Long before minivans and SUVs ruled the roads, station wagons were America’s people movers. AMC’s large Matador and Ambassador wagons were some of the best: smooth ride, luxurious interior, and good power, all with AMC’s focus on value and reliability. This 1978 AMC Matador Station Wagon has the multi-function tailgate and folding third seat, perfect for families. It also represents the last of the big AMC cars, killed by the second Arab Oil Crisis and the cost of meeting the government’s draconian regulations. After 1978 AMC made nothing but compact cars.

Last week we photographed our first AMC products for our new book, The Complete Book of AMC Cars. Thanks to long-time AMC enthusiasts Mike Spangler and Cheryl Samuel we were able to photograph two one-of-a-kind prototypes, the 1971 AMX concept and the 1974 Gremlin XP concept. We also shot their 1962 Rambler 400 convertible and 1983 Renault Le Car (Renault was the majority owner of AMC). Thank you again Mike and Cheryl!