Rediscovering AMC Muscle Cars

The 1968 Javelin was cheaper than and as attractive as its competition, and sales were very good (stupendous by AMC standards) with over 55,000 units sold. In addition to the base model trim package, AMC added a deluxe SST version with reclining bucket seats, an imitation wood-grain steering wheel, stainless steel rocker panel moldings, special emblems and side stripes. The SST package could be had with any engine.


More important to performance car fans was the Go Package. This teamed the 343- or 390-inch engines with power front disc brakes, 14-inch wide-oval tires, a handling package that beefed up the suspension, rally stripes down the center of the car and a tachometer. Limited-slip differentials were usually ordered as well.


The 343 was capable of clocking low-15-second quarter-mile times, and the 390 the upper 14s. This made the Javelin slightly quicker than a 390 Mustang, 340 Barracuda or SS 396 Camaro. It was no match for a Hemi or 440 Mopar, Shelby GT-500 or a Camaro Z-28, but then, what was?


For AMC fans with a need for more speed, the dealer catalog offered loads of special manifolds, carburetors, cams and other go-fast goodies. AMC took the Javelin Trans-Am racing and the company's new team finished third in the championship, incredible for a first-year effort.


The 1969 Javelin was largely unchanged, except for three vibrant "Big Bad Colors." These bright green, blue and orange Javelins had bumpers painted to match the super-saturated colors. New options included a roof spoiler and a hood scoop.