1972 American Motors AMC Randall Gremlin XR 401 & Engine Sound - My Car Story with Lou Costabile

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On “My Car Story” we're in Rosemont IL at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals on 11-15-18.
We’re looking at a 1972 American Motors AMC Randall Gremlin XR 401 in White Paint. The car features a 401 CI V8 engine.
The car's Owner is Bob Hoogstra. Bob’s had this car since 2008. Bob shares there were only about 13 or fewer of these cars produced by “Randall” out of Mesa AZ, and there might only be this and one other that have survived.
To see details on the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals show, go to www.MCACN.com
ENJOY!

[@scotttiemann6346]

We had a great time restoring this car with Bob! I have been friends with him for 35+ years. We expect the car to go 11.50s at 120+ mph. We will use sticky street tires thru the exhaust. Wish Lou would have looked under it. Bob and I built a 3 inch exhaust with 2.5 inch tail pipes. Killer 401 with some good dog leg AMC iron cylinder heads, dual plane Edelbrock intake, etc. Original owners son was with his dad when he picked up the car brand new. He had ordered all the go fast goodies on the car. We refined it ! Scott Tiemann

[@loucostabile]

Sounds like you had a blast :-)

[@Mcleod0000]

I thought the exhaust sounded strong for how big the tail pipes looked . The angle almost makes them look like 2 inch dual . That engine sounds awesome . The car is on a smooth ground , I think it would be more stealth on the open road , till you floor it .

[@scotttiemann6346]

e bay

[@jimmyers8114]

yep, people that don't know amc engines are blown away by how well the dogleg amc heads flowed straight from the factory. especially when they go for a ride and are wondering why they never bought one. i used 291's and we put in small diameter stemmed valves with a light porting. with a comp xtreme cam, 10.3-1 comp and other goodies, my 401 makes so much torque it's hard to keep the thing straight. oh, i got a 73 hornet x. love your gremlin so much.

[@garyallen8869]

Actually the number built in 72 was only 5 gremlins, 3 hornets & 2 pacers I owned this car long before the current owner, did extensive research & also confirmed the production with the lead mechanic that did the installs at Randall, the car was extensively street raced in blossom hill valley in san jose & fremont drag strip California, Vic Anderson bought it from the second owner the original owner was the gunthers, I purchased it from Vic, the 401 was a 13;1 solid lifter cam major port work on heads & intake 950 holley & full manual Torquflight 3000 stall converter, it ran a best of 10.66 @ 132 mph (9 sec mph it was hazing the slicks) it pulled Hard to 7200, (camonics custom solid lifter cam) I still have tons of pics & documentation if the current owner wants it Also this particular car did not come from Randall with the XR 401 decals, it had the blue gremlin x decals, that was how the original owner ordered it

[@jeremythompson9895]

Super cool and unique car. That things gotta haul ass. The AMC 401 is a very underrated engine. Awesome car

[@loucostabile]

Hi Jeremy Thompson, Glad to read you think this little rare one is super cool :-) Lou

[@johnhull6363]

Yeah the 401 amc...is the strongest American 6.6L American v8 of the time imo

[@jeremythompson9122]

@@johnhull6363 I liked the 390 too. Even the 343/360 with a 4 barrel was a good performer in a light car like a Javelin or Hornet. This Gremlin 401 is awesome. That car sounds really mean. One of the coolest AMC cars I have ever seen. Maybe the coolest

[@Paul-k9x]

I went to school with John Randle in Mesa Az...I saw LOTS of SUPER AMC's come out of John's Father's dealership....fantastic time in my life...

[@loucostabile]

Hi Paul, Happy to read this car brings back good memories of that dealership :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@Paul-k9x]

@loucostabile I also got my first car there...wasn't an AMC..but a GMCsprint...still what a deal I got...kinda wondering if John is still kickin...haven't seen him since we went to Westwood high together...

[@rusty3831]

Some folks absolutely hate AMC Gremlins, of which I never understood why. I know why, but the Gremlin was just different. Sure they were different looking, but I was always intrigued by these. When I was about 11 or 12 yo, the neighbors across the street from our house showed up with a new red Gremlin X with white striping, and with the Levi interior complete with the ‘Levi’ orange tag on the front seat backs. I love this car’s owner when he states that “It’s made to be driven”! My sentiments EXACTLY!

[@audieconrad8995]

People hated them because they were different AND because AMC produced something that was better than the competition. I consider it the original (American) hatchback of which many of the car companies later produced especially the Europeans of which designer Dick Teague dubbed it's "Kammback" design - certainly a European reference. Essentially the Gremlin was a Hornet from the b-pillar forward. Ugly?...pretty tame by today's standards. Haters never got it which is ok because AMC fans don't get them. Besides, has anybody taken a look at a Nissan Juke?

