A 1970 AMC AMX with fewer than 50,000 miles and a long ownership history is now being offered for sale, highlighting renewed interest in one of American Motors’ most distinctive muscle cars.
The vehicle, finished in Matador Red, shows 48,874 miles on its title and has been owned by its current title holder since 1985. The car underwent a restoration in 2005 that included an overhaul of its engine. It has also earned recognition in the collector car community, receiving both an AACA Senior First Prize and a Grand National award.
The AMX traces its roots to a broader design shift at American Motors in the early 1960s. When designer Dick Teague rose to leadership within the company’s styling department, AMC began pursuing more competitive and performance-oriented vehicles aimed at rivaling offerings from Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler. The AMX emerged from that effort and quickly became known for its performance credentials, particularly in its lighter two-seat configuration that found success on drag strips across the United States.
By 1970, the AMX had evolved into a two-door sport coupe with distinctive styling elements unique to that model year. The front end featured a grille design that integrated marker lights, while the hood displayed pronounced intake scoops that emphasized the car’s performance image. At the rear, a full-width tail light bar with a centrally mounted reverse light and AMX badging added to the vehicle’s recognizable appearance.
The car rides on 14-inch Magnum 500 wheels and displays bright rocker trim and additional AMX identification on the C-pillars. Flush-mounted bumpers and inset door handles contribute to the car’s streamlined look, while dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets exit at the rear.
Inside, the AMX features black vinyl bucket seats with tuck-and-roll inserts and matching door panels accented by wood-style trim. The dashboard carries a simulated wood finish and houses three round gauges with white lettering on black faces, including a speedometer that reads to 140 mph and a clock. A two-spoke rim-blow steering wheel with a wood rim sits ahead of the driver, while a Hurst floor shifter rises from black loop carpeting. The cabin also includes an AM/FM radio, a smooth black headliner, and a carpeted cargo area behind the seats.
Power comes from a correct 360 cubic inch V8 engine producing 290 horsepower, equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. The engine is paired with a T10 four-speed manual transmission sending power to an AMC 20 rear differential with 3.15 gearing. The car also features power steering and air conditioning.
Underneath, the AMX uses a suspension setup with coil springs at the front and leaf springs in the rear. Braking is handled by front disc and rear drum brakes. A dual exhaust system with stock-style mufflers was installed in 2019 and remains in good condition.
Despite its performance and distinctive design, the AMX has often been overshadowed by more widely recognized muscle cars from larger manufacturers. In recent years, however, collector interest has grown as enthusiasts seek out lesser-known models from the era.
With its award-winning restoration, low mileage, and long-term ownership history, this 1970 AMC AMX represents a notable example of American Motors’ contribution to the muscle car movement. The vehicle is currently listed for sale at $74,900. See it here.
