While American muscle cars usually command the spotlight in terms of V8 vehicles, Australia also has its fair share of classics. We will delve into five of these classic vehicles which have stood the test of time. All of these vehicles are being shortlisted from a balance of collectability, performance, and general reputation.

1. Holden Monaro

The Holden Monaro is a legendary nameplate in the world of Australian muscle cars. Originally introduced in 1968, the Monaro quickly gained a reputation for its sleek design and formidable performance on the road and the racetrack. With powerful V8 engines under the hood and a timeless coupe silhouette, the Monaro captured the hearts of car enthusiasts across generations. Its iconic status was cemented with the release of modern iterations, including the Monaro VZ and the limited-edition Monaro CV8-Z.

2. Ford Falcon GT

The Ford Falcon GT is possibly the first Australian muscle car, depending on who you ask. The initial XR GT performance version housed a 4.7-liter, 289 ci V8 engine, with 68 and 71 eras having a 5.8-liter, 351 Cleveland V8 producing 300-350hp. The first Aussie-made version was the 1972 XA Falcon which came as a two-door coupe, with a top speed of 142 mph and a 0-60 time of 6.4 seconds.
Over the years, the Falcon GT has evolved to become a symbol of Australian performance engineering, with each new generation pushing the boundaries of power and innovation. Models like the Falcon GT-HO Phase III have achieved legendary status among collectors and enthusiasts, Adding to the Falcon GT’s status.

3. Chrysler Valiant Charger

The Chrysler Valiant Charger was based on the Dodge Dart and Plymouth Valiant, but entirely Australian-made. With its long hood, short deck, and aggressive styling cues, the Valiant Charger stood out from the crowd and became a symbol of rebellion and freedom on the open road.
Standout versions include the RT model with a 4.3-liter, 265 ci Hemi 6, producing 302 hp, with a 0 to 60 time of 6 seconds. For those wanting more luxury, the Charger 770 SE came with a 5.6-liter, 340-ci V8 and 275hp,
Today, well-preserved Charger models are highly sought after by collectors, with the early 70s models being the most desirable.

4. HSV GTSR W1

Developed by Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), the HSV GTSR W1 is a limited-edition super sedan that pays homage to the classic muscle cars of yesteryear while incorporating the latest in automotive technology. With a supercharged V8 engine producing over 600 horsepower, advanced aerodynamics, and track-tuned suspension, the GTSR W1 is capable of tearing up the track with ease. Its aggressive styling and menacing presence make it an instant classic, destined to be remembered as one of the greatest Australian muscle cars.

5. Holden Sandman

American Australia had similar problems in the early 1970s. Huge distances to cover, while needing a vehicle to haul a decent amount of daily items. America solved a problem with the Chevrolet El Camino and the Ford Ranchero, while Australia came up with the ‘Ute.’ A regular muscle car upfront with a van at the back.
The top version of the Sandman came with a 5.0-liter 308 engine, with a top speed of 125 mph. Standout features include the radial tuned suspension – leaf springs in the rear, coil springs for the front wheels to address the radial tires.

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In the realm of automotive history, American muscle cars stand as iconic symbols of power, speed, and innovation. These marvels of engineering have left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of enthusiasts worldwide. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the captivating world of American muscle cars, uncovering surprising facts and untold stories that highlight their enduring legacy.

1. Pioneering Powerhouses: Origins of American Muscle Cars

The genesis of American muscle cars can be traced back to the mid-20th century, a time of unparalleled innovation in the automotive industry. It was an era characterized by fierce competition among manufacturers to produce vehicles that embodied speed, strength, and style. One of the earliest contenders in this arena was the iconic Chevrolet Camaro, introduced in 1966 to rival the Ford Mustang. This rivalry sparked a revolution, giving birth to a new breed of automobiles that would captivate generations to come.

2. Horsepower Extravaganza: The Heart of American Muscle

At the core of every American muscle car beats a powerhouse engine renowned for its raw power and exhilarating performance. From the thunderous roar of the Dodge Challenger’s HEMI V8 to the iconic rumble of the Ford Mustang’s Coyote engine, these vehicles are synonymous with uncompromising horsepower. With innovations in engineering and technology, modern muscle cars continue to push the boundaries of performance, delivering adrenaline-fueled thrills with every drive.

3. Design Evolution: Form Meets Functionality

The design of American muscle cars is a testament to the marriage of form and functionality. Characterized by bold lines, aggressive stances, and aerodynamic profiles, these vehicles exude a commanding presence on the road. From the sleek curves of the Chevrolet Corvette to the muscular silhouette of the Dodge Charger, each design element is meticulously crafted to enhance performance and capture the imagination of enthusiasts.

4. Cultural Phenomenon: Muscle Cars in Pop Culture

Beyond their prowess on the asphalt, American muscle cars have become enduring symbols of American culture, permeating literature, film, and music. From the silver screen antics of the Pontiac Trans Am in “Smokey and the Bandit” to the high-octane adventures of the Ford Mustang in “Bullitt,” these vehicles have left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless enthusiasts to embrace the thrill of the open road.

5. Racing Heritage: Dominance on the Track

The racing pedigree of American muscle cars is legendary, with a storied history of dominance on the track. From the drag strips of Detroit to the circuits of Daytona, these vehicles have etched their names in the annals of motorsport history, showcasing unparalleled speed and agility. With victories in iconic races such as the Daytona 500 and the NHRA Nationals, American muscle cars continue to reign supreme in the world of motorsport.

6. Evolutionary Milestones: Innovations in Performance

Over the decades, American muscle cars have undergone remarkable transformations, evolving to meet the demands of discerning enthusiasts. From the introduction of fuel injection systems to the implementation of advanced traction control technologies, these vehicles have embraced innovation to deliver unparalleled performance and driving dynamics. With each new iteration, American muscle cars continue to push the boundaries of automotive excellence, setting new standards for speed and power.

7. Iconic Models: Legends of the Road

From the legendary Ford Mustang to the formidable Chevrolet Camaro, American muscle cars boast an impressive lineup of iconic models that have captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Each model represents a unique chapter in the storied history of American automotive excellence, with a legacy that continues to inspire awe and admiration. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of the Chevrolet Corvette or the brute force of the Dodge Challenger, these vehicles stand as testaments to the enduring spirit of American ingenuity and craftsmanship.

8. Collector’s Corner: Rarity and Value

In the world of automotive enthusiasts, American muscle cars hold a special place of reverence, with pristine examples commanding top dollar on the collector’s market. From rare limited-edition models to meticulously restored classics, these vehicles evoke a sense of nostalgia and admiration among collectors. With their timeless design and unparalleled performance, American muscle cars represent not only a sound investment but also a piece of automotive history that is truly priceless.

