This Rambler Classic got away, but there are more like it here.

This 1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon is a highly original example with 88k miles that was acquired last year by automotive journalist Jamie Kitman. A story on Yahoo Autos documents the purchase in South Carolina and the 1,100 mile journey back to New York. The 165ci inline-six is paired to an automatic transmission and the car is reportedly free of serious rust. It was gone through by AMC expert Frank Swygert on behalf of the previous owner before it was sold to Mr. Kitman in April 2016. This Rambler recently passed a safety inspection and is sold with a New York transferable registration.

1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon

The Hemmings ad where the seller found this Rambler called the color Aegean Aqua Metallic, which is an AMC color used only in 1963 on Ramblers. The seller believes that this paint job dates to some time in the 1990s. Period details include original steel wheels with hubcaps and older tires that could stand to be replaced.

1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon

Some bubbling is present, notably behind of the rear wheels and in a few other areas detailed in the gallery below.

1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon

The seats were reupholstered during the seller’s ownership with correct blue-check pattern vinyl. Door panels and rubber floor mats are reportedly original and in good condition. Some minor issues are noted, including stains in the headliner caused by loose roof rack bolts and an inoperative factory radio. All other electrical components are said to be in good working order. This car is equipped with power steering and the believed-original seatbelts.

1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon

The previous owner brought the car to Frank Swygert with the intent of installing a V8 and was persuaded that the car was too nice to modify. The original 165ci inline-six remains in the engine bay and is paired to an automatic transmission. An area of rust-through was repaired under the heater core by Swygert and an oil change was performed. In addition to the 1,100 mile trip, the seller’s son has added about 400 commuting miles to the car.

1963 AMC Rambler Classic 550 Wagon

The driver-side floor was patched prior to the seller’s ownership, and some rust is present on the passenger’s floor. Several photos detailing the condition of the underbody are attached in the gallery. The seller is parting with this Rambler to focus on his 7k-mile 1971 Lotus Europa project.

Auction Result

Winning Bid USD $3,500 by tungsten
Auction Ended February 23, 2017 at 1:10PM PT
Bids 16
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BaT Essentials

Listing Details
  • Chassis: G281825
  • 88k Miles
  • 165ci Inline-Six
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Highly Original
  • New Seat Upholstery
  • Recent 1,100-Mile Road Trip
Private Party or Dealer: Private Party
Lot #3310