AMC Hornet (1970)CZmarlin — Christopher Ziemnowicz — a photo credit is required if this image is used anywhere other than Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

AMC Hornet SC/360

1970 — USA

Muscle Era (1960-1974)Muscle CarEconomy / CompactAmericanV8 EngineLimited ProductionBarn Find CandidatesAmerican Muscle
Engine5,899 cc V8 OHV
Power285 hp
Torque345 lb-ft
Transmission4-speed manual (Borg-Warner T-10)
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleCoupe
Weight3,200 lbs
0–60 mph6.7 sec
Top Speed121 mph
Production784 units
Original MSRP$2,839
BrakesDisc / Drum
SuspensionIndependent, coil springs, wishbones / Live axle, leaf springs

AMC Hornet SC/360

The AMC Hornet SC/360 was the little company's big muscle car statement. Launched for 1971, it stuffed AMC's potent 360 V8 into the compact Hornet two-door sedan. With a 4-barrel carburetor producing 285 horsepower in a car weighing just 3,200 pounds, the SC/360 was a legitimate performer that could run with the big boys. AMC advertising proclaimed it 'the little car that likes to be kicked' and backed it with a competitive warranty. The bold hood scoop and sport stripes gave it visual muscle to match its mechanical credentials. Unfortunately, only 784 SC/360s were produced, making it one of the rarest American muscle cars. Rising AMC collector interest has pushed values up significantly.

$25,000 – $55,000

SC/360 models are extremely rare — only 784 built. Documentation is essential. Watch for Hornet-to-SC conversions. The 360 engine shares components with other AMC V8s. Go Package cars with 4-barrel and Ram Air are the most desirable. AMC-specific parts are getting scarce but specialists exist. Values are climbing.

Only 784 SC/360 models were built for 1971 — its only production year. Available with either 245hp 2-barrel or 285hp 4-barrel 360 V8. Go Package added Handling Package, E60x15 tires, dual exhaust, and Ram Air hood. AMC discontinued the performance model after just one year.