USA vs USA — 1971 vs 1979
| Javelin AMX 401 | Eagle SX/4 Liftback | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 110 hp |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 205 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 6,572 cc | 4,228 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 19.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 3,250 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,578 mm |
| Length | 4,826 mm | 4,547 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 197,060 |
| Original MSRP | — | $7,995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $18,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1971 AMC Javelin AMX 401 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback answers with stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
AMC has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 AMC Javelin AMX 401 with the 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1971 AMC Javelin AMX 401 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 110 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AMC Javelin uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,572 cc, while the AMC Eagle relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 4,228 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 AMC Javelin AMX 401 edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1971 AMC Javelin AMX 401 commands a significant premium over the 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.