AMC Hornet

(1969-1977)
Overview
Manufacturer	American Motors Corporation (AMC)
Also called	Rambler Hornet (Australia) Rambler American (Mexico) VAM American (Mexico)
Production	1969–1977
Model years	1970–1977
Assembly	Kenosha, Wisconsin, United States Brampton, Ontario, Canada Mexico City, Mexico (VAM) Port Melbourne, Australia (AMI) Durban, South Africa (Motor Assemblies and Toyota)
Designer	Richard A. Teague
Body and chassis
Class	Compact
Body style	2-door coupe 3-door hatchback 4-door sedan 4-door station wagon
Layout	FR layout
Platform	AMC's "junior cars"
Related	AMC Gremlin
Powertrain
Engine	199 cu in (3.3 L) I6 232 cu in (3.8 L) I6 252 cu in (4.1 L) I6 – Mexico only 258 cu in (4.2 L) I6 282 cu in (4.6 L) I6 – Mexico only 304 cu in (5.0 L) V8 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8
Transmission	3-speed "Shift-Command" automatic (1970–71) 3-speed "Torque-Command" automatic (1972–77) 3-speed manual 4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	108 in (2,743 mm)
Length	179.3 in (4,554 mm) (1970–1972) 185.8 in (4,719 mm) (1973–1977)
Width	70.6 in (1,793 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	Rambler American
Successor	AMC Concord

The AMC Hornet was a compact automobile manufactured and marketed by the American Motors Corporation (AMC) in a single generation from model years 1970 through 1977. The Hornet replaced the compact Rambler American marking the end of the Rambler marque in the American and Canadian markets. Hornets were also marketed in foreign markets, as well as assembled under license agreements with AMC that included Vehículos Automotores Mexicanos (VAM), Australian Motor Industries (AMI), and by Toyota S.A. Ltd. in South Africa.

The new Hornet became an important vehicle and platform for AMC. It served the company in one form or another for eighteen years, until the 1988 model year. It would outlast all other compact platforms from the competition that included the Chevrolet Nova, Ford Maverick, and Plymouth Valiant. The Hornet was also the basis for AMC's Gremlin, Concord, Spirit, and the innovative all-wheel drive AMC Eagle.

Origins of the "Hornet" name

The Hornet name plate goes back to the mid-1950s. The name originated from the merger of Hudson Motor Company and Nash-Kelvinator Corporation in 1954. Hudson introduced the first Hudson Hornet in 1951. The automaker formed a stock car racing team centered on the car, and the "Fabulous Hudson Hornet" soon became famous for its wins and stock-car title sweeps between 1951 and 1954. American Motors, the resulting corporation formed by the merger of Nash Motors and Hudson, continued to produce Nash-based Hornets, which were sold under the Hudson marque from 1955 to 1957. The automaker retained rights to the name while it was dormant from 1958 to 1969. The rights to the "Hornet" nameplate then passed to Chrysler with that company's acquisition of AMC in 1987.

History

The Hornet's styling was based on the AMC Cavalier and Vixen show cars. The Hornet, as well as the Ford Maverick, were considered a response by the domestic automakers to battle with the imports.

Development of the new model took AMC three years, a million man-hours, and US$40 million. The Hornet was an all-new design sharing no major body components, but utilizing some of the Rambler American's chassis and drivetrain. An all-new front suspension with anti-brake dive was developed for AMC's large-sized "senior" 1970 models, and instead of developing lighter components for the new compact-size platform, the same parts were incorporated into the Hornet.

Introduced in 1969 for the 1970 model year, the Hornet was the first car in a line of new models that AMC would introduce over the following three years, and it set the tone for what designer Richard A. Teague and chief executive officer Roy D. Chapin, Jr., had in mind for the company for the 1970s. The Hornet marked the return of AMC to its original role as a "niche" marketer specializing in small cars. It also became one of AMCs best sellers.

With its manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$1,994 for the base model, the Hornet was an economical small family car. However, it took design cues from the popular Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro, and the company's own Javelin with a long hood, short rear deck and sporty looks. The Hornet's 108-inch (2,743 mm) wheelbase platform (two inches or 5.08 centimeters longer than its predecessor the Rambler American) evolved into a number of other models (including the four-wheel-drive Eagle) and was produced through 1988. The Hornet was initially available in a choice of two thrifty straight-six engines or a 304 cu in (5.0 L) V8.

The Hornet was offered as a two-door and four-door notchback sedan in its introductory year. Unfortunately, the hardtop coupe body style was not continued from the 1969 Rambler American. A four-door station wagon variant named the "Sportabout" was added to the 1971 lineup. Also for 1971, the SC/360 was added. This was a 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8 powered performance vehicle available only as a two-door sedan. (The tire pressure sticker on the first 1970 models hinted at the SC/360). In 1973, a hatchback coupe was added to the lineup.

