Gremlin Car Engine
History
The Gremlin car engine was first introduced in 1970 by American Motors Corporation (AMC). It was a 232 cu in (3.8 L) inline-six engine with a cast-iron block and head. The Gremlin engine was designed to be economical and reliable, and it was used in a variety of AMC vehicles, including the Gremlin, Hornet, and Javelin.
In 1972, AMC introduced a larger 258 cu in (4.2 L) version of the Gremlin engine. This engine was more powerful than the 232 cu in engine, and it was used in higher-performance AMC vehicles, such as the AMX and Matador.
The Gremlin engine was discontinued in 1978, when AMC was acquired by Chrysler. However, the engine continued to be used in some Chrysler vehicles, such as the Dodge Aspen and Plymouth Volare, until 1981.
Design
The Gremlin car engine was a simple and robust design. It had a cast-iron block and head, and it was equipped with a single overhead camshaft. The engine was designed to be easy to maintain and repair, and it was known for its reliability.
The Gremlin engine was available with a variety of options, including a two-barrel or four-barrel carburetor, a manual or automatic transmission, and a variety of axle ratios. The engine could also be equipped with a variety of performance upgrades, such as a hotter camshaft, a larger carburetor, and a free-flowing exhaust system.
Performance
The Gremlin car engine was not particularly powerful, but it was efficient and reliable. The 232 cu in engine produced 128 hp (95 kW) and 190 lb-ft (258 Nm) of torque, while the 258 cu in engine produced 150 hp (112 kW) and 245 lb-ft (332 Nm) of torque.
The Gremlin engine was not designed for speed, but it was capable of providing adequate performance for most driving conditions. The engine was also known for its good fuel economy, which was important during the 1970s oil crisis.
Applications
The Gremlin car engine was used in a variety of AMC vehicles, including:
- Gremlin
- Hornet
- Javelin
- AMX
- Matador
The Gremlin engine was also used in some Chrysler vehicles, including:
- Dodge Aspen
- Plymouth Volare
Legacy
The Gremlin car engine was not a particularly powerful or exciting engine, but it was a reliable and efficient workhorse. The engine was used in a variety of AMC and Chrysler vehicles, and it helped to power these vehicles for many years.
The Gremlin engine is no longer in production, but it remains a popular choice for classic car enthusiasts. The engine is known for its simplicity, reliability, and affordability, and it is a great choice for anyone looking for a classic car engine that is easy to maintain and repair.
