While 33 years is no small blip in the corporate world, American Motors (AMC) has long since been forgotten in the automotive sphere. The union of Nash-Kelvinator and Hudson Motor Cars, AMC drew upon the history of two respected brands to compete with GM, Ford, and Chrysler. Alas, budget constraints and inconsistent vehicle quality ultimately lead to the company’s demise in 1987.
Before the curtain closed on AMC, however, the automaker put out some respectable two door performance machines. Among these vehicles, the 1972 Javelin AMX was one of the rarest (only 3,220 examples were built) and most exciting (6.6-liter V8, anyone?). The Javelin could never quite match the sales and glory of its Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro rivals, but it did cultivate a distinct following.
Jim and Mike Ring have loved the AMC Javelin AMX since they first saw the car as children. Now renowned vehicle customizers, the Ring brothers work with their favorite classic cars every day — but the Javelin AMX has always eluded their grasp. Thankfully, Prestone would provide them an opportunity to modify their vehicular hero.
To celebrate Prestone’s 90th anniversary, Ringbrothers transformed a 1972 AMC Javelin AMX into a unique work of bright yellow art (as tribute to Prestone’s iconic color). The build includes a custom four-link in the rear with a 12-bolt GM axle and modernized braking system. Additionally, there were upgrades to the hood and fender. Designed and built in just 12 months, Ringbrothers used 3D scanning and printing for the first time to make plugs and molds. This technology sped up the process considerably.
“When we began our partnership with Mike and Jim last year, we entrusted them with a high stakes project that not only had a quick turnaround but would also be an integral part of our 90th anniversary,” said Randy Fisher, Prestone’s vice president of marketing. “This Javelin AMX has far surpassed any of our expectations and we look forward to having it in our collection for the next 90 years.”
The car was shown for the first time at last year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, and will visit a number of big automotive events this year. The finished product is so good, we have to wonder about AMC’s fate had Jim and Mike been in charge of design.
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