You might think the AMC Gremlin‘s quirky design and compact size would relegate it to the dustbin of automotive history, but you’d be wrong. In fact, the Gremlin’s best years from 1971 to 1979, sales more than doubled, making it AMC’s second-best-selling car in history.
But what made these models so desirable, and which years should you avoid like the rust-prone plague that they are? The answers might surprise you.
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Key Takeaways
- The AMC Gremlin’s best years were 1971-1974, with sales peaking in 1973, driven by its affordability and speed.
- The 1978 GT package is highly sought after by collectors, making it one of the best years for the Gremlin models, particularly the 2-seater.
- The worst years for the Gremlin were 1975-1977, with sales declining due to increased competition and quality issues.
- The 1972-1974 models are considered the most reliable, with fewer mechanical issues and rust problems compared to other years.
- The 1979 model year is often considered the worst, with low sales and quality control issues, making it less desirable for collectors.
AMC Gremlin Design & Production
The AMC Gremlin’s design and production were shaped by practicality and cost considerations rather than innovative flair.
You’ll notice the Gremlin’s engine is a familiar straight-six, carried over from the Hornet. To keep costs down, AMC opted for a live rear axle suspended by leaf springs.
The front features a three-speed transmission, and you’ll find four-wheel drum brakes across the board. While the Gremlin Design’s body shell is stiff, you won’t find a hatchback or trunk lid to maintain that stiffness.
AMC’s focus on build quality and practicality resulted in a compact car with a length of 161.3 in, the width of 70.6 in, and a height of 51.8 in.
Sales Success: Buyer Preferences, Price
You stepped into the AMC dealership, and the Gremlin’s affordability caught your attention.
As a budget-conscious buyer, you’re drawn to the base model‘s $1,879 price tag.
Here’s what made the Gremlin a sales success:
- Rapid sales growth: AMC sold 25,300 Gremlins in the first year, doubling sales in 1971 despite competition from the Vega and Pinto.
- Quicker than rivals: The Gremlin’s automatic transmission didn’t sacrifice speed, outpacing the Beetle and Pinto in acceleration tests.
- Affordable performance: The Gremlin’s combination of speed and affordability made it an attractive option for many buyers.
- Sales milestone: By 671,475 units sold by 1979, the Gremlin became AMC’s second-best-selling car in history.
The OPEC Oil Embargo Effect
As you examine the AMC Gremlin’s sales success, you’ll notice that the OPEC oil embargo in 1973 sent fuel prices skyrocketing, and suddenly, the Gremlin’s fuel efficiency became a major selling point.
You’ll see that sales exploded rapidly, with the model’s sales surging to 122,844 in 1973 and 171,128 in 1974, making it the best-selling year for the model.
The Gremlin’s rugged, low-tech design made it an attractive option for buyers looking for a reliable ride during this tumultuous period.
Fuel Prices Soar
October 19, 1973, as a pivotal date, marking the OPEC oil embargo that sent fuel prices skyrocketing and American consumers scrambling for fuel-efficient vehicles.
You suddenly found yourself caring about fuel economy, and the AMC Gremlin’s estimated 20-30 mpg made it a attractive option.
1. Long gas lines forming before dawn
3. Frustrated drivers honking in anger
4. Fuel prices displayed on giant signs, climbing higher by the day
The embargo highlighted the Gremlin’s advantages, including its low price and simplicity, making it more reliable and easier to maintain than its competitors.
Sales Explode Rapidly
The 1973 OPEC oil embargo triggered a perfect storm that catapulted the AMC Gremlin to unprecedented sales heights.
As fuel prices soared, you sought relief in fuel-efficient vehicles. The American-made subcompact’s simple design and relatively good fuel economy made it an attractive alternative to the troubled Chevrolet Vega and Ford Pinto.
In 1974, the Gremlin’s sales more than doubled, reaching 171,128 units, making it the car’s best sales year. You responded to the oil crisis by choosing a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle, and the Gremlin responded by exploding onto the sales scene.
Gremlin Sales Surge
You faced a formidable challenge in 1973: fuel prices were skyrocketing, and gas lines seemed endless.
But you found a silver lining in the AMC Gremlin.
- Proven, low-tech design made it the closest thing to bulletproof an American-built subcompact could get.
- Affordability was key, with a base price that fit most budgets.
