The AMC Javelin was a muscle car produced by the American Motors Corporation (AMC) from 1967 to 1974. The Javelin was designed to compete with other American muscle cars of the era, including the Chevrolet Camaro and the Ford Mustang, and it was a popular choice among car enthusiasts who appreciated its combination of style, performance, and value.
The Javelin was first introduced in 1967 as a two-door coupe with a distinctive, sporty design. It was available with a range of engines, including a 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine, a 4.2-liter V8 engine, and a 5.6-liter V8 engine. The Javelin’s performance capabilities were further enhanced with the addition of the high-performance “AMX” package in 1968, which included a range of performance upgrades, including a more powerful 6.4-liter V8 engine, heavy-duty suspension and brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
Over the course of its production, the Javelin underwent several design changes and updates. In 1971, the Javelin was redesigned with a new, more streamlined body and a revised interior. The Javelin was also available with a new, high-performance “AMX” package, which included a 6.6-liter V8 engine, improved suspension and brakes, and a distinctive “twin-scoop” hood.
In 1972, the Javelin received another design update, with a new grille and other exterior styling changes. The Javelin was also available with a range of new engines, including a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a 5.9-liter V8 engine, and a 6.6-liter V8 engine.
Despite its many strengths, the Javelin was not a huge commercial success for AMC. The Javelin faced tough competition from other muscle cars of the era, and AMC was also struggling financially during the 1970s. The Javelin was eventually discontinued in 1974, as AMC shifted its focus to smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Today, the AMC Javelin is considered a classic muscle car and a sought-after collector’s item. Well-preserved examples can still be found on the used car market, often at affordable prices. The Javelin is remembered as a stylish and capable car that represented the best of American muscle car design and performance in the late 1960s and early 1970s.