Bottom line: AMC made several cars that never got the spotlight, but they still offer unique styling, decent performance, and good value for classic‑car fans.
7 Underrated AMC Cars That Time Forgot – Specs, Design & Value
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Image: 7 Underrated AMC Cars That Time Forgot – Specs, Design & Value – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
1. AMC Gremlin
The Gremlin’s short‑nose, hatch‑back silhouette looks quirky today, yet it was daring for the early ’70s. Its compact size makes it easy to park in tight city spots.
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- Bold, asymmetrical front end
- Lightweight steel body
- Available in bright colors like orange and lime green
2. AMC Hornet
With a clean, boxy shape, the Hornet feels like a modern compact crossover. The fastback roofline adds a sporty touch.
- Sharp, angular lines
- Large glass area for good visibility
- Classic “American Motors” badge
3. AMC Concord
The Concord’s understated, almost formal look helped it blend in with higher‑end sedans of the era.
- Subtle chrome trim
- Spacious interior design
- Elegant rear‑light clusters
4. AMC Eagle
The Eagle was one of the first true crossovers, pairing a wagon body with four‑wheel drive.
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- Boxy wagon shape with raised ground clearance
- All‑weather roof rails
- Distinctive “Eagle” hood decal
5. AMC Spirit
Sporty and compact, the Spirit’s fastback roof gives it a youthful vibe that still feels fresh.
- Low, sloping roofline
- Wide stance for better handling
- Two‑tone paint options
6. AMC Matador
The Matador’s large, dignified presence made it a popular police and fleet vehicle, yet it’s often overlooked by collectors.
- Full‑size sedan proportions
- Strong, square grille
- Robust chassis
7. AMC Pacer
Its rounded “bubble‑gum” shape was controversial, but the Pacer offered excellent visibility and a roomy cabin.
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- Wide glass area
- Unique, rounded body panels
- Distinctive front end with dual headlights
Performance & Mileage
Most of these models used AMC’s inline‑four or V8 engines that balanced power with reasonable fuel consumption for their time.
| Model | Engine | Mileage (MPG) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gremlin | 2.0 L I4 | 20‑23 | $4,500‑$6,200 | Compact size, hatch‑back |
| Hornet | 2.5 L I4 / 5.0 L V8 | 18‑21 | $5,200‑$7,800 | Fastback roof, sporty handling |
| Concord | 2.5 L I4 | 19‑22 | $5,800‑$8,500 | Elegant interior, smooth ride |
| Eagle | 2.5 L I4 / 4.0 L V6 | 18‑20 | $7,000‑$10,200 | 4WD, wagon utility |
| Spirit | 2.5 L I4 | 21‑24 | $5,600‑$8,100 | Sporty fastback, light chassis |
| Matador | 5.0 L V8 | 15‑17 | $8,000‑$12,300 | Full‑size comfort, strong V8 |
| Pacer | 2.0 L I4 / 2.8 L V6 | 18‑20 | $6,200‑$9,400 | Wide glass, roomy cabin |
Price & Rivals
When these cars hit the market, they competed with the Ford Maverick, Chevrolet Nova, and early Toyotas. Today, their prices sit between $5,000 and $12,000, depending on condition and rarity. The Gremlin and Spirit are the most affordable, while a low‑mileage Matador can fetch a premium.
FAQ
- What is the fuel economy of the AMC Eagle? The Eagle averages about 18‑20 MPG combined, thanks to its lightweight engine and optional 4‑wheel drive.
- Is the AMC Pacer worth buying as a daily driver? If you value visibility and a spacious cabin, the Pacer can be a fun, affordable daily car, but expect modest performance.
- How much does a well‑maintained AMC Hornet sell for? Prices typically range from $5,200 to $7,800, with higher values for low‑mileage V8 versions.
What’s your favorite underrated AMC model? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Source: Read Official News