The 1969 AMC AMX Coupe remains a fascinating outlier in the golden age of American muscle cars. Unlike its longer competitors, this two-seater shortened wheelbase specialist focused on agility and raw power. This specific example shines in a vibrant Pompeii Yellow finish that demands attention on any road. It carries the highly desirable 390 cubic inch V8 engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Only a small fraction of the total production left the factory with this specific enthusiast-grade powertrain. Currently located in Pennsylvania, the car represents a well-maintained piece of American Motors Corporation history. It offers a mechanical purity that is increasingly difficult to find in today’s collector market.
Engine Specifications and High Output Performance
The heart of this 1969 AMC AMX Coupe is the legendary 390-cu.in. OHV V8 engine. Labeled with an X in the VIN, this unit was factory rated at an impressive 315 horsepower. A four-barrel carburetor ensures the engine breathes deeply during spirited acceleration through the gears. According to the seller, the engine was rebuilt during a previous ownership to maintain its health. Modern updates include an HEI-style ignition system for improved reliability and more consistent spark delivery. Under the hood, chrome valve covers and a matching air cleaner provide a touch of show-quality flair. An aluminum radiator has been added to the cooling system to manage temperatures during long summer drives.
Drivetrain and Mechanical Components
Shifting duties are handled by a Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed manual transmission equipped with a Hurst shifter. This setup provides the tactile connection to the road that performance drivers deeply crave. Power reaches the pavement through a limited-slip rear axle featuring 3.54 gears for strong off-the-line starts. This 1969 AMC AMX Coupe also benefits from power steering, making the short-wheelbase chassis easier to manage. While the brakes remain manual drums, they are reported to function without any significant performance issues. The car sits on later-style 14-inch AMC aluminum wheels wrapped in modern radial tires for better grip. These mechanical choices ensure the car remains a capable performer on winding back roads.
Exterior Condition and Aesthetic Appeal
The exterior of this 1969 AMC AMX Coupe was repainted in a striking shade of Pompeii Yellow. This color was a legitimate option for the 1969 model year and highlights the unique body lines. The seller reports that the finish is free of major blemishes, scratches, or unsightly dents. All glass, trim, and chrome elements appear to be in very good condition across the entire body. The paint quality suggests the car has been kept in a protected environment since the refurbishment. It possesses a stance that is both aggressive and classic, perfectly capturing the spirit of late sixties design. Consequently, the car presents as a turn-key cruiser that is ready for local car shows.
Cabin Comfort and Interior Refinements
Inside the two-seat cabin, the tan cloth upholstery offers a comfortable alternative to the original vinyl surfaces. While cloth was not a factory option, the current material shows minimal wear and looks very clean. The dashboard retains most of its original equipment, though some light scratches are visible below the cluster. Due to the upgraded ignition, the factory tachometer is currently disconnected, but other gauges function as intended. An older cassette deck and an aftermarket speaker box behind the seats provide period-appropriate audio entertainment. A custom steering wheel has been installed to give the driver a more modern grip during operation. Despite these changes, the interior maintains a high level of overall tidiness and charm.
Technical Performance and Specifications
This muscle car is defined by its 390-cu.in. V8 which produces 315 horsepower and significant low-end torque. The combination of the T-10 four-speed and 3.54 gears allows for very responsive acceleration through every gear. Its upgraded HEI ignition and aluminum radiator prioritize modern reliability over strict concours originality for the owner. The 1969 AMC AMX Coupe chassis utilizes power steering to assist with the 120 horsepower output feel at the wheels. Even with its manual drum brakes, the car offers a predictable and engaging vintage driving experience. The short wheelbase provides a level of nimbleness that few other big-block powered cars of this era can match. It remains a potent performer that sounds as good as it looks.
Summary of the AMX Experience
The 1969 AMC AMX Coupe is a rare survivor that balances original powertrain components with sensible modern upgrades. Having the original 390 V8 and four-speed gearbox makes it a verified member of a very exclusive club. The Pompeii Yellow paint ensures it will never be overlooked by spectators or fellow car enthusiasts. While some interior details depart from factory specifications, the overall presentation remains exceptionally high for a driver-quality car. It stands as a testament to the unique engineering philosophy that AMC brought to the muscle car wars. This clean-titled Pennsylvania car is ready for a new owner to take the wheel and enjoy.
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Source: hemmings.com
