AMC Javelin

The AMC Javelin was American Motors' answer to the pony car craze, launched in 1968 to compete with the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Sleek and fastback-styled, it offered a surprising range of engines, from economical inline-sixes to potent V8s, including the fire-breathing AMX-derived 390. Revised for 1971 with bolder, more muscular bodywork, the Javelin found genuine competition success in Trans-Am racing under Roy Woods Racing and Penske teams, even claiming championships. Despite never matching Detroit's big three in sales volume, the Javelin earned a loyal following for its distinctive styling and underdog performance credentials, remaining a respected symbol of AMC's ambition until production ended in 1974.