AMC used the Hornet as the basis for its AMC Gremlin, which consisted of the front half of the two-door Hornet's body and a truncated rear section with a window hatchback.

In 1973 a Levi's Jeans trim package - based on the world-famous jeans manufacturer - was offered. The Levi's trim package was popular and was offered throughout the mid-1970s. The station wagon version was offered with a luxury trim package designed by Italian fashion designer Dr. Aldo Gucci.

The AMC Hornet was the first U.S. made automobile to feature guardrail beam doors to protect occupants in the event of a side impact. The 1973 Hornet hatchback was the first U.S. made compact hatchback, one year ahead of the 1974 Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Nova hatchback models.

The Hornet was transformed into a "luxury compact" line of cars, the AMC Concord, as well as an innovative "crossover" all-wheel drive vehicle, the AMC Eagle.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
steering column lever (central only for 2-dr. hatchback), 2.730 3.080 3.310 axle ratios; limited slip differential; 3.080 3.310 axle ratios; C78 x 14 tyres; D70 x 14 or DR70 x 14 tyres with 6" wide rims (Sportabout D78 x 14 or D70 x 14 tyres with 6" wide rims); anti-roll bar on front suspension; power-assisted steering, variable ratio, tilt of steering wheel; servo brake; front disc brakes; front disc brakes with servo, total swept area 328.2 sq in, 2,117 sq
cm; tinted glass; electrically-heated rear window; reclining backrests except for 2-dr. hatchback; X equipment; De Luxe equipment only for Hornet Sportabout; Gucci interior onlyfor Hornet Sportabout; air-conditioning. Torque-command automatic transmission with 3 ratios (I 2.450, II 1.450, III 1, rev 2.200), possible manual selection, steering column lever, 2.370 2.730 3.080 axle ratios; 3.310 axle ratio; limited slip differential; anti-roll bar on front suspension; power-assisted steering; B78 x 14 or C78 x 14 tyres with 5" wide rims; D70 x 14 tyres with 6".

Year-by-year changes

1970

Introduced in September 1969, the first year Hornets came in "base" and higher trim SST models, and in 2 and 4-door sedans. The 199 cu in (3.3 L) straight-6 engine was standard on the base models with the 232 cu in (3.8 L) standard on the SST. The 304 cu in (5.0 L) V8 engine was optional.

1971

The 1971 model year was the introduction of the Sportabout, a 4-door wagon using a single hatch design in place of the traditional tailgate. The 2- and 4-door sedans were carryovers. The 232 I6 engine was now standard across the range.

A marketing promotion in the Spring made available a new fabric folding sunroof on specially equipped Hornets, as well as on the Gremlin. The opening roof feature was included with the purchase of whitewall tires, custom wheel covers, pinstripes or rally stripes, a light group, and a special visibility group.

SC360

A notable addition was the SC360 version, a compact 2-door muscle car that was intended as a follow-up to the 1969 SC Rambler. Powered by the AMC's 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8, the SC was distinguished by styled wheels, hood scoop, body striping, and other performance and appearance upgrades. In standard form, with two-barrel carburetor, the 360 produced 245 hp (183 kW; 248 PS) (gross) and was priced at just US$2,663 (about $40 below the 1971 Plymouth Duster 340). With the addition of the $199 "Go" package's four-barrel carburetor and ram-air induction, the SC's power increased to 285 hp (213 kW; 289 PS). Optional in place of the standard three-speed was a Hurst-shifted four-speed or an automatic transmission. Goodyear Polyglas D70x14 tires were standard, with upgrades running to the handling package and the "Twin-Grip" limited slip differential with 3.54:1 or 3.90:1 gears.

Although the SC/360 could not compete with the holdover big-engined muscle cars, the SC combined respectable quickness (0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and the 1/4 mile dragstrip in 14.9 at 95 mph (153 km/h) with a taut suspension, big tires, and modest size; thus Motor Trend magazine described it as "just a plain gas to drive ... it handles like a dream."

American Motors originally planned to build as many as 10,000 of the cars, but high insurance premiums killed the SC/360 after a single year's production of just 784 examples.

The Sportabout on the other hand was the most popular model by far, outselling all other Hornet models combined in its debut year. For most of its life it was the only American-made station wagon in its size class. 

1972

American Motors established a new focus on quality with the 1972 model year.The "Buyer Protection Plan", was the industry's first 12 month or 12,000 miles (19,000 km) comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper warranty. This innovative AMC Buyer Protection Plan included numerous mechanical upgrades to increase durability, as well as a focus on quality in sourcing and production.