[@900108Chale]

@@audieconrad8995 Good points!

[@900108Chale]

Then again these are IDEAL cars for Hipsters aren`t they? Always fell a special "something" when I saw one. Not truly liking it, yet I felt attracted to them. Then came the Rabbit-Golf and everyone fell for it!?!?!? Been wondering on getting one to restore. These pure metal things do take a beating without even skeeching...

[@NiteGambler]

@@audieconrad8995 You hit the nail on the head with the European design. Nobody discredited the VW Rabbit which was also a hatch. Horizon, Omni to name a few. Also if you look at the Pacer and extend the nose you have a 928 Porsche. Me I still own my '75 Gremlin X 304 v8 3 speed. Looking at it as i write. HAGD

[@audieconrad8995]

@@NiteGambler funny u mention the VW Rabbit as I now kwn a GTI. My first car was a factory ordered '76 Hornet X with a 304, black with gold stripe, the car was a blast. My mother had a '701/2 first issue Gremmie with a 199 cuber - red with white stripes. And you still have your '75 X - that's awesome. Congratulations!

[@scotttiemann6346]

I have been friends with Bob for over 35 years. We have done a lot of fun stuff over the years. This project was something extra special. It is such a rare car , and it helps Bob to relive his youth a bit! His Black 4 speed Gremlin was quite quick back in the day. This should be substantially quicker. We are expecting 11.50s at 120 mph or better. We will use some sticky street tires thru the mufflers. Can't wait to see the reaction at the track! Scott Tiemann

[@loucostabile]

Hi Scott Tiemann, Thank you for sharing your 1st hand knowledge of your Friend, Lou

[@JeepJKFatGirl]

Scott this is Ira Cooper I have been trying to get in touch with Bob for years. Met you with him manny years ago. We came to see you GTO Legend.

[@jeremythompson9895]

Man that is the nastiest sounding AMC I've ever heard in my life. Sounds better than any other 390 or 401 I've ever heard before anywhere. Super cool car

[@loucostabile]

Glad you enjoyed the sound of this car. High praise :-)

[@PMaynard-22]

Absolutely! I was shocked how fast the rev's climbed, glorious.

[@mitchlu]

that exhaust sound!...and the car emitting it!

[@loucostabile]

:-)

[@20alphabet]

You're right. Maybe they should call that _emissions._

[@mitchlu]

@@20alphabet Bingo!

[@fubarmodelyard1392]

Made to be driven👍 imagine sitting in your new supercar and getting blown away by a...Gremlin. Beautiful AMC. Thanks Lou

[@loucostabile]

Hi FUBAR Model Yard, That is FUNNY & Accurate :-) You're welcome, Lou

[@stephenmerck5931]

WOW!!!Talk about a unicorn of cars.Thanks for sharing with us Lou.I'll bet that's one heck of a ride.👍👍

[@loucostabile]

Hi Stephen Merck, A rare treat to share with you :-) You're welcome, Lou

[@jennifurzoe1302]

Stephen Merck I'd say unicorns are available at any 7-11 compared to this vehicle.

[@causwayspeedway]

The sound is phenomenal !!!

[@Zynet_Eseled]

More like unfairly ridiculed

[@tippey2011]

This car Lou is just awesome! I wanted one if these so bad as a kid! I wanted bright red with white stripes with a v/8 engine. This car is just so neat love the motor the colors and the engine sound. I would just live this little car would satisfy my child hood dream. Thanks Lou! And thanks to the gentleman for letting us see his nest Gremlin! Thanks for sharing Lou!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Steve Flad, Glad you consider this one "awesome" :-) Happy to share this rare treat with you. You're welcome, Lou

[@catfishjenkem2226]

Lil car sounds damn healthy

[@loucostabile]

You're right :-)

[@catfishjenkem2226]

@@loucostabile great job Lou

[@katieb777]

wow beautiful car !! gosh i cant believe its FIFTY YEARS OLD !

[@loucostabile]

Hi Katie B, Happy to read you appreciate the looks of this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@hbhamilton3410]

Wow! That’s the best exhaust note I’ve heard on your channel. That engine screams.

