I’ve already reported on the Canton, South Dakota Car Show, but I felt the need to place a spotlight on this very original 1974 AMC Javelin. Since it was the last year for the Javelin, perhaps someone felt the need to save it for posterity. This initial view shows the car includes factory correct body color, stripes, and wheel covers.
The interior also appears to be factory original. Any owner who did not value a bone stock appearance would have replaced that ugly steering wheel the day after purchase!
But here’s the absolute proof of originality- A single barrel, push-rod actuated, 258 cubic inch, straight six. Look closely- Even the oil filter is branded “AMC.” Thanks to this pedestrian motor residing in a hot pony car body, this Javelin merits the title, “Curbside Classic.”
To match the overt and brawny supersonic styling on this gen Javelin, a wide track, and fat tires, seem a must. The track on the subject AMC is too narrow, to really compliment, and strengthen, the Javelin’s looks. Whitewalls, don’t belong on a quasi-muscle car. Larger tires in the rear, make a significant difference as well.
Ultra fast Photoshop, very simply shows the intent. Chintzy looking wheels/wheel covers, really should go. Original look is weak, for the bold styling of this car. But I guess if it is powered by a 258 Six, it looks just fine… lol
Sorry, but this gen of the Javelin was a low point in domestic styling, especially compared to its handsome predecessor. At least the Aztek, another low point, was a pretty practical car. The Javelin doesn’t even have that going for it. And the color, whitewalls, wheel covers do this Javelin no favors. But, it is a piece of history and thanks for posting it anyway!
Love these stripper pony cars, everything about this one is perfect. Much rather see one of these, or a gen 1 or 2 Camaro, ’64 to ’70 Mustang, in basic bare bones “secretary’s car” form than the usual over-steroidal “muscle” car.
My wife’s best friend bought a new ’70 Camaro in Summer of 1970 with the only options of R & H, PS, and 307 2bbl/auto. Plain Jane car in Citrus Lime metallic and basic black basket-weave vinyl interior. Loved that car but her pushy new husband 2 years later stupidly made her sell it for a baby-crap brown pos 1973 Capri V6 that rusted out in 3 years. Never did like that guy…dumb!!
During the late 70’s a brother of my high school buddy Paul used to pick us up in his Wild Plum Poly 71. The Ramones were always blasting out of the 6×9’s. With white stripes and matching interior, it was unique. I think it was a V8 and likely a graduation gift bought new at Richard’s Motors in Union NJ.