Too often we tend to get hung up on high performance, top speed, ultimate handling, the pinnacle of perfection. We strive for the ultimate thing on four wheels. Is that a good thing? Unless you have enough cash to float a small nation, no, no it isn’t. Would we love to have a streetable six-second car that can outcorner a Ferrari? Hell yes, of course we would. In reality, we would love to have a healthy ride that has clean, classic looks, is running and driving, and has enough power to remind us that we are alive. It doesn’t have to fit a certain mold, or be a showstopper.
Take this 1974 AMC Javelin. It’s the last of the breed…along with the Dodge Challenger and Plymouth Barracuda, 1974 would be the last year of AMC’s pony car offering (so long as you don’t consider the Hornet AMX or the Matador coupe “pony cars”) and it retained 95% of what the Javelin had when the model was refreshed in 1971. This 304-powered version might not be the big-blocked AMX that was still available, but the veneer of the whole car isn’t top-dog musclecar, but comfortable coupe that can still make moves if needed. From the yellow paint and black top to the Western turbine mags, we wouldn’t hesitate to roll this Javelin anywhere we please. Knowing it’s a two-owner survivor with only minor touchups like a repainted fender and a repaired seat means that much more. This is beyond how it should be, this is how it was.
eBay Link: 1974 AMC Javelin
Oh! WANT!
Love that classic Kenosha iron.
Not to nitpick, but AMC V8’s are externally the same. Hence, no “big block” 401.
Thank you! I really didn’t think I had one more correction left in me. BS contributors pay attention. Say it with me: There is no such a thing as a “big block” AMC. There is no such a thing as a “big block” Pontiac. You guys are loosing credibility here.
That is one sweet looking ride, especially the turbine wheels!
I’d buy that in a second if I was looking. Very nice!
Make mine a 71 401 4 speed , AMX pkg. with the cowl hood and fake out T top.
I’ve always loved the later Javs! Nice clean example. The Matador gives me more room for the family though.
That is sweet, I would have to remove those damn bumper extensions though.
Love the Javs. Working on bringing a 68 back to life. Always kinda favored the 68-70 over the 2nd gens., but this one is nice.
Wow! This Javelin needs to be in the “Rambler Ranch” American Motors Collection in Elizabeth Colorado. Agreed those bumper extensions are kinda obnoxious.