1973 | Notion

The Hornet line expanded to four models for '73 with the addition of the new Hornet Hatchback. This was a new concept for much of the American buying market. The new Hatchback was fresh, exciting, and practical—and among the hatchbacks offered by other auto manufacturers, the Hornet Hatchback was clearly the best looking. Car and Driver called it "the styling coup of 1973," a quote AMC used frequently in its printed advertising.

This sporty two-door Hatchback seated four passengers on the same 108-inch wheelbase as other Hornet models. Its design reflects the growing demand for personal transportation that combines striking appearance with utility, passenger comfort, roominess, and operating economy.

A fold-down rear seat more than doubled luggage volume. The top-hinged, counterbalanced "Hatch" panel, combining window and trunk lid, raised and lowered easily with the help of gas springs. AMC also offered a dealer-accessory vinyl cover with mosquito netting to convert the open hatchback area into a camper.

What made it revolutionary: This car holds the "first compact hatchback" industry title. It brought a European-style hatchback concept into the U.S. compact market by combining a sporty 2-door profile with true cargo flexibility. The large, top-hinged liftgate and folding rear seat created a wide, easy-load opening and dramatically more usable space than a traditional sedan trunk, without needing a full wagon.

Few changes were made to the sedans, but the SST designation was dropped, and all models were now simply Hornet. The new three-speed synchromesh transmission was standard, while the Rallye package was no longer available. The X package was now offered only on the Sportabout and the new Hatchback.

The Sportabout wagon became available with a new upscale trim package, the D/L. The Sportabout D/L package included woodgrain panels on the outside of the doors, a roof rack with an air deflector, and individual reclining seats in plush "Scorpio" cloth.

The idea behind the new upscale D/L package was to move the average Hornet buyer up the price ladder while improving AMC's image.

Also this year, the memorable Levi's interior option was applied to upholster the Hornet with unique comfort.

Major appearance changes from the windshield forward, plus new trim and ornamentation including wraparound taillights, marked American Motors' 1973 Hornet line. A new grille, hood, and front fenders were styled to blend smoothly with the new energy-absorbing, recoverable bumper system.

The vehicle's overall length was increased 6.5 inches over last year's model due to the installation of this new bumper system.

Four engines were available with either a three-speed manual or "Torque-Command" automatic transmission. Choices included the 232 cid and 258 cid six-cylinder engines, or 304 cid and 360 cid V-8 engines. The latter delivered 175 horsepower.

Production numbers (1973 Hornet):