[@loucostabile]

Hi HB Hamilton, Glad to receive a "Wow!" and "best exhaust note" :-) Lou

[@jeffreyb6165]

Of all the cars I've owned in my life, there are a few that give you a memorable experience that stays with you long after they're gone, and for me the 1974 Gremlin that I owned was one of them. Straight 6 with a 3 -speed on the floor. Hands down one of the most durable and dependable cars I ever owned, and fun to drive. Great find Lou, and that monster v-8 under the hood was too sweet. Made my day and brought back some great memories.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Jeffrey B, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@curbozerboomer1773]

Years ago, I knew a guy at work, that had a Gremlin...He loved the car, even when the day came that his driver's side door literally fell off it's hinges, while driving down the road!...other than that little problem, he felt the Gremlin was an outstanding car.

[@wlwal1]

Love these Gremlins!! I had a 72 Gremlin x, New was $3,000, with the California special package, $300, including tinted windows, automatic and Air, and a 75 v8 Gremlin X with the Levis interior.Being a kid in those days, just drove these cars till they fell apart!

[@loucostabile]

Hi wlwal1, Glad this car brings back memories of yours :-) Lou

[@tombean2347]

I had a 73 yellow with black stipes, unf I hit some black ice and rolled it the next day. Bummer. Thats a cool car though so is that light blue javelin. I also owned a 73 javelin brown plum with the white Strip. Sold that one could not afford to restore it the steering shaft wad rubbing into the frame , loved that car. The owner was going into the military so i bought it for $300 dallars, crazy know in this time.

[@badbeatbilly8997]

They did fall apart

[@tombean2347]

@@badbeatbilly8997 good little project muscle car is someones got the time, in Wisconsin people use to put v8's in them and the chevy vega/ monza

[@scavengerspc]

I loved this video Lou and thank you. Back in the early 90s I tried to find an original 401 XR but gave up a few years later. I ended up doing one myself with a 72 Gremlin X, except with a 390 pulled from a 1970 Rebel.

[@loucostabile]

Hi scavengerspc, Happy to read you appreciate the rarity of this car :-) You're welcome. Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@hardheadjames3624]

Well, I have now seen my dream car. If I ever hit the lottery Scott you'll be my first call. Love it.

[@loucostabile]

High praise.

[@retro440]

I'm a 72-year-old geezer, a dinosaur from the real muscle car era. I love big V8s and the beautiful music they make. When this beast was revved, I actually got a little misty! My God, what a car!! Thank you so much for sharing.

[@loucostabile]

Hi retro440, Thank you for viewing and sharing :-) Good news! You're in the right place to check out the many more Muscle Cars on this KZbin Channel you'll enjoy. Welcome home, Lou

[@audieconrad8995]

Lou- you sure can sniff 'em out! Greeaat find! The myth - the legend... AMC V8's were sooo underrated except for those in the know. Gremlin = the ORIGINAL Hot-hatch. Hehehe 500 hp, 2800 lbs. Interestingly although not exactly an AMX the Gremlin's demensions were actually quite similar. Thanks for finding Loch Ness!

[@loucostabile]

HI Audie Conrad, Glad I was able to share this rare treat with you :-) Lou

[@sammolloy1]

Quick steering and HD suspension were on the Hornet order sheet. This should have been the 1971 AMX. The company was out of touch. Vacuum wipers, Non synchro first with a British overdrive unit? B--h please.

[@gene978]

Hey Lou, You stuck GOLD in a GREMLIN of all the cars out there. Incredible Find.

[@loucostabile]

Hey gene978, Thank you, and glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) Lou

[@jakespeed63]

Super Cool slice of muscle car history. God Bless Bob for his dedication into restoring it. Thanks for sharing 😎🏆

[@loucostabile]

Hi jakespeed63, Glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) You're welcome, Lou

[@hansgruber650]

Grenade on wheels, that's your sleeper right there. Radio station WIBG ran a Pro Stock Gremlin at Atco Dragway back in the day in Jersey.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Hans Gruber, "Grenade on wheels" - I like that :-) Lou

[@jeffrichards1537]

Gremlins were one of my favorite cars growing up in the early 1980's. I always liked hatch backs. Owned a 1992 civic hatchback. Wish I still had it.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Jeff, Happy to read the Gremlin is a favorite of yours :-) Lou

[@edb.3313]

RIGHT ON ...it gave me a warm fuzzy feeling.🏁🏁🏴🏴🇺🇸👍👍Awesome car Lou!!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Ed B., Glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) Lou

[@zeevon9]

You said it several times, but I will say it again, awesome! Sounds so badass. I think I would sorted be scared of it, but in a cool way!😎

[@loucostabile]

Happy to read you enjoy this car :-)

[@manuelmaldonadojr.306]

That's the best sounding Gremlin I've ever heard! I've always loved the way AMC V8s' sound and scream. We have been lucky to have had several 304 X's in the family. But wow this car is through the stratosphere!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Manuel Maldonado Jr., High praise :-) Hope you see many more cars on this KZbin Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@loupgarou1261]

AMC and Chevrolet had the best sound. Ford not so much, especially the "mod motor" series with that weird firing order.

