The demise of the American Motors Corporation (AMC) marked a profound shift in the U.S. automotive landscape, most notably transferring the iconic Jeep brand to Chrysler’s portfolio. This acquisition became a cornerstone for Chrysler, with Jeep’s Cherokee and Wrangler models driving the brand to new heights. However, with AMC’s fall, car enthusiasts were deprived of what could have been a thrilling addition to the AMC line—a turbocharged powerhouse rebadged as the AMC GTA USA, derived from the Renault Alpine GTA Turbo. [Sounds of an eagle screeching echo in the memory]
Tracing the beginnings of this could-have-been legend, one must look back to March 1984, as detailed in Losange Magazine. This was the time when the Renault Alpine GTA, yet to debut, was being readied in the wings. A two-plus-two coupe in configuration, it boasted a rear-mounted 2.5-liter turbocharged PRV V6 which powered the DeLorean, producing 200 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, ensuring a lively performance to compete with the likes of the C4 Chevy Corvette during its era.
1987 AMC GTA USA prototype. Renault via FavCars.com
FAQ About the AMC GTA USA and Renault Alpine GTA Turbo
What was the planned engine output for the AMC GTA USA?
The AMC GTA USA was set to get a 2.5-liter, single-turbo PRV V6 engine delivering 200 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, although emission equipment would later reduce the power slightly.
Did any AMC GTA USA models make it to production?
Although 21 pre-production vehicles were built by Renault, the full production run never materialized due to Renault’s withdrawal from AMC and the subsequent acquisition by Chrysler.
Do any prototypes of the AMC GTA USA still exist?
Yes, most of the pre-production prototypes still exist, with some on display in European collections and one having made its way to the United States.
What became of Renault’s interest in the AMC GTA USA?
After the assassination of Renault’s chairman Georges Besse, Renault’s commitment to the AMC partnership waned and they eventually sold their stake to Chrysler, ending plans for the GTA USA.
Were there any major changes made to the Renault Alpine GTA for the American market?
Yes, the AMC GTA USA received a number of modifications for federalization, including a steel subframe, reinforced doors, flip-up headlights, and retuned suspension, resulting in a weight increase but improved weight distribution.
Conclusion: The Fate of the AMC GTA USA
The tale of the AMC GTA USA is one of automotive history’s intriguing “what-ifs.” It stood on the cusp of shaking up the American sports car market, but its potential remained unrealized due to corporate upheavals and the unpredictable tides of the industry. Although relegated to the archives and the collections of classic car aficionados, the story of the AMC GTA USA reminds enthusiasts of the delicate intersection of innovation and market realities that so often dictates the cars we come to know and love.
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