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Patriotic Rarity: 1970 AMC Rebel “The Machine”
This 1970 AMC Rebel “The Machine” followed the ’69 SC/Rambler as AMC’s highest performance and most patriotic muscle car. While the Javelin and AMX plied the pony car market, the more conventional Machine assaulted the muscle car scene with its ostentatious paintwork and potent 390 cubic inch V8. Built for only one year, final production numbers reached just 2,326. Find this one here on Craigslist in Surrey, BC, Canada for $35k (~$26,200 USD today if listed in CAD). Special thanks to BaT reader Glen A. for this submission.
Several features distinguished The Machine from the standard Rebel, though the 3M-produced stripe package is the most notable. Other unique features include Mag-style Kelsey-Hayes steel wheels, a ram air hood scoop and integrated hood-mounted tach. Though they cannot be seen in the provided photos, the seller does state that the correct wheels are still fitted.
The front seat armrest wears red, white and blue stripes which echo the exterior scheme. Though photos are poorly lit and grainy it is apparent that the vinyl upholstery shows no evidence of tears or cracking where it can be seen. The brushed metal dash fascia is a cool touch, though the steering wheel does not look like the normal two-spoke unit used in most examples.
This car puts power to the ground through a 4-speed manual gearbox and “Twin-Grip” locking rear diff, though the gear ratio is not noted. AMC offered a 5.00:1 gear ratio, though the standard fitments were 3.54:1 and 3.91:1. Numerous performance parts were available from the factory for The Machine, capable of boosting the 390 past 400 horsepower. We spy some modern ignition components, though the seller makes no claims about originality or modifications.
In an era full of incredible names like “Marauder,” “Interceptor,” “Cobra,” and “The Judge,” The Machine sounds completely unequivocal. We just wish the seller could have brought it out of the garage for photos.
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