Image of 1979 American Motors Concord, sourced from www.mcecars.com , Image Link.

1979 American Motors Concord: A Testament to Innovation and Style

The 1979 American Motors Concord emerged as a beacon of resilience during an era when the American automotive industry faced intense competition from imports. As the brainchild of American Motors Corporation (AMC), the Concord was a testament to the company's commitment to producing compact, fuel-efficient vehicles with a touch of luxury. This model was pivotal in showcasing AMC's ability to adapt and innovate in response to changing market demands. A standout moment for the Concord was its introduction of upscale features in a compact car, which at the time was a bold move that set it apart from its peers.

Design and Innovation

With its classic yet forward-looking design, the 1979 Concord exuded a sense of understated elegance. The exterior styling featured smooth lines and a broad stance, giving it a substantial presence on the road. Inside, passengers were greeted with a surprisingly plush interior for a compact car, with high-quality fabrics and materials that belied its economical aspirations. Technologically, the Concord was ahead of its time, offering options like an advanced sound system and air conditioning—luxuries that were often reserved for larger, more expensive vehicles. Color options ranged from the vibrant Sunshine Yellow to the more subdued Autumn Red Metallic, with shades like Cameo Tan being among the popular choices. The Concord was available in several body styles, including two-door coupes, four-door sedans, and even a station wagon variant, with the latter being particularly favored for its blend of practicality and style.

Historical Significance

The 1979 Concord's impact on automotive design cannot be overstated. It bridged the gap between economy and luxury in a way few compact cars had done before. Its unique approach to offering premium features in a smaller package paved the way for future vehicles that would follow this formula for success. The Concord stood out not just for its amenities but also for AMC's innovative use of space and comfort in a segment known more for utility than refinement.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish exterior, the 1979 Concord offered commendable performance for its class. With engine options that balanced power and efficiency, it achieved respectable acceleration figures and could reach highway speeds with confidence. Handling was tuned for comfort but maintained enough agility to navigate urban environments with ease. Drivers often noted the smoothness of the ride—a characteristic that made long journeys less taxing—and appreciated the car's responsiveness to steering inputs.

Ownership Experience

The Concord served many roles—from daily commuting workhorse to weekend showpiece—thanks to its versatile nature. Owners found maintenance relatively straightforward, with parts being accessible and repairs manageable for those with basic mechanical knowledge. While not immune to the issues typical of vehicles from this era, overall reliability was solid.

Fun Facts

The 1979 AMC Concord may not have been associated with high-speed chases or celebrity glamour like some of its contemporaries; however, it did carve out its niche as a beloved underdog in automotive history. It managed to hold its own against competitors by offering an unexpected level of luxury in a compact package—a feat that earned it a loyal following.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1979 American Motors Concord in pristine condition can be quite rare. Production numbers were substantial but not excessive, suggesting there are still some units circulating among enthusiasts and collectors. As for value range, well-preserved models can fetch anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on condition, originality, and historical documentation—though these figures can fluctuate based on market interest.

Conclusion

The 1979 American Motors Concord stands as an emblematic figure of an era when adaptability and ingenuity were crucial for survival in the automotive industry. Its blend of economy with unexpected luxury set it apart from competitors and left an indelible mark on automotive history—a legacy that continues to resonate with classic car aficionados today.

1979 American Motors Concord Molded door seals. For 2-door sedan-LM 31-CMolded door seals. For 2-door sedan. Proper clips correctly positioned. 148 in. (375.9 cm) L. Pair. R&L.

1979 American Motors Concord Hatchback Seal. For 2-Door Sedan. Each-TK 46-X/16Hatchback Seal. For 2-Door Sedan. Each

1979 American Motors Concord Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon-WF 214Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 1-1/4" x 3/4". Each