USA vs USA — 1979 vs 1978
| Eagle SX/4 Liftback | Concord AMX | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 110 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 205 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,228 cc | 5,898 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 103 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.2 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,250 lbs | 3,300 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,578 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,547 mm | 4,826 mm |
| Units Produced | 197,060 | 2,540 |
| Original MSRP | $7,995 | $5,899 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $28,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1978 AMC Concord AMX with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
AMC has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback with the 1978 AMC Concord AMX highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1978 AMC Concord AMX holds a clear advantage in raw power with 140 hp compared to 110 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AMC Eagle uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 4,228 cc, while the AMC Concord relies on a V8 OHV with 5,898 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 AMC Concord AMX edges ahead at 11.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,540 units built, the 1978 AMC Concord AMX is considerably scarcer than the AMC Eagle's 197,060 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 AMC Concord AMX commands a significant premium over the 1979 AMC Eagle SX/4 Liftback, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.