9. Global Phenomenon: The Reach of American Muscle

While rooted in American automotive culture, the appeal of muscle cars extends far beyond the borders of the United States, captivating enthusiasts worldwide. From Europe to Asia, these vehicles have garnered a dedicated following, with enthusiasts embracing the thrill of American horsepower. Whether it’s cruising the boulevards of Los Angeles or tearing up the autobahns of Germany, American muscle cars transcend geographical boundaries, uniting enthusiasts in a shared passion for automotive excellence.

10. Enduring Legacy: The Future of American Muscle

This article is just a brief overview of muscle cars in general. More detailed information can be found on our website.
What the future holds for Muscle cars is unclear. Dodge has recently released an electric version of their Dodge Charger, meaning the V8 engine could be long-term, resigned to the history books, only to be built in the future via limited edition models.

In conclusion, American muscle cars stand as timeless icons of automotive excellence, embodying the spirit of power, performance, and innovation. From their humble beginnings to their enduring legacy, these vehicles have left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, captivating enthusiasts worldwide. As we celebrate their storied history and look to the future, one thing remains clear – the allure of American muscle is as irresistible as ever.

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In the vast landscape of the American auto industry, muscle cars emerge as icons that symbolize power, performance, and an era that forever changed the way we perceive automobiles. Although the future of these beasts of the road may be uncertain, their enduring spirit continues reverberating through the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. In this exploration, we journeyed through the pages of automotive history, spotlighting the automakers that have shaped the world of muscle cars. Along the way, we’ll make a pit stop to recognize GO4CDL, California’s premier truck driving school, dedicated to moulding the next generation of commercial drivers.

The Rise of Muscle Cars: A Glimpse into Automotive History

Tracing back to their roots, muscle cars burst onto the scene, capturing the imagination of a generation. Born in the mid-20th century, these high-performance vehicles weren’t just modes of transportation; they were statements of power and style. Iconic models such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro led the charge, creating a cultural shift that resonates today.

Automakers at the Forefront: Powerhouses of Muscle Car Innovation

• Ford Mustang: In 1964, the “pony car” movement was born with the introduction of the Ford Mustang. Its sleek design and powerful performance set the standard for muscle cars, defining an entire category.
• Chevrolet Camaro: Chevrolet’s response to the Mustang, the Camaro, quickly became a worthy adversary. With its aggressive styling and formidable engine options, the Camaro secured its place in the pantheon of muscle car legends.
• Dodge Challenger: Dodge revived the nameplate, blending modern performance with nostalgic design cues. The Challenger’s presence on the road pays homage to the golden age of muscle cars.

 Beyond the well-known names, lesser-known automakers also contributed gems to the muscle car legacy. These underdogs played a crucial role in diversifying the market and pushing innovation.

Insanely Powerful Machines: Muscle Cars on the Streets and Racetracks

The heyday of muscle cars witnessed a horsepower arms race. Drag strips and racetracks became battlegrounds where these machines flexed their muscles, creating moments that etched themselves into the history books. Muscle cars showcased power and unparalleled performance from quarter-mile sprints to epic showdowns.

The Uncertain Future: Will Muscle Cars Face Extinction?

As we navigate the twists and turns of the present automotive landscape, questions arise about the fate of muscle cars. Environmental concerns and the rise of electric alternatives cast shadows over the future of these gas-guzzling beasts. Will they adapt to the changing times, or is the era of muscle cars on the brink of extinction?

GO4CDL: Nurturing Skills for the Road Ahead

Amid this automotive evolution, Go4cdl stands as a beacon for those seeking a different kind of horsepower—the one that propels massive trucks down the highways. As California’s best truck driving school, they offer comprehensive programs designed to equip aspiring commercial drivers with the skills and knowledge needed to pass CDL practice tests and thrive in the dynamic trucking world.

Conclusion:

One thing is clear as we ponder the intriguing journey through the past, present, and future of muscle cars: their impact will be indelibly recorded in the history books of the automobile industry. Whether roaring down the streets or conquering racetracks, muscle cars have left an indelible mark. As the automotive landscape evolves, institutions like GO4CDL ensure that the spirit of the road lives on, shaping the future for a new generation of drivers ready to embrace the challenges of the open highway. The road ahead may be uncertain, but the roar of a muscle car will forever echo through the corridors of automotive history.

The post The Enduring Legacy of Muscle Cars: A Nod to Power and Performance appeared first on Muscle Car.

The Chevrolet Camaro is wrapping up its production in December 2023, making 2024 the finale for this iconic pony car. Chevy are ending the era with the introduction of two limited-edition models: the Collectors Edition package and the NASCAR-inspired Garage 56 Edition. Both models will be limited editions with power levels to rival anything from the past.

Specialty Vehicles Engineering has also taken the challenge of making the most powerful Camaro yet in the form of a 6th generation Stage III Yenko/SC, paying homage to the Central Office Production Order (COPO) Camaros of the past from the likes of Don Yenko. Mr. Yenko was renowned for making full use of the COPO system, dropping the best powertrains and upgrades into the Camaros, Chevelles and Novas of the day. These vehicles now being considered some of the rarest and fastest of the breed.

2024 SVE Yenko SC Stage III Camaro Specs

Chevy let everyone know in advance that 2024 would be the final year for the Camaro, so there are plenty of options for every pocket. The Camaro ZL1 has an impressive power output with 650 HP and 650 lb.ft. of torque, with a special edition package being limited 350 vehicles. The Garage 56 Edition is set to take part in this year’s Le Mans endurance race is limited to a run of 56 cars.

The special treatment goes to the Yenko/SC Stage I with 1,150HP, the stage II with 1,200HP, and the stage III with a 7.0-liter(427c.i.) supercharged V8 producing 1,500HP. The stage III power levels essentially convert to a 0-60 time of 1.1. seconds, a quarter mile time of 7.45 seconds and a top speed of 261 mph.
To give an idea of the power levels, the next fastest Camaro of all time is the 2019 Hennesy Exorcist Camaro ZL1 doing 217 mph, then the 2017 Camaro ZL1 hitting 198 mph.

The Stage III is also loaded with enhancements such as magnetic ride control, electronic slip diff., Race-tuned suspension, heavy-duty cooling, and dual outboard radiators.

The vehicles will be available through GM dealers throughout America and Canada in 2024, with only 50 being available for the Stage I and II, with a total of a 100 versions of the Stage III being made available. There is no talk of a 2024 Camaro Z/28, but we can’t have everything.

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Dodge still has the Charger and Challenger for sale, but those are on their way to becoming fully electric vehicles. With no V8 engine, no matter how good the end product, it’s a hard sell for traditional muscle car fans(time will tell if e-muscle cars are an accepted thing). Therefore, the two top offerings in this category offer supercar attributes for a fraction of the money.

