The ‘most American car ever made’ was left in the woods for decades and then sold for just $333
- A car detailer recovered a classic AMC Eagle saloon from a wood
- The car had been sitting in the woods for almost 20 years
- Its thorough cleaning gave the car a new lease on life
Published on May 22, 2025 at 2:22 PM (UTC+4)
by Henry Kelsall
Last updated on May 22, 2025 at 2:22 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Kate Bain
The longtime owner of ‘the most American car ever made’ left it in the woods for decades before selling it for just $333.
Car detailer Detail Dane showcased the car on his YouTube channel after discovering it lying in the woods covered in dirt.
The car, an American Motors Corporation (AMC) Eagle, had been sitting in the woods for nearly 20 years, so it was no surprise it was in such poor condition.
But as the YouTube video showed, a good amount of cleaning got it looking much better, giving this AMC Eagle another chance at life.
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This particular AMC Eagle had been sitting in the woods of Michigan for 18 years, serving as a home for squirrels, birds, and other creatures.
Dane Shemwell, the man behind the Detail Dane YouTube channel, discovered the car in Traverse City.
At first glance, it was clear the Eagle would need a lot of work to get it looking good again.
Years in the woods hadn’t been kind to the paintwork, and the car looked more like a garden feature.
But that didn’t stop Dane from getting to work on the car.
Mechanically, the Eagle was complete, with its engine under the hood and a full interior inside.
Beneath all the dirt and grime is a very smart-looking saloon, with beautiful pin-stripe lining.
After getting a basic wash, the Eagle was given a more thorough shampoo-style cleaning.
Given how bad it looked when it was discovered, the end result was shocking.
The makeover almost made the Eagle look like a new car.
Dane also detailed the interior and engine bay of the AMC, giving both a much-needed refresh.
Dane then polished up the AMC Eagle to give it a fresh, showroom finish.
The AMC Eagle was produced from 1980 until 1988, when the company fell under the Chrysler umbrella.
The Eagle holds the distinction of being one of the first production four-wheel drive cars.
Dane said that this, and other cars he detailed, are set to go on sale via Facebook Marketplace as part of a package deal.
All of those cars could be great little projects for those just starting out in car restoration.
With a company name like American Motors Corporation Eagle, it’s easy to see why this is a beloved American car.
It is also amazing to see it get a second chance at life after its detailed cleaning.
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Henry is a content writer with nearly ten years experience, having written for various publications since 2017. Qualifying with a Sports Journalism degree from Staffordshire University, Henry loves all things automotive but has a particular soft spot for classic Japanese cars and anything Lancia. He also has a curious passion for steam locomotives.
