For Lindsay McKenzie, the pursuit of owning a 1970 Rambler Rebel SST Coupe was not just a whim but a decades-long odyssey. The Rebel SST, revered among American muscle car enthusiasts, is celebrated for its unique blend of style, performance, and rarity. With its 304 V8 engine, the Rebel offers a potent mix of power and character, encapsulated in a design that stands out even among its contemporaries. Its right-hand drive configuration, a special feature for this particular model built in Kenosha, USA, adds a layer of exclusivity, making it a prized possession in the classic car community.
McKenzie’s story begins in 1983, under the dim lights of a Friday night in Timaru, where a dark blue Rebel SST with a “For Sale” sign caught his eye. The car, with its vinyl roof and black interior, was in surprisingly tidy condition for its age. However, the absence of contact details meant McKenzie had to return later, only to find the car had vanished by Sunday. What followed was years of inquiries and searches, all in vain, until the car seemed more like a ghost than a tangible goal.
The trail picked up again in 1997 when whispers of a similar blue Rebel SST coming to Oamaru sparked hope. However, this car had been repainted a lighter blue with a matching interior, leading McKenzie to believe it was a different car. It wasn’t until after he acquired the vehicle that he learned it was indeed the same car from Timaru, its interior once black, then stripped back to blue by subsequent owners.
The car’s journey had been tumultuous. Saved from a wrecker’s yard in Christchurch in 1982 by Alvan Jones, it bore the scars of a badly crushed trunk lid, which Jones ingeniously repaired by adapting a sedan’s lid. After some cosmetic upgrades, including a fresh coat of paint and a vinyl roof, the car was briefly on sale when McKenzie first encountered it.
The 1980s were not kind to the Rebel; it endured rough handling and substandard repairs, diminishing its once-proud appearance. Yet, its inherent allure as a piece of automotive history persisted.
The narrative took a fortuitous turn in June 2016 at a garage sale in Weston, where McKenzie, initially there for a V8 engine, stumbled upon his long-lost treasure. Now, the owner, overwhelmed by the prospect of restoration, was ready to let go of the Rebel. This was the moment McKenzie had waited for—33 years of searching culminating in the acquisition of a car steeped in personal history and automotive legend.
Under McKenzie’s stewardship, the Rebel SST has been restored to a condition that not only revives its original splendour but also celebrates the spirit of muscle car enthusiasts who value rarity, performance, and the stories these cars carry. The 1970 Rambler Rebel SST, in his hands, has transcended from a mere vehicle to a testament of perseverance, passion, and the enduring appeal of classic American muscle cars.
A Timeless Classic Reborn: The 1970 Rambler Rebel SST
In the world of classic American muscle cars, few restorations shine as brightly as that of the 1970 Rambler Rebel SST Hardtop Coupe, now restored to its former glory and beyond. Here’s a closer look at the car that has captured hearts with its immaculate finish:
Engine: A robust 304 V8, delivering 210 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and a hefty 305 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm. Bore and stroke dimensions are 3.75 × 3.50 inches, ensuring a balance between power and performance.
Dimensions: With a wheelbase of 114 inches, a length of 199 inches, and a width of 77.24 inches, this car commands presence on the road. The tread on both front and rear is an even 60 inches.
Transmission: An automatic transmission with a floor shifter and a stylish console, enhancing the driving experience with both functionality and aesthetics.
Comfort and Convenience:
- Seating: High back bucket seats provide comfort and support.
- Steering: Power steering for effortless control.
- Braking: Power brakes with disc brakes at the front for superior stopping power.
- Suspension: Front and rear sway bars for improved handling.
Performance Enhancements:
- Gear Ratio: A 2.87 differential ratio tailored for optimal driving dynamics.
- Exhaust: Twin exhaust with factory hangers, adding both performance and that unmistakable muscle car sound.
Exterior Enhancements:
- Protection: Front and rear bumper guards along with a fuel filler guard.
- Lighting: A comprehensive light package including map, glove box, and trunk illumination.
Interior Luxuries:
- Dash: Adorned with a walnut panel kit for a touch of elegance.
- Windows: Tinted for privacy and comfort.
- Steering: Tilt mechanism and a two-tone steering wheel for personalized driving comfort.
- Conveniences: Includes a tissue dispenser, vanity mirror on the passenger sunvisor, and a handbrake warning light.
Additional Features:
- Electricals: Electric wiper and washer system for visibility in all weather conditions.
Historical Note:
This particular model was built as right-hand drive at the American Motors plant in Kenosha, USA, and originally sold by Federal Motors in Christchurch to Rod Steel of Steel Brothers in the same city in 1970. It bore the original plate number “DI 2399”.
Current Ownership: Proudly owned by Lindsay McKenzie from Oamaru, who expresses profound gratitude to “Muscle and Classic Restorations” in Christchurch for their meticulous work on the body, paint, and numerous other details that made this restoration a masterpiece.
This Rambler Rebel SST stands not just as a testament to automotive history but as a beacon of what dedication to preservation can achieve. Its journey from a relic of the past to a stunning showpiece is a story of passion, precision, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
MagentaDot Brands 
Wow, what a story!!! 33 years looking for the car, that is amazing.
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