Perpetually under-funded, AMC couldn't compete with the "Big 3" when it came to introducing new models. Instead they would create new versions of existing cars.
AMC's models can get confusing. In 1954 independent car makers Nash and Hudson merged and formed the American Motors Corporation. The Rambler was originally a Nash model. After the merger, Ramblers were sold under the Nash and Hudson name. In 1958 the Nash and Hudson names were dropped and Rambler became a brand in its own right. By the late 1960s the Rambler name was dropped and all cars were sold under the AMC banner.
For awhile there were 2 distinct Ramblers; the small Rambler American and, like this one, the larger Rambler Classic. The Rambler Classic was AMC's bread and butter car. It was a small step above basic transportation and it sold quite well. In 1966 AMC decided to create a sporty Rambler Classic and created this, the Rambler Rebel. Like all American car companies, AMC offered a huge number of options for the basic car. In the case of the rambler Rebel you could get a V8, floor mounted 4 speed, a tach, etc. Also available was "tartan" (plaid) upholstery with two matching pillows. This was a one-year-only body style. 7,512 were built.
This is a basic Rebel. It has a 6 cylinder engine and an automatic transmission. It looks like it started life with the tartan interior, but the seats have been reupholstered. The door panels are still plaid and you can see the pillows on the back seat. This car has been nicely restored. It is not my "type" of car, but it's great to see a relativity rare oddball like this in this condition.
Located in Lake Mary, FL, click here to see the Craigslist ad.
