AMC Spirit
The fuel-conscious 'Kammback' that brought European engineering to Kenosha.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 15.3 s
- Top speed
- 91 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$9k
About the AMC Spirit
Introduced for the 1979 model year, the AMC Spirit was a significant restyling of the long-running Gremlin, featuring a more contemporary glasshouse and improved interior. The 2.0-litre variant utilised the Volkswagen-designed EA831 engine, also found in the Porsche 924 and Audi 100, though AMC assembled it in Indiana with a two-barrel carburetor. While it offered superior fuel economy during the energy crisis, the engine struggled with the Spirit's weight and was replaced by the GM 'Iron Duke' for the 1980 model year. Today, these early four-cylinder Spirits are rare survivors, valued by AMC enthusiasts for their unique cross-manufacturer history.
AMC Spirit specs
The AMC Spirit produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 15.3 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph (146 km/h).
| Make | AMC |
|---|---|
| Model | Spirit |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1979–1983 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $4,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 15.3 s |
| Top speed | 91 mph (146 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,147 kg (2,529 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 70 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 Spirit worth?
A typical AMC Spirit is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $9,000 (about £3,000 – £6,700).
Its original price when new was about $4,000.
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 Spirit rarity in CarSpot
The AMC Spirit is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 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 Spirit fun facts
- The 2.0-litre engine was the same basic block used in the Porsche 924, though AMC used a different cylinder head and a carburetor instead of fuel injection.
- AMC spent $45 million to set up their own production line for this engine in Richmond, Indiana, only to cancel it after just three years of use.
- The Spirit's 'Kammback' sedan body style was essentially a Gremlin with larger rear windows and a revised tail.