The 1972 Hornet was promoted by AMC as "a Tough Little Car". American Motors promised to repair anything wrong with the car (except for the tires), owners were provided with a toll-free telephone number to the company and a free loaner car if a warranty repair took overnight.

To consolidate AMC's product offering, reduce production costs, and offer more value to consumers, the base models were dropped in 1972 and all models were designated as "SST". The SST offered more items standard than the previous year's base model at about the same price. Hornets now came with comfort and convenience items that most consumers expected, and these items were typically standard on imported cars.

Other changes included dropping the SC/360 compact muscle car, but the two-barrel version of the 360 cu in (5.9 L) remained optional in addition to the 304 cu in (5.0 L) V8 engine. For those desiring more performance, a four-barrel carburetor was a dealer-installed option on the 360 V8. Automatic transmissions were now the TorqueFlites sourced from Chrysler, and AMC called it the "Torque-Command".

New for 1972 were the "X" package that tried to repeat the success AMC had with this trim option on the 1971 Gremlin. The Hornet X trim was optional on the two-door and the Sportabout, adding among others slot-styled steel wheels, rally stripes, and sports steering wheel. A performance oriented "Rallye" package was also introduced. It included among other items: special lower body stripes, bucket seats, handling package, front disc brakes, quick-ratio manual steering, and a sports steering wheel.

Gucci Sportabout

The 1972 Hornet was notable for being one of the first American cars to offer a special luxury trim package created by a fashion designer. Named for Italian fashion designer Dr. Aldo Gucci, the Gucci package was offered only on the Sportabout, the four-door wagon with a single sloping hatch replacing the then traditional window/tailgate door. The option included special beige-colored upholstery fabrics on thickly padded seats and inside door panels (with red and green striping) along with Gucci logo emblems and a choice of four exterior colors: Snow White; Hunter Green; Grasshopper Green, and Yuca Tan. The Gucci model proved to be a success, with 2,583 produced in 1972 (and 2,252 more for 1973) Sportsbouts so equipped.

1973

The biggest visible changes among all AMC automobiles for the 1973 model year were to the Hornet line and its new model, a two-door hatchback. Car and Driver magazine called it "the styling coup of 1973". Other changes included a new front-end design and bodywork with a V-shaped grille, a slightly recessed and longer hood, and longer peaked front fenders. The facelift incorporated a new stronger and larger energy-absorbing recoverable front bumper system with a horizontal rubber strip that met the new no-damage at 5 miles per hour (8.0 km/h) NHTSA safety legislation. The rear also received a new 2.5 miles per hour (4.0 km/h) bumper with twin vertical rubber guards, but the 5 mph unit (matching the front) was optional. The overall length of the Hornet increased 6 inches (152 mm).

For the 1973 model year, the SST designation was dropped from the Hornet line, and all were simply called Hornet. The newly introduced two-door hatchback incorporated a fold-down rear seat for increased cargo volume from 9.5 to 30.5 cubic feet (269 to 864 l). An optional hinged floor made a hidden storage space that housed a temporary use "space-saver" spare tire, and created a flat load area totaling 23 cu ft (650 l). An optional dealer accessory was available to convert the open hatchback area into a tent camper with mosquito net windows. The new hatchback was available with a Levis bucket seat interior trim option that was actually made of spun nylon fabric, rather than real cotton denim, to comply with flammability standards as well as offer greater wear and stain resistance.

The two- and four-door sedan models were carried over while the Sportabout wagon received a new optional upscale "D/L" package. This trim package included exterior woodgrain body side decal panels, a roof rack with rear air deflector, and individual reclining seats upholstered in plush cloth. The Gucci edition wagon was continued for one more year with five exterior color choices. The "X" package was now available only for the Sportabout and hatchback.

Spurred by AMC's success in its strategy of improving product quality, and an advertising campaign focusing on "we back them better because we build them better" the automaker achieved record profits. American Motors' comprehensive "Buyer Protection Plan" warranty was expanded for the 1973 models to cover lodging expenses should a car require overnight repairs when the owner is away from home.

Engines incorporated new emissions controls and the choices on all Hornet models included two I6s, the standard 232 cu in (3.8 L) or a 258 cu in (4.2 L) version, as well as two V8s, the base 304 cu in (5.0 L) or the 175 hp (130 kW; 177 PS) 360 cu in (5.9 L).

1974

All four versions of the Hornet were mostly carryovers in 1974, with minimal trim changes. The car's front bumper lost its full-width vinyl rub strip, but gained two rubber-faced bumper guards. A larger rear bumper was added to meet new 5 mph legislation, and the license plate was moved up to a position between the taillights.

