Colin's Classic a classic twice over

Colin Main’s 1964 V8 Rambler Classic 770 two-door hardtop coupe is factory-built, right-hand drive.
It was a “special order” car as Rambler only sold four door sedans and wagons in Australia back then.
He is just the second owner, having acquired the Classic in 1987.
Just 42 right hand drive Classic hardtops built in 1964 by American Motors in Canada.
“Thirty two had the a six cylinder engine, with ten being fitted with a V8,” he said.
“Eight of the V8s were shipped to Australia. I have identified the history of all eight and I know that mine is only one of four that remain in driving condition with a few others needing restoration.”

The 770 was the top of the Classic range back in 1964 and according to Colin, the first owner took immense care and pride in keeping the car in pristine condition.
“The car came with all of the documentation, original dealer invoice, service books and receipts for every amount of money spent on the car. It even has the original export tool kit in the boot,” he said.
“The body was straight and clean with no rust or damage, but there was some paint fade on flat panels.”
The column shift, three speed, Flash-O-Matic (love the name) automatic transmission had also been in the car since new.
As was common in 1964, the brakes were just 10-inch drums, which fade during heavy use. In 1989 Colin fitted Kelsey-Hayes 11-inch ventilated discs to the front.
He’s also fitted seat belts.
Colin’s overall aim with the Classic is to preserve the car rather than to restore it, and to use genuine accessories and new old stock parts.
He repainted it in the original Sceptre silver metallic in 1991.
Out on the road the car drives very smoothly and quietly.” It’s a comfortable cruiser, “ he said.
Colin and his wife Judy founded AMC Rambler Club back in 1987 — the same year he bought the car.

Most of club members own four-door Rambler models such as American, Ambassador, Classic, Rebel, Hornet and Matador.

There are a small percentage who own two-door models such as Javelin and AMX, plus a few fully imported models including the Marlin, Gremlin and Pacer.