AMC Hornet 258 CID Inline 6 Cylinder 1974

The AMC Hornet is a compact car produced by American Motors Corporation (AMC) from 1970 to 1977. Here's what you should know about the AMC Hornet:

1. Introduction and Development: The AMC Hornet was introduced as a successor to the AMC Rambler. It was designed to compete with other compact cars of the era, such as the Ford Maverick and Chevrolet Nova.

2. Body Styles and Variants: The Hornet was available in various body styles, including a two-door coupe, four-door sedan, and five-door wagon. It was also offered in different trim levels, such as base, SST, and Sportabout.

3. Design and Styling: The Hornet featured a clean and contemporary design with straight lines and a relatively boxy shape. It had a spacious interior with comfortable seating and a functional dashboard layout.

4. Engine Options: The Hornet offered a range of engine options to suit different preferences and performance needs. These included inline-four, inline-six, and V8 engines. The engine sizes ranged from 2.0 liters to 5.0 liters, depending on the model year and trim level.

5. Performance Models: AMC introduced performance-oriented versions of the Hornet, such as the Hornet SC/360 and the Hornet AMX. These models featured sportier styling, upgraded suspension, and more powerful engines.

6. Racing and Motorsports: The AMC Hornet had a presence in motorsports, particularly in NASCAR racing. The Hornet competed in the NASCAR Grand National Series and achieved some notable successes on the track.

7. Legacy and Impact: The AMC Hornet played a role in AMC's efforts to compete in the compact car segment. While it may not have reached the same level of commercial success as some of its competitors, the Hornet still holds a place in automotive history and remains appreciated by AMC enthusiasts.

8. Pop Culture References: The Hornet gained some pop culture recognition through its appearance in movies and television shows. It was famously featured as the basis for the "Green Hornet" car in the 1966 TV series.

The AMC Hornet represented AMC's entry into the competitive compact car market. Its design, range of engine options, and participation in motorsports make it an intriguing part of automotive history. While not as widely recognized as some other classic cars, the Hornet still holds significance for AMC enthusiasts and those interested in the compact car segment of the 1970s.