2024 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Price $75,395

The basics of what you get – a 6.2L V8 with 650HP and 650 lb-ft of torque, and good for a 3.4 sec. 0-60 time. A six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission is available, with a convertible option and the 1LE track performance package with better suspension, tires, carbon fiber and rear seat delete if needed.

A Camaro ZL1 Collector’s Edition is available for 2024, limited to 350 cars, along with a short run Garage 56 Edition (only 56 cars), honouring the NASCAR Camaro ZL1 Cup Car.

Performance is the name of the game here, so don’t expect the levels of comfort found in an SUV. There are niceties such as dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, an infotainment system, and driver assistance, but not much room in the back. However, the shortcomings do not matter. This is about experiencing the raw enjoyment of the breed. Super car attributes without the hefty price tag.

2024 Ford Mustang
$32,515

The 2024 Ford Mustang comes with a 5L V8 with 486HP, 418 lb-ft of torque, providing 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, and a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost version with 315HP. Both have a 10-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission option in the V8 version. Hardtops and convertible are available in both versions.

There are plenty of options available throughout the lineup, with a Dark Horse track-ready edition having the 500HP Coyote V8 engine, and a GT California Special appearance package.

The interior is comfortable, with a fighter-jet-inspired type design, featuring goodies such as a 12.4-inch instrument cluster, Remote Rev function, Ford Power-Up software capability, and plenty of upgrade options.
As an everyday driver, the four-cylinder Mustang is capable of a 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway economy. At the other extreme, the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse does 14 mpg in the city and 22 mpg via the highway.
The Mustang is also available with the steering wheel on the other side for the rest of the world, which has put the Mustang into the hand and places where pony/muscle cars have never commonly been before. Instead of being an exotic import, the Mustang is now more commonplace throughout the world, which can only be a good thing.

Thus, the Mustang is the better option as a daily driver in the 4-cylinder version, with the Camaro and Mustang Dark Horse probably used to scare the neighbours at the weekends.

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In the fast-paced world of automobiles, where each passing year brings forth innovations and modern designs, a class of vehicles seems to defy the sands of time. With their roaring engines and iconic designs, classic vintage muscle cars maintain an enduring appeal that transcends generations. This article explores the reasons behind the timeless allure of these automotive legends.

The Birth of an Icon

Classic muscle cars arose in the mid-twentieth century, fueled by post-World War II optimism and a thirst for speed. A1 Auto Transport reported that their shipping partners noticed a huge increase in muscle cars being transported during this time. Sensing a demand for excitement on the road, American automakers developed muscle cars. The Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Charger emerged as trailblazers, representing the spirit of defiance and power that defined a period. These brands are characterized by unique engine and body parts that ultimately make the automobile stand out. You can see more info here about various automotive products from these brands.

The allure of classic muscle cars lies in their performance and their symbolism. These vehicles were born when the open road symbolized freedom and driving was not just a means of transportation but an expression of individualism and adventure.

Some of the most iconic classic muscle cars that have left an indelible mark on the industry are:

• Ford Mustang

Model Years: 1964-1973

The Ford Mustang is an American icon and one of the pioneers of the muscle car era. Its introduction in 1964 created the “pony car” class, offering a blend of style, performance and affordability. The 1967 Shelby GT500 is particularly revered, featuring a powerful 428 Cobra Jet engine.

• Dodge Charger

Model Years: 1966-1974

The Dodge Charger is known for its bold design and powerful engines. The second-generation Charger (1968-1970) is often considered the pinnacle, with the iconic “Bullitt” Charger R/T and the monstrous Charger Daytona, designed for NASCAR dominance. The 1969 Charger, immortalized in movies like “The Dukes of Hazzard,” is particularly iconic.

• Chevrolet Camaro

Model Years: 1967-1969

The Chevrolet Camaro is another heavyweight in the muscle car arena. The first-generation Camaro, especially the SS and Z/28 models, is celebrated for its aggressive styling and high-performance options. The 1969 Camaro ZL1 is one of the most sought-after muscle cars, boasting an all-aluminum 427 cubic-inch engine.

• Pontiac GTO

Model Years: 1964-1974

Often credited as the first true muscle car, the Pontiac GTO paved the way for the revolution. The early GTOs, especially the 1966 model with the potent Tri-Power carburetion system, are highly coveted. The GTO embodied putting a big engine in a midsize car, creating a formula that defined the muscle car ethos.

Model Years: 1964-1972

• Chevrolet Chevelle SS:

The Chevelle SS is a classic example of Chevrolet’s prowess in crafting muscle cars. The SS (Super Sport) package, available on various Chevelle models, turned these midsize cars into high-performance beasts. The 1970 Chevelle SS with the LS6 454 cubic-inch V8 is legendary, boasting one of the highest factory horsepower ratings of the era.

Design Elegance that Stands the Test of Time

The timeless design of classic muscle vehicles is one of their distinguishing features. The sleek forms, forceful poses and eye-catching color palettes distinguish them from their counterparts. The union of form and function in these vehicles reflects a time when style was just as vital as substance. Even in the middle of a sea of modern automobiles, the timeless beauty of their design guarantees that these cars remain head-turners.

Classic muscle cars are not just machines but works of art on wheels. The aesthetic appeal of their design is not subject to the whims of passing trends, making them a testament to the notion that true beauty is eternal.

Nostalgia and Cultural Significance

Beyond their mechanical prowess, classic muscle cars carry a cultural significance that adds layers to their timeless appeal. These vehicles are not just relics of the past; they are living reminders of a bygone era. Nostalgia plays a pivotal role in their enduring popularity, as they evoke memories of when the automobile represented more than just a mode of transportation.

Movies, music and popular culture have all contributed to the mystique surrounding classic muscle cars. From iconic scenes in films to the rock ‘n’ roll tunes that echoed through the radio waves, these cars became intertwined with the cultural fabric of their time. Owning a classic muscle car is not just about having a vehicle; it’s about possessing a piece of history that encapsulates the spirit of an era.

Conclusion

In a world where trends come and go and technology advances relentlessly, classic vintage muscle cars stand as stalwart guardians of a bygone era. The birth of these iconic vehicles marked a turning point in automotive history, and their timeless allure continues to captivate enthusiasts across the globe. From the engine’s roar to the elegance of their design, classic muscle cars are more than just vehicles; they are living legends, embodying the spirit of an age that refuses to be forgotten.

The post Exploring the Timeless Appeal of Classic Vintage Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

In other words, the lightest vehicle with the most power usually wins. This is determined by dividing the horsepower by the car’s weight, with the lowest number being the winner. On paper, this would mean strapping a rocket to the back of a go-kart to obtain the best power-to-weight ratio (PWR). But, in the real world fashion, history, expectations of the car, and materials all play a part.

