AMC started to rebound with the 1984 Jeep Cherokee and the 1986 YJ/Wrangler. The Grand Wagoneer, while niche, was a steady performer and was the forerunner of the 4-door Blazer (aka Tahoe) and Bronco (aka Expedition) lines.
The Eagle brand had hits and misses. The Talon (Mitsubishi Eclipse rebranded) was popular, the sedans not so much. The older AMC Concord and Eagle 4WD sedans and wagons were the predessors to crossover vehicles like the Subaru Outback and Volvo Cross Country amongst others. So in that regard AMC was really 15-20 years ahead of it’s time.
I have a rural mail carrier still driving an Eagle in my area. I’d like to know how many miles it has. You’re right, they built some good stuff. I’m going to drive my 4.0 Wrangler forever.