1966 American Motors Vignale AMX Prototype (Vignale)

The AMX program was conceived in 1965, and in 1966 became "Project IV," a traveling show of prototypes that hinted at some of AMC’s future production vehicles. The first AMX prototype, with a fiberglass skin and no engine, was soon replaced by a steel-bodied, fully-operational vehicle built by Vignale, an Italian coachbuilder. The Vignale prototype, completed in 78 days, featured a number of unique features, including hidden "A" pillars and a "Ramble seat" in back. Dimensions were very close to the production AMX: 98-inch wheelbase, overall length of 179 inches, and 48 inches high.

The AMX fastback is operational and powered by American Motors’ recently introduced 290 cubic-inch V-8 Typhoon engine. It offers three-wat seating – full bucket seats flanking an aircraft type console; a “Ramble-seat” which is activated by a push button control inside the car; and fold-down contoured rear seats which may be used when the Ramble seat is not in use. Seats are trimmed in glove-soft beige leather.

The roof panel is the cantilever type and includes a built-in concealed roll bar. The self-supporting roof permits the use of extremely thin windshield pillars for a broad, panoramic field of vision.

Taillights and backup lights are designed to emphasize the width of the car, and are set high for maximum visibility and safety.

A competition-type steering wheel of walnut wood adds to the fine sports car interior of the AMX.

The sporty fastback has a wheelbase of 98 inches. It is 179 inches long, 72 inches wide and 48 inches high.