AMC Gremlin
The quirky, chopped-tail subcompact that brought V8 muscle to the economy class.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.0 s
- Top speed
- 100 mph
- Est. value
- $15k–$41k
About the AMC Gremlin
Introduced on April Fool's Day 1970, the AMC Gremlin was a bold response to the rising popularity of fuel-efficient imports. Designer Dick Teague famously created the car's signature Kammback profile by sketching a shortened Hornet on an airsickness bag. The 1972 model year was significant for the introduction of the 304 cubic-inch V8, making it one of the few subcompacts of the era to offer eight-cylinder power. While its handling was often described as choppy due to the shortened wheelbase and heavy front end, the Gremlin X package added a sporty persona with stripes, bucket seats, and slotted wheels that have made it a cult classic today.
AMC Gremlin specs
The AMC Gremlin produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 332 Nm (245 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 100 mph (161 km/h).
| Make | AMC |
|---|---|
| Model | Gremlin |
| Trim | X |
| Years | 1970–1978 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,300 when new |
| Engine | 5.0-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,981 cc (5.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 4,200 rpm |
| Torque | 332 Nm (245 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.0 s |
| Top speed | 100 mph (161 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,279 kg (2,820 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 117 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 Gremlin worth?
A typical AMC Gremlin is estimated to be worth $15,000 – $41,000 (about £12,000 – £30,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,300.
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 Gremlin rarity in CarSpot
The AMC Gremlin is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 22 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 Gremlin fun facts
- The Gremlin's design was first sketched by AMC's design chief Richard Teague on the back of a Northwest Orient Airlines airsickness bag.
- For 1972, AMC introduced the 'Buyer Protection Plan', the industry's first 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
- A total of 10,949 Gremlins were produced with the V8 engine option in 1972, the first year it was available.