- Relatively good fuel economy compared to other American-made cars.
- Sales surge in 1973 and 1974, with 122,844 and 171,128 units sold, respectively, making it the Gremlin’s best-selling year and the second-best-selling car in AMC’s history.
Models History
As the 1970s unfolded, American Motors Corporation (AMC) utilized the Hornet’s existing engines and live rear axle suspended by leaf springs to introduce the AMC Gremlin on April Fools’ Day in 1970, subsequently capitalizing.
You’ll find that the Gremlin’s first full year of sales was 1971, with sales doubling despite competition.
By 1979, AMC had sold 671,475 Gremlins, making it the second-best-selling car in AMC’s history.
The 1974 Gremlin saw strengthened bumpers and was advertised as fuel-efficient during the First Oil Crisis, capitalizing on the growing demand for subcompact cars.
Chassis and Body
As you examine the AMC Gremlin’s chassis and body, you’ll notice that the separate steel chassis is prone to rust, particularly where it connects to the steel bodywork.
This weakness can lead to significant structural issues over time. You’ll want to close attention to this area when evaluating a potential Gremlin purchase.
Chassis Rust
Rust can silently devour the Gremlin’s chassis, leaving it vulnerable to structural compromise.
As you inspect your AMC Gremlin, keep an eye out for signs of rust damage.
- Front axle mounts, where moisture can seep in, causing rust to spread.
- Rear leaf spring mounts, which can weaken the suspension system.
- Rust spots near the suspension components, indicating a larger issue at play.
- Flaking paint near the chassis, a clear sign of rust eating away at the metal.
Body Weakness
Your AMC Gremlin’s body weakness stems from its separate steel chassis and steel-pressed steel body, a design that creates a perfect storm of corrosion vulnerabilities where the chassis connects to the pressed steel body.
The 96-inch wheelbase and 2,633-pound curb weight put additional stress on the body.
The front suspension, featuring coil springs and drum brakes, is prone to wear, leading to uneven braking and further straining the body.
Regular inspections of rust-prone areas are vital to maintaining the Gremlin’s body integrity.
Engines and Transmissions
The AMC Gremlin’s powertrain lineup was headlined by a standard 128 horsepower 3.3L DOHC 12-valve I-6 engine, which churned out 128 hp and 182 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm and 1,600 rpm, respectively.
You’d options, too.
- A 145 hp 3.8L inline six-cylinder engine was available, producing 145 hp at 4,400 rpm.
- Transmission-wise, a Borg-Warner three-speed automatic was optional, replaced by a Chrysler TorqueFlite unit in 1972.
- In 1977, a more fuel-efficient Volkswagen/Audi inline four-cylinder engine was introduced.
- The 1978 GT package boasted a 258 cu. in. AMC six-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox.
AMC Gremlin Buying Tips
Inspecting a potential AMC Gremlin purchase is a crucial step, as it can reveal hidden problems that can drain your wallet.
Check for rust in the chassis and bodywork, particularly in rust-prone areas, and inspect engine and transmission mountings for signs of wear or damage.
Verify the suspension for signs of misalignment, which can affect safety and performance.
Research the market to determine its value, consulting with a classic car expert or appraiser if needed.
Don’t overlook crash damage, and factor in potential repair costs to guarantee a fair purchase price.
AMC Gremlin Rarity and Market
Rarity becomes a significant factor when hunting for an AMC Gremlin, as its limited production run directly impacts its market value.
With only 671,475 units produced from 1970 to 1978, you’ll need to be diligent in your search.
- 2-seater models: Only 3,017 units make them highly sought after.
- 1978 GT model: Less than 3,000 units produced, contributing to its collectibility.
- V8 and X package Gremlins: Condition, originality, and provenance drive their value.
- Automotive history: The Gremlin’s quirky appeal and historical significance drive market demand, making it a potential investment opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts.
AMC Gremlin Collector Value
You’re likely wondering what drives the collector value of an AMC Gremlin, and it all boils down to originality.
The more unmolested the Gremlin, the higher its collector value.
If you’re looking for a rare find, the V8 and X package Gremlins are the most collectible, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition and rarity.
The early 2-seater models and 1978 GT package are also highly valuable, but beware – a restored or customized Gremlin can significantly decrease its collector value.
Research and authenticate the car’s history before making a purchase.
