American Motors decided to compete against the Ford Mustang (and later pony cars) by introducing the Javelin in 1968. The car would be built across seven model years and two generations and would also spawn the GT-style AMX 2-seater. Declining sales in the market sector and at AMC led the company to discontinue the Javelin after 1974, so this example could be one of the last assembled (or not). Located in San Jose, California, this project is available here on eBay where the seller’s reserve hasn’t been checked at $2,025.

In 1968-70, the Javelin and AMC were separate models with the latter using a wheelbase that was shortened by 12 inches to compete more with the Corvette. In 1971 when the cars were redesigned, the AMX was dropped as a standalone model with a separate chassis and became the performance edition of the Javelin (as a 4-seater). Sales peaked in the first year (’68) at 55,000 units and in 1972-74 the Javelin outsold both the Plymouth Barracuda and Dodge Challenger, so the car would not end its reign in last place.

The seller provides practically no details about this car. It has 25,000 miles on the odometer, but that could have turned over. It’s described as a “nice restoration project or driver as-is” which suggests it’s in running condition the way it sits. But the photos say otherwise based on where it’s parked and the use of chocks under the front wheels. There’s a V8 engine under the hood but is it original and what flavor could it be (304, 360, or 401 cubic inches)?

The paint is faded, and the interior has some wear issues that should be addressed. But rust doesn’t appear to be jumping out at every corner. If the price is right and it does run, maybe give it good detailing, and take it to Cars & Coffee a few times before deciding if you want to spend more time and money on a restoration.