1968 AMC Rebel 550 Cross Country Wagon – SOLD!

April 20, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this Rambler “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

American Motors management elected to move away from its core Rambler brand name roots when it finally retired the name for 1968. In its place was the new Rebel mid-size lineup, a prime example of which is this 69K original mile 550 Cross Country Station Wagon currently originally listed in March 2021 in Meriden, Connecticut (Hartford) with an asking price of only $4,800 or best offer.   Comparing this price against the Collector Car Market Review indicates the current asking price falls between this guide’s #4 “Fair” estimate of $3,075 and its #3 “Good” appraisal of $5,900.

AMC introduced its 1968 Rebels in September 1967 as essentially rebranded and restyled Ramblers. The mid-sized models were now named the AMC Rebel, but little was changed except for Federally mandated safety features.  The 1968 models were treated to a modest restyle of the trim, grille, and taillamps. New mandates by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for all 1968 model passenger cars were incorporated. Safety equipment including a separate shoulder harness for the front seat belts, two rear lap belts, lighted side markers, padded seat backs, non-glare finish, safety design handles and armrests, energy-absorbing steering column, and optional headrests.  American Motors did not wait for the requirements for cars delivered to dealers after 31 December 1967 but incorporated the safety features starting with the early 1968 model year cars produced in late 1967.  A new AMC safety and styling feature was also introduced on the 1968 Rebels; the flush-mounted paddle-style door handles. These replaced the former push-button design and become an enduring AMC signature on its passenger cars through 1988 and the Jeep Wrangler until 2006.

We came across this vintage ’68 AMC Rebel commercial on the Osborne Tramain YouTube Channel:

For anyone thinking you can’t find an entry-level 1960s classic for under five large, we offer this AMC as a prime example that it’s still possible. We’re not sure to what extent “needs little TLC” means, but hopefully, the seller can elaborate during your in-person inspection.

Here’s the seller’s one-sentence description:

“1968 AMC Rebel 550 Cross Country wagon 69,000 original miles. straight 6, 3 speed automatic. Runs and drives well. Overall in great condition. Very rare to find. Great driver or cruise night car. $4,800 or best offer. Needs little TLC. Trade for an older Chevelle, Camaro, or muscle considered.”

Restore or drive as-is: What would you do with this Rebel 550 station wagon?  Comment below and let us know!