Engine - AMX 390 cubic-inch V8
Transmission - “Shift Command” 3-speed automatic
Horsepower - 315 at 4,600 rpm
Production - 32 California 500 Specials

“At the start or taking the flag, AMX is a winner every time”

On February 15th, 1968, AMC unveiled the AMX at the Daytona International Speedway. This innovative muscle car combined a powerful V8 engine with a compact, agile platform. With the Corvette being its closest two-seat competitor, the AMX was a compelling alternative for younger consumers wanting V8 performance in a nimbler package. The AMC AMX was credited for bringing several “firsts” to the automotive industry, such as new-generation thinner laminated safety glass and an injection-molded one-piece dashboard. In 1969, a special series of vibrant "Big Bad" color options were introduced, consisting of 195 cars in Big Bad Blue, 283 in Big Bad Green, and 284 in Big Bad Orange, each with body-colored painted bumpers. American Motors offered the AMX through 1970.

Throughout the AMX's production run, various special edition models were created. One such edition, displayed here, was the California 500 Special, which commemorated the 1969 Riverside 500 race where the AMX served as the pace car. The California 500 Specials were replicas of the pace cars and were exclusively available through the Southern California American Motors Dealer Association. Each of these cars was finished in Big Bad Green with black vinyl racing stripes. They were fitted with factory options that included the 390 cubic-inch V8, Automatic Transmission, Go-Pak, Air Conditioning, Power Steering, Power Disc Brakes, Tilt Wheel, Rally Wheels, Tinted Windows, Radio, Light Group, Visibility Group and Leather Interior. Only 32 examples of the California 500 Special were produced.