[@dotd7763]

Awesome little car. I never knew a beast like that existed

[@loucostabile]

Hi steve fields, A rare treat for both if us to enjoy :-) Lou

[@ursixx]

Wow! That sounded great! I hope you get to go for a ride and take us with you.

[@loucostabile]

Hi ursixx, This car show was indoors so unfortunately no ride, HOWEVER if you'd like to see some I have taken rides in, type into KZbin search "My Car Story with Lou ride" and you'll see some rides :-) Lou

[@mwoodstrup]

Nice job Lou. You get better with every video. Thanks for documenting AMCs!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Matt Woodstrup, Thank you for viewing, sharing, and appreciate you noticing I'm working to improve the videos we both enjoy, Lou

[@thomasnelson2463]

I always liked the Gremlin's looks back in the day. Yours is off the hook!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Thomas Nelson, Glad you enjoy the looks of this car :-)

[@73twall]

Wow, that thing has one wicked snarl!

[@loucostabile]

Nice :-)

[@Scout81]

It will definitely open up a can of 401 Whip Ass!!

[@TmcIIIvideo]

I was born in Mesa Az. My family owned and operated the Buick/GMC dealership there. I knew most of the Randall family and I didn’t know these cars existed. Before my time I’m guessing…cool flashback! Thanks! Tony Coury IIII

[@loucostabile]

Hi Tony, Thank you for sharing you were from Mesa AZ, and glad to read your family had a Buick Dealership there, with knowledge of the Randall family too. You're welcome, Lou

[@Nikola_G.Jerkovic]

What a nice car! And that sound...wow!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Nikola G. Jerkovic, Glad you enjoy this car and shared a "wow!" :-) Lou

[@paulrambone6705]

what a beauty that car is. it sounds like a screamer. i had a few AMCs` and liked all of them.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Paul, Happy to read you enjoy the AMC cars :-) If you type into KZbin search "My Car Story with Lou AMC" or "My Car Story with Lou American" I think you'll see many cars you'll enjoy, Lou

[@drippinglass]

Wow! So cool! I’ve always liked seeing the smallest car... with the biggest factory engine. Thanks Lou!

[@loucostabile]

Hi drippinglass, High praise :-) You're welcome, Lou

[@johndef5075]

I fantasize about dropping a 427 into my plain jane 2006 Camry.😂

[@20alphabet]

Definitely a _WIN_ with this car!

[@loucostabile]

Nice :-)

[@20alphabet]

Although 2900lbs seems like at least 700lbs too heavy for this car. My Duster was 2950. But just a real treat to see.

[@bdogjr7779]

Awesome Lou《☆》Hands Down best Gremlin I've ever seen or heard ☻

[@loucostabile]

Winner

[@humblegeorge]

1972 the very best looking year .I had a 1971.

[@loucostabile]

Hi humblegeorge, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@edwardbenkert2618]

It just makes me love my Gremlins even more and more

[@loucostabile]

Nice :-)

[@PullStartStables]

Cruising on an 8 hour road trip with Bob’s brother today. Cool story to check out!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Kevin Alberts Pullstart Stables, Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many more cars on this KZbin Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@Duececoupe]

That is one unique car Lou, never ever seen one....fantastic find! 😳😲👍🏻👌🏻👏🏻😍😎

[@loucostabile]

Glad to share this rare treat with you Duececoupe :-)

[@jeffreybrianring6392]

I love it, always liked the looks of a gremlin.

[@loucostabile]

Nice :-)

[@bryantcurtis2665]

My Car Story with coffee is a nice way to start your day.🚙🔥🔥🔥💨💨💨

[@loucostabile]

Happy to read you're relaxing and enjoying the episodes with me :-) Thank you. P.S. Watch those commercials (if it's tolerable) so I can keep doing what I'm doing.

[@oveidasinclair982]

Restoring any old car winds up turning into a nightmare, but this is a beautiful car.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Oveida Sinclair, Glad to read you enjoy the looks of this car :-) Hope you see many more cars on this KZbin Channel you'll enjoy, Lou

[@garnetcampbell4389]

Those AMC 401's have such a distinctive sound. They sound so good.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Garnet Campbell, Happy to read you enjoy the sounds of this car :-) Lou

[@garnetcampbell4389]

@@loucostabile I have a numbers matching 1974 Javelin AMX GO PACK edition that is in the final steps of restoration and I cant wait for spring.

