AMC Eagle
The rugged pioneer that bridged the gap between family car and SUV.
- Power
- 110 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.5 s
- Top speed
- 92 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$25k
About the AMC Eagle
Introduced for the 1980 model year, the AMC Eagle is widely regarded as the first mass-produced crossover, combining a conventional passenger car body with a sophisticated full-time four-wheel-drive system. Based on the AMC Concord, it was engineered to provide sure-footed traction in snow and mud without the harshness of a traditional truck-based 4x4. The 4.2-litre '258' straight-six provides dependable, low-end torque, though performance is leisurely by modern standards. Today, it is a cult classic, prized for its unique wood-panelled aesthetic and its historical significance as the ancestor of the modern AWD estate and SUV.
AMC Eagle specs
The AMC Eagle produces 110 bhp (82 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.5 seconds and has a top speed of 92 mph (148 km/h).
| Make | AMC |
|---|---|
| Model | Eagle |
| Trim | 4.2 |
| Years | 1980–1988 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Station Wagon |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 45,379 built |
| Original price | About $7,500 when new |
| Engine | 4.2-litre inline-6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,235 cc (4.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 110 bhp (82 kW) at 3,200 rpm |
| Torque | 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 17.5 s |
| Top speed | 92 mph (148 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,555 kg (3,428 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 71 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an AMC Eagle worth?
A typical AMC Eagle is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $25,000 (about £3,000 – £19,000).
Its original price when new was about $7,500.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
AMC Eagle rarity in CarSpot
The AMC Eagle is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 28 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
AMC Eagle fun facts
- The Eagle's Quadra-Trac system was so innovative that it allowed the car to be driven on dry pavement in 4WD without damaging the drivetrain, a rarity at the time.
- To make room for Eagle production at the Kenosha plant, AMC had to discontinue the slow-selling Pacer in late 1979.
- The 4.2-litre engine used in the Eagle is a direct relative of the legendary 4.0-litre straight-six that powered Jeep Cherokees and Wranglers for decades.
