1968 AMC Ambassador 2-Door Hardtop Coupe

1968 AMC Ambassador 2-Door Hardtop Coupe
2020.0028.0003, Savoy Collection

Engine: 343 cu. in. (5.6 L) Cast-iron block, OHV
Output: 235 HP
Transmission: Automatic
Wheelbase: 118 in.
Overall Length: 202 in.
Weight: 3,258 lbs.
Top Speed: 106 MPH
No. Produced: 3,360
Original Price: $2,842
Manufacturer: AMC

The Ambassador was American Motors Corporation’s top-of-the-line automobile from 1958 until 1974. Originally applied to Nash full-sized cars, the name Ambassador was used from 1927 until 1974 (when incorporated into AMC, the Nash nameplate dropped). The name Ambassador was the longest continually used nameplate in automotive history. Under George Romney, head of AMC, the company found success focusing on smaller cars, a market the Big Three did not compete in.

To distinguish the Ambassador line from the competition, AMC offered air conditioning as standard equipment, a feature neither Lincoln nor Cadillac offered on their luxury cars. In their advertising campaign, AMC noted that only Rolls-Royce and various sports car manufacturers offered this option as standard equipment. This type of advertising was a first because it targeted the competition, and AMC saw a 13% increase in sales that year.