Legendary American Muscle Cars

After World War II, car enthusiasts began modifying their vehicles, creating muscle cars that caught the attention of automakers. While modern muscle cars like the 2015 Dodge Challenger still exist, the classics from the last century remain collector favorites.

1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88

The Rocket 88 is considered the world's first factory-produced muscle car. Recognizing the demand for fast, flashy vehicles, Oldsmobile capitalized on the post-war hot-rodding craze by offering a luxury car with a supercharged V8 engine.

1964 Pontiac GTO

The 1964 Pontiac GTO, with 348 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque, defied GM’s rules by featuring a 389 cubic inch engine. Its hardtop, two-door design helped set the standard for the iconic American muscle car.

1970 AMC Rebel Machine

In 1970, AMC released The Machine, a high-performance version of the Rebel, with a 390 cubic-inch V8 engine producing 340 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It came in bold colors like Electric Blue, Big Bad Red, and Frost White, with a limited-time patriotic trim package.

1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429

The 1970 Mustang Boss packed a 375-horsepower engine so powerful that the hood had to be modified to fit it. Only 859 were made, making it a rare muscle car.

1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi

The 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi, with only 125 models featuring the 436 Hemi engine, is one of the rarest muscle cars. It produced 425 horsepower, allowing it to go from 0 to 60 in just 5.5 seconds.

Dodge Dart Ramcharger

The Dodge Dart Ramcharger, with its small coupe body, surprised many as a high-performance drag racer. Powered by a 425-horsepower Hemi engine, it became a favorite among drag racers for its speed and lightweight design.

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The 1969 Chevy Camaro Z28 is praised for its handling and responsiveness, featuring four-wheel disc brakes and a 302 cubic inch V8 engine with over 400 horsepower. Its drag-strip-ready look was enhanced by an optional engine cowl on the hood.

1968 Shelby Mustang GT500-KR

The Mustang GT500, dubbed "King of the Road," packed a 335-horsepower engine with 440 pound-feet of torque and included safety features like a padded rollbar and air inlet hood scoops. Its powerful engine and safety measures made it a dominant force on the road.

1969 Pontiac Firebird 400 Coupe

The 1969 Pontiac Firebird 400 Coupe combined timeless style with raw power, boasting a 400 cubic-inch engine that produced 345 horsepower. Its redesigned body and fast performance made it a standout on both the street and the drag strip.

1968 Dodge Dart 426 Hemi

The 1968 Dart with a Chrysler 426 Hemi engine is an ultra-lightweight racing machine, built for speed with minimal features. It could complete a ten-second quarter-mile right from the factory.