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AMC Gremlin Classic Cars for Sale

The AMC Gremlin was manufactured in 1970 as a subcompact class vehicle. It was a shortened version of the AMC Hornet, and was an attempt to compete with the Chevrolet Vega, Ford Pinto and Volkswagen Beetle. The Gremlin adverts billed it as "The first American-made import."

From drawing board to road - History of the AMC Gremlin 

The very first design of the AMC Gremlin was drawn by AMC design chief Richard Teague on an airplane sick bag whilst discussing truncating the Javelin Model with stylist Bob Nixon. The design never saw the factory floor, but the AMC GT concept vehicle shown at the New York International Auto Show in 1968 eventually metamorphosed into the AMC Gremlin. The AMC Gremlin went on sale on the 1st of April 1970. Originally available in two styles; a two seat cabin with a fixed rear-window and no rear seat for $1,879 and a four seat cabin with rear seat and opening rear-window for $1,959. The front half of the car was essentially identical to the Hornet, but the rear cabin was substantially truncated. The front seat passengers had above average room, but the rear seat passengers were severely restricted on space. Distribution of the AMC Gremlin ceased in 1978, and the Gremlin was replaced by the AMC Spirit - essentially a more modern Gremlin.

AMC Gremlin Specifications 

In 1970, the Gremlin was sold with a 3.3l 128 hp engine as standard, with an optional upgrade to a 3.8l 145 hp. The engines were upgraded in 1971, the 3.8l engine became the standard, giving 135hp and the new option was a 4.2l bringing 150 hp to the table. In 1972, the 2 door model was discontinued, having sold 3,017 units in a year and a half. Further engine size modifications were forthcoming, a 304 V8 option brought the engine size up to an even 5.0l, but 1976 saw this discontinued at the half year, due to stagnating sales - only 826 were installed. The Gremlin's wheel base was 96 inches/2,438 mm, and the overall length was 161 inches/4,089 mm Acceleration was recorded at 0-60mph in 12.2s on the 3.8l model.

AMC Gremlin at the races 

Due to their comparative cheapness, strength of bodywork and ease of modification, the Gremlin was a popular drag racing car. In 1972, radio 99 WIBG Philadelphia sponsored a Gremlin drag racer. The car, running on a 6.6l V8 engine ran the quarter mile in 8.75s at a top speed of 150mph.

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