[@BJGlenn-cg3gs]

😎 Cool restore! Brings back memories of my GremlinX.......until yours ROARED! 👍

[@loucostabile]

Hi B. J. Glenn, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@terriwhyte8064]

never even heard of them. wicked car!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Terri Whyte, My first time too, so glad we're both able to learn together, Lou

[@chrisauten2039]

This thing would surprise a lot of modern muscle on the street. So unique!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Chris, I think you're right :-) Lou

[@terryschneider7344]

Cool, Cool, Cool. Another great car and video. Thanks Lou!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Terry Schneider, Three Cool's = great car :-) You're welcome, Lou

[@johnhenrymcmahon6878]

Lou!! What an amazing and inspired car, man. WOW and POW. What a 100% KNOCKOUT for JV Johnny boy, too lol 🤣🤪! Cue to the iconic theme song of the film "Gremlins" and upon viewing this I am ambushed and easily knocked out, my floppy sneakers slipped off stocking feet by Gremlins, tied up and dragged off by those big limp stockings as they cackle with demented delight...right out my door and stuff me into the back of that Gremlin with my JV baseball jock stocking feet and calves dangling out the window, mouth gaping open and eyes closed as I'm sandwiched between 2 big boys in back, my floppy sneakers (jock slippers) hanging from the rearview lol 🤣😜!! How's that for a visual, big bro?! Oh boy, this is an amazing beast. What awesome and demented fun could be had in this little hatchback with a monstrously angry V8 engine? Talk about taking a guy back to being a mischevious and goofy teenage boy lol 😂! I love it🤩That gremlin little demon guy image is hilarious and perfectly captures this car, as well as my KO'd plight. Thanks for all the inspiration and awesomeness big bro Lou! Keep shining, big bro. JV Johnny⚾⚾

[@loucostabile]

Hi JV Johnny, Like Mike Tyson in 1989 "100% KNOCKOUT" :-) NICE! You're welcome and happy to share the "inspiration and awesomeness" with you, Lou

[@capecodcuda]

Beautifully clean Gremlin ... Sounds sweet 🛠

[@loucostabile]

Glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-)

[@fredanddebramacdonald2445]

I never thought a Gremlin would qualify as a triple WOW car! When he fired up this beast, actually a wolf in sheeps clothing, the sound was amazing! When I was in high school I had a 1959 Rambler Rebel with a 287ci 4 barrel V-8, three on the tree and overdrive. Hot stuff then but very mild compared to over 500 horses in a 2900 lb car. Makes my Buick look like a stone!! Thanks Lou!!

[@loucostabile]

High praise :-) You're welcome.

[@jasonmaiden5026]

Wow! Very cool Gremlin...& it sounds amazing! The Javelin next to it is beautiful too. I'm hoping you filmed that as well

[@loucostabile]

Hi Jason Maiden, High praise for this rare treat :-) Here is the Javelin, enjoy! Lou kzbin.info/www/bejne/jnKunGtse5x_b6c

[@tima6549]

My buddy had a Gremlin in high school that he stuffed a 401 in. It would do wheelies and snap drive lines, lol.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Tim A, Good memories of good times :-) Lou

[@BrianLadwig]

Love that gremlin, sounds amazing

[@loucostabile]

Hi Brian, Happy to read you "Love that gremlin" :-) Lou

[@ketoking9435]

Lou,, Awesome here in England I'd never seen one of these though saw Javelins,Matador, Ambassador,,,this was an out there kind of car in a country where cars were XL,,,this seemed aimed at the imports but in an American way,,, I started to like them a few years back,,,Thanx to you and the owner for a real special upload,,,have a great week,,

[@loucostabile]

Hi Irfan Khan, Glad to share this rare treat with you :-) Well wishes received, and wishing you a great week too, Lou

[@AMCmachine]

I believe Randall AMC performed some 360 Gremlin conversions as well. I remember reading that somewhere. AMC actually had a few performance and racing oriented dealers to rival Nickey, Berger, Motion, Tasca Ford, Royal Pontiac, Grand Spaulding Dodge, etc. etc. Heck of a find Lou!!! : D : )

[@loucostabile]

HI AMCmachine, Thank you for viewing, sharing, and happy to read you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) Lou

[@20alphabet]

Wow, what a find!

[@loucostabile]

Happy to read you enjoy this rare treat :-)

[@willsco76]

Lou's loving these AMC Gremlins. You've videoed 5 now.

[@loucostabile]

Hi William Scott, The AMC drive for 5 :-) Lou

[@danr4197]

That is a beautiful car! That much horse power and torque in that is INSANE!