2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.72 lbs/hp

A supercar more than a muscle car, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 can deliver 755HP, with 715 pound-feet of torque, a 0-60 time of 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 212mph. The 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine and seven-speed transmission have turned the long-standing classic into a modern powerhouse, but still with the bowtie attributes.

2022 Ford GT
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.62 lbs/hp

In reality, the Ford GT was made as a long-distance sports car to compete in the 24 Hours of LeMans race, winning 4 times. The Ford GT has a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 660 horsepower, 550 pound-feet of torque, a top speed of 216mph and a 0-60 time of 3.0 seconds.

2023 Dodge Challenger Demon 170
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.17 lbs/hp

Finally, a full-fat muscle car and probably the most potent ever made. The 2023 Dodge Challenger Demon 170 could be the last hurrah of the ICE muscle cars, but what a way to go out if that is the case. The 6.2-liter Supercharged Hemi V8 produces 1,025 horsepower, 945 pound-feet of torque, weighs 4,275 lbs, with a 0-60 time of 1.66 seconds, and a top speed of 2215 mph.

These stats have won the Dodge Challenger Demon 170 accolades as the Fastest Pony car, and the fastest factory Dodge muscle car ever produced. The PWR rivals lighter-weight European supercars to give you an idea.

Other notable mentions include the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with 5.5 lbs/hp PWR, The 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Redeye Jailbreak Widebody with 5.69 lbs/hp, The 1969 Dodge Dart GTS with 7.26 lbs/hp, and the 1969 Plymouth Road Runner with 8.08 lbs/hp.

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It’s been 57 years since the first Chevrolet Camaro, and to mark the occasion, Specialty Vehicle Engineering (SVE) is introducing a powerhouse of a Camaro called the 2024 SVE Chevrolet Camaro Yenko/SE. Limited to only 50 models, this special edition muscle car can crank up the horsepower up to an incredible 1,500 hp – and it won’t come cheap starting at just under $90k plus the cost of a customer-supplied Camaro ZL1 donor car.

The Chevrolet Camaro Yenko/SE trademark has only been used a handful of times over the past fifty-seven years, making the 2024 model a rarity. It’s a special chance for those looking to take their muscle car dreams to the next level, and it’s sure to become a collector’s item for those looking to own a piece of the historic Camaro legacy.

2024 SVE Chevy Camaro Yenko

The 2024 Camaro Yenko/SE results from a collaboration between Chevrolet and Specialty Vehicle Engineering. The Yenko/SE features many upgrades, from a supercharged 7L V8 based on the GM 6.6-liter bored and stroked iron block engine, larger intercoolers and fuel injectors, a twin-disc clutch system and an upgraded six-speed manual transmission or stock 10-speed automatic. Even with these upgrades the 1,500 hp engine and up to 1000-lb-ft of torque, the Yenko/SE can zip past a quarter mile in 11.60 seconds.

The performance of the Yenko/SE doesn’t come without a price. The Stage I package costs $87,995, the Stage II – $89,995, and Stage III – $129,995. With only 57 cars available, it’s sure to be a hot commodity and the race to purchase one of them will be fierce.

Despite its limited availability and high price tag, the Yenko/SE is sure to make waves in the world of high-performance cars. The 1,500 hp engine, unique styling, and low production number will surely attract attention from even the most casual enthusiasts. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one of these 57 models, you have a piece of automotive history in your garage.

The 2024 SVE Chevrolet Camaro Yenko/SE is an exciting new addition to the world of high-performance vehicles. With limited availability and a unique set of upgrades, it’s sure to be a sought-after vehicle. Whether you want to buy one for yourself or watch it tear up the track, the Yenko/SE is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s a fitting farewell to the long-running Camaro line.

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Benefits of Buying Used Muscle Cars

Before delving into specific models, let’s first explore the advantages of opting for a used muscle car:

• Cost Savings: The most apparent benefit of buying a used muscle car is the cost savings. New muscle cars can come with a hefty price tag, while their used counterparts often offer similar performance at a fraction of the cost.
• Depreciation: The value of new cars typically drops quickly within the initial years. By purchasing a used muscle car, you can avoid the steep initial devaluation, ensuring your investment holds its value better.
• Classic Appeal: Many used muscle cars have a timeless appeal that always stays in style. Owning a classic muscle car can be a source of pride and admiration from fellow enthusiasts. You can find many used vehicles by clicking this link.
• Customization Potential: With the money saved on the purchase price, you’ll have more budget to invest in modifications and upgrades, allowing you to tailor the car to your preferences and performance goals.

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the top used muscle car models that offer excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.

1982 to 1992 Chevrolet Camaro

The third-generation Chevrolet Camaro, produced from 1982 to 1992, represents an exciting era in American muscle car history. Its distinctive design and various powertrain options make it a compelling choice for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of muscle cars.

This vehicle underwent significant design changes compared to its predecessors. It featured a sleeker, more aerodynamic body with small headlights and a distinctive front grille. This design evolution improved the car’s aesthetics and improved handling and performance.

One of the defining features of the third-gen Camaro was its wide range of engine choices. From the base V6 to the high-performance V8 engines, buyers had various power levels. The top-of-the-line models had potent V8 engines that delivered impressive acceleration and a thrilling driving experience.

The most enticing aspect of the 1982 to 1992 Camaro is its affordability in the used car market. These cars are readily available at reasonable prices, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a taste of American muscle.

1979 to 1993 Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang is an iconic vehicle in the world of muscle cars, produced from 1979 to 1993, and holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. It’s a classic example of a budget-friendly muscle car that offers a blend of performance, style, and affordability. This car was different from the larger and heavier Mustangs of the ’70s. It featured a more compact, lightweight body and a sleeker design. Its iconic squared-off headlights and distinctive grille gave it a unique and instantly recognizable look.

One of the key attractions of the Fox Body Mustang was its wide array of engine choices. Buyers could opt for anything from the economical inline-four to the potent V8 engines. The GT and Cobra models were equipped with V8 power plants that delivered impressive performance, making the Mustang a true muscle car.

One of the most appealing aspects of the 1979 to 1993 Ford Mustang is its affordability in the used car market. These cars are readily available at reasonable prices, making them ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want a taste of American muscle car history.

1994 to 2002 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The 1994 to 2002 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 represents an enticing option for muscle car enthusiasts on a budget. These years marked the fourth generation of the Camaro, and the Z28 trim level brought a powerful V8 engine, aggressive styling, and a thrilling driving experience at a price point that’s often more affordable than its competitors. Here’s why the 1994 to 2002 Camaro Z28 is considered one of the best used muscle cars to buy on a budget.

