The AMC AMX isn’t usually the first car that comes to mind when you think of “muscle cars.” This 1969 AMX might change your perception a little. AMC may have threw the AMX logo on a bunch of different cars (particularly in the ’70s), but few are true AMX models. The “AM” of the name stands for the brand, American Motors, and the “X” is the car’s destination. It was more experimental than your traditional production vehicle.
There were only just under 20,000, or so, AMX models produced over the three-year run. From 1968 through 1970, the AMX was made kind of as an alternative to the mainstream muscle cars.
Hobie, a muscle car enthusiast, has been fascinated with these cars since he was 12-years old. When he was old enough to buy one, they were hard to come by, so he picked up on the Mustang fandom instead.
It took Hobie a while to find ‘the’ AMX he wanted. He specifically wanted one painted in the special order Alamosa Aqua, his favorite color and one of the rarest. The one he found had the 390 engine package, disc brakes, shoulder harnesses, larger radiator, and twin grip rear end. Hobie sold his Mustang to make room for his new toy.
The 390 engine is rated at 315 horsepower, but usually dynos higher. It’s also a car that can reach 60 miles per hour in under six seconds — which was really good for the time. To give you some perspective, the 1969 Mach 1 428 Cobra Jet had a 5.5 second 0-60 mph.
One of the big changes Hobie made to his AMX was changing the wheels and tires. He wanted to get rid of the marginally effective stock package and replace it with something a little better. He put skinny wheels and tires up front, and some big beefy 12-1/2” wide tires on the rear.
Hobie is not just an AMX owner, he’s a true enthusiast who goes on to explain some pretty interesting history about the rare model. He makes a very good point about these cars, that you have to pretty committed to own one. Parts are hard to find, and a bit more expensive because of it. You may put 40 grand into a restoration to come out with a $30,000 car.
If you’re looking for a unique car and aren’t concerned with high value collectibles, the AMX might be the perfect car for you!
Elizabeth is hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