New inertial-reel seat/shoulder belts were standard, along with a new electronic system requiring front seat passengers to buckle up before the engine would start.

1975

Focusing on the new Pacer, AMC kept the Hornet mostly the same. A new grille with vertical grating was the primary change. A new "Touring Package" included special upholstery and luxury features. In a return to its philosophy of economical compact cars, AMC emphasized its comprehensive "Buyer Protection Plan" warranty in marketing the Hornets.

Six-cylinder Hornets could be ordered with a new British supplied Laycock de Normanville "J-type" overdrive. Optional on cars with a manual three-speed transmission, the unit was controlled by a pushbutton at the end of the turn signal stalk. The overdrive unit engages automatically at speeds above 35 miles per hour (56 km/h) and drops out at 32 mph (51 km/h). It also included an accelerator pedal kickdown switch for faster passing.

All U.S. market Hornets featured catalytic converters and now required unleaded fuel. "Unleaded Fuel Only" warnings were displayed on both the fuel gauge and fuel filler. Consumers complained loudly about the 1974 "mandatory seat belt" system, and it was replaced in 1975 with a simple reminder buzzer and light.

1976

In its sixth year as a carryover, AMC priced the sedan and hatchback at the same identically, with the Sportabout slightly higher. That year, the Dodge Aspen and Plymouth Volare were introduced; the line included a station wagon, ending AMC's monopoly on 6-cylinder domestic compact wagons.

1977

The Hornet line was mostly unchanged for 1977 with improvements made to engines and transmissions for increased fuel efficiency and the effects of new nitrogen oxides (NO_x) emission standards. All 3-speed manual transmissions were now on the floor.

AMX

A new sports oriented model, the AMX, was introduced to appeal to young, performance-oriented car buyers. The AMX was available only as a hatchback with the I6 or V8 engine featuring a floor shifted 4-speed manual or automatic transmission. Standard was an upgraded black or tan interior with a floor console, "rally" instrumentation with tachometer, and "soft-feel" sports steering wheel. The special "Hornet AMX" was only available in four exterior colors that included matching painted bumpers with a wraparound rubber guard strip, body side rubber guard strip and contrasting AMX model identification bodyside decals ahead of the rear wheels. The exterior included a front spoiler integrated into the front lower fender extensions, rear lower fender flares, sport-styled road wheels, brushed aluminum "Targa top" band over the B-pillars and roof, black left and right outside mirrors, and louvers for the rear hatch window. Options included bright aluminum road wheels and large Hornet-graphic decals on the hood and on the decklid. This model marked the return of a famous name that evoked AMC's original AMX two-seat sports car.

In fall 1977, the Hornet was reengineered and restyled to become the 1978 Concord and helped establish the "luxury compact" market segment. With its upgraded design, components, and more standard features, the new Concord was moved upscale from the economy-focused Hornet. Changes to the AMC's "junior" platform made the new Concord more comfortable and desirable to buyers seeking an image of luxury, as well as greater value.

PERFORMANCE

• PERFORMANCE: 232 cu in, 3,802 cc (100hp)
  max power (DIN): 100 hp at 3,600 rpm
  max torque (DIN): 185 1b ft, 25.5 kg m at 1,800 rpm
  max engine rpm: 4.500; 26.3 hp/l
  max speed: about 93 mph, 150 km/h
  power-weight ratio: Hornet SST 4-door Sedan 27.4 lb/hp, 12.4 kg/hp
  speed in direct drive at 1,000 rpm: 20.5 mph, 33 km/h
  fuel consumption: 20.6 m/ imp gal, 17.2 m/ US gal, 13.7 1 x 100 km.
• PERFORMANCE: 258 cu in, 4,228 cc (110 hp)
  max speed: about 102 mph, 164 km/h
  power-weight ratio: Hornet 4-dr. sedan 26.2 lb/hp, 11.9 kg/hp
  fuel consumption: 18.8 m/ imp gal, 15.7 m/.US gal, 15 1 x km 100.
  max power (DIN): 110 hp at 3,500 rpm
  max torque (DIN): 195 1b ft, 26.9 kg m at 2,000 rpm
  max engine rpm: 3.900 26 hp/l.
• PERFORMANCE: 304 cu in, 4,982 cc (150hp)
  max power (DIN): 150 hp at 4,200 rpm
  max torque (DIN): 245 1b ft, 33.8kg m at 2.500 rpm
  max engine rpm: 4,600; 30.5 hp/l
  max speed: about 104 mph, 167 km/h
  power-weight ratio: Hornet 4-dr. sedan 20.1 lb/hp, 9.4 kg/hp
  speed in direct drive at 1,000 rpm: 27.8 mph, 44.7 km/h
  fuel consumption: 18.6 m/imp gal, 15.5 m/US gal, 15.2 1 x 100 km.
• PERFORMANCE: 360 cu in, 5.899 cc (175hp)
  max power (DIN): 175 hp at 4.000 rpm
  max torque (DIN): 285 1b ft. 39.3 kg m at 2,400 rpm
  max engine rpm: 4.400; 29.7 hp/l
  max speed: about 108 mph, 174 km/h
  power-weight ratio: Hornet 4-dr. sedan 18.3 lb/hp, 8.3 kg/hp
  speed in direct drive at 1,000 rpm: 27.7 mph, 44.5 km/h
  fuel consumption: 18.1 m/imp gal, 15.1 m/US gal, 15.6 1x 100 km.

