Rambler Rebel was a special vehicle in the 50s. It was available in five different generations from 1957 to 1970. Although it was available in different generations, the original Rambler Rebel remains the ultimate model for its features and iconic V8 engine. Here is everything about the 1957 Rambler Rebel.
Engines
The 1957 Rambler Rebel was built around the V8 engine. This made it one of the fastest sedans in the late 1950s. It was made with the AMC V8 engine and 4-barrel carburetor. The top speed of the vehicle was around 125mph. It remained the fastest factory built muscle car of its time. It was a unibody construction vehicle made on lightweight panels. Rambler focused on performance of the vehicle rather than being a luxury vehicle.
Technology
Rambler Rebel had solid mechanics apart from the strongest engines. The internal components like solid valve lifters were equipped rather than going with the traditional hydraulic values. This gave the vehicle better handling. An advanced electronic fuel injection technology was incorporated which enhanced the horsepower and performance. The vehicle had great acceleration with the 3-speed manual gearbox and 4-speed GM hydra-matic automatic transmission. This was another vehicle with the independent suspension which came with gabriel shock absorbers and front anti-sway bars. These mechanical features ensured Rambler Rebel was a monster on tracks with excellent speed and durability.
Features
The vehicle had great luxury features as well. Rambler brought the regular interior features with new features as well. It had the AMC reclining front seats, silver vinyl upholstery, radio, and full carpeting. The trunk space was huge and it made passengers comfortable. Rambler Rebel also had power features and safety features. Some of those key features were padded sun visors, padded dashboard, child safety lock doors, power drum brakes, dual exhaust system, and power steering.
Aggressive Performance
Even before the muscle car era started, Rambler Rebel was called the true muscle car. People called it as the first muscle car as it came with power packed engines. Rambler Rebel could outperform many sports cars of its time. As it was a sedan and midsized car, the speed of the vehicle shocked many. The 5.4L V8 engine and the internal components were the key technologies to the vehicle’s performance. This was a lightweight vehicle which offered high endurance and great handling.
Designs
The Rambler Rebel was available as a sedan, hardtop, and convertibles. Hardtops came without pillars. The vehicle had chromium grille and bumpers in the front. Dual headlights were placed near the fenders with straight body lines. This was not a boxy styling, but there was a mix of boxy and aerodynamics. In the rear, tailfins were placed with lamps.
Rare Vehicle
The very first model of the Rambler Rebel was not made in huge numbers. It was just a testing phase for Rambler. Around 1,500 units were produced and sold. The entire units were 4-door hardtops. Rambler sold it for around $2,800 USD. The inflation could be higher today, but it was one of the iconic models during that time and the price was justified.
