The Best American Muscle Cars

April 9, 2023

There are many debates to be had amongst car enthusiasts; from top imports to worst truck designs. However, one conversation which always sparks big discussion is American muscle cars. From the golden age of muscle cars in the seventies to recent models, there have been a plethora of icons in the best fifty years that have made America proud. Compiled is a list discussing some of the top American muscle cars ever built, all known for their aesthetics, speed, and power.

1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

During the 1970s, automakers in the muscle car market were virtually forced to reduce horsepower and acknowledge the surge in gas costs. Pontiac decided to go against the grain with their 1978 Firebird Trans Am. Power for this beast was kicked up to 220 horsepower and had an updated suspension with wider wheels, which gave drivers the feel of a true American muscle car with all the perks. With T-tops as a relatively new concept for vehicles at the time, there was a lot of excitement about this powerful unit and popularity took off once media and movies began using the car as a prop. The only downside to this gem is gas consumption. However, performance cars are known for their lacking fuel efficiency, especially back in the 1970s.

The following is a product of the 70s that was a giant leap forward for Chevy.

1970 Chevelle LS6 454

As a unit, the Chevelle was a giant leap forward for Chevy in the 1970s, as it brought their previous models from a family car vibe to a powerhouse in the muscle car era. There are various models available, such as convertible, wagon, and sports sedan, all of which had a new look as a result of newer materials, sheet metal in particular, causing a square-framed muscle car aesthetic. Many versions were popular amongst the masses. However, the SS series was by far the most sought-after Chevy cars produced in the early 1970s. Units were customized and upgraded with perks such as 360 horsepower, V8 engines, dual exhaust, and chrome rear bumpers. The Chevelle LS6 454 is an excellent remnant of the classic muscle era.

Up next is possibly Ford's best contribution to the muscle car market ever.

Ford Mustang Boss 429

With only approximately 860 units ever produced, Ford’s Boss 429 is possibly one of the most icon muscle cars of all time. With the desire to enter NASCAR’s series as a competitor, this Mustang addition was the solution to the problem. With a Hemi engine, a hood scoop, and a front spoiler, the aesthetic of this legend is almost as impressive as the car's brawny aesthetic. Identifiers such as the white 'Boss 429' towards the front as well as a short rear and extended front gave the car the impression of speed even when it was sitting still. Coupled with a heavy front presence for performance, the Boss has sealed a slot in the classic muscle car list forever.

Beep beep, upcoming is not just a famous looney toon, but also an iconic muscle addition.

1970 Plymouth Road Runner

As a competitor in the muscle car market, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner was a unique addition to the set. This updated modeled was brought into the market with an air grabber power operated trap door on the hood which would shut when the vehicle was off. Under the hood was a 426 Hemi engine which provided a powerful drive capable of zero to sixty miles per hour in just over five seconds. With a playful cartoon to pair with the air grabber and a sleek design to match, the Plymouth is a heartthrob for car enthusiasts and possessed a three-speed manual, which was made standard at the time.

Next up is an AMC unit sure to intrigue those who have never heard of this one-year addition.

1970 AMC Rebel Machine

Although production for the 1970 AMC (American Motors) Rebel Machine only lasted one year, the unit earned the respect of the muscle car industry and remains today as a quality unit. The vehicle was a great performing automobile, equipped with rear-wheel drive and two doors, and relatively affordable. As an American icon, the Rebel had an unforgettable look, as it was detailed in red, white, and blue colors, portraying the perfect patriotic machine. After it was discontinued, AMC replaced it with the Matador model which was also fairly successful. Although it was not the greatest muscle car ever, it deserves a spot on the classic muscle car list.

Upcoming is another Ford addition for muscle cars, but is it better than the Boss?

1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Equipped with a 429 cubic-inch V8 engine, the 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is another chart-topper for the American muscle car market. This car is capable of reaching zero to sixty miles per hour in six and a half seconds. With the larger engine in this model, the car manufacturers were also able to take advantage of a wider track. The weight of the Mach 1 was up compared to earlier muscle models, which allowed for a loss in horsepower but was ultimately still a strong performer amongst the competition. As far as looks go, this unit looked mean, and the two-tone hood paint matched with the hood scoops made for a timeless look Americans have cherished for years.

In 1968, Dodge changed the game for the muscle industry; the following is why.

Dodge Charger 1968

One of the most iconic muscle cars to ever enter the market, and a cornerstone for the Dodge brand, the 1968 Dodge Charger is next up on the docket. This unit is an absolute beast with a robust design and a coke bottle appearance; the 426 Hemi drives vehicle performance. Car enthusiasts alike can agree the 1968 model had sort of a badass look to it and was simple, yet elegant. Midnight black paint projected a silhouette look for the brand and was quickly picked up by media for motion pictures making it a desirable purchase and a roaring engine sure to be heard before it is seen. Of course, the Charger was an incredible addition.

However, there is one more Dodge unit included on the roster.

Dodge Challenger

Dodge has not only cracked the list with their iconic Charger, but they have also claimed another spot with a 2015 Challenger SRT Hellcat. This car is ridiculously fast with an incredibly powerful 707 horsepower engine. Although this model is 2015, much older than the other muscle cars on the list, this unit is an instant classic. For design, the body carries a traditional muscle feel but is mixed with a modern edge to appeal to the market. Steering on the vehicle is very responsive and at times may feel a little artificial, but that tends to happen when paired with such an incredible engine.

Next up is a phenomenal Pontiac unit produced back in the early 1960s.

1964 Pontiac GTO

Pontiac did a phenomenal job with the GTO back in 1964 developing a high-quality vehicle that embodied a unique muscle design while incorporating a Pontiac feel. Accompanied with a V8 engine capable of achieving 325 horsepower, the design allowed for various roof styles, such as convertible and hardtop. The Gran Turismo Omologato (GTO) was first available for Pontiac as an option package, which could be added to the Le Mans unit. With hood scoops that brought an image of speed and performance to the exterior, the GTO was a phenomenal product for American muscle car enthusiast.

The following is a unit added to a Chevy Camaro that generated strong performance.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO ZL1

Chevrolet produced an incredible unit back in 1969 called the Camaro COPO ZL1. The Central Office Production Order (COPO) 9560 was a unique addition to the Camaro model. For engine capabilities, the ZL1 possesses a V8 engine of 427 cubic inches. Essentially, a large engine was placed in a small product allowing for maximum racing performance, which became a big problem as a result of this type of car and their popularity. Over sixty COPO ZL1 units hit the roads, and as a result of their incredible performance and bold muscle, appearance has rightfully reserved a spot as a top American muscle car.

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