One of the key highlights of the Camaro Z28 during these years was its impressive performance. It came equipped with a 5.7-liter LT1 V8 engine, which delivered a substantial amount of horsepower and torque. With this kind of muscle under the hood, the Camaro Z28 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just under six seconds, making it a formidable contender on the drag strip or open road.

Finding a well-maintained fourth-generation Camaro Z28 on the used market is relatively easy due to its popularity during the late 1990s and early 2000s. A wide range of options and configurations are available, allowing buyers to choose between coupes and convertibles, as well as various trim levels and optional features.

Conclusion

While the allure of a brand-new muscle car is undeniable, the used muscle car market presents enticing opportunities for enthusiasts on a budget. By opting for a pre-owned vehicle, buyers can benefit from significant cost savings, avoid rapid depreciation, and still indulge in the classic charm of American muscle cars. So, for those eager to own a slice of that history without emptying their wallets, the used muscle car market is the perfect playground.

The post Affordable Muscle: Top Used Muscle Cars for Buyers on a Budget appeared first on Muscle Car.

Copyright: Justin Luck on Pexels | License: CC0 Public Domain

The Chevrolet Corvette has always been synonymous with American muscle and exceptional performance. The C7 Corvette, produced from 2014 to 2019, took this iconic sports car to new heights. With its striking design, powerful engine options, and cutting-edge technology, the C7 Corvette became a favorite among enthusiasts and automotive aficionados alike. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find the key points you need to know about the C7 Corvette.

1. Bold and Aerodynamic Design

The C7 Corvette’s exterior design is a testament to its aggressive nature and pursuit of aerodynamic excellence. From the sculpted lines to the powerful stance, every element of the C7’s design serves a purpose. 

The sleek and curvaceous body not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves its performance by reducing drag and increasing stability at high speeds. The bold front grille, striking headlights, and prominent air vents further emphasize the Corvette’s commanding presence on the road. 

If you want increased performance, there are many C7 Corvette parts and accessories that can help you with that.

2. Powerhouse Performance

Under the hood, the C7 Corvette boasts a range of impressive engine options that deliver exhilarating performance. The standard engine is a 6.2-liter V8 that produces 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. 

For those seeking an even more thrilling experience, the Z06 variant is equipped with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine generating a jaw-dropping 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque.

This extraordinary power enables the C7 Corvette to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, providing an adrenaline-fueled driving experience like no other. 

3. Advanced Technology and Connectivity

The C7 Corvette is not only a beast on the road but also a tech-savvy machine. It offers a host of advanced features to enhance your driving pleasure. 

The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system provides seamless connectivity, allowing you to access navigation, music, and hands-free calling effortlessly. Additionally, the Head-Up Display (HUD) projects vital information, such as speed and navigation directions, directly onto the windshield, ensuring your eyes remain focused on the road. 

The available Performance Data Recorder (PDR) lets you capture and analyze your driving performance, providing valuable insights for track enthusiasts.

4. Performance-Oriented Interior

Step inside the C7 Corvette, and you’ll find a driver-focused cockpit designed to deliver maximum comfort and control. 

The ergonomically designed seats provide excellent support during spirited driving, while the intuitive placement of controls ensures easy access to essential functions. The flat-bottom steering wheel enhances grip and manoeuvrability, allowing you to maintain full control in any driving situation. 

With its refined craftsmanship and premium materials, the C7 Corvette’s interior exudes a sense of luxury, complementing its high-performance capabilities.

5. Magnetic Ride Control

One of the standout features of the C7 Corvette is its Magnetic Ride Control suspension system. 

This advanced technology adjusts the suspension damping in real-time, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride on daily commutes while also providing exceptional handling during spirited driving. 

The system uses magnetorheological fluid and electromagnets to respond instantaneously to changing road conditions, ensuring optimal performance and stability. 

With the Magnetic Ride Control, the C7 Corvette strikes the perfect balance between comfort and agility.

6. Convertible Option

For those who enjoy the thrill of open-top driving, the C7 Corvette offers a convertible variant. 

The retractable power top can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph, allowing you to experience the exhilaration of the wind in your hair while still enjoying the unmistakable roar of the Corvette’s engine. 

The convertible option adds another layer of excitement to an already captivating driving experience.

7. Safety Features

The C7 Corvette prioritizes your safety without compromising on performance. It is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control. 

The available Performance Traction Management system optimizes grip and stability, particularly during high-performance driving. Moreover, the C7 Corvette’s lightweight yet rigid structure provides a strong foundation for enhanced crash protection.

8. Heritage and Legacy

The C7 Corvette pays homage to its rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of performance and design. As the seventh generation of the Corvette lineage, it represents the culmination of decades of engineering excellence and automotive passion. 

From its iconic crossed-flag emblem to its unmistakable roar, the C7 Corvette proudly carries on the legacy of its predecessors while embracing the future of sports car technology.

Embrace the Legacy of the C7 Corvette and Unleash Your Inner Driver!

The C7 Corvette stands as a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to delivering exceptional performance, innovative technology, and striking design. With its bold and aerodynamic exterior, powerful engine options, advanced technology, and driver-focused interior, the C7 Corvette offers an unparalleled driving experience. 

Whether you’re cruising down the highway or attacking the racetrack, the C7 Corvette is sure to leave an indelible impression. It’s a true American icon that continues to captivate enthusiasts and redefine the boundaries of automotive excellence.

The post Guide to the C7 Corvette: Key Points You Need to Know appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Around the late 1960s, a few forward-thinking Chevrolet car dealers used the COPO special ordering system to crowbar lots of tasty components into their Camaros. Lots of fancy upgrades meant higher sale prices, which put off the masses, but for the select few who bought these things, were then in the possession of future classics.

An example of one of these rarities is up for auction over at Mecum Auctions. Its auction title is a ‘1969 Chevrolet Berger COPO Camaro RS’ after the Berger Chevrolet dealership in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

This example is 1 of 58 COPO Camaros built with the RS package, housing a COPO 9561 L72 427/425 HP V-8 engine, COPO 9737 Sports Car Conversion Package, Turbo 400 automatic transmission, Power front disc brakes, 12 bolt Positraction rear end with 4.10 gears, ZL2 cowl induction hood, all in Fathom Green with a green interior.

A complete restoration has been performed on the vehicle, which has the VIN number 124379N613366, leaving a finished product of understatement. This was the exact idea of the time, to kit out a car that could turn up to a meet looking like any other regular Camaro, then leave the competition in its rearview mirror. The original 425HP from the 427ci/7L V8 may be average these days, but back in the late 1960s, this was something to shout about or at the least let the engine note and wheels do the talking.

The average price for a 1969 COPO Camaro in 2023 is $169k, ranging from the lowest at $63k up to $305k. The auction at Mecum will be held on Sept. 22nd if you want to try and get your hands on this one.

