Editing AMC Gremlin (section)

== History ==
===Origin and design===
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The idea for the Gremlin began in 1966 when design chief at American Motors, [[Dick Teague]], and stylist Bob Nixon discussed the possibility of a shortened version of AMC's compact car.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://ateupwithmotor.com/compact-and-economy-cars/53-amc-gremlin.html |last=Severson |first=Aaron |title=Do Not Feed After Midnight: The AMC Gremlin |publisher=Portraits of Automotive History: ate up with motor |date=October 13, 2007 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> On an airline flight, Teague's solution, which he said he sketched on an [[air sickness bag]],<ref name="hine">{{cite book |last=Hine |first=Thomas |title=The Great Funk: Falling Apart and Coming Together (on a Shag Rug) in the Seventies |publisher=Farrar, Straus and Giroux |year=2007 |url= https://archive.org/details/greatfunkfalling0000hine |url-access=registration |quote=AMC Gremlin. |pages=[https://archive.org/details/greatfunkfalling0000hine/page/41 41]–42 |isbn=978-0-374-14839-3 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> was to truncate the tail of a [[AMC Javelin|Javelin]]. Bob Nixon joined AMC as a 23-year-old and did the first formal design sketches in 1967 for the car that was to be the Gremlin.<ref name="Cranswick-157">{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=r9j7MWLE_jMC&q=AMC+Gremlin+Hindenburg&pg=PA157 |title=The Cars of American Motors: An Illustrated History |first=Marc |last=Cranswick |page=157 |publisher=McFarland |year=2011 |isbn=978-0-7864-8570-3 |access-date=April 10, 2015}}</ref>

Ford and General Motors were to launch new subcompact cars for 1971, but AMC did not have the financial resources to compete with an entirely new design.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin.htm |title=1970-1978 AMC Gremlin |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |date=October 17, 2007 |access-date=June 27, 2014 |archive-date=June 12, 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110612143557/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin.htm }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Vance |first=Bill |title=Gremlin was a cut-down, larger car |newspaper=National Post |date=May 9, 2008 |url= http://www.driving.ca/news/story.html?id=024bb3e4-9915-4c8c-b39d-79e45fca82cb |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130602031345/http://www.driving.ca/news/story.html?id=024bb3e4-9915-4c8c-b39d-79e45fca82cb |archive-date=June 2, 2013 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> Teague's idea of using the [[pony car]] Javelin resulted in the [[AMC AMX-GT|AMX-GT]] concept, first shown at the [[New York International Auto Show]] in April 1968.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Koos |first=Alfred |title=Gremlin Aberrations |magazine=American Motoring |publisher=American Motors Owners Association (AMO) |volume=16 |issue=2 }}</ref> This version did not go into production, but the [[AMC AMX|AMX]] name was used from 1968 through 1970 on a shortened, two-seat sports car built from the Javelin.

[[File:Gremlin-Pinto-Vega in 2010.JPG|thumb|1971 AMC Gremlin X, 1972 [[Ford Pinto]] Runabout, and 1973 [[Chevrolet Vega]] GT]]
[[File:1978 AMC Gremlin X blue KA-in.jpg|thumb|1978 Gremlin X]]

Instead, Bob Nixon, AMC's future Chief of Design, designed the new subcompact based on the automaker's [[AMC Hornet|Hornet]] model, a [[compact car]]. The design reduced the [[wheelbase]] from {{convert|108|to|96|in|mm|0}} and the overall length from {{convert|179|to|161|in|mm|0|abbr=on}}, making the Gremlin two inches (50&nbsp;mm) longer than the Volkswagen Beetle and shorter than the Ford Pinto and Chevrolet Vega.

Capitalizing on AMC's advantage as a small car producer, the Gremlin was introduced on April 1, 1970. The April 6, 1970, cover of ''Newsweek'' magazine featured a red Gremlin for its article, "Detroit Fights Back: The Gremlin". The car was available as a "base" two-passenger version with no rear seat and a fixed rear window, at a [[suggested retail price]] of $1,879, and as a four-seat [[hatchback]] with an opening rear window, at $1,959 (US${{formatnum:{{Inflation|US|1959|1970}}}} in {{Inflation-year|US}} dollars{{inflation-fn|US}}).<ref name="Flory 2004 712">{{cite book |last=Flory |first=J. Kelly |title=American Cars, 1960–1972: Every Model, Year by Year|url= https://archive.org/details/americancarsever00flor_944 |url-access=limited |publisher=McFarland |year=2004 |page=[https://archive.org/details/americancarsever00flor_944/page/n717 712] |isbn=978-0-7864-1273-0 }}</ref>

