Craig Norling's 1970 AMX
I bought my first AMC in 1981 - a locally-assembled AMI 1972 'Rambler' Javelin, which I still have, but I was always intrigued by the little known 2 seater AMX, of which only 24 were built locally in 1969. The AMX had a limited lifespan in the US, too, being produced for three years only - from 1968 to 1970. Based on the Javelin, but with 12" removed from the wheelbase in front of the rear wheels, the AMX featured a unique and distinctive rear pillar and quarter panel treatment. At the time, the AMX and Chevrolet's Corvette were the only volume production 2-seat sportscars being built in the USA.
After purchasing my Javelin and getting involved with the AMC Javelin register of Australia, where I learnt more about the marque, a strong desire grew for an extremely rare 1970 AMX. After many years of browsing the classifieds in US car magazines and surfing various internet sites, I came across the car shown here in 2005. Despite being from Massachusetts, it was in great condition, so I had no hesitation in purchasing it.
Only 4,116 AMXs were produced in 1970, the lowest production number over the 2 seater's lifespan. That year, two engines were offered in the AMX - AMC's 360 or 390ci V8, rated at 290 and 325hp respectively - with either a 4 speed manual or Borg Warner auto transmission. This car is fitted with its original high compression 360 engine and automatic transmission.
Original factory options include ram air induction, disc brakes, power steering, twin grip diff and leather seats, as well as the new-for-1970 'shadow' paint option, which added a black-painted bonnet and fender tops. Wheels are standard AMC issue 14" x 6" Rallys and it's still equipped with its original space saver spare.
Since arriving in Australia, the car has undergone the required modifications to the lighting, seat belts, mirrors, emissions, etc., to enable full registration.
These short wheelbase cars are a blast to drive with their potent AMC engines, which have their own distinctive rumble. Many hillclimb enthusiasts will be familiar with the orange AMX - a similar model to mine - raced with great success by Ray Sprague of Melbourne.
Even though these cars had extremely low production numbers, they have enjoyed a healthy survival rate, as they were considered collectable not long after they went out of production. Hence, there are a lot of pristine original examples seen at AMC shows in the US, where AMC cars have a strong following with a high number of dedicated American Motors owner's clubs.