International markets

The AMC Hornet was exported to international markets, as well as assembled under license from Complete knock down (CKD) kits that were shipped from AMC's factories the U.S. or Canada. The foreign built cars incorporated numerous components and parts that were produced by local manufacturers to gain tax or tariff preferences.

Australia

A total of 1,825 Hornets were built at the Australian Motor Industries (AMI) factory at Port Melbourne in Victoria, Australia between 1970 and 1975. The Hornet was sold in Australia as the Rambler Hornet, in four-door sedan form only. It was fitted with either a 232 cu in (3.8 L) or 258 cu in (4.2 L) six-cylinder engine and with automatic transmission.

While the Hornet was the least expensive compact model in the United States, the Hornet in Australia was a luxury model, with high levels of trim, carpet, tires, and accessories. These included high-back seats, fully lined boot and covered spare wheel.The Hornet used a PBR fully assisted dual braking system, and front disc brakes from the Javelin Trans Am. The Hornet sold for $3999 in 1970, with 407 cars being sold in Australia in that year.

Mexico

American Motors has partial ownership of Vehículos Automotores Mexicanos (VAM) and produced Hornets in Mexico from 1970 through 1977. The VAM built cars continued to be called VAM Rambler following the tradition of the VAM-built Rambler American models up to 1974.

VAM Rambler American

The initial VAM Rambler Americans were restricted to a single nameless trim level (equivalent to the U.S. SST models), with only an optional performance-minded "Rally" package for the two-door sedans that was carried over from 1969. The Hornet-based VAM Rambler American featured a standard a 232 cu in (3.8 L) I6 producing 145 hp (108 kW; 147 PS) with a 244 degree camshaft, 8.5:1 compression ratio, and a single-barrel Carter RBS or YF carburetor. A fully synchronized three-speed manual transmission with column-mounted shifter and a 3.54:1 rear differential gear ratio was standard. The cars came with four-wheel drum brakes, manual steering, four-rigid-bladed engine fan, and regular cooling system. Convenience equipment on the VAM Rambler American included a two-tone padded dashboard with a three-pod instrument cluster, "RAMBLER" emblem on the glove box door, electric windshield wipers and washers, a 200 km/h speedometer, side marker lights, four-way hazard lights, antitheft steering column locking mechanism, base steering wheel, brake system warning light, AM radio, front ashtray, cigarette lighter, locking glove box, padded sunvisors, day/night rearview mirror, cardboard-type sound-absorbing headliner, round dome light, dual coat hooks, flip-open rear side vents, full carpeting, driver's side rubber floor mat sewed to the carptet, front bench seat with split folding backs (two doors), front bench seat with fixed back (four door), bench rear seat, two-point front seatbelts, dual rear ashtrays, front and rear side armrests, vinyl-cloth upholstery on seats and side panels, aluminum grille, backup lights, base wheels with center hubcaps, dual "232 SIX" rear quarter panel emblems, dual "bulleye" emblems on the lower corner of the rear side vents, script "American" emblems on both front fenders, capital lettered "RAMBLER" rectangular emblem between the right taillight and the gas filler, non-locking gas cap, manual driver's side remote mirror, and radio antenna. Optional equipment consisted of the heating system with windshield defroster, power drum brakes, power steering, bright molding package, protective side moldings, parcel shelf, courtesy lights (separate or in-shelf), 6000 RPM VDO tachometer with dual hands, luxury wheel covers, sports steering wheel, custom steering wheel, passenger's side remote morror, remote-controlled driver's side remote mirror, bright panel between taillights, metal bumper guards with rubber edges, full vinyl roof with additional bright moldings, heavy duty suspension (front sway bar and stiffer adjustable shocks).

