Amc rebel machine 1970 – Delving into the world of AMC Rebel’s high-performance variant, the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine, this chapter takes us on a thrilling ride through its design, engine options, and mechanical features, all contributing to its reputation as one of the most iconic muscle cars of the era.
Starting in the late 1950s, AMC’s (American Motors Corporation) decision to venture into the world of muscle cars led to the birth of the AMC Rebel, a car known for its bold styling and impressive performance, but it wasn’t until the introduction of the 1970 Rebel Machine that it truly became a force to be reckoned with.
AMC Rebel Machine History
The AMC Rebel is a compact car produced by American Motors Corporation (AMC) from 1967 to 1970. It was designed to compete with the other compact cars in the market, such as the Ford Maverick and the Chevrolet Nova. The AMC Rebel played an important role in AMC’s lineup, providing a more affordable option for customers. It was also known for its aggressive styling, which appealed to many buyers.
Design and Development Process
The design and development of the AMC Rebel began in the late 1950s, as AMC was looking to create a compact car that could compete with its competitors. The company’s designers, led by Elwood Engel, worked on creating a car that was both stylish and affordable. The Rebel’s design was influenced by AMC’s existing models, such as the Rambler, but it also featured some new and innovative design elements.
The AMC Rebel was the first car to use AMC’s new “fuselage” design, which featured a unibody construction and a more streamlined body. This design change helped to reduce weight and improve the car’s aerodynamics. The Rebel’s engine options included a 232 cubic inch inline-six cylinder and a 290 cubic inch V8, which provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
- The Rebel’s exterior design was influenced by the company’s previous models, but it also featured some new and innovative design elements, such as the swooping lines and the prominent grille.
- The car’s interior was designed to be roomy and comfortable, with features such as a wrap-around dashboard and a center console.
Significant Design Changes between 1967 and 1970
Between 1967 and 1970, the AMC Rebel underwent several significant design changes. Some of the most notable changes include:
* The introduction of a new front grille in 1968, which featured a more prominent vertical bar arrangement.
* The addition of a new sport package in 1969, which included features such as a performance-tuned suspension and a upgraded engine.
* The introduction of a new interior trim package in 1970, which featured a more luxurious design and additional amenities.
The AMC Rebel’s design was influenced by the company’s previous models, but it also featured some new and innovative design elements, such as the swooping lines and the prominent grille.
Key Features and Design Elements, Amc rebel machine 1970
The AMC Rebel featured a number of key design elements that set it apart from its competitors. Some of the most notable features include:
* The car’s unibody construction, which provided a stronger and more durable body.
* The AMC Rebel’s engine options, which included a wide range of horsepower and torque outputs.
* The car’s interior, which featured a roomy and comfortable design with features such as a wrap-around dashboard and a center console.
| Year | Engine Options | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|
| 1967 | 232 cubic inch inline-six cylinder, 290 cubic inch V8 | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| 1968 | 232 cubic inch inline-six cylinder, 290 cubic inch V8 | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| 1969 | 232 cubic inch inline-six cylinder, 290 cubic inch V8 | 3-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| 1970 | 230 cubic inch inline-four cylinder, 232 cubic inch inline-six cylinder, 360 cubic inch V8 | 4-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
Mechanical Features and Components
The AMC Rebel Machine’s mechanical features and components played a significant role in its exceptional handling and stability. With its focus on performance and precision, the Rebel Machine’s chassis and suspension system were designed to provide a responsive and controlled driving experience.
The AMC Rebel Machine featured a number of key suspension components that contributed to its exceptional handling and stability. These components included:
“AMC’s use of a front coil spring and a rear leaf spring suspension system allowed for optimal weight distribution and improved stability.” – AMC Engineering Document
- The front coil spring suspension provided excellent ride quality and damping, allowing for a smooth ride even on rough roads.
- The rear leaf spring suspension provided a stable platform for the Rebel Machine’s powerful engine, ensuring that the vehicle remained planted and stable under acceleration.
- The combination of these suspension components provided a responsive and controlled driving experience, making the Rebel Machine a pleasure to drive on both the track and the street.
Differences between Standard and Heavy Duty Transmission Options
The 1970 AMC Rebel Machine offered two transmission options: a standard three-speed manual and a heavy-duty four-speed manual. The heavy-duty transmission was designed for high-performance driving and featured a range of improvements over the standard transmission.
- The heavy-duty transmission featured a strengthened mainshaft and a higher-capacity clutch to handle the increased torque of the Rebel Machine’s powerful engine.
- The four-speed manual transmission provided better gearing and a wider range of ratios, allowing drivers to better control the vehicle’s speed and acceleration.
- The heavy-duty transmission was also designed to handle high-performance driving, making it an ideal choice for those who planned to drive the Rebel Machine aggressively.
Significance of the Positraction Rear Axle
The AMC Rebel Machine featured a Positraction rear axle, which provided exceptional traction and stability under acceleration. The Positraction system worked by distributing power between the two rear wheels, ensuring that the vehicle remained stable and in control.
“The Positraction system provided a 25% improvement in traction and a 10% improvement in stability, making it an essential component of the Rebel Machine’s high-performance package.” – AMC Engineering Document
- The Positraction system provided exceptional traction and stability under acceleration, making it ideal for high-performance driving.
- The system also helped to improve the Rebel Machine’s cornering capabilities, allowing drivers to take corners more aggressively and with greater confidence.
- The Positraction system was an essential component of the Rebel Machine’s high-performance package, and its benefits were felt by drivers on both the track and the street.