The post 1969 Chevrolet Berger COPO Camaro RS at Auction appeared first on Muscle Car.

Muscle cars are one of the most iconic automotive icons around. They have been part of the automotive culture for decades, and in more recent times have started to come back into the limelight as people look for exciting performance vehicles that don’t break the bank. Here’s a look at some of the best muscle cars on sale in 2023.

2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The 2023 lineup of muscle cars is sure to have something for everyone who loves high-performance driving. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one of the more popular models in 2023, with its circuit-optimised 1LE pack offering carbon aero parts, manually adjustable suspension, and sticky tyres. It’s also priced quite competitively at just under $70,000.

2023 Dodge Charger SRT Redeye Jailbreak

Another great muscle car option for 2023 is the Dodge Charger SRT Redeye Jailbreak. This five-seat sedan packs a powerful supercharged V8 engine producing 818PS (601kW). It accelerates from 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and can do the quarter-mile in 11.5 seconds at 126mph. Inside, the car features luxuries like carbon fibre trim and air-conditioned seats, and it’s available for the relatively low price of just under £65,000.

2023 Ford Mustang Mach 1

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a great choice. This model uses the same engine as the Bullitt, creating 460PS (338kW). It goes from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 166mph, thanks to its sticky tyres and stiffened chassis.

2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170

If you’re looking for something even more extreme, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 might be the right choice. This car is equipped with an 6.2-litre V8 engine, producing up to 1,039PS (764kW), and it can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 1.7 seconds. However, this car isn’t very practical or affordable, as it starts at a price of $96,666 (around £75,000).

2023 Ford Mustang GT Fastback

Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a classic American muscle car, the 2023 Ford Mustang GT Fastback might be the right choice for you. This two-door coupe packs a Coyote 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 460PS (339kW). It accelerates from 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 163mph. Prices start from around $34,000.

2023 Hennessey Venom F5

Finally, those who want something truly unique should take a look at the 2023 Hennessey Venom F5. This car is equipped with a 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 1,496PS (1,107kW). It can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 2.2 seconds and has a top speed of 301mph. Prices start from around $3.2million. Pricey, but worth it.

Overall, there is no shortage of great muscle cars available in 2023, with options for every budget and performance enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for a classic experience, a modern twist on a classic, or an all-out performance monster, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs. With the Best Muscle Cars 2023 lineup, you can find the perfect vehicle for your needs, and start enjoying the thrilling performance and style that muscle cars provide.

The post 2023 Best Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

Understanding Street Racing

Street racing refers to the act of driving high-performance vehicles at excessive speeds on public roads, often in an organized and competitive manner. It typically involves two or more drivers who engage in a race to determine the fastest car. Street racing can occur on public streets, highways, or even secluded areas. Participants may modify their vehicles to enhance speed and performance, putting themselves and others at great risk.

The Rise of Muscle Cars in Street Racing

Muscle cars, with their powerful engines and sleek designs, have become synonymous with street racing culture. The allure of these high-performance vehicles, such as the iconic Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Challenger, has attracted enthusiasts seeking thrills on the open road. The combination of raw power and aesthetic appeal makes muscle cars a popular choice among street racers.

Laws and Regulations Governing Street Racing

Street racing is illegal in most jurisdictions around the world. Local laws and regulations differ, but they generally prohibit racing on public roads due to the inherent dangers it poses to public safety. These laws are in place to protect both the racers themselves and innocent bystanders who may be affected by reckless driving.

Veteran personal injury lawyer Darryl M.. Breaux said, “Street racing carries severe legal consequences, including criminal charges, civil lawsuits, and financial responsibility for damages.” He strongly advises against participating in this dangerous activity

Criminal Charges and Penalties

Individuals caught street racing can face various criminal charges, depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances of the offense. These charges may include reckless driving, speeding, exhibition of speed, vehicular manslaughter, or even homicide if someone is killed as a result of the illegal race. Penalties for these offenses can range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, particularly in cases involving injury or death.

Civil Liability and Financial Consequences

Apart from criminal charges, street racers can also face civil lawsuits filed by individuals who suffer injuries or property damage as a result of the illegal race. The at-fault racer may be held financially responsible for medical expenses, property repairs, and other losses incurred by the victims. These civil liabilities can result in substantial financial consequences and have long-lasting effects on the racers’ lives.

Vehicle Impoundment and Forfeiture

Law enforcement agencies often have the authority to impound and seize vehicles used in street racing activities. Depending on local laws, the confiscated vehicle may be subject to forfeiture, meaning the racer may permanently lose their car. Vehicle impoundment and forfeiture serve as additional deterrents to discourage individuals from participating in street racing.

Driver’s License Suspension and Revocation

Engaging in street racing can lead to the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license. Authorities take such measures to prevent repeat offenses and to protect public safety. License suspension can range from a few months to several years, while license revocation entails a complete loss of driving privileges. Reinstating a suspended or revoked license often requires completion of driver education programs or meeting other specific requirements.

Criminal Record and Future Consequences

Individuals convicted of street racing offences may acquire a criminal record, which can have significant consequences for their future. A criminal record can impact employment opportunities, educational pursuits, and even personal relationships. Background checks conducted by employers and educational institutions often reveal such convictions, potentially leading to negative outcomes for those involved in illegal street racing.

Street Racing and Insurance Coverage

Participating in street racing can have severe implications for insurance coverage. Insurance companies may deny claims for damages resulting from street racing incidents, considering it a breach of policy terms. Furthermore, insurance premiums can significantly increase for individuals involved in street racing, making it costly and challenging to obtain coverage in the future.

Efforts to Combat Street Racing

Authorities and communities are taking steps to combat street racing and raise awareness about its dangers. Police departments conduct targeted operations to apprehend street racers and enforce traffic laws rigorously. Additionally, community outreach programs, public service announcements, and educational campaigns aim to educate the public, especially young drivers, about the consequences of illegal street racing.

Public Safety Concerns

Street racing poses severe threats to public safety. The high speeds involved can result in loss of vehicle control, leading to accidents that endanger the lives of racers, passengers, and innocent bystanders. Additionally, the presence of unauthorized spectators and the lack of proper safety measures further exacerbate the risks associated with street racing events.

The Role of Law Enforcement

Law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in curbing street racing activities. They employ various tactics, such as increased patrols, undercover operations, and surveillance to identify and apprehend street racers. By enforcing traffic laws and imposing penalties, law enforcement aims to deter individuals from engaging in illegal street racing and protect public safety.

Alternative Legal Racing Options

Recognizing the allure of racing culture, some jurisdictions have established legal alternatives for enthusiasts. These include sanctioned racing events at professional racetracks, drag strips, or closed circuits where drivers can showcase their skills in a controlled and safe environment. Encouraging legal racing options provides an outlet for adrenaline junkies while reducing the need for illegal street racing.

