AMC Javelin data, information, pictures, VIN ID, technical and performance infoHistory The model name of Javelin was chosen in a meeting with managers, but at first was shot down because it supposedly sounded too much like a weapon. Guy Hadsall Jr., who first suggested the name, convinced the panel that it would work well, and they finally agreed.
The Javelin was introduced as a 1968 model, but was introduced to the public on September 26, 1967. AMC management prepared for the new releases of the Javelin and AMX models by releasing training brochures to the dealerships, and having extensive training The big 390 V8 was not available on the Javelin until February 1968, when the engine was first released on the AMX. The engine added considerable costs to the vehicle, since the transmission also had to be upgraded to either the Warner Gear Model 12 automatic floor console, or the 4 speed manual transmission with no console.
There were two packages to choose from for upgrades. The trim package was called the ‘SST’, which stood for Super Sport Touring. The “Go” package was the performance package. Like on the AMX, the “Big Bad” colors were available from 1969 and up. More information of what the detailed items these packages contained per model year can be found on their respective model year pages. A 1970 AMC Javelin
Marketing and advertising for the Javelin line was geared towards the Mustang and muscle car / pony car customers. The ads pictured a Mustang along side the Javelin, comparing the two. The ads listed the Javelin as being cheaper, roomier, having more trunk space, a bigger windshield, better styling, and larger standard engines. The marketing and new model lines paid off, for in 1968 AMC was back in the black after losing 75.8 million in 1967.
Magazine reviews were very favorable for the javelin when it was introduced in 1968, and Motor Trend compared the model in a group test with a Mustang, Barracuda, Firebird, Cougar, and Camaro. Most engines on these test models had higher horse power engine ratings, yet the Javelin recorded the best time in the ¼ mile, at 15.1 seconds. They were also impressed with the handling and braking ability.
1969 and 1970 model lines went through minor changes. 1969 had mostly interior modifications, and 1970 had more exterior changes. 1971 saw a complete style change, including a new grill and tail lights, and the interior had been restyled as well. The instrument panel was curved, and there was no dash in front of the passenger. The Javelin lived until 1974, it’s last production year. | 1968 Javelin
AMC entered the pony car market with the Javelin in 1968. Although it never reached sales like the Ford Mustang, it did quite well for the smaller car manufacturer. The AMX 390 engine was available mid model year, to make the Javelin even faster.
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1968 Javelin specs and data | | 1969 Javelin
The Javelin did not change much for the 1969 model, since sales were strong in the first year, and AMC felt like they didn't want to make changes and affect sales. The Big Bad Colors were first available on the 1969 Javelin.
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1969 Javelin specs and data | | 1970 Javelin
Sales dipped in 1969, so AMC made some more drastic styling changes for 1970. The hood and rear tail lights changed, and there were some special Javelin models available, such as the Trans-Am Replica Javelin and the Mark Donohue Javelin SST.
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1970 Javelin specs and data | | 1971 Javelin
With the demise of the AMX in 1971, the AMX became a performance package on the 1971 Javelin. The base model also went through a drastic style change, and the new 401 V8 was the new engine choice for performance.
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1971 Javelin specs and data | | 1972 Javelin
Little changes occured in the 1972 Javelin, and the muscle and pony car market was on the decline. The only real new change was the optional Pierre Cardin interior.
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1972 Javelin specs and data |
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