From the front of the car to the [[B-pillar]]s, the Gremlin was essentially the same as the AMC Hornet. Although it was only fractionally longer than the contemporary Volkswagen Beetle, ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' said the length of its hood over the front-mounted engine made "the difference seem considerably more", adding that the car "resembles a sawed-off station wagon, with a long, low hood and swept-up rear, and is faintly reminiscent of the original [[Studebaker Avanti]]."<ref name=time>{{cite magazine |title=Autos: Shifting Down for the '70s |magazine=Time |date=February 23, 1970 |url= http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,876653,00.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081210235305/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,876653,00.html |archive-date= December 10, 2008 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> As with the Volkswagen, the Gremlin's styling set it apart from other cars.<ref name=culture>{{cite book |last=Hinckley |first=James |title=The Big Book of Car Culture: The Armchair Guide to Automotive Americana |publisher=MotorBooks/MBI |year=2005 |page=120 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=NorSiqCb9mMC&q=AMC+Gremlin+%22bold+and+innovative+approach%22&pg=PA120 |isbn=978-0-7603-1965-9 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> ''Time'' said, "like some other cars of less than standard size, the back seat is designed for small children only."<ref name=time/> The Gremlin's wider stance gave it "a stable, quiet and relatively comfortable ride—for the two front passengers", for whom, by small-car standards, there was more than average interior width, seat room, and legroom.<ref name="interior"/> The six cubic feet of luggage space behind the back seat was less than in the rear-engined Volkswagen Beetle, but with the seat folded the cargo area tripled to {{convert|18|cuft|L|1}}.<ref name="interior"/>

The upright design of the tail, which enlarged interior space, was [[aerodynamic]]ally efficient. Later, European and Japanese manufacturers similarly created different body styles on one compact car chassis by extending or curtailing the trunk (e.g. Volkswagen's [[Volkswagen Jetta|Jetta]] and [[Volkswagen Golf|Golf]] models).

===Marketing===
[[File:AMC Gremlin logo gas cap Cecil'10.jpg|thumb|right|AMC Gremlin logo on gas cap]]
Designed and named by Teague to look either "cute or controversial - depending on one's viewpoint ... for many, it seemed perfect for the free-thinking early 1970s."<ref name="Jedlicka-import">{{cite news|url= http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-4410222.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150924194342/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-4410222.html |archive-date= September 24, 2015 |title=America's 'import' - Say cheese: Snappy Gremlin's from Wisconsin, not Detroit |newspaper=Chicago Sun-Times |date=November 16, 1997 |first=Dan |last=Jedlicka |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> American Motors executives apparently felt confident enough to not worry that the Gremlin name might have negative connotations.<ref name="interior">{{cite web |url = http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin2.htm |title=1970 AMC Gremlin Interior |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) | date=October 17, 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190709085821/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin2.htm |archive-date=July 9, 2019 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref> ''Time'' magazine noted two definitions for [[gremlin]]: "Defined by Webster's as 'a small gnome held to be responsible for malfunction of equipment.' American Motors' definition: 'a pal to its friends and an ogre to its enemies.'"<ref name=time/> The car's cartoon-inspired [[mascot]] was marketed for [[product differentiation]] and was intended to be memorable to consumers.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Dotz|first1=Warren |last2=Husain |first2=Masud |title=Ad Boy: Vintage Advertising with Character |year=2009 |publisher=Ten Speed Press |isbn=978-1-58008-984-5 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Dotz |first1=Warren |last2=Husain |first2=Masud |title=Meet Mr. Product: the art of the advertising character |year=2003 |publisher=Chronicle Books |isbn=978-0-8118-3589-3 |url= https://archive.org/details/meetmrproductart00dotz }}</ref> The Gremlin's hatchback design was also needed to make the car stand out in the competitive marketplace, and according to Teague: "Nobody would have paid it any attention if it had looked like one of the Big Three" automobiles.<ref name="Jedlicka-import"/>