Community Awareness and Education

Educating communities about the dangers and consequences of street racing is vital in curbing this illegal activity. Schools, community centers, and local organizations can collaborate to organize awareness campaigns, inviting law enforcement officers and professionals to share their experiences and knowledge. Through education, the community can work together to discourage street racing and promote responsible driving habits.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is street racing always illegal?

Yes, street racing is illegal in most jurisdictions due to the inherent dangers it poses to public safety.

What are the potential criminal charges for street racing?

Depending on the circumstances, street racing charges can include reckless driving, speeding, exhibition of speed, or vehicular manslaughter.

Can insurance cover damages from street racing incidents?

Insurance companies may deny claims for damages resulting from street racing incidents, considering it a breach of policy terms.

How can communities combat street racing?

Communities can combat street racing through education, awareness campaigns, increased law enforcement efforts, and the promotion of legal racing alternatives.

What are the long-term consequences of a criminal record from street racing?

A criminal record resulting from street racing can impact future employment, education, and personal relationships, leading to negative consequences.

Conclusion

Street racing may seem thrilling and exhilarating, but it comes with severe legal consequences. Engaging in illegal racing activities can result in criminal charges, civil liabilities, vehicle impoundment, driver’s license suspension, and a tarnished reputation.

Furthermore, street racing jeopardizes public safety and puts lives at risk. It is crucial for individuals to understand the gravity of these legal consequences and consider safe and legal alternatives to satisfy their need for speed.

The post Legal Consequences of Street Racing: Muscle Cars and Illegal Activities appeared first on Muscle Car.

1. Custom Wheels

One of the most stylish custom Corvette accessories you can install to enhance your Corvette’s appearance is customized wheels. 

Wheels play a vital role in defining the overall look and stance of your vehicle. Upgrading to aftermarket wheels not only enhances the aesthetics but also allows for improved performance.

Whether you opt for classic five-spoke designs or modern multi-spoke alloys, there’s a wide range of options available to suit your personal taste.

Remember to consider factors such as wheel size, finish, and compatibility with your Corvette’s suspension system before making a final decision.

2. Carbon Fiber Accents

Carbon fiber has become synonymous with high-performance vehicles, and incorporating carbon fiber accents into your Corvette’s exterior can add a touch of aggressive elegance. 

Carbon fiber side skirts, front splitters, rear spoilers, and mirror covers not only enhance the visual appeal but also offer weight reduction benefits. 

These lightweight components can improve aerodynamics and handling, giving your Corvette a more menacing presence on the road.

3. Window Tinting

Window tinting not only provides privacy and protection from harmful UV rays but also adds a touch of sophistication to your Corvette’s appearance. 

Tinted windows can help create a sleek, mysterious look while keeping the interior cool during hot summer days. 

It’s important to check local regulations regarding window tinting limits to ensure compliance with the law.

4. Performance Exhaust System

The throaty roar of a Corvette’s engine is music to any car enthusiast’s ears. Enhancing the exhaust system not only improves the auditory experience but can also contribute to the visual appeal. 

A performance exhaust system can add a more aggressive tone to your Corvette’s engine note, giving it an unmistakable presence and one of the best vehicles for road trips.

Opting for a system with polished stainless steel tips can also provide a touch of elegance to the rear end of your Corvette.

5. Custom Paint and Graphics

If you truly want to make a statement, consider investing in a custom paint job or unique graphics for your Corvette. 

Whether it’s a classic metallic finish, a bold racing stripe, or a striking two-tone combination, a custom paint job can transform your Corvette into a head-turning masterpiece. 

Additionally, vinyl decals and graphics can add a personalized touch, allowing you to showcase your individual style and personality.

6. LED Lighting Upgrades

Upgrading your Corvette’s lighting to LED technology is not only a practical choice but can also enhance its visual appeal. 

LED headlights provide brighter, more focused illumination, improving visibility and safety on the road. LED taillights and fog lights can add a modern touch to the rear end, while LED interior lighting can create an inviting ambiance. 

LED lighting upgrades are often energy-efficient and durable, and there is a wide range of color options to suit your preferences.

Why Installing Accessories Improves the Appeal of Your Corvette 

Installing accessories on your Corvette can significantly enhance its overall appeal in multiple ways. Firstly, accessories allow you to personalize and customize your Corvette, making it a reflection of your unique style and taste. Whether it’s upgrading to custom wheels, adding carbon fiber accents, or opting for a custom paint job, these enhancements make your Corvette stand out from the crowd and turn heads wherever you go.

Secondly, accessories can elevate the performance and aesthetics of your Corvette simultaneously. Upgrading to a performance exhaust system not only improves the engine’s sound but also adds a visually appealing element to the rear of your car. Similarly, LED lighting upgrades not only enhance visibility and safety but also give your Corvette a modern and sleek appearance.

Lastly, investing in accessories can increase the resale value of your Corvette. Well-chosen and tastefully installed accessories can make your Corvette more desirable to potential buyers, allowing you to fetch a higher price when the time comes to sell or trade-in your vehicle.

Summing Up: Accessories You Should Get for Your Corvette

Owning a Corvette is a testament to your love for automotive excellence, and with the right accessories, you can elevate its aesthetic appeal to new heights. From custom wheels and carbon fiber accents to window tinting and LED lighting upgrades, the options are virtually limitless. So, go ahead, explore the possibilities, and enjoy the journey of enhancing the visual allure of your beloved Corvette.

The post Want to Improve the Aesthetic Appeal of Your Corvette? Accessories That Can Help appeared first on Muscle Car.

For years, the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) was dominated by Jaguars. From the legendary Mk1 and Mk2 saloons to Stirling Moss’s victory in a Mk7 at the 1952 Daily Express International Trophy meeting, a Jaguar was the clear choice if you wanted to win a race outright when the series began in 1958. But that all changed on May 11th, 1963. When Jack Sears arrived at Silverstone with a Ford Galaxie, an American buil V8 machine from the world of NASCAR, it signalled the start of an era where American V8 power was the norm at the front of the field for over a decade.

The Galaxie quickly proved itself to be a formidable force. Despite the presence of renowned drivers Graham Hill and Roy Salvadori, Sears blew past the leading Jaguars on Hangar Straight when he hit 135mph and disappeared out of sight. He went on to win the 12-lap race by an incredible 20 seconds, setting a new lap record and even outrunning the brand-new 1100cc Mini Cooper S driven by John Whitmore.

At the end of May, a non-championship race at Aintree cemented the Galaxie’s dominance, with Sears again taking first place. Finally, at Crystal Palace, the next round of the BTCC, Sears and Gawaine Baillie’s Galaxie cruised past Salvadoi and Hill once again, proving that it wasn’t just fast and at home on a straight but could also take on more twisty, technical tracks.

