AMC Hornet SC/360
The insurance-beating compact muscle car that punched well above its weight.
- Power
- 285 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.7 s
- Top speed
- 120 mph
- Est. value
- $28k–$65k
About the AMC Hornet SC/360
The AMC Hornet SC/360 was a clever response to the skyrocketing insurance premiums that were killing traditional big-block muscle cars in the early 1970s. By stuffing a 360-cubic-inch V8 into the lightweight Hornet compact chassis, AMC created a 'sensible alternative' that offered a power-to-weight ratio capable of shaming much larger rivals. The most desirable examples feature the 'Go Package,' which adds a four-barrel carburetor and a functional Ram Air hood scoop to boost output to 285 hp. It remains a rare, one-year-only sleeper that is highly prized by AMC enthusiasts for its agility and drag-strip potential.
AMC Hornet SC/360 specs
The AMC Hornet SC/360 produces 285 bhp (213 kW) and 529 Nm (390 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h).
| Make | AMC |
|---|---|
| Model | Hornet SC/360 |
| Trim | 5.9 V8 |
| Years | 1971 |
| Type | Muscle |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 784 built |
| Original price | About $2,900 when new |
| Engine | 5.9-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,899 cc (5.9 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 285 bhp (213 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 529 Nm (390 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.7 s |
| Top speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,387 kg (3,058 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 205 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an AMC Hornet SC/360 worth?
A typical AMC Hornet SC/360 is estimated to be worth $28,000 – $65,000 (about £21,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,900.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
AMC Hornet SC/360 rarity in CarSpot
The AMC Hornet SC/360 is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 75 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
AMC Hornet SC/360 fun facts
- AMC originally planned to build 10,000 units, but high insurance rates for any performance-oriented car limited production to just 784 examples.
- The SC/360 was the only Hornet model to ever feature a functional hood scoop, which was part of the optional 'Go Package'.
- Despite its budget positioning, the SC/360 could run a 14.8-second quarter mile, making it faster than many contemporary Mustangs and Dusters.
