The 1969 AMC AMX holds a unique position in American history as the only steel-bodied two-seater of its era. This Hunter Green example originally debuted at Avenue Rambler in San Francisco before undergoing a massive transformation. It successfully bridges the gap between a high-point restoration and a modern performance build. By utilizing mostly NOS parts for the gauges and circuitry, the build retains its vintage soul while hiding serious power.
Precision Engineering and Block Preparation
The foundation of this build is a 1970-spec 390 engine that has been meticulously blueprinted and balanced. Technicians at Rocky Mountain Competitive Research performed a .040 overbore and used high-performance 319 castings. The block and heads underwent cryo-treatment after being hot-tanked and sonic checked for total integrity. These measures ensure the engine can handle high-stress driving without compromising long-term reliability. Furthermore, the undercarriage has been powder-coated to match the level of detail found under the hood.
Cabin Luxury and Authentic Interior
Inside, the Saddle leather interior extends across the seats and the entire dashboard for a premium feel. The restoration utilized NOS Weather-Eye controls and a factory AM radio faceplate to maintain visual accuracy. Despite the vintage appearance, a hidden Alpine sound system provides modern audio quality for the driver. Factory air conditioning remains present and has been converted to R134A for reliable cooling in any climate. Consequently, the cabin feels like a luxury grand tourer rather than a stripped-down drag racer.
Chassis Upgrades and Road Presence
Handling is managed by a set of American Racing 500 mono-cast aluminum wheels that fit the period-correct look. These wheels are wrapped in Nitto NT555 G2 tires to provide modern grip during aggressive cornering maneuvers. A Ron Davis aluminum radiator and dual Spal fans keep operating temperatures in check during heavy traffic. The exterior shines in its original Hunter Green basecoat and clearcoat, highlighting the aggressive short-wheelbase proportions. Additionally, a detailed undercarriage reflects the comprehensive nature of this California-sourced project.
Drivetrain Performance and Specifications
The mechanical heart of this 1969 AMC AMX is the 390 CI V-8 equipped with Howell electronic fuel injection. A Comp Cams Extreme Energy camshaft and Mopar manifold work together to broaden the power band significantly. Power reaches the pavement through a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission, offering a massive upgrade over the original 4-speed unit. Ceramic-coated Patriot Clippster headers and an MSD digital 6AL ignition ensure efficient combustion and a fierce exhaust note. These specs allow the AMX to compete with modern sports cars while retaining its 1960s charisma.
Summary
The 1969 AMC AMX is a rare sight on modern roads, especially one prepared to this exacting mechanical standard. It arrives at the Houston 2026 auction with a full folder of receipts and restoration photographs. Every choice made during the build prioritized a balance between classic AMC identity and 21st-century drivability. This Hunter Green machine remains a definitive example of the short-wheelbase muscle car philosophy. It stands ready to provide a visceral and sophisticated driving experience for its next dedicated caretaker.
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Source: mecum.com