AMC promoted the Gremlin as "America's first subcompact".<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.arcticboy.com/Pages/arcticboysgremlin.html |last=Wilson |first=Bob |title=1971 ad Gremlin Grembin |website=arcticboy.com |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> This description overlooks the [[Nash Metropolitan]] and the earlier [[Crosley]].<ref name=StLouis>{{cite news |url=http://www2.stltoday.com/classifieds/transportation/reviews/article_88ceab86-32b2-5758-9484-8c48522f060e.html |last=Kunz |first=Bruce |title=1970 AMC Gremlin - America's first "sub compact" car |newspaper=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=December 3, 2007 |access-date=June 27, 2014 |archive-date=March 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120315164258/http://www2.stltoday.com/classifieds/transportation/reviews/article_88ceab86-32b2-5758-9484-8c48522f060e.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The Metropolitan—a subcompact-sized<ref name="met-stuff">{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1954-1962-metropolitan.htm |title=1954-1962 Metropolitan |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |date=October 23, 2007 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine| url= http://www.hemmings.com/hcc/stories/2005/10/01/hmn_feature17.html |last=Foster |first= Patrick |date=October 2005 |title=Developing the Metropolitan |magazine=Hemmings Classic Car |access-date=June 27, 2014}} The term "subcompact" was not in use to describe the Metropolitan's size: "During World War II and immediately afterwards, Mason began to explore the idea of developing a truly small car, '''the size of what today we'd call a subcompact'''."</ref> [[captive import]], American-conceived and American-designed for the American market, and built in the UK with a British engine—has a claim to be "America's first subcompact."<ref>Note: the North American categories of "compact", "subcompact", "midsize" etc. had not come into use when the Metropolitan was made. It was called an [[economy car]], not a subcompact, at the time. (Contemporary articles also called the Metropolitan "a small automobile"; in sales brochures, the Met was described as "America's entirely new kind of car" (1955), "Luxury in Miniature" (1959), and "crafted for personal transportation" (1960). [http://www.metropolitan-library.com/BrochuresNA1.html Sales brochures. Retrieved 27 June 2014]. One writer described it as "little larger than a toy car.") The Metropolitan fits the "subcompact" classification, as stated in the following: "[T]he...president of Nash-Kelvinator Corporation decided to market '''what would ultimately be called a "subcompact"'''..."[http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1954-1962-metropolitan.htm Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'', "1954–1962 Metropolitan", 23 October 2007. Retrieved 3 February 2022]. Numerous small American-made cars, e.g. [[American Austin]], [[American Austin Car Company|American Bantam]], [[Crosley]] and World War I-era "[[cyclecar]]s" such as the [[American (1914 automobile)|American]], existed long before the Gremlin. (Except for the cyclecars, those cited are classified as microcars.) [http://www.microcar.org/ourcars.html "List of microcars", ''Vintage Microcar Club''. Retrieved 3 February 2022].</ref>

AMC marketed the Gremlin as "cute and different," a strategy successful in attracting more than 60 percent of purchasers under the age of 35.<ref name="vance-winnipeg">{{cite news|url= http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1475704861.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150329174906/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1475704861.html |archive-date= March 29, 2015 |title=The Gremlin: both goofy and great |newspaper=Winnipeg Free Press |date=May 9, 2008 |last=Vance |first=Bill |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref>

===Annual changes (1970–1978)===
==== 1970 ====
[[File:1970 AMC Gremlin all original finished in red with white stripe 232 auto AC at 2021 AMO meet 03of15.jpg|thumb|right|1970 AMC Gremlin]]
The Gremlin debuted in April 1970 with AMC's {{convert|199|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} [[Straight-six engine|I6]], a seven main bearing design which produced {{convert|128|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} as standard equipment, with AMC's {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} [[Straight-six engine|I6]] - producing {{convert|145|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} - as an option. AMC said the Gremlin offered "the best gas mileage of any production car made in America". According to the auto editors of ''Consumer Guide'', it had "an unusually long option list for the era" so owners could have luxury and conveniences typically found in more expensive cars, and these options "came with a much higher profit margin" for the automaker.<ref name="interior"/>

As the first of the new domestic subcompact cars, "the Gremlin has been the most talked-about car since its introduction."<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=-wAAAAAAMBAJ&q=the+Gremlin+has+been+the+most+talked-about+car+since+its+introduction&pg=PA56 |first=Jan P. |last=Norbye |title=Test Results |magazine=Popular Science |date=July 1970 |page=56 |volume=197 |issue=1 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> Sales for the abbreviated model year were 25,300.<ref name="Flory 2004 712"/>

''Popular Science'' assigned its editor to the equivalent of one year of driving by conducting a {{convert|10000|mi|km|0|adj=on}} cross-country road test of a brand new Gremlin, and reported after driving it "without a single problem is an enviable record" and that "we were all impressed with the quality of this vehicle."<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=-wAAAAAAMBAJ&q=Gremlin+10,021+trouble-free+miles+all+impressed+with+the+quality+of+this+vehicle&pg=PA56 |first=Jim|last=Davis |title=10,000 miles in the new Gremlin |magazine=Popular Science |date=July 1970 |pages=54–56 |volume=197 |issue=1 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> A nationwide survey based on owners driving their 1970 AMC Gremlins over {{convert|1350000|mi|km|0|abbr=off}} conducted by ''Popular Mechanics'' concluded that the unique styling attracted many buyers, but economy topped their likes.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Lamm |first=Michael |title=PM Owners Report: AMC Gremlin Blind Spots in Visibility, But Eye-Popping Economy |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=June 1971 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=ltcDAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+Gremlin&pg=PA112 |volume=135 |issue=6 |pages=112–115 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref>

==== 1971 ====
[[File:1971 AMC Gremlin AMO 2015 show - all original 1of6.jpg|thumb|right|1971 AMC Gremlin]]

For the 1971 model year the "X" appearance/equipment [[trim package]] was introduced as a $300 option on the 4-passenger model and "proved extremely popular."<ref name="stuff71">{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin3.htm |title=1971 AMC Gremlin |date=October 17, 2007 |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200805085155/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin3.htm |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref> It included body side tape stripes, body color front fascia, slotted road wheels with D70x14 [[Goodyear Polyglas tire]]s, blackout grille insert, [[bucket seat]]s, and "X" decals.

