Discover the untold story of how American Motors Corporation (AMC) defied the gas crisis of the late 1970s and created a groundbreaking four-wheel drive vehicle. While struggling to keep its Jeep brand afloat, AMC ingeniously merged their existing car lineup with a Jeep-inspired drivetrain, giving birth to the iconic AMC Eagle. In 1981, they took it a step further, transforming the sporty subcompact AMC Spirit into the exhilarating AMC Eagle SX/4. Today, a remarkable survivor of this off-road sports car revolution has surfaced on Craigslist, brought all the way from Canada and now licensed in Oklahoma. With an asking price of $12,500, this pristine 1981 AMC Eagle SX/4, with a single owner for 42 years, is a rare gem waiting to be claimed.
Under the hood of this 1981 AMC Eagle SX/4 resides the legendary GM Iron Duke four-cylinder engine or, in this particular car’s case, AMC’s own 258 cu. in. inline-six, delivering 110 horsepower. Paired with an automatic transmission and benefiting from a recent carburetor rebuild, this car runs smoothly, although the seller recommends new plug wires and a tune-up. By 1981, AMC had refined their engine design, reducing noise and improving torque, gas mileage, and maintenance intervals. In fact, their aluminum engine was acclaimed as the “lightest six in the industry.” With an odometer reading of 76,271 km (or 108,000 miles considering the roll-over), this AMC Eagle SX/4 is ready to hit the road with its iconic Quadra-Trac four-wheel-drive system.
Stepping inside the SX/4’s interior reveals the timeless charm of faux wood-grain accents and, true to AMC fashion, a dash that exudes a unique character. While some may argue that the seats have been re-covered, igniting the debate of its survivor status, there’s no denying the allure of this meticulously preserved vehicle. Admittedly, the tires are showing their age, and the AC requires servicing, but these minor details pale in comparison to the overall appeal of this remarkable AMC Eagle SX/4.
Beneath the car, skid plates offer protection for off-road excursions, ensuring you can conquer rugged terrains with peace of mind. Although the SX/4 may not possess the qualities of a traditional sports car or the off-road capabilities of a dedicated 4×4, its unique “on tiptoes” appearance and undeniable charm make it an irresistible collector’s piece. Personally, if only space and time allowed, this captivating AMC Eagle SX/4 would find its place in my collection. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history that defied expectations and revolutionized the concept of an off-road sports car!
