2009 August | Collecting Model Cars

AMC Javelin

American Motor’s entry into the “pony car” markets for the model years 1968 through 1974 the AMC Javelin. There were two distinct generations of Javelins; the first ran from 1968 through 1970. The second started with a new design for 1970 that was produced through 1974. The AMC Javelin proved itself by competing very successfully at Trans-AM racing. The AMC Javelin had AMC sponsorship for 1971 and 1972.

The AMC Javelins were popular in other parts of world being assembled under license in Australia, Europe and Mexico and marketed in a number of other international markets.

The Javelin was to be a rival for the pony car market to compete with the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. A prototype AMC AMX displayed during the 1966 AMX project nationwide tour. Then later made it debut in 1968 with two power options. The AMC Javelin was available with a 232 cubic inch six cylinder and three V8 options a 290 cubic inch and the all time favorite the “Go Package” complete with four barrel carburetor a 343 cubic inch. This package featured dual exhausts, wide tires and front disk brakes.

For a greater class of luxury AMC produced the SST trim package. By the middle of 1968 AMC introduced the third engine option with the 390 cubic inch V8 with the AMX 390 Javelin. At 315 hp and 425 ft-lbs of torque and 0 to 60 in seven seconds AMC had a winner.

In 1968 even Road & Track compared the Javelin to the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camero, and the Plymouth Barracuda. It was said to be roomier had a more powerful engine and arguably the cleanest of the lot. And it proved to be a true statement because it sold like “HotCakes” with more than 56,000 in 1968.

The AMC Javelin earned a place of honor in the American Muscle Car market and will make a find addition to any collection. Here are some of the top models available.