The 2-passenger Gremlin version entered into its second and final season. The {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} I6 engine that was optional for 1970 became standard, while a longer-[[Stroke (engine)|stroke]] {{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} version became the option. [[Compression ratio]]s dropped from 8.5:1 to 8:1 for 1971, resulting in {{convert|135|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} (gross) from the {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} and {{convert|150|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}} (gross) from the {{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}}<ref>Flory, p. 787.</ref>

1971 Gremlin prices increased slightly (up by $20 to $1,899 for the base model),<ref name="stuff71"/> and sales for this first full model year rose to 53,480.<ref>Flory, p. 789.</ref>

==== 1972 ====
[[File:1972 Gremlin Sun Roof Option.jpg|thumb|1972 AMC Gremlin X with factory sun roof and V8]]
[[File:1973 AMC Gremlin X and Levi's package finished in Maxi Blue with white stripes at 2017 AMO meet 1of5.jpg|thumb|1973 AMC Gremlin X with Levi's interior trim package]]
[[File:1973 AMC Gremlin X and Levi's package finished in Maxi Blue with white stripes at 2017 AMO meet 5of5.jpg|thumb|1973 AMC Gremlin X with Levi's interior trim package]]
Among many other changes was an available {{convert|304|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} [[AMC V8 engine|V8 engine]]. It was "the muscle car formula of stuffing a big motor in a small car."<ref name="365mustdrive"/> Engine ratings were downgraded to more accurate [[Society of Automotive Engineers]] (SAE) net&nbsp;hp figures, bringing the {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} engine to {{convert|100|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}}, the {{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} to {{convert|110|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="Flory, p.866">Flory, p. 866.</ref> and the 304 V8 to {{convert|150|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Flory, p.866"/> Even with the lower engine output ratings across the industry, "the V8 Gremlin was a poor-man's Corvette, able to spin its rear tires at will and outrun some larger, more expensive [[pony cars]]" and it was "the only real performance car available under $2,200."

The base two-seater model was discontinued, having sold 3,017 units in 18 months.<ref name="Flory, p.868">Flory, p. 868.</ref> Gremlins also switched from [[Non-synchronous transmission|non-synchronized]] 1st gear [[manual transmission]]s to full synchromesh, and the [[Borg-Warner]]-sourced [[automatic transmission]] was replaced by the [[Chrysler Corporation|Chrysler]]-designed [[TorqueFlite]]. Other minor technical upgrades improved the car's reliability and durability.<ref name=culture/> The Gremlin X package continued to be popular, while optional features now included an AM/FM radio, fabric sunroof, [[Steering wheel#Adjustable steering wheels|tilt steering wheel]], inside hood release, trailer towing package for up to {{convert|2000|lb|kg|abbr=on}} with a [[tow hitch|Class 1 hitch]], as well as manual or power-assisted front [[disk brake]]s.<ref name="stuff72-73">{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin4.htm |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |title=1972 and 1973 AMC Gremlin |date=October 17, 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200805085736/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin4.htm |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref>

American Motors introduced the automobile industry's first 12-month or {{convert|12000|mi|km|abbr=on}} bumper-to-bumper [[warranty]], called the "Buyer Protection Plan".<ref name="together">{{cite magazine|last=Lund |first=Robert |title=AMC Gets It Together |magazine=Popular Mechanics |volume=136 |issue=4 |pages=116–206 |date=October 1971 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=UtgDAAAAMBAJ&q=1972+AMC+gets+it+together&pg=PA116 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> Its foundation was an emphasis on quality and durability, improved production by reducing the number of models and increasing the level of standard equipment.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Boone |first1=Louis E. |last2=Kurtz |first2=David L. | title=Contemporary Business |url= https://archive.org/details/contemporarybusi0000boon_h9i8 |url-access=registration |publisher=Dryden Press |year=1976 |pages= [https://archive.org/details/contemporarybusi0000boon_h9i8/page/223 223–224] |isbn=978-0-03-013651-1 }}</ref> The new warranty included an innovative promise to customers that AMC would repair anything wrong with the car (except for tires).<ref name="together"/> Owners were provided with a toll-free number to the company, as well as a free loaner car if a warranty repair took overnight. Numerous production and product improvements would result in fewer warranty claims, better [[public relations]], and greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Model year 1972 sales totaled 61,717,<ref name="Flory, p.868"/> a 15% gain over the previous year.<ref name="Flory, p.868"/>

==== 1973 ====
For the 1973 model year, AMC strengthened bumpers able to withstand a {{convert|5|mph|0|adj=on}} impact in the front and a {{convert|2.5|mph|0|adj=on}} impact in the rear, without any damage to the engine, lights, and safety equipment according to new mandates by the U.S. [[National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]] (NHTSA). Optional was a [[Levi's]] interior trim package, which included spun nylon upholstery made to look like denim ([[fire safety]] regulations prohibited the use of real cotton denim). Details included removable map pockets, burnished copper denim rivets, and red Levi's logo tabs. Rear-seat legroom was increased. The X package received a new tape-striping pattern that kicked up over the Gremlin's rear-wheel flares.

