AMC AMX
America's only two-seat sports car besides the Corvette — and it ran 0–60 in under 7 seconds.
The AMX was the performance halo of American Motors Corporation and America's only two-seat production performance car besides the Corvette from 1968–70. Its 390 cubic inch V8, light weight, and aggressive styling made it a legitimate muscle car at a competitive price. Craig Breedlove drove a modified AMX to 186.088 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats in 1968, setting 106 speed records.
History
AMC's product planner Dick Teague designed the AMX as a two-seat statement of intent — proof that a small independent manufacturer could build a world-class performance car. The 1968 debut offered 290 hp 343 V8, 315 hp 390 V8, or 390 V8 with the 'Go Package' delivering 340 hp. At under 3,100 lbs with a 97-inch wheelbase, it outhandled larger pony cars despite similar power output.
The two-seat AMX was produced only for 1968–70; from 1971 onward, the AMX became a performance variant of the Javelin pony car. Total two-seat AMX production was 19,134 over three years, making them rare in context with any major manufacturer's muscle car. The 1969 AMX with the 390 Go Package is the collector sweet spot.
Notable Versions
Go Package
390 V8, heavy-duty suspension, Twin-Grip differential, and red-line tires. The definitive two-seat AMX.
1969 SC/Rambler
Separately badged Rambler-body muscle car, 390 V8, 315 hp, 1,512 built with Hurst.
1971–74 Javelin-AMX
The AMX badge moved to the Javelin after two-seat production ended. Javelin AMX with 401 is still a serious performer.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Two-seat AMX production was small — verify year carefully
Only the 1968–70 AMX is a true two-seater. The 1971–74 Javelin-AMX is a different car despite the shared name.
AMC-specific parts are increasingly difficult
AMC had a much smaller supplier base than GM and Ford. Reproduction parts are improving but some components remain difficult to source.
Rust in the rear wheelhouse is common
The quarter panel at the rear wheel arch is a known rust area. Inspect carefully.
The 390 is the engine to have
The 390 Go Package car delivers the best performance and the strongest collector value. Verify engine numbers against the build tag.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 343 V8 (290 hp), 390 V8 (315/340 hp), 401 V8 (330 hp)
- Wheelbase
- 97 in (1968–70 two-seat)
- Weight
- ~3,100 lbs
- Transmission
- 4-spd manual, Torque-Command automatic
- 0–60
- 6.6 seconds (390 Go Package)
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
AMC AMX For Sale
1 listing currently available
