1976 Rambler Matador – Today’s Tempter

By: Alex Affat, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 02.11.2018

An often forgotten footnote in Australia’s manufacturing history

1976 Rambler Matador – Today’s Tempter

While thoroughly American in design, the Rambler Matador was assembled in Australia from 1974 through to 1976 by Australian Motor Industries.

While the manufacture years in America saw a second-generation update throughout these years, Australia did not receive the updated grille and tail lights, subsequently the cars built from ’75 onwards remained in first-generation Matador specification.

The Australian-made models differed, with locally made split-bench seats and door cards, with altered tail light assemblies to adhere to Australian Design Rules.

For the year of 1976, just 88 Matadors were built, 78 sedans and 10 wagons.

This Rambler Matador, on offer via the Gosford Car Museum, is one of those 78 sedans.

It’s in great condition, and is rarely seen on the road.

With Australian manufacturing as a whole, now all but history – locally made cars are increasing in demand, and often-forgotten niche cars like this may soon become collectible.

Even as a recreational cruiser, the car is an affordable way into a very useable Aussie-built classic weekend car.

The car comes with extensive history from new, and presents very well for its age. The Willow Green Paintwork shows some light crazing and patina, though the cream vinyl interior is near faultless, with no tears or rips, and very minimal wear on the roofliner and dash.

Under the bonnet sits a 360ci V8 with a four-barrel carburettor, mated to a three-speed column-shift Torque Command automatic.

Yours for $22,500, it’s a rare and interesting car, and given its place in Australia’s manufacturing history – we hope it goes to a good home.

Check out the full listing here!

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