Sales improved to 122,844 units, nearly 30% more than in 1972. A 1973 Gremlin purchased by ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' was top-rated in a group of six subcompact models tested for the June issue. That car had relatively few sample defects and proved reliable over a long-term test.

==== 1974 ====
[[File:1974 Gremlin.jpg|thumb|1974 AMC Gremlin]]

The [[Arab Oil Embargo]] of October 1973 came just as the 1974 model year began. AMC improved the Gremlin's back seat. A deeper front fascia made the car appear longer. A larger front bumper was mounted on self-restoring telescoping gas and oil cylinders. Unlike most other designs, the Gremlin did not use a filler panel between the bumper and body. A stronger rear bumper was set lower—front and rear passenger car bumpers were now required by NHTSA to have uniform heights, take angle impacts, and sustain {{convert|5|mph|0|adj=on}} impacts with no damage.<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Norbye |first=Jan P. |title=New bumpers have uniform height, take angle impacts |magazine=Popular Science |pages=90–91 |date=October 1973 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=lpiMSzja6W4C&q=New+bumpers+have+uniform+Gremlin&pg=PA90 |volume=203 |issue=4 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> The rear fascia was modified slightly to blend with the design changes. The Gremlin X stripe pattern was given a "hockey stick" look for 1974: the stripes followed the window line as it tapered aft, and swept up now to include four diagonal lines on the wide [[C-pillar]]. A new typeface for nameplates was used by AMC for 1974, including on the Gremlin. With the car's 1974 model year extended into November to delay the need to install [[catalytic converter]]s required by the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency]] (EPA) 2004 regulations starting with 1975 models, AMC sold 171,128 1974 Gremlins, an increase of nearly 40% over 1973 and 130% over 1971.

==== 1975 ====
[[File:Gremlin rear (5904506887).jpg|thumb|right|1975 AMC Gremlin]]
Changes for the 1975 model year Gremlins included standard [[electronic ignition]] developed by [[Prestolite Electric|Prestolite]].<ref name="pm-oct74">{{cite magazine |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=ytQDAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+polishes+its+petrol+pinchers&pg=PA105 |pages=105, 176|first=Michael |last=Lamm |title=AMC polishes its petrol pinchers |magazine=Popular Mechanics |date=October 1974 |volume=142 |issue=4 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> All U.S. market Gremlins featured catalytic converters that required the use of unleaded regular-grade fuel. "Unleaded Fuel Only" warnings were placed by the fuel filler and on the [[fuel gauge]]. Gremlins with I6 engines and manual transmissions gained a new option, the electrically operated [[Overdrive (mechanics)|overdrive]] from Laycock de Normanville.<ref name="pm-oct74"/> The 0.714:1 "J-type" unit was controlled by a pushbutton at the end of the turn signal stalk.<ref name="pm-oct74"/> When turned on, the unit engaged automatically at speeds above {{convert|35|mph|km/h|0}} and dropped out at {{convert|32|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}}.<ref name="pm-oct74"/> An accelerator pedal kick-down switch provided faster passing when needed.<ref name="pm-oct74"/> Steel-belted [[radial tire]]s were now standard on Gremlins with the X package.

American Motors was promoting its economical models covered by the comprehensive "Buyer Protection Plan" warranty, as well as preparing for the launch of the [[AMC Pacer|Pacer]]<ref name="pm-oct74"/> The automaker was planning to spend half of the entire 1975 advertising budget on the new Pacer.<ref name="hyde">{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=PerGbKxOPZYC&q=1975+Gremlin&pg=PA217 |last=Hyde |first=Charles K. |title=Storied Independent Automakers: Nash, Hudson, and American Motors |publisher=Wayne State University Press |year=2009 |pages=216–217 |isbn=978-0-8143-3446-1 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> Marketing for the Gremlin included tie-ins with a "Home Value Days" supplement designed to promote 18,500 hardware stores in ''Popular Science''<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=LQEAAAAAMBAJ&q=Win+one+of+3+Gremlins+1975&pg=PA131 |page=131 |title=Win one of 3 Gremlins |magazine=Popular Science |date=October 1975 |volume=207 |issue=4 |access-date=June 27, 2014|author1=AMC}}</ref> and ''The Reader's Digest''<ref>{{cite news |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=8sgxAAAAMAAJ&q=Win+one+of+3+Gremlins+1975 |title=Fall Home Value Sweepstakes |page=175 |work=The Reader's Digest |volume=107 |year=1975 |access-date=June 27, 2014|last1=Wallace |first1=De Witt |last2=Wallace |first2=Lila Acheson }}</ref> as well as with [[Colgate-Palmolive]]'s campaign using [[Willie Mays]] to "Help Young America" in ''Jet''<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=C1sDAAAAMBAJ&q=Win+one+of+3+Gremlins+1975&pg=PA26 |title=Help Young America says Willie Mays |magazine=Jet |page=26 |date=October 10, 1974 |volume=47 |issue=3 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> and ''Ebony''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=JN4DAAAAMBAJ&q=Help+Young+America+says+Willie+Mays+Gremlin&pg=PA12 |page=12 |title=Help Young America says Willie Mays |magazine=Ebony |date=October 1974 |volume=29 |issue=12 |access-date=September 20, 2020}}</ref>

