1971–1974

The Javelin was restyled in 1971 to incorporate various elements that had been desired modifications to the earlier Javelins for racing in the Trans-Am circuits. A roof spoiler became integral. The fender bulges racers made to accept wide racing tires was adapted, but the way AMC stylists arched the fenders over the wheel wells begged for criticism from the media; “...like the Corvette, but less graceful...” A wide range of engines and transmissions were offered from an economical 232 in³ (3.8 L) I6 to the potent four-barrel 401 in³ (6.6 L) AMC V8, that featured high compression, as well as forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods dynamically engineered for 8000 rpm.
The interior of the Javelin was made non-symmetrical where nearly every component is unique to its position. This was in contrast to the economy focused Hornet (Cavalier prototype in 1966), which was a study in symmetry.
Starting in 1971, the AMX was no longer available as a two-seat model. However, it evolved into a premimum top model for the Javelin. The new Javelin AMX incorporated a full host of racing modifications learned on the track into a street version that AMC advertised as “the closest thing you can buy to a Trans-Am champion.” Javelin AMXs came with a racer type stainless steel mesh screen to cover the grille opening, a fiberglass full width cowl induction hood, as well as front and rear spoilers to increase traction at high speed. These Javelins competed successfully in Trans-Am racing in a Penske Racing/Mark Donohue team. The Javelin won the Trans-Am title in 1971, 1972, and 1973.
The internationally renowned fashion design trendsetter Pierre Cardin was asked by AMC to prepare a series of interior proposals for the Javelin. This was one more example of AMC's pioneering ideas and the official on-sale date was March 1, 1972. The trend for using fashion designers to make special interiors is recognized through today, but Cardin's continues to be the most daring and outlandish. Cardin employed a very imaginative multi-colored pleated stripe pattern in tones of Chinese red, plum, white, and silver set against a black background. There are six multi-colored stripes that run from the front seats, up the doors, onto the headliner, and back down to the rear seats again in a mirror style, using a tough, but satin-like nylon with a silicone finish to protect against stains. The unusual fabric on the seat faces was produced for AMC by Chatham Mills, a veteran maker of interior fabrics. Cardin's crest appeared on the front fenders. A total of 4,152 Javelins with this special interior option (MSRP US$84.95) were made during the 1972 and 1973 model years.[1]

Production ended in October/November 1974 amidst the Arab oil embargo and overall declining interest in high performance vehicles. To AMC’s credit, the Javelin never lost its big engine option, unlike other contemporary ponycars.