1976 AMC Gremlin V8: Smart Car
How is this little guy? It’s a 1976 AMC Gremlin V8, and it wants to eat you.
Prior to 1970, if you wanted a small, American built car, you’re go to cars were the Falcon, Chevelle or Dart. These cars were by no means compact, instead merely shrunken down versions of their large full sized siblings- same recipe just less ingredients. No one in Detroit was bothering to really try and push the envelope- and develop a proper compact. Which, ultimately left a gap in the market. A gap which the Japanese where very quickly trying to fill, with cars like the Civic and Corolla.
Then, out of nowhere, came a plucky little American manufacturer named AMC with their new car, the Gremlin.
God bless the Yanks. I do love their cars (as is obvious by the amount of American cars on the site). However, they can’t always help themselves. By most accounts, it would seem that they really tried to have a crack with the Gremlin. I mean- it looks a little like those Japanese compacts. It’s got that hatchback body, two doors- kind of cute and friendly to look at.
Where they kind of get lost, however, is with the engine choice. Rather than perhaps develop a 4 cylinder (probably as well received as calling your mother a c-bomb), it was decided to jam a 3.3l and 3.8l six up front. Not exactly compact.
If you can believe it, the AMC Gremlin was actually positioned as a competitor to the VW Beetle when released. Just a bit bigger. And with an engine over twice the size. So, close enough really.
Quickly establishing there initial brief was a joke, the engineers at AMC leaned into their obscure (but typically America) engine choice. And by 1972, prospective Gremlin buyers could select a 304ci V8 to power their “compact” hatchback. At least it was still a small block- smart!
All this madness only fuels the coolness of the AMC Gremlins, especially these V8 varieties. The 1976 model you see here was actually the last hurrah for the V8, with AMC realising that maybe 304 cubic inches was a bit to much for a compact car. After this, they started using Audi sourced 4 cylinders- a motor that could barely pull one of the Gremlins gigantic doors yet alone all the thing.
Well, the owner of this green AMC Gremlin V8 obviously disagrees with that sentiment. So much so, that, rather than just remain satisfied with the 304ci, they decided to ram a 360ci V8 up front and really have some fun.
The car itself looks to be in amazing condition, set off by that typically 70’s green, Hustler mags and baby shit brown interior (I have a baby, so trust me). It’s short, stubby and full of fun. However, just like Gizmo, from the movie Gremlins, if it comes in contact with water- bad things will most likely occur.
Yay!
Find it on Gumtree here for $35k.
Inspiration
If you need further inspiration, check out the AMC AMX-GT concept car from 1968. Designed by the amazingly named Dick Teague, it previewed the slant rear hatch found on the Gremlin (also penned by Teague). Dick also designed the AMC Pacer and Hornet, as well as the boxiest of SUV’s, the Jeep XJ.
1976 AMC Gremlin V8- In the owners own words:
Our little mean, green & very clean ‘Georgia’ sadly is needing a new owner as we are unable to keep her. With a 360 V8, power steering & air-con, she is an exciting car to drive & turns heads. Original, excellent condition, interior. We have just replaced the exhaust & rebuilt the transmission. Very rare in Australia; however, parts are readily available. Currently on club rego, a RWC can be provided for Qld buyers. She will excite & not disappoint. Serious buyers only, call 0412 998 778 to arrange inspection.