By Robert Tate, Award-Winning Automotive Historian and Researcher
Images Courtesy of Stellants Chrysler Archives
Published 6.4.2025
A 1967 AMC Rambler Rebel SST convertible
In January 1967, Roy Abernathy (September 29,1906 - February 28, 1977) was in charge of American Motors. He was CEO of AMC from February 1962 to January 1967.
Roy Abernathy (Stellantis Chrysler Archives)
One of the most talented and influential automotive designers of the 1960s was AMC’s Dick Teague (December 26, 1923 - May 5, 1991). In 1961, Teague took over as AMC’s styling director. He would later become vice president of design on February 6, 1964 and would remain in that position until his retirement in 1983. Teague was responsible for the AMC design look for 1967.
Richard Teague, Head of AMC Design
The styling of the 1967 AMCs were quite different than the 1966 models with a wide range of optional equipment and, most importantly, powerful V8 engines that the public thoroughly enjoyed. All of AMC’s mid-sized automobiles carried the Rambler Rebel name plate for 1967. The Rebel models were great-looking automobiles and rode on a 114-inch wheelbase.
Author and American Motors historian Patrick R. Foster said, “Rambler Americans were offered in three trim series: base 220, up-level 440 and the top-line Rogue. The 220 series cars were really plain with rubber floor coverings and with very little chrome trim.”
1967 AMC promotional material
1967 would be the final year for the production Marlin. A total of 2,545 units were manufactured on an Ambassador chassis. Rambler Ambassador models were very much improved for 1967. Some automotive historians have said that the 1967 Ambassador models were much smoother and more integrated with an 118-inch wheelbase.
1967 was a pivotal year for AMC, which was looking to build a more youthful image. This actually did not work until 1968, when AMC introduced the AMX and the Javelin.
A 1967 Rambler Rebel Briarcliff station wagon print ad
1967 was also the final year that their original logo, created in 1954, would be used. A new logo would appear for the 1968 model year.
The 1967 fiscal year was not a strong year for AMC sales. In fact, the company reported a record loss of $75 million. Despite the poor sales, Motor Trend magazine had described the all-new styling of AMC’s 1967 line as attractive, more graceful and easier on the eye. The U.S. Postal Service, along with law enforcement agencies, used AMC products for use with their business.
The 1967 AMC Marlin
One of the most popular automobile designs for 1967 was the Rambler American Rogue models. A great-looking compact convertible was added to the Rambler American Rogue series in 1967.
The 1967 AMC Rambler American Rogue coupe
The 1967 AMC Ambassador models were updated with a longer wheelbase and three trim level options. I remember the television advertising campaign for this car that featured a red-carpet ride theme emphasizing the car’s value and comfort. This commercial became very popular among automotive enthusiasts and consumers that year.
A 1967 Rambler Ambassador US Postal Service ad
In conclusion, American Motors Corporation and its predecessor companies participated in a number of distinct eras since the turn of the 20th century. One was Hudson’s involvement in the creation and growth of the automobile industry itself. Another was the pioneering of the compact car in the early 1960s. AMC will always be remembered as a great automotive company for many generations to come.
Foster, Patrick R. “AMC Cars 1954-1987: An Illustrated History.” Iconografix, 2004.
American Motors Corporation. Public Relations Department First Edition February, 1969.
Lamm, Michael & Holls, Dave. “A Century of Automotive Style: 100 Years of American Car Design.” Lamm-Morada Publishing, 1997.
Langworth, Richard M. & Robson, Graham. “New Complete Book of Collectible Cars, 1930-1980.” Auto Editors of Consumer Guide, 1987.