6. AMC Eagle
Conceived in the late ’70s, the Eagle was AMC`s answer to the rising popularity of AWD vehicles and SUVs. They decided to combine their compact sedan and wagon lineup with the tough and proven Jeep AWD system. The result was a surprisingly good and capable vehicle with the comfort and luxury of a sedan.
It came with compact dimensions, relatively low weight and extremely good off-road characteristics. The Eagle was one of the first, if not the first crossover model in the world and only today can people see how important and influential this car was. As expected, the Eagle was a relatively popular car, especially in areas with harsh climate and long winters.
AMC even produced a coupe, wagon, compact, and convertible version of the Eagle, all with AWD systems as standard. Unfortunately, AMC was losing money elsewhere and was forced out of the business in 1987, which meant the death of the Eagle, as well.