a study in symmetry. An even more unusual optional trim was offered with the Pierre Cardin interior. The fashion designer employed a very imaginative stripe pattern that ran from the seats up the doors onto the roof and back down to the other seats again, using a tough, but satin-like, unusual fabric on the seat faces. Starting in 1971, the AMX was no longer available as a two-seat model. However, it evolved into a premium top model for the Javelin. The new Javelin AMX incorporated a full host of racing modifications learned on the track into a street version that AMC advertised as “the closest thing you can buy to a Trans-Am champion.” Javelin AMXs came with a racer type stainless steel mesh screen to cover the grille opening, a fibreglass full width cowl induction hood, as well as front and rear spoilers to increase traction at high speed. These Javelins competed successfully in Trans-Am racing in a Penske Racing/Mark Donohue team. The Javelin won the Trans-Am title in 1971, 1972, and 1973. Production ended in October/November 1974 amidst the Arab oil embargo and overall declining interest in high performance vehicles. To AMC’s credit, the Javelin never lost its big engine option, unlike other contemporary pony cars. Source Engines   232 cu in (3.8 L) AMC I6, 135 hp (100 kW) (gross) 258 cu in (4.2 L) AMC I6, 150 hp (110 kW) (gross) 304 cu in (5.0 L) AMC V8, 210 hp (157 kW) (gross) 360 cu in (5.9 L) AMC V8, 245 hp (182 kW) (gross) (two-barrel/single exhaust) 360 cu in (5.9 L) AMC V8, 285 hp (212 kW) (gross) (four-barrel/dual exhaust) 401 cu in (6.6 L) AMC V8, 335 hp (250 kW) (gross)/255 HP net   Collectability There are many active AMC car clubs for these cars, and parts availability is reasonably good. Collector interest in AMC products is now increasing. The Javelin does not command the high prices of some of other muscle car and pony car models. However, in its day the Javelin always sold respectably well, and regularly outsold both the Plymouth Barracuda and Dodge Challenger so popular today. Trivia Between 30 December 1968 and 2 July 1970, the German coach builder, Karmann, assembled 280 [1] CKD (Completely Knocked Down) Javelins that were sold in Europe. This deal was very significant because it was a completely American designed car that was made in Germany. Karmann’s “Javelin 79-K” came with the 343 cu in (5.6 L) engine. 90% of the parts and components used came in crates from the USA. At Karmann’s facility in Rheine the cars were assembled, painted, and test-driven prior to shipment to customers. Right hand drive versions of both the first and second generation models were assembled in Australia by Australian Motor Industries (AMI) from CKD kits. The right hand drive dash and other required components were locally manufactured. Javelins were also popular in Europe, primarily because they had the largest and most usable rear seat of the American pony cars. Javelins equipped with the 401 cu in (6.6 L) engine were used by the Alabama Highway Patrol as a police car in 1971 and 1972. Source 1968 Javelin (base model) by American Motors (AMC) a was a "pony car". This two-door hardtop is finished in "Matador Red" with optional black side stripes. This car also has the "mod" hood scoops.   Specifications The AMC Javelin has the following specifications: Length: 191.8 in (4872 mm) Width: 75.2 in (1910 mm) Wheelbase: 110 in (2794 mm) References James T Crow, ed. (1968). "AM Javelin". Road & Track Road Test Annual: 24–26.  ^ Dates and figures given by Karmann on 31 October 2006—via e-mail. Wiki Source More  Pictures of the AMC Javelin Source 1970 Javelin SST 390 Engine Bay Source   Pictures of your car Send a picture of your car attached to this Email, tell us a little about it and we'll show it here. 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