The AMC Rebel Machine’s standard V8 was rated at 340 horsepower. AMC paired this high-performance engine with a single four-barrel Motorcraft carburetor, making The Machine one of the company’s most powerful regular-production cars.
The 340-hp V8 produced its peak power at 5,100 rpm and generated 430 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Its ram-air hood scoop, bold graphics, and performance suspension made the Rebel Machine a recognizable entry in the 1970 muscle-car field.
A common mix-up is confusing the Rebel Machine’s 340-hp rating with other AMC engines or with rival muscle cars advertised at 350, 360, or 375 horsepower. The Machine was also fairly quick for its era, with a published 0-to-60-mph time of about 6.4 seconds.
AMC built 2,326 Rebel Machines during 1970. The performance package continued in altered form after the Rebel name disappeared: the 1971 restyled car was called the Matador, and The Machine equipment was offered again as a package.