The VAM Rambler American sedans for 1971 were almost the same from the 1970 models. Among the changes was the incorporation of VAM's 266 degree camshaft to the 232 engine replacing AMC's 244 degree unit. Despite power increase, the official announced output of the engine was still 145 gross hp at 4,400 rpm. New interior colors, side armrest and side panel designs were available. The AM radio was updated to a newer model. The new year introduced the Hornet Sportabout-based Camioneta Rambler American. The station wagon carried the same equipment as both sedan models with only a few exceptions making it more luxurious. The Camioneta Rambler American included the parcel shelf with courtesy lights as standard equipment and was the only Mexican Hornet version to be available with a three-speed automatic transmission as optional equipment. Units with this transmission kept the one-barrel 145 hp 232 six while those with manual transmission had the 155 hp 232 six with Carter WCD carburetor. For 1972, all VAM models obtained the same engineering revisions and upgrades of their AMC counterparts. All Rambler American units regardless of transmission or body style were limited to the 145 hp 232 engine and carried the front sway bar as standard equipment. The 1971 model year also included a new plastic grille with a revised hood latch, along with a new tail light design with larger backup lights, a new optional wheel cover design, a third AM radio model shared with the VAM Javelin and new interior door panels. The Camioneta Rambler American featured the Chrysler TorqueFlyte A904 automatic transmission, replacing the previous Borg-Warner units.

The 1973s were redesigned and incorporated a new front clip design with larger horizontal rectangular side marker lights, semi squared headlight bezels, and a "V-shaped grille and hood edge. The front bumper was also AMC's five-mile-per-hour safety unit but it did not incorporate the recovering shocks; in place were regular rigid bumper mounts as in the previous years. The auto industry safety standards in Mexico were less restrictive than in the US; thus, the recovering shocks were not mandated, making VAM's Hornets have their bumpers placed closer to the body than their AMC counterparts. The 232 engine was replaced by the AMC 258 cu in (4.2 L) I6 rated at 170 hp (127 kW; 172 PS) gross with Carter RBS/YF one-barrel carburetor, 266 degree camshaft, and 8.5:1 compression ratio. The three-speed automatic transmission for the first time became available in the sedan models as an option and the rear differential gear ratio changed to 3.31:1 in all units. The rest of the novelties were reduced to new side uphosltery panels, longer narrower inside door latches, rubber handles for the lighter and wipers/washer knobs, slightly changed tail light lens, the deletion of the rectangular "RAMBLER" emblem in favor of the manuscript "American" unit on the rear panel, "258" emblems replacing the "232 SIX" rectangular ones, the complete removal of the bullseye emblems over the C-pillar bases. The 1974 Rambler American was almost the same as its immediate predecessor. The only large difference was the presence of the rear five-mile-per-hour bumper and the rear licence plate relocated to the center of the rear panel over the gas filler. The standard wheels for the year were VAM's all-new 14x6 five-spoke design with volcano hubcaps. The 258 six obtained an evaporative canister to reduce emissions, and a slightly lower 8.3:1 compression ratio. However, in the mid-year the compression ratio was lowered even more to 7.6:1. In both cases, the engines were still advertised as having an output of 170 hp. Seats and door panels got slight revisions from the designs of the year before.

VAM American

The introduction of the Gremlin line by VAM in 1974, which became the company's most affordable model from the moment it appeared, created a gap between the lower end Rambler American line and the higher end Classic line (the situation was also applicable to the Javelin line despite being discontinued in 1973). The VAM Rambler American was restricted to the economy segment since its introduction to the Mexican market, the only exceptions to this being the luxury limited edition Rambler American Hartop (Rambler American 440H in US) for 1963 and 1965 plus the sporty Rambler American Rally (Rambler American Rogue and Hornet Rallye X/Hornet X in US) from 1969 through 1974. On top of this, the Hornet-based Rambler American had been on the market for five seasons at the time and despite its still high acceptance and positive image among the public it was vital to keep it fresh as far as possible. The chosen procedure was to lift the model from the economy to the mid segment announcing the change as an all new generation introduced for 1975. The first step was changing the name from Rambler American to just American, marking the end of the Rambler name in AMC's products for Mexico in the public. The greatest change was the creation of the new luxury American ECD trim level followed by revised and improved American Rally and American base models, which helped to distance the line further from the Gremlin. The cars in all versions obtained substantial updates and upgrades in all aspects with no exception.

