1970 AMC AMX

The 1970 AMC AMX represented the pinnacle of the fusion between muscle car and sports car. Sadly, it also marked the end of the true AMX era.

AMC proudly declared its AMX as a legitimate sports car. With its two-seat configuration and a wheelbase just an inch shorter than a Corvette’s, it certainly had the credentials. However, it was also heavily based on the Javelin pony car, sharing much of its mechanical components, seating, and dashboard. For purists debating the authenticity of the 'Vette as a true sports car, the AMX’s roots in the Javelin were often dismissed as irrelevant.

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For most Americans, the fact that the AMX wasn’t an MG was actually a plus. It meant the car offered decent comfort, ample luggage space, and, most importantly, could be fitted with a robust, powerful V-8 engine.

After making its debut midway through the '68 model year, the AMX remained largely unchanged in '69, though the factory’s inferior linkage was replaced by a Hurst shifter. However, 1970 saw more significant changes.

Instead of the 225-bhp 290-cid V-8, a new 290-bhp 360-cid V-8 became standard. The optional 390 V-8 gained 10 additional bhp, bringing it to 325. A new hood design included a functional scoop when the Ram Air option was chosen, pushing the 390 with Ram Air to 340 bhp. AMC also moved the parking and turn-signal lamps to the grille, claiming the new bumper openings would cool the front brakes. However, the ducts were too distant from the brakes to have any real effect. A redesigned front suspension further enhanced the car's already impressive handling.

Equipped with the $384 "Go" package, which featured E70xl4 tires, front disc brakes, super heavy-duty suspension, limited-slip differential, Ram Air, and enhanced engine cooling, the 390 AMX was quick in the quarter-mile and excelled in handling. This powerful and rare combination made it a standout from Detroit, and many testers were unwilling to challenge its sports-car status.

"For the skeptics, we can reaffirm that the AMX feels like a sports car, drives like a sports car, handles like a sports car, and thus, in our opinion (and that of the Sports Car Club of America), it is indeed a sports car," stated Road Test magazine.

It was the AMX’s final triumph. In 1971, the once-proud two-seater AMX lost its identity, becoming just a trim option for the redesigned, oversized four-seat Javelin.

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