1970 AMC Rebel Machine
American Motors Corporation (AMC) 1970 Rebel two-door hardtop (coupe) – The Machine, a traditional mid-size U.S. muscle car finished in the factory red/white/blue trim.
This AMC’s solid body panels are straight steel pieces that display great fit and excellent finish. Those panels are highlighted by a brilliant combination of Frost White and Electric Blue two-stage that, along with “glow in the dark” stripes, reflects a glossy, wet-look shine. And while that unbeatable appearance is the product of a thorough restoration that’s logged a few well-deserved miles, the car was obviously well cared for and shielded from the worst of Mother Nature’s wrath.
For one year only, “The Machine” put the Big Three on notice. Combining patriotism with performance, American Motors’ most powerful V-8 was surround by red, white and blue bodywork. It all started under the hood, where the 390 CI V-8 got a bump in compression (10.0:1) to deliver 340 HP and 430 lb-ft of torque. The matching-numbers 390/340 HP V-8 seen beneath the hood of this 1970 AMC Rebel Machine makes use of a Hurst-shifted, original, matching-numbers BorgWarner T-10 4-speed manual to give the hood-mounted tachometer a workout, thanks to the optional twin-grip differential.
Inside the car, a simple black interior combines quarter-mile sensibility with open road convenience. Seating is provided by a traditional bucket and bench combo that’s wrapped in restoration-fresh vinyl. The car’s door panels are lined in straight stainless trim, while a patriotic ‘buddy seat’ makes room for a tall Hurst shifter. The dash is pure 60s modern, but seems more functional than its Big Three counterparts. And behind the cockpit, a fully restored trunk is complete with a new space saver spare.
The first 100 cars were white with blue lower beltline stripes and hood. The upper body sides were red striped. Red-White-Blue stripes ran across the rear fender tips and deck. “Machine” emblems decorated the front fenders and rear trim panel. For buyers who didn’t like the color scheme, AMC said, “You can order the car painted in the color of your choice.” Such cars had silver striping and a blacked-out hood.
