Today seeing a Gremlin is a rare occasion and there surely can’t be many nicer than this 1976 example, which shows what we believe to be just over 58,000 original miles.
58,307 original miles. One repaint in factory colors, original interior in excellent condition. Smooth-running 232 cubic inch inline-6 with automatic transmission. Rally wheels. A really nice Gremlin that actually drives great.
AMC delivered the Gremlin at a perfect time—gas prices were skyrocketing and America was ready for a compact that was also a little sporty. By using parts bin engineering, the Gremlin turned out to be a pretty rugged, reliable little car and the styling was endearing in those dark times. Today seeing a Gremlin is a rare occasion and there surely can’t be many nicer than this 1976 example, which shows what we believe to be just over 58,000 original miles. It has been finished in correct Sunshine Yellow, an appropriate color for such a cheerful little car, and with the Rally wheels and black stripes, it looks sportier than you may remember. The bodywork is actually really nice with laser-straight sheetmetal and good gaps all around, which may have been atypical for AMC at the time. The doors don’t need a heavy slam and details like the plastic nose and gills in the sail panel are still in excellent condition with no signs of age-related deterioration. There’s a bit of chrome and stainless trim, all of which is quite good, and the original glass shows no chips, delamination, or other issues. Someone obviously loved this little car.
The tan vinyl interior is almost entirely original and still in excellent shape. The split bench front seat gives the illusion of buckets and remains supportive for longer drives and there are no splits or tears in any of the usual spots. Original door panels are excellent, the steering wheel isn’t cracked, and we believe even the carpets are OEM, suggesting this car has led a pretty easy life. Gauges are simple and cover only the basics, along with the secondary controls which are basically lights, wipers, and heater. There’s a newer Pioneer AM/FM/cassette stereo that probably dates to the 1980s, but that’s the lone deviation from stock and it’s a welcome upgrade. The back seat looks untouched and folds down to provide a pretty decent cargo bay, accessible through the rear hatch. The only real demerit inside is some damage to the headliner in the back by the hatch, likely just a result of the vinyl getting old. The hatch area also houses a full-sized spare and jack assembly.
The engine is a 232 cubic inch inline-6, which was AMC’s bread-and-butter engine throughout the ‘70s. Torquey and reliable, it moves the lightweight Gremlin with enthusiasm. Someone has obviously spent quite a bit of time and effort detailing the engine bay, which has correct corporate turquoise engine enamel, a chrome valve cover, and lots of new components. A recent tune-up ensures that it starts easily and runs smoothly, and a newer radiator up front keeps it nice and cool. This Gremlin is also equipped with both power steering and power front disc brakes, as well as a 3-speed automatic transmission that makes it exceptionally easy to live with. The unit-body chassis is super solid with no issues in the floors or rockers, and all the structural reinforcements are clearly visible under a light dusting of undercoat. A custom exhaust system splits into two tailpipes for dual exhaust, giving the over-achieving little six a neat sound. You’ll also find recent shocks, brake components, steering components, and air shocks out back to keep the ride level. Flashy factory rally wheels look right and carry fresh 215/70/14 white-letter radials to keep with the sporty vibe.
A nice package of documentation includes the original window sticker, purchase documents, manuals, and other AMC brochures.
We haven’t seen another car bring smiles to visitors’ faces like this bright yellow Gremlin. It’s impossible to be unhappy when you’re driving this car. It’s bone-simple, rugged, reliable, and easy to service, making it a great hobby car for someone who likes to drive. Add in the excellent overall condition, great colors, and nice documentation and it’s one of the better Gremlins we’ve seen. Call today!
Harwood Motors always recommends and welcomes personal or professional inspections of any vehicle in our inventory prior to purchase.
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