a version, as well as two V8s, the base or the . Any Hornet model could be ordered with the two-barrel 360 engine and automatic transmission. Demand for classic muscle car cars had disappeared by 1973, but the Hornet was a relatively light car and was a "mildly spirited performer" in stock form with the new emissions gear. A Hornet hatchback with the 360 V8 was tested by Car and Driver. The 0-60 time was 8.4 seconds with a 3.15 rear axle ratio and the magazine noted that the Hornet hatchback was "...so good that AMC is sure to finally lose its underdog status." A comparison road test by Popular Science selected the most "trend-setting" and "deluxe compacts" with V8 engines. The Hornet hatchback model was described as "one of the most modern cars on the market" and the and automatic transmission-equipped Hornet hatchback recorded 0-60 acceleration 12.1 seconds and fuel economy. Another Popular Science road test of compact four-door sedans compared the AMC Hornet , Ford Maverick , Chevrolet Nova , and Plymouth Valiant . The Hornet was described as having an interior 'filled with features to make riding and driving more enjoyable" as well as good braking, handling, and maneuverability. The test car's V8 "beat all the competition for best acceleration, and then beat them again in fuel economy." Research sponsored by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to improve front and side crashworthiness was first applied into production compact vehicles starting with the 1973 Hornet, which included stronger doors designed to withstand penetration in the first of crush. 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. Suggested prices began at $2,298 for the base model two-door sedan with the more popular new hatchback going for $2,449. 1973 production: 2-door: 23,187 4-door: 25,452 Wagon: 44,719 (Gucci version: 2,251) Hatchback: 40,110 1974 All four versions of the Hornet were mostly carryovers in 1974, with minimal trim changes. The front bumper lost its full-width vinyl rub strip but gained two rubber-faced bumper guards. A larger energy-absorbing rear bumper was added to meet new front and