The American base model in its first year was characterized by incorporating all-new designs for the parking lights, grille and headlight bezels. Mechanically, manual front disk brakes were equipped from the factory and the 258 six cylinder engine sported electronic ignition. Specifications were kept from the year before with a 7.6:1 compression ratio, 266 degree camshaft, 170 horse power and the single-barrel Carter carburetor. Probably the strongest differences with the prior models rely in the interior with all-new side panels and seat patterns. The two-tone dashboard was replaced by a color-keyed unit with a new "American" emblem on the glove box door and a standard fuel economy gauge. Units equipped with automatic transmission would normally include the heater and power steering without extra cost, the former was made standard on the wagons. The 1976 models were almost the same; their differences were limited to a compression ratio increase for the 258 six from 7.6:1 to 8.0:1. New gauges appeared in the form of a new 160 km/h speedometer and revised warning lights, sunvisors were redesigned to larger units with bending portions, a new dome light lens, new seat and side panel designs and the possibility of ordering a rear defroster out of the option list. On the contrary, 1977 models saw a wide array of changes. The most noticeable aspect is the incorporation of the new front clip that AMC intended to make exclusive for the Gremlin line. The two-point seatbelts were replaced by fixed three-point units. The Carter RBS carburetor was discotinued leaving only the YF model on the 258 six. Units with manual transmission were changed to floor-mounted gearshift and individual fold down seats while those with automatic transmission kept the bench seat with split folding backs and column-mounted shifter. Once again, seats and door panels were recreated. A new "American" emblem with different typograhpy was applied to glove box door.

Rambler American Rally and VAM American Rally

The sporty Rally package in 1970 consisted of a sports steering wheel, wide reclining individual front seats, floor-mounted Hurst-linked three-speed manual transmission with shifter locking mechanism connected to the steering wheel ignition switch, full bright molding package including rear panel overlay between the tail lights, two courtesy lights and a 160 HP, 9.8:1 compression ratio 232 six cylinder with Carter WCD carburetor designed by VAM's engineering department. It was a continuation of the 1969 version with a longer list of equipment and several engineering improvements. The "Rally" model as a sporty Hornet was available a full year ahead of AMC's Hornet SC/360 and two years ahead of the Hornet X and Hornet Rallye-X models. The Rambler American Rally for 1971 saw only minor changes; the manuscript "American" fender emblems were replaced by manuscript "Rally" units, seat controls were revised and new side panels and steering wheel designs became present along a with a different AM radio model. The Rally package became a trim level for 1972, losing the shifter locking mechanism and having front sway bar and the previously optional 8000 RPM tachometer as standard equipment along with AMC's new three-arm sports steering wheel. Smaller more bucket-like front seats appeared and the shifter based was changed from being round to squared. The bright rear panel and taillight lenses got new designs and the grille was changed from being made of metal to plastic. The Rally's engine was changed to the 170 gross HP at 4,600 revolutions per minute, 9.5:1 compression ratio inhouse VAM 252 six for 1972, which incorporated a high-flow Carter RBS-PV1 single-barrel carburetor and the 266 degree camshaft. A 170 gross HP, 8.5:1 compression ratio AMC 258 with 266 degree camshaft and single-barrel Carter RBS or YF carburetor was used for 1973. This year also saw, aside from the new front clip design, the first set of high-back bucket seats and a fully standardized parcel shelf, even though the reclining mechanism of the seats was removed. The front end was completely updated as in the standard Rambler American models except for the unique charatceristic of the blackouted grille. The 1974 Rallys incorporated the first set of VAM side decals and five-spoke wheels plus a T-shaped Hurst shifter, aside from new five-mile-per-hour rear bumper and relocated rear licence plate.

The shift in concept for VAM's compact model was also present in its sporty version. The "new" 1975 American Rally obtained electronic ignition, manual front disk brakes and a TREMEC 170-F four speed manual transmission with Hurst linkage (most units). The interiors were completely reworked with higher luxury and sportiness plus the presence of the heater as standard equipment. All previously exposed metal parts like the top edge of the doors and sides were covered, the dashboard changed from being two-tone to color-keyed, and the door panels obtained an etched "Rally" emblem on their top front corners. The 1976 Rally models switched to the 200 HP 7.7:1 compression ratio VAM 282 with Holley 2300 two-barrel carburetor and 266 degree camshaft, power front disk brakes, power steering and tinted windshield passed on to the standard equipment list. New seat patterns and side panel designs (without the etched Rally emblem) were used and gauges were changed to a 160 km/h speedometer and 6,000 RPM tachometer. The 1977 American Rallys obtained a more powerful 8.0:1 compression ratio 282 with an upgraded head design, high-back bucket seats with new patterns and reclining mechanism (for the first time since 1972), three-point retractable front seatbelts, a VAM-designed digital tachomoter as well as AMC's Gremlin front clip for the year.

The Rally incorporated D70x14 radial tires in all years and rear gear ratios of 3.54:1 (1970–1972), 3.31:1 (1973–1976) and 3.07:1 (1977). The American Rally was discontinued in 1977 along with all other Hornet-based VAM Americans. It would find a successor in the 1978 American Rally AMX model (VAM's version of the 1978 AMC Concord AMX) meaning a change from being a sedan into a hacthback coupe.