Safety Features and Regulations: Amc Rebel Machine 1970
The AMC Rebel Machine, introduced in 1970, was a high-performance version of the AMC Rebel. Despite its performance capabilities, safety features played a crucial role in its design and development. In the early 1970s, federal safety regulations had a significant impact on the design and features of the Rebel Machine.
Standard Safety Features
The 1970 AMC Rebel Machine came standard with several safety features, including front disc brakes, which provided improved stopping power compared to drum brakes. Additionally, the Rebel Machine also featured a three-point seat belt, which helped to reduce the risk of injury or fatality in the event of a collision. The car’s fuel tank was also located outside the frame rails to reduce the risk of fire in the event of a fuel leak or collision.
Optional Safety Features
For buyers who wanted even more advanced safety features, AMC offered several optional upgrades, including a column-shifted console with a floor-mounted shift lever. This configuration helped to reduce the risk of injury from a shift lever-related accident, as the lever was no longer located in the driver’s direct line of sight. Additionally, a headrest was available as an optional feature, which helped to reduce the risk of whiplash in the event of a rear-end collision.
Federal Safety Regulations
The early 1970s was a time of significant change in the automotive industry, as federal safety regulations began to take shape. In 1966, the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act was passed, which mandated the inclusion of safety features such as seat belts and padded dashboards in all new vehicles. By the time the 1970 Rebel Machine was released, AMC and other manufacturers were well on their way to meeting these new safety standards. The government also set standards for crash testing, which helped to ensure that vehicles like the Rebel Machine were designed to withstand the stresses of a high-speed collision.
Safety Recalls and Issues
Although the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine was generally considered a safe vehicle, there were some issues that arose during its production run. One notable recall was related to the car’s fuel tank, which was located in a vulnerable position and prone to damage in the event of a collision. The fuel tank recall was issued in 1971, and involved the replacement of faulty fuel tanks with new ones designed to reduce the risk of fire. Additionally, there were some reports of corrosion-related issues with the Rebel Machine’s brake system, but these problems were relatively rare and were often the result of poor maintenance practices.
The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 established the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which was tasked with setting and enforcing federal safety standards for vehicles.
Collectibility and Market Value
The 1970 AMC Rebel Machine has garnered significant attention among collectors and enthusiasts alike, sparking intense interest in its collectibility and market value.
One of the primary factors contributing to the Rebel Machine’s collectibility is its rarity. With only a select few units produced, the scarcity of these vehicles has driven up demand, making them highly sought after by collectors. Moreover, the AMC Rebel Machine’s unique blend of performance, style, and historical significance has captivated the hearts of many, solidifying its place in the pantheon of coveted classic cars.
Factors Contributing to Collectibility
The Rebel Machine’s collectibility can be attributed to several key factors that have contributed to its enduring appeal. For one, its limited production run has created a sense of exclusivity, making each unit highly valuable. Additionally, its unique performance capabilities, courtesy of the 290 cu. in. V8 engine and the Hurst dual gate shifter, have set it apart from other classic cars of its era. Furthermore, the AMC Rebel Machine’s stylish design, featuring a distinctive front grille and rear spoiler, has aged remarkably well, making it a highly sought-after addition to any classic car collection.
Market Value and Rarity
The market value of the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine can vary greatly depending on its condition, rarity, and provenance. In general, well-preserved units with a clear history can command significant prices at auctions and private sales.
| |Feature | Condition | Value | Rarity
| Front disc brakes | Excellent | $500-$1000 | 8/10
| Hurst dual gate shifter | Good | $200-$500 | 6/10
| AMC badging | Rare | $100-$200 | 3/10
|
The condition of the vehicle plays a crucial role in determining its value. Well-maintained units with minimal wear and tear can command higher prices than those with more extensive damage or neglect. Rarity also plays a significant factor, with units featuring rare options or limited production numbers commanding higher prices.
In a recent auction, a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with excellent condition and rare features sold for $75,000, underscoring the vehicle’s immense value and allure among collectors.
The Importance of Documentation and Certification
Proper documentation and certification are essential in determining the authenticity and value of a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine. A comprehensive service history, receipts for maintenance and repairs, and certificates of authenticity can significantly enhance the vehicle’s value. Moreover, a thorough inspection by a reputable mechanic or historian can provide valuable insight into the vehicle’s condition and authenticity.
A well-documented 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with a clear history can command upwards of $100,000 at auction, making it an investment opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine is a testament to AMC’s innovative spirit and commitment to performance, offering a unique driving experience that’s sure to captivate car enthusiasts. Whether you’re a history buff, a car collector, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of American muscle, the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine is a must-see.
FAQ Guide
Q: What was the main reason for the AMC Rebel Machine’s high-performance capabilities?
A: The combination of the 390 cubic inch big block engine, Hurst dual gate shifter, and Positraction rear axle contributed to its high-performance capabilities.
Q: How did the federal safety regulations impact the design and features of the Rebel Machine?
A: The federal safety regulations led to the addition of safety features such as front disc brakes and seat belts, but also resulted in significant design changes, including the adoption of a more subdued exterior design.
Q: What is the significance of the AMC badging on the 1970 Rebel Machine?
A: The AMC badging is a rare feature, which makes it highly collectible and valuable, particularly in excellent condition.
Q: How can one determine the value of a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine?
A: The value of a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine can be determined by considering its condition, rarity, and provenance, as well as documentation and certification.