[@loucostabile]

Hi dan r, Glad to read you enjoy this car :-) Hope you see many more cars on this KZbin Channel you enjoy, Lou

[@vermontjeff2535]

Beautiful well done car . Sounds wicked.... thanks for the video. I really enjoy them ...

[@loucostabile]

Hi Vermont Jeff, Happy to read you appreciate this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@stevencarboni3091]

love the dealer specials that no one ever new existed , always thought these would be a monster with a 401 . Awesome Lou. What about a pacer?

[@loucostabile]

Hi Steven Carboni, When I see the right Pacer, you will too, so stay tuned. Glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) Lou

[@curbozerboomer1773]

I do wonder though, about the handling of such a car, with that huge engine in the front end, and a chopped off rear end!

[@davidbaron6647]

Had one in 1976 Gremlin X 304 v8 it was BAD ASS!!!!

[@loucostabile]

Hi David, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@motorTranz]

Growls like a tiger. Beautiful car👍

[@loucostabile]

Hi motorTranz, Happy to read you enjoy the sounds and looks of this car :-) Hope you see many more cars on this KZbin Channel you'll enjoy, Lou

[@Yarls24]

Great find Lou

[@loucostabile]

Thank you Chuck :-)

[@paulshamblin6260]

I rode in one back in the day. 4 young men out drinking. Bar fight escape. That car would RUN! Fully loaded I remember being impressed at the quickness of the car. Rare specimen.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Paul Shamblin, Ahhh good memories of some good times :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@KevinMattice-e8s]

Beautiful car. Sounds amazing.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Kevin, Happy to read you appreciate the looks and sounds from this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@vincewilliams5219]

I had no idea they put a motor like that in a Gremlin. It must have been a beast.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Vince, Happy to share this rare AMC with you, Lou

[@guitarhole]

I'm speechless .

[@loucostabile]

Well said :-)

[@armcchargues8623]

I had a 340 Challenger in high school, and it was the second fastest car there. the only one that ever out ran me was a purple Gremlin X with a 401 and nitrous. It was one of these, it was a swap. But when it hooked up, it was a rocket.

[@loucostabile]

Sounds like good times in High School :-)

[@bigdogone916]

Very unique car!

[@loucostabile]

Agreed bigdog one

[@oncesedated4849]

Love your channel and the fact you show unique vehicles like this!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Arthur Hannasch, Thank you for the kind words, and happy to share this rare treat with you :-) Lou

[@oncesedated4849]

@@loucostabile You are welcome, im a big fan of your show.I live in Greenville Pa and we have a wonderful car show during Heritage days festival this year it will be held July 6th and think it would make a great episode for your show with many great and unusual vehicles. It is free to the public and has been featured on the Lokar car show tour and can be found on many youtube videos.I encourage you to check them out and think about trying to make it.It is a beautiful part of the country half way between Pittsburgh and Erie and a great event!

[@brianaustin208]

Super cool Gremlin I never knew anything like this existed talk about a sleeper ,a neighbor had one in the 70's but it was nothing compared to this little beauty!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Brian, Happy to share this one with you. Glad to read this car brings back memories of your neighbors car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@petemedina8446]

Wow!! That's a beauty for a gremlin I haven't seen one of these cars in person since the mid 80's and they didn't look this nice, plus I never even heard of this model. It looks like they shoe horned the motor in there.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Pete Medina, Thank you for the "Wow!!" :-) Happy to share this rare car with you, Lou

[@petemedina8446]

@@loucostabile Hello Lou since you featured this car on your channel I've about 3 more here youtube today.

[@audieconrad8995]

Actually AMC used the same block size for all of their V8's. The X package could be ordered with the 304 so the 401 swap shouldn't have required to many - if any fit mods.

[@cowtowncustoms2110]

Great job! A very nice newer version of a SCRambler!

[@loucostabile]

Glad you enjoy this one :-)

[@ronaldwarren5220]

This brings back great memories. I read about the new V8 Gremlin in Hot Rod Magazine and went right down to (I think I have the name right) North Kent AMC in Grand Rapids, Michigan and ordered one. I was told it was the first V8 Gremlin in town. I too could only get a 3 speed floor shift. I ordered radio delete, heavy duty battery and heavy duty cooling. It was a sleeper and pretty well stripped with dog dish wheels and black wall tires. It came stock with a black pin stripe on each side. I put on a set of glass packs and when I got my tax return in early 1973 I went to Discount Tire and purchased chrome mags and G60 14s for the back and I think G70 14s for the front. That thing would scoot! It was bright red with a black interior and looked like a roller skate with those wide tires. I sold it a couple years later when our family increased and I needed a sedan. Thanks for sharing this sweet ride with us!

