the new model took AMC three years, a million man-hours, and US$40 million. The Hornet was an all-new design. An all-new front suspension with anti-brake dive was developed for AMC's large-sized "senior" 1970 models, and instead of developing lighter components for the new compact-size platform, the same parts were incorporated into the Hornet. The design incorporated AMC's numerous innovative features and groundbreaking ideas. Introduced in 1969 for the 1970 model year, the Hornet was the first car in a line of new models that AMC would introduce over the following three years, and it set the tone for what designer Dick Teague and chief executive officer Roy D. Chapin, Jr., had in mind for the company for the 1970s. AMC Hornet continued the maker's role as a "niche" marketer specializing in small cars. It also became one of AMCs best sellers. With its manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$1,994 for the base model, the Hornet was an economical small family car. The Hornet's wheelbase platform (two inches or 5.08 centimeters longer than its predecessor, the Rambler American) evolved into a number of other models (including the four-wheel-drive Eagle) and was produced through 1988. The Hornet was initially available in a choice of two thrifty straight-six engines or a V8. The Hornet was offered as a two-door and four-door notchback sedan in its introductory year. The hardtop (no "B" pillar) coupe body style was not continued from the 1969 Rambler American. In April 1970, a mid-model year introduction used the Hornet as the basis for the AMC Gremlin, which consisted of the front half of the two-door Hornet's body and a truncated rear section with a window hatchback. A four-door station wagon variant named the "Sportabout" was added to the 1971 lineup. It featured a steeply raked hatchback rather than a traditional station wagon tailgate. American Motors was careful not to describe the new body style as a traditional station wagon. Advertising emphasized that "it's not much a station wagon as it is a sporty car with cargo space" and that the Sportabout is in a class by itself because it "combines fun with function." Also for the 1971 model year, the SC/360 was added. This was a V8-powered compact muscle car that was available only as a two-door sedan. For 1973, a semi-fastback hatchback coupe with fold-down rear seats was added to the lineup. In 1973 a Levi's Jeans