The U.S. subcompacts were compared to the new, front-wheel-drive [[Volkswagen Golf Mk1|Volkswagen Rabbit]] that replaced the aging Beetle. ''Popular Science'' road tests showed the Gremlin to be the fastest and quietest of all, but had the lowest fuel efficiency with an average [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|EPA]] rating of {{convert|21|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}}, compared to the Chevrolet Vega's {{convert|22|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}}, Ford Pinto's {{convert|23|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}}, and the Rabbit's {{convert|24|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}}.<ref name="ps-june1975">{{cite news |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=NwEAAAAAMBAJ&q=U.S.+subcompacts+vs+the+Rabbit&pg=PA20 |pages=20, 22, 24, 26, 29, 30 |first=Jim |last=Dunne |title=U.S. subcompacts vs the Rabbit |work=Popular Science |date=June 1975 |volume=206 |issue=6 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> The Gremlin had an I6 engine and a three-speed transmission (in contrast to the I4 engines and four-speed transmissions in the other cars) and weighed over {{convert|1000|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} more than the VW Rabbit.<ref name="ps-june1975"/>

Struggling under [[stagflation]] and an [[Economic history of the United States#Inflation woes: 1970s|inflationary economy]], all the domestic subcompact cars' sales slumped compared to the industry's record-breaking 1973 model year. In total, AMC sold 56,011 Gremlins in the (albeit shortened) 1975 [[model year]], a 67% drop.<ref name="hyde"/> The success of the innovative Pacer launched in mid-February 1975 "severely cut" the sales of both the Gremlin and Hornet models.<ref name="hyde"/>

==== 1976 ====
[[File:1976 AMC Gremlin (35910033334).jpg|thumb|right|1976 AMC Gremlin]]
Changes were greater for 1976. Oval headlight bezels replaced the previous circular items. The grille shape became a stretched hexagon and included in its insert two opposing loops stacked atop each other and housing new rounded parking/turn signal lights. A new "Custom" trim line debuted, featuring a striped interior trim called "Potomac", as well as a spare tire cover and other minor details. The A models were given another new striping scheme: the hockey stick-style stripe of the previous year adding a secondary extension that ran from the door handle straight back. The X package was now available only on Custom models. Due to flagging sales, the {{convert|304|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine option (now downgraded to {{convert|120|hp|kW PS|0|abbr=on}}) was cancelled at midyear, after only 826 installations. (A total of 40,994 Gremlins were equipped with the V8 engine from 1972 until 1976.) A 4-speed [[manual transmission]] was made available at midyear. Sales tapered slightly to 52,941 - a decline of 5.5%. The Overdrive option continued to be available until midyear when Laycock de Normanville entered receivership. American Motors attempted to purchase the British manufacturer but could not acquire the funding in time.

==== 1977 ====
[[File:1977 AMC Gremlin (14751904625) (cropped).jpg|thumb|1977 AMC Gremlin featured new front end styling]]
[[File:1977 AMC Gremlin 2 Liter Custom 2014-AMO-NC-d.jpg|thumb|right|1977 AMC Gremlin Custom 2 Liter]]

1977 changes included redesigned sheet metal for the first time in the Gremlin's now 8-year history: revised hood, shorter front fenders, new bumpers, taller glass tailgate, enlarged taillights, and rear license plate now covering the fuel filler. The front end was shortened by four inches (102&nbsp;mm) with all-new sheet metal and a crosshatch grille insert. Parking lights reverted to rectangular, and headlights were recessed into square bezels with rounded corners. The new hood had a small "power bulge" at the front. The base model now included carpeting, as well as rocker panel and wheel lip moldings. The "Custom" model was available with a list price of $2,998. The X package returned as a $189 option, with a new striping pattern that ran straight back from the front fenders and crested upward over the rear wheels. Front [[disc brake]]s became standard.

