Elements of the Cavalier's design were incorporated into the new 1970 model year AMC Hornet, which required tooling and final stampings by summer 1969.

[5] The rear window was recessed between the C pillars, making back area look similar to that of the General Motors' 1966–1967 "A" body platform two-door models, such as the Chevrolet Chevelle and Pontiac GTO.

[9] Safety was emphasized with wrap-around rear lights designed to illuminate alternate warning signals in green, yellow, and red.

[11] Under the innovative body panel structure, the concept vehicle had a conventional front-mounted 343 cu in (5.6 L) 280 bhp (209 kW) AMC V8 engine with rear-wheel drive (FR layout).

[12] According to Robert B. Evans, chairman of the automaker at the time, the Cavalier toured the auto show circuit to "help restore public confidence in AMC, where sales have sagged.

[13] Except for the short hood giving it equal-length front and rear decks, many of the Cavalier's styling touches found their way into the AMC Hornet that was introduced for the 1970 model year.

"The Cavalier's strong horizontal lines, flat surfaces, minimal overhangs and blockish face were all visual hints to the 1970 AMC Hornet compact.

This companion model, called the "Vixen" also forecast the 1970 Hornet appearance "in its simple blunt "face," dual headlamps, long-hood/short-deck profile, and flared wheel openings.

[18] This car featured differently styled sides and pillars to test ways of improving both visibility and roof strength, as well as gaining more interior space.