1965 AMC Rambler Marlin

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE 

“Meet America’s first man-size sports-fastback!” America’s smallest automaker had to think outside the box in their period advertising to survive, and American Motors’ new Marlin was a prime example. For a company that built conservative cars, the personal luxury 1965–67 Marlin was an eye-opener. The sizeable fastback was based on the Rambler Classic with a new foof and rear sheet metal, and it was dramatic to say the least. “We recognized the rising significance of the ‘youth’ market with its demand for ‘sporty’ styling and performance,” chief designer Dick Teague told Motor Trend. The stylish interior was unique to Marlin, with bold round gauges, adjustable reclining front seats, and room for six in comfort despite the sloping roofline. The available powertrains went from the standard 232 cu-in inline six to a 327 cu-in V8. It was a significant accomplishment, beating the mid-sized fastback 1966–67 Dodge Charger and 1968–69 Ford Torino to the market. Starting at $3,100 for the base six-cylinder version, first year Marlin production was a promising 10,327 units. 

This first year Marlin, finished in Classic Black and Frost White two-tone with stylish matching cloth and vinyl interior, is a fine image-changer from American Motors. 

Highlights 

• First-year limited-production Rambler Marlin fastback 

• “Torque Command” 232 cu-in inline six producing 155 horsepower 

• “Flash-O-Matic” three speed automatic transmission 

• Seven-position “Adjust-O-Tilt” steering wheel  

• Factory “All Season” air conditioning 

• “Twin-Grip” differential  

• The chassis number (2101447) decodes as: 

  • 2 – 232 cu-in six cylinder engine 

  • 101447 – Sequential production number starting with 100001 

Features 

• Recent maintenance includes: 

  • Transmission rebuild 100 miles ago 

  • New upholstery and carpet 

• Individually adjustable reclining seats  

• Front disc brakes 

• Power brakes  

• Double-Safety brake system  

• Self-adjusting brakes  

• “Weather Eye” heater  

• Fresh-air ventilation  

• Engine-oil filter  

• Fuel filters in tank and fuel pump  

• Windshield-wiper power- booster fuel pump  

• Anti-smog engine-vent system (regular type)  

• Cellulose-fiber carburetor air cleaner  

• Automatic choke  

• Ceramic-Armored muffler, tailpipe and exhaust pipe 

• Front door armrests and rear panel armrests  

• Padded instrument panel  

• Electric clock  

• Solex glass rear window (even-tint)  

• Dual sun visors  

• Cigarette lighter  

• Two front ashtrays and two rear ashtrays 

• Chrome trim moldings 

Known Imperfections 

• Air conditioning needs service  

• Odometer is inoperable

• New speakers and amplifier in place, just needs wires connected 

• Rust treated to avoid spreading 

• Minor rust inside hood 

• Minor rust on body 

• Small line dent front passenger side panel 

Included 

• Original service manual with original registration and handwritten notes from 1966  

• Technical service manual 

• Original extra spares and chrome 

• Receipts available for recent transmission rebuild, new alternator, suspension, tires, and brake lines  

• Spare tire 

Ownership History 

On 25 February 1966 Joseph M. Kearney of Syracuse, New York, took possession of this 1965 AMC Rambler Marlin from Bob Kilburn Rambler, Inc. in Buffalo, New York. Based on entries in the original owner’s manual it appears this was purchased new by a US Navy officer after returning home from their service overseas. The previous owner purchased the Marlin for his cancer surviving father.