At the start of the model year, the Gremlin was available with either the standard {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} or optional {{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} six-cylinder engines. Both had increased power from updated [[cylinder head]]s and two-barrel carburetors. In addition, AMC offered a carbureted four-cylinder engine: a [[Volkswagen]]/[[Audi]] {{convert|2.0|L|cuin|abbr=on}} [[Straight-four engine|inline-four]], also used in fuel-injected form in the Porsche 924. It gave better fuel economy but less power than the standard six-cylinder engines, and reduced the Gremlin's weight by {{convert|250|lb|kg|0}}, allowing it to achieve an EPA rating of {{convert|21|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} in the city, and {{convert|33|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} on the highway.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin6.htm |title=1977 AMC Gremlin |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |date=October 17, 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200805081302/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin6.htm |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref> It was reserved for the Custom version of the Gremlin because the expense of acquiring the rights to the engine meant that AMC could not afford to make it standard equipment. Of 46,171 Gremlins built for 1977 (13% less than in 1976), 7,558 had the new 2.0&nbsp;L engine.

==== 1978 ====
[[File:1978 AMC Gremlin X blue KA-rf.jpg|thumb|right|1978 AMC Gremlin X]]

In its final year of 1978, the Gremlin received a number of changes, but customers on a tighter budget could still get a standard six-cylinder base model Gremlin for under US$3,400.<ref name=how78>{{cite web |url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin7.htm |title=The 1978 AMC Gremlin |website=How Stuff Works |author=((Auto Editors of ''Consumer Guide'')) |date=October 17, 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200805083658/https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1970-1978-amc-gremlin7.htm |archive-date=August 5, 2020 |access-date=February 3, 2022}}</ref> A new "Custom" model featured either the four- or six-cylinder engine with a standard four-speed manual transmission and new vinyl bucket seats, wheel lip moldings, and other trim upgrades.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=6uEDAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+1978+Gremlin+new+custom+dolls&pg=PA178 |work=Popular Mechanics |date=October 1977 |page=178 |first=Michael |last=Lamm |volume=148 |issue=4 |title=Driving the 1978 cars from American Motors |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> Inside the Gremlin there was a revised instrument panel borrowed from the then-new 1978 [[AMC Concord|Concord]]. The dashboard had high-level ventilation [[HVAC]], radio switchgear within easier reach, and a flat, full-width top. The X's tape striping pattern was revised to match the 1978 Concord Sport package design, with the stripe at the lower body side and curving over the wheel lip.

At mid-season, a '''GT''' package became available with a front [[Spoiler (automotive)|spoiler]] and flared wheel openings as on the 1978 AMX. The GT added an aluminum overlay to the instrument panel, was powered by the {{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} I6 as standard, and had a unique striping scheme: a wide tape stripe, outlined by a narrow one, ran back from the front fenders and widened aft of the rear quarter windows. The package also included body-color fender flares and front air dam, as well as body-color bumpers, all of which combined to give the GT a modern, aggressive look. Fewer than 3,000 Gremlin GTs were built.<ref name=how78/>

The Gremlin's body shape had not changed appreciably in its nine years of production, and other more advanced subcompacts, lighter in weight, with more doors, better interiors, and [[front-wheel drive]], had appeared on the market. Gremlin sales for the final year fell 52% to 22,104 units. By the time production ceased, a total of 671,475 Gremlins had been built.<ref name="Ireson">{{cite web |url= http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1026194_blast-from-the-past-amc-gremlin |last=Ireson |first=Nelson |title=Blast from the past: AMC Gremlin |publisher=Motor Authority |date=October 4, 2010 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref>

The updated [[AMC Spirit]] replaced the Gremlin for the 1979 model year, basically "a Gremlin with conventional styling ... Lovable, sturdy cars are hard to kill."<ref name="Jedlicka-import"/>

=== Performance ===
[[File:1973 AMC Gremlin X package in TransAm red white stripe and tan interior at 2021 AMO 6of8.jpg|thumb|{{convert|258|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} six-cylinder engine]]
The Gremlin was faster than other subcompacts of the time. ''[[Motor Trend]]'' magazine recorded [[0 to 60 mph|zero to 60&nbsp;mph]] (0 to 97&nbsp;km/h) in 12.6 seconds with the {{convert|232|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} engine. The Ford Pinto and the VW Beetle were in the 18-second range. Fuel economy was {{convert|28|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} to {{convert|30|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} with the small six, compared with the 35-plus mpg economy of the VW Beetle.<ref>{{cite book |last=Vance |first=Bill |title=Reflections on Automotive History |volume=2 |publisher=Eramosa Valley Publishing |year=2002 |isbn=978-0-9698922-3-6 }}</ref>

Although front-heaviness was generally thought to compromise the handling, [[Tom McCahill]] wrote in ''[[Mechanix Illustrated]]'' that the Gremlin was "fast and easy", with a comparatively stiff ride because of the shortened rear springs. He ran a 232-engined Gremlin with automatic transmission from [[0 to 60 mph|zero to 60&nbsp;mph]] (0 to 97&nbsp;km/h) in 11.9&nbsp;seconds, saw {{convert|100|mph|km/h|0}} on the [[Daytona Speedway]] straightaway, and summarized: "On a dollar for dollar basis, I rate the Gremlin the best American buy of the year".