[@ronaldwarren5220]

I just recalled that I saw an all black Gremmie at a Garmin's car show in Hudsonville, MI a few years back. 304V8, cammed and with the bad arsed stance. Beautiful!

[@loucostabile]

HI Ronald Warren, Thank you for viewing, and sharing the details you remember :-) Lou

[@philipthomas8440]

The first car I bought brand new was a 71 Gremlin with the 304 two barrel carb. White with black stripes like that one. I drove the wheels off of it! It surprised more than a few . But a 401....d×mn!!

[@loucostabile]

Sounds like you have great memories of your 1st car :-)

[@rodgood]

Never put the v8 in,an 71 ?

[@jamesroper5470]

Awesome Gremlin. 👌

[@loucostabile]

Hi James, High praise :-) Lou

[@jamesroper5470]

@@loucostabile My first car was a 1972 AMC Gremlin - Grasshopper Green

[@farmerboy8940]

Wow...what find! Back in the 1970-1974 years...Chevy had its Yenko, Nickey, Motion, modifiers....Dodge, Mr Norm....Pontiac, Nunzi.....and AMC, Randall. I had a 74 Javelin AMX at the time and pretty full detailed article was written in a car magazine in 1974 about Randall....CARS magazine, if I remember right about the work Randall was doing to Gremlins...and yes they were putting the 401's in Jeep CJ's!! I do remember the article quoting Skip Randall that they were having trouble with engine flex in the engine compartment...and torque straps were used to correct this problem. This was much more problematic in the Jeep compared to the Gremlin. I have never heard of any Jeep Randalls being found, but have heard of 3 Gremlins. Back in about 1980 I was going to restore my 74 Javelin AMX and decided to give a call to Randall to see if they had any parts for a 401. Yes I did get ahold of Skip....and talked briefly.... at first he seemed pissed that I found him...then discussing the AMX I had...he lightened up and gave me some advice, but he said he had nothing to do with the V8 AMC engines any more. He said the best advice he could give me was to block a couple of oil galleries in the 401 as the engine had a messed up oiling route.....it was reverse of what it should be. I am jealous!

[@loucostabile]

Hi WIll P, Glad to share this rare treat with you, and receive a "Wow" too :-) Thank you for viewing, and sharing your knowledge about Randall, Lou

[@kickacummins]

Awesome Gremlin Lou, I'm a Mopar man, but I love AMC s too!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Kick a_ _ Hemi, Glad to read you enjoy this car :-) You're on the right KZbin Channel to see many more cars you'll enjoy, Lou

[@MrSteve280]

I remember them reviewing a Gremlin X in one of the major car magazines back in '71 or '72. Ran in the 11s bone stock as I recall when only a few cars were still capable of getting into the 13s. Driver understandably said it was "squirrely".

[@loucostabile]

Hi MrSteve280, Thank you for sharing what you remember reading :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@rogerpr364]

Was never able to pick up a gremelin here Québec Canada 😕 This one is very very cool in allé aspects! Love this car ❤️

[@loucostabile]

Happy to read "Love this car" :-)

[@rightlanehog3151]

50K Subscribers. Well done Lou!

[@loucostabile]

Hi Right Lane Hog, Thank you for the encouragement :-) Glad you're along for the ride, Lou

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@loucostabile They say the first 50 thousand are the hardest ;)

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

8:13 one rev bob! ...OMG this is the most savage rev of all the lou's vids and i have seen 75% of them up to now

[@loucostabile]

Hi Ragimund VonWallet, I'll share two "revs" with you, one you'll expect & one you wont :-) Enjoy! 1) kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3LWlGBsp7eDfbc & 2) kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3mYeHyqhLtkmdk

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

@@loucostabile hahahaha OMG Barbie! i didint expected it from that italian little lady, you said 'step on the brake' and she was already heavy on the gas haha! ...100% sure she burn rubber on the daily

[@XTXT555]

many many years ago when i was a teen, I rode in one in Witchita Falls Texas

[@loucostabile]

Hi XTXT555, Happy to read this car brings back memories of the car you rode in to TX :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@zionisimkills1098]

I had a 1972 Gremlin, with inline 6, 3 on the floor, it ran great, hauled ass, back seat folded down, was great on a drive in date. wish i had it still.

