1959 Rambler Cross Country Wagon in Santa Barbara, California

Chassis no. D-69322
195.6ci OHV Inline Six-Cylinder Engine
Single Downdraft Carter Carburetor
127bhp at 4,200rpm
3-Speed Flash-O-Matic Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Solid Rear Axle
4-Wheel Power Drum Brakes

*An incredible preservation-class Rambler Wagon
*Believed to be 1,900 original miles
*Optioned with pushbutton automatic, air conditioning, and radio
*A rare and appealing family-friendly classic

THE AMC RAMBLER

Between 1956 and 1960, the newly formed American Motors Corporation hedged their bets on a new "compact" class car aimed at value-conscious American buyers who may have seen the appeal in one of the new imports, but perhaps weren't ready to make the leap. As GM and Ford locked horns in a price war, independent AMC (formed with the convergence of Nash-Kelvinator and Hudson) had to get creative to fight for the leftovers. The new Rambler suited AMC's independent spirit, with its innovative and quirky character. With the Rambler, Nash introduced the so-called "Double Safe Single Unit Body" (unibody construction) and a range of robust six and eight-cylinder engines. The lineup was four-door only, with sedan, hardtop, and station wagon variants offered. There was even a pioneering "muscle car" model in the form of the Rambler Rebel - a four-door Rambler sedan with the Ambassador's 327ci V8 shoved between the fenders. Smaller and more efficient than much of the competition, the Rambler was so successful for AMC that it became a standalone marque in 1957, and 82,000 examples found their way to American driveways that year.

THE CAR OFFERED

Offered here is a fabulous, preservation quality 1959 AMC Rambler Cross Country Station Wagon, showing just 1,900 miles, which is believed to be authentic. As was often the case with 1950s wagons, the original owner did not skimp on the options, ticking the boxes for the OHV six-cylinder engine, pushbutton Flash-O-Matic 3-speed auto transmission, pushbutton AM radio, Weather Eye heating system, air conditioning, two-tone paint, and electric clock. Ownership history dates to the mid-1970s, and in 1993 it was purchased by marque enthusiast Don Auerbach, who undoubtedly recognized its significance. The Rambler traded hands again to another AMC connoisseur in 2016 and has been faithfully preserved in outstanding time-warp condition.

The consignor reports that the gray paint is original, and while showing some age-related patina, it remains in excellent condition overall. The exterior red flash has been repainted, and it provides a pleasing complement to the original black, white, and grey interior. Wonderful details abound, from the correct polished wheel covers, the untouched (and matching) Firestone "piecrust" spare tire, to the factory fitted hang tags and assembly markings.

With increasing collector interest in classic station wagons, this marvelous Rambler is a delightful slice of late 50s Americana and a surefire conversation starter at concours events, Antique Automobile Club of America meets, or local Cars & Coffee gatherings.