AMC Gremlin
source: Pinterest
Another AMC relic on the list, the Gremlin was an unexpectable sexy hatchback that really makes us miss having AMC around. When the AMC Gremlin first released in 1970, it quickly became the economy car of the 70s. Retailing at $1,879 (approx. $12k USD in 2016), the Gremlin was loved by American and even some Europeans, selling 670,000 over its 8 years in production.
source: Pinterest
The style & design of the Gremlin is what everyone first loves, but what makes it stand out is its superior performance. When the public first got a hold of the Gremlin in 1970, the hatchback had a 128 horsepower 6-cylinder engine, where most subcompacts boasted a 4-cylinder engine. The Gremlin was significantly quicker than any other subcompact at the time hitting 0-60 in 12.6 seconds, compared to the Pinto & Beetle that both were closer to 18 seconds. The AMC Gremlin wasn’t just fast on a straightaway, one a test run the Gremlin hit 100 mph at Dayton Speedway and a smooth comfortable ride. Many automotive writers agreed that the Gremlin was dollar for dollar the best American buy of the year!
AMC claimed the Gremlin offered “the best mileage of any production car made in America”. The fuel efficiency gave a huge boost to Gremlin sales in 1974, during the Arab Oil Embargo, with a 40% increase from 1973. Sales eventually declined as the Gremlin and AMC ended production in ’78, and was replaced with the AMC Spirit, which was nice but anyone would rather have the Gremlin.