[@loucostabile]

Hi ZIONISIM KILLS, Thank you for viewing and sharing the good memories in your 1972 Gremlin :-) Lou

[@GorillaCookies]

I swapped a built 401 into my 304 powered 74 Jeep CJ-5 and it can be a handful with such a short wheelbase. That Gremlin ust be a blast to drive

[@loucostabile]

Hi Gorilla Cookies, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@francoismontresmecaniques7082]

Lovely and funky american car ! Compact with a nice V8, dream Combo actually.

[@loucostabile]

Well said :-)

[@juanpabloarena2724]

Oro en polvo! Gracias por compartirlo! Argentina presente.

[@loucostabile]

Glad to read you enjoy this car JUAN PABLO ARENA :-)

[@hadleymanmusic]

I used to ride in the back seat of a blue one Al Tabor had ridin to high school. Now my runnin partner had over a period of time, a hornet 73' a javelin 72 a rebel station wagon, a ol 69? Rambler and we drug up a white gremlin an pulled the engine into the javelin. We drug up a nice body red pacer couldnt get it runnin. And drug up a nice body amber matador and couldnt get it runnin. From 14 years old till I was about 18. I luv these cars the way they were dependable and drove and serviceable.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Hadley Scott McIntyre, Happy to read this car brings back memories of the car you used to ride in the back seat of :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@williamschramm2761]

Had a 76 Gremlin X with a three speed trans. with a electronic overdrive. The engine was a 258 straight six. I towed a motor cycle trailer with my and my friends luggage ( both of us were big guys over 200 pounds) got 25 mpg on the highway back in 1977 in my college days on a road trip to Daytona Beach . Had plenty of power!!

[@loucostabile]

Hi william schramm, Glad to read this video brings back memories of your 1976. Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@davidamonett7283]

This is a very nice car, plus an interesting story about the history of the Randall AMC dealership. I am sure that this car is a hand full with the pedal down. With all of that horsepower and torque. The exhaust system is perfect, you can definitely tell that is an AMC engine by its distinct sound.

[@loucostabile]

Hi David Amonett, Enjoy reading the details you like on this car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou

[@steventeklinski9585]

Yes there is another Randall Gremlin in Florida. Owned by a good friend of mine. It's white, got a very hot 401 also and a 4 speed. The thing is an animal! Never been restored so it is a survivor. Still in good shape. I told him about this video and I'm trying to get him to comment.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Steven Teklinski, Hmmm, if I video that one your Friend has in FL, I'll be the only Guy on KZbin to have videoed most likely the only two left. That would be cool :-) Lou

[@MikeJBlues]

Buddy if mine had one if these in highschool 1978, was black with a 401, it was scary fast. Cool cars

[@loucostabile]

Good times, good times :-)

[@beeinbadinc.1959]

Thanks for sharing this! Awesome car! I'm a MOPAR guy. Always considered AMC a first cousin, lol.

[@loucostabile]

Hi BEEINBAD INC., Good news! You're at the right KZbin Channel for LOTS of Mopars. Glad to read you think this car is "awesome" :-) You're welcome on the share of this video, Lou

[@danielhowell1640]

My dad bought me a Baby poop tan Gremlin for my 16th birthday to drive to school. Needless to say, I continued walking or riding with my buddy in his Camaro. We called it "the shoe".

[@loucostabile]

Hi Daniel, Happy to read this car brings back memories of :the shoe" :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this KZbin Channel, Lou

[@theviking363]

I had a buddy in high school, his dad thpught we were nuts when we dropped the 401 in it...what a sleeper!..wonder if he's still got it.

[@loucostabile]

Hi the viking, Good times, good times :-) Lou

[@billfeld5883]

Great job Bob,a great little hot rod!!!!2022

[@loucostabile]

Hi Bill, Happy to read you enjoy this "great little hot rod" :-) Lou

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

Imagine pullin' up next to this guy at a red light and thinking he has a Gremlin that can't do anything?

[@rudolphguarnacci197]

@@Rick-S-6063 Good one!

[@loucostabile]

:-)

[@tskraj3190]

Ours had the 304 but it will still plenty fast!

[@MegaJustGeorge]

Boys - he'll be surprised big time!

[@tskraj3190]

@@Rick-S-6063 I think it's funny when a ricer only has a high performance exhaust and they want to race people. That's happened to me a couple of times and I ended up blowing their doors off with a stock American V6.

[@nickdulak1837]

Cool! Have seen home built X's with the stock 304 2bl, 3spd yanked & crashed AMX drivetrains installed but never heard of that car, and I thought I knew everything! Yeah right.

[@loucostabile]

Hi Nick Dulak, It's ok, I've never heard of this one either until a Friend told me it would be coming to the show. Glad you enjoy this rare treat with me :-) Lou P.S. I'm learning on almost every car I video, and I find that to be FUN learning.