1970 AMC Rebel SST review from North America
"The AMC Rebel is the most underrated car from the muscle car era"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Rear brake shoes needed to be replaced.
The starter motor failed.
Cloth upholstery was worn.
Floor was rusted completely through on the passenger side.
General comments?
I've owned many vehicles since I gave up my 1970 Rebel SST hardtop and have never enjoyed any of them like I did the Rebel.
Despite the troubles with rust, the Rebel was the best car I ever had.
The 304 cubic inch V-8 performed as well as many larger V-8s made by the big three. AMC offered more powerful engines, but I was satisfied with the 304.
With the SST package, the Rebel was equipped with a suspension that rode like a Cadillac, but handled like a Chevelle, taking turns very well and easily weaving through traffic.
My car was equipped with a four speaker AM/FM stereo that sounded great and filled the cabin of the Rebel with music perfectly.
Racing the Rebel was a hoot. I enjoyed walking away from much newer cars on long streets and roads that had no traffic signals and few police patrols.
I miss my Rebel. These days I scan the classified ads looking for a good one. When it turns up, I won't hesitate to buy it.
Recommended reviews
| Charming family car |
|
| The AMC has the best combination of great qualities |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1970 |
| First year of ownership | 1989 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1991 |
| Engine and transmission | 304 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 160000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 188000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Thunderbird |
| Date of Entry | 6th April, 2002 |