Reviving old nameplates and designs is nothing new in the car industry. For decades, carmakers have looked to the past for inspiration and direction. Most of the cars that received a remake have been very successful in cashing in on people’s nostalgia and memories. Just look at the current Charger and Challenger models, Chevrolet Camaro, and new Jeep Wagoneer.
The trick is to present something recognizable but in a modern package and with modern tech, like the brand-new Hummer EV. The new Hummer has nothing in common with the old one except for its size, but people have recognized it and demand has suppressed the supply. However, the American car industry has dozens of legendary models, advanced concepts, and great ideas. Even though Detroit resurrected quite a few models, much more is still possible. Here is our take on the best American vehicles that desperately need a modern remake.
AMC Eagle
It’s interesting to see how some automobile manufacturers were ahead of their time. One of those manufacturers is the American Motors Company (AMC). Always flirting with bankruptcy, AMC needed to explore the limits of conventional car classes and present new concepts to stay profitable. One of their experiments was the Eagle, a passenger car lineup with Jeep-derived all-wheel drive. It also had excellent off-road capabilities in a sedan, wagon, or coupe form. AMC conceived it in the late ’70s as their answer to the rising popularity of AWD vehicles and SUVs. They decided to combine their compact sedan and wagon lineup with the tough, proven Jeep AWD system. The result was a surprisingly capable vehicle with the comfort and luxury of a sedan (via Motor Trend).
The Eagle was one of the first crossover models in the world. Only today can car fans see how important and influential this car was. As expected, the Eagle was a relatively popular car, especially in areas with harsh climates and long winters. The Chrysler Corporation is the owner of the AMC name, so hopefully, some executive will decide to reintroduce the Eagle to the world. AMC could use the same sedan body as the Jeep all-wheel-drive system to achieve better success than the original model. Today, 30 years after they discontinued the Eagle, people can see how influential it was. The crossover class the Eagle kickstarted way back when is one of the most popular global market segments. The creators of the original AMC Eagle should be proud.