American ECD and American GFS

In 1975, the VAM American obtained its third trim level to accompany the nameless base and Rally ones. Such a trim level was the American ECD (Edición Cantos Dorados, Golden Touches Edition), the first regular-production luxury compact ever made by VAM, being the equivalent of the US AMC Hornet DL models. The American ECD was restricted to both sedan models while the wagon remained designationless. The ECD included a 258 six, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes (since 1977), heater, luxury steering wheel, vacuum gauge (1975 only), electric clock (since 1976), high-trim upholstery, parcel shelf, courtesy lights, tinted windshield (since 1976), full bright molding package, wheel covers, vinil roof, and golden "ECD" emblems on the base of each C-pillar. One noticeable difference between the two-door American ECD and the four-door version is that the first has individual high back seats with floor-mounted transmission while the latter had a bench seat with column-mounted shifter. For 1977 the two-door model got a new exclusive designation of its own resulting in the creation the American GFS (Grand Formula Sport), thus reserving the ECD nameplate to the four-door sedan. The 1977 American GFS incorporated a half Landau-type vinyl top carrying the roof Targa band AMC used for the 1977 Hornet AMX models and shortened rear side windows. AMC liked this styling touch and used it for its 1978–1979 Concord DL/Limited two-door models (except for the Targa band). Unlike the 1977 American ECD, the 1977 American GFS had the 282 six under the hood instead of the 258 and a 3.07:1 rear differential gear ratio instead of the 3.31:1 one. The station wagon (Camioneta American) offered an optional package for 1977. If the automatic transmission was ordered, it include all the accessories and features of the GFS/ECD models including the change from the 258 six to the 282. These station wagons had no name other than "Camioneta Automática" (automatic wagon).

The engines in VAM models were based on AMC designs, but modified and built by VAM. Unique to Mexico included the 252 cu in (4.1 L) and 282 cu in (4.6 L) I6 engines. These were designed to cope with low octane fuel and the high altitudes encountered in Mexico.

South Africa

Both Nash and Hudson models were assembled under license in South Africa for many years. In the 1960s, AMC's compact Rambler model had entered the market and was assembled at the Jacobs plant in Durban by Motor Assemblies Limited. In South Africa, the Hornet's predecessor (the Rambler American) was marketed through the 1970 model year. The Ramblers were assembled by Toyota South Africa Ltd, a company that was wholly owned by South Africans, and serviced by 220 Toyota dealers. Starting in 1971, the new Hornet was built and continued to be marketed under the Rambler brand.

James Bond movie  The Man with the Golden Gun.

As part of a significant product placement movie appearance by AMC, a 1974 Hornet X Hatchback is featured in the James Bond film: The Man with the Golden Gun, where Roger Moore made his second appearance as the British secret agent.

The film's "most outrageous sequence" begins with Sheriff J.W. Pepper, who on holiday in Thailand with his wife, admiring a new red AMC Hornet in a Bangkok showroom. He is about to test drive the car. The action begins as secret agent 007 commandeers the Hornet from the dealership with Pepper in it for a car chase. The Hornet performs an "airborne pirouette as it makes a hold-your-breath jump across a broken bridge".

The stunt car is significantly modified with a redesigned chassis to place the steering wheel in the center and a lower stance, as well as larger wheel wells compared to the stock Hornet used in all the other movie shots. The 360-degree mid-air twisting corkscrew was captured in just one filming sequence. Seven tests were performed in advance before the one jump performed by an uncredited British stuntman "Bumps" Williard for the film with six (or 8, depending on the source) cameras simultaneously rolling. Two frogmen were positioned in the water, as well as an emergency vehicle and a crane were ready, but not needed. The Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory (CAL) was used for computer modeling to calculate the stunt. The modeling called for a 1,460.06 kg (3,219 lb) weight of car and driver, the exact angles and the 15.86-metre (52 ft) distance between the ramps, as well as the 64.36-kilometre-per-hour (40 mph) launch speed.

This stunt was similar to the Astro Spiral Javelin show cars. These were jumps performed in AMC sponsored thrill shows in the Houston Astrodome, where Gremlins and Hornets were also used to drive around in circles on their side two wheels in the arena.

Months of difficult work went into the scene that lasts only fifteen seconds in the movie. The Guinness World Records 2010 book describes this "revolutionary jump" as the "first astro spiral used in a movie" and lists it as third among the top ten James Bond film stunts.

The actual Bond Hornet is preserved in the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, UK together with other famous items owned by the Ian Fleming Foundation and used in the 007 films.

The Man With The Golden Gun AMC Hornet