''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine also recorded 0 to 60&nbsp;mph in 11.9 seconds with a 232-powered Gremlin.<ref name=interior/>

''Automobile Quarterly''{{'}}s article "A Critical Look at the 1973 American Cars" summarized that the basic "Gremlin offers outstanding performance for an economy car and excellent fuel mileage."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Vorderman|first1=Dan |first2=Jan P. |last2=Norbye |title=Critical Look at the 1973 American Cars|work=Automobile Quarterly|year=1972 |volume=10 |issue=4 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=dhKFQJd7husC&q=Gremlin+offers+outstanding+performance+for+an+economy+car&pg=PA344 |page=344 |isbn=978-1-59613-139-2 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref>

When ''Popular Mechanics'' magazine tested the car with the Audi four-cylinder engine introduced in 1977, they said its acceleration with a four-speed manual felt "amazingly strong", with 0-60&nbsp;mph and quarter-mile times one second slower than with the 232 cubic inch straight-six (16 vs. 15, and 21 vs. 20 seconds respectively).<ref>{{cite news|last=Lamm|first=Michael|title=Driving the new 30-mpg Gremlin |work=Popular Mechanics |date=February 1977|volume=147|issue=2|pages=87 & 144 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=6eEDAAAAMBAJ&q=AMC+Gremlin+performance&pg=PA87 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> The smaller engine produced [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|EPA]] mileage of {{convert|35|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} highway and {{convert|22|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on}} city.

The Gremlin's body was heavier and stronger than its domestic or imported rivals.<ref name="cranswick_237-8">{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=r9j7MWLE_jMC&q=Gremlin+easily+had+the+strongest+body+in+subcompact+land+very+defects+Consumer+Reports&pg=PA237 |pages=237–238 |last=Cranswick |first=Marc |title=Cars of American Motors: An Illustrated History |publisher=McFarland |year=2001 |isbn=978-0-7864-4672-8 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> The engines were also more powerful than the Gremlin's main domestic and imported competition. The powertrains were smoother and more reliable, and the car had fewer [[Product recall|recall]]s.<ref name="cranswick_237-8"/> Its chief import rival was the [[Volkswagen Beetle]], which did not handle as well and got similar gas mileage from about 40% of the Gremlin's horsepower. The same overall size as the Gremlin, it was packaged marginally better. Gremlin designer Richard Teague commented in ''Motor Trend'' that to compare the Beetle (whose basic design originated in the late 1930s) to the Gremlin in profile and body design was like "comparing a [[Ford GT40]] to the [[LZ 129 Hindenburg|Hindenburg]]".<ref name="Cranswick-157"/>

The Gremlin holds the "distinction of offering one of the widest engine ranges of all time—from two liters to five liters."<ref name="vance-winnipeg"/>

===Randall 401-XR===
[[File:1972 AMC Gremlin built as Randall 401-XR modification with 6.6 L V8 at 2015 AMO show 6of6.jpg|thumb|upright|Randall 401-XR advertisement on a replica car]]
Randall AMC dealership in [[Mesa, Arizona]], received AMC's endorsement to build {{convert|401|CID|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 powered Gremlins. The cars started out as {{convert|304|cid|L|1|abbr=on}} models from the factory and after Randall's modifications would turn in 13.90 second passes at {{convert|103|-|106|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on}} in the quarter mile, for $2,995. Known as the Randall 401-XR (X for Gremlin X, R for Randall), a total of twenty cars were built for the street and one for the strip during 1972, 1973, and 1974. In 2012, the Randalls built a 22nd Continuation Plum 1974 Gremlin 401XR, originally intending to build a few, but completed only one.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.gremlinx.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83:randall-401-xr-gremlin&catid=37:article-archive&Itemid=152 |title=Randall 401-XR |website=gremlinx.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121005114105/http://www.gremlinx.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=83%3Arandall-401-xr-gremlin&catid=37%3Aarticle-archive&Itemid=152 |archive-date=October 5, 2012 |access-date=June 27, 2014 }}</ref> ''Car Craft'' magazine tested one with some modifications and achieved {{convert|115.07|mph|km/h|2|abbr=on}} in 12.22 seconds in the quarter while still remaining a "totally streetable, daily-driver".<ref>{{cite book|last=Mitchell |first=Larry G. |title=AMC Muscle Cars |year=2000 |publisher=MBI Publishing |isbn=978-0-7603-0761-8 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=JHVaQFDrx_MC&q=Randall+401-XR&pg=RA1-PT51 |page=107 |access-date=June 27, 2014}}</ref> In 1972, ''Super Stock and Drag Illustrated'' magazine had a "Special Gremlin" issue. One of the many venues where Randall's 1972 Gremlin 401XR [[Super Stock]] car{{clarify|date=February 2024|reason=was what?}} at the [[1972 NHRA Winternationals|1972]] [[NHRA Winternationals|Winternationals]].{{citation needed|date=February 2024}}{{clarify|date=February 2024|reason=NHRA or IHRA?}}