Naturally, the Galaxie didn’t come without its fair share of controversy. Questions were raised about the legality of the American build, which resulted in alterations that weakened the car’s roll-cage and had to be reverted back to drum brakes after the Royal Automobile Club refused to let them run discs on the front. But even with these changes, the Ford still came out on top.

Sears took first place again at Snetterton in a non-championship bout and followed this up with another 1-2 finish alongside Baillie at Silverstone in the Grand Prix support race. Jim Clark eventually ended Sears’ winning streak at Brands Hatch in August, but even then it was a Galaxie, run by Alan Brown.

It was clear that the Americans had changed the game forever. Autosport remarked at the end of the season that nothing could keep up with the two cars and looked forward to the “splendid spectacle” that the American muscle cars provided.

60 years later and the American muscle cars continue to shape the BTCC, and in many ways, motorsport as a whole. The Ford Galaxie ushered in a new era of V8 domination, and set the wheels in motion for a new level of racing excitement. From its very first race, the American muscle car had proven itself capable of challenging the best and leaving its mark on the BTCC for generations to come.

The immediate success of the Ford Galaxie sparked a wave of enthusiasm for American muscle cars in the BTCC, with other iconic vehicles such as the Dodge Charger, Plymouth Barracuda and Chevrolet Camaro quickly becoming staples of the series. These cars provided a unique challenge to the touring car drivers of the time, incorporating aspects of stock car racing with the demands of a traditional road course. This new style of racing emerged as a precursor to the regulations used today in a range of racing categories, which blend traditional touring car elements with those of sports car and stock car formats.

Alongside their performance on the track, the American muscle cars also became legendary for their showmanship. The powerful V8s produce an unmistakable roar and the engines had to be frequently replaced due to the intense heat they generated. Carrying a wide array of liveries, the American muscle cars also drew in large crowds of enthusiasts who would watch them thunder around the circuit.

The impact of the American muscle car on the BTCC can still be seen to this day. As the series has grown, so too has the technology and regulations allowing for more powerful machines capable of handling the diverse circuits the championship visits. With the current regulations allowing for larger displacement engines, the American muscle car legacy is more relevant than ever.

From the Mustang Mach 1 of 1969 to the Dodge Charger and various Raysees and Chevrolets, American muscle cars continued to remain an influence on the BTCC throughout the following decade. These cars were consistently quick just like the Galaxie and allowed drivers to display their own individual style.

By the late 1970s, the American muscle cars had been supplanted by more modern cars. But that doesn’t mean their legacy was forgotten. The presence of these cars in the BTCC continues to inspire future generations of racers and the fact that they’ve risen to fame in the world of motorsport remains a testament to their enduring impact.

Even today, the American muscle car remains a popular choice for fans of the series and drivers alike. Drivers such as Matt Neal, Tom Chilton and Tom Oliphant have found success and fame with their American-built machines, bringing the spirit of the original Galaxie back to BTCC.

The legacy of the American muscle car in British Touring Car Racing can’t be overstated. From its introduction in 1963 until now, the cars have left their mark on the series and paved the way for further innovation in motorsport. With each new generation of cars, the influence of the American muscle car shows no sign of fading, and as long as BTCC continues to race, we’ll be sure to see some American muscle cars out on the track.

The post The American Muscle Car Winning British Touring Car Racing appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

If you are into performance vehicles in any shape or form, you have probably heard of John Hennessey or his company Hennessey Performance Engineering. Essentially, they ‘make fast cars faster’ with a focus on American-made muscle cars and trucks, turning all the dials up to 11. In this almost two-hour interview, we get the rare opportunity to hear experiences and tales from the man himself.

Hennessey Performance is known for car builds such as the 301 mph Hennessey Venom F5, the VelociRaptor SUV, and the Hennessey Exorcist – basically a 1,000 hp Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. When you are dealing with this level of high-end vehicle, you are going to attract a certain type of clientele. This point alone makes for some interesting listening, with insights into this world only available via these types of long-form interviews.

While it’s possible to watch snippets of the interview on different video platforms, it’s worth watching the whole thing, even if it’s just for the interesting anecdotes of life inside high-end car builds. You can check out the full interview via the link below.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7LAHk8UOD0nTOIUfQwyarM

The post John Hennessey Interviewed On Joe Rogan appeared first on Muscle Car.

The 2019 Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car that has been updated with modern technology and performance features. The Challenger has a long history in the muscle car market, with a reputation for power and style. With the 2019 model, Dodge has continued to honor that legacy while also incorporating new design and technology elements.

II. Design and Performance Features

The 2019 Dodge Challenger features a retro-inspired exterior design that pays homage to the original Challenger models of the 1970s. The car’s aggressive stance, wide body, and available racing stripes give it a classic muscle car look. The interior of the Challenger is also designed to reflect its performance-focused roots, with available leather seats and a driver-focused cockpit.

The Challenger comes with a range of engine options, including a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8, a 6.4-liter V8, and the supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8. The Hellcat engine produces an impressive 717 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful muscle cars on the market. Additionally, the Challenger comes with a range of handling and suspension features to improve performance and stability, such as Brembo brakes and an adaptive damping system.

III. Technology and Safety Features

The 2019 Dodge Challenger comes with a range of technology features to enhance the driving experience. The car features a standard Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, which can be upgraded to an 8.4-inch screen with navigation. The Challenger also has several driver assistance and safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and a backup camera.

Comfort and convenience features on the Challenger include available heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system. Additionally, the Challenger has available performance pages, which allow drivers to monitor the car’s performance metrics and adjust settings to improve performance.

IV. Special Editions and Customization Options

The 2019 Dodge Challenger has several special edition models, including the Hellcat and Demon. The Hellcat features the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 717 horsepower, while the Demon has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 840 horsepower. Both models come with unique design elements and performance features, such as wider tires and improved cooling systems.

The Challenger also has several customization options, including a range of paint colors and interior finishes. Additionally, the car can be modified with aftermarket parts and car tuning stages to further enhance performance and style.

V. Reception and Reviews

The 2019 Dodge Challenger has received positive reviews from both critics and customers. The car’s combination of classic muscle car style and modern technology and performance features has been praised, as well as its impressive engine options and handling capabilities. The Challenger has also been compared favorably to other muscle cars in the market, such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

VI. Legacy and Future of the Challenger

The Dodge Challenger has a long history in the muscle car market, and the 2019 model continues to honor that legacy while also incorporating modern features and design elements. The Challenger’s place in muscle car history is secure, and the car is likely to continue to be a popular choice for muscle car enthusiasts in the future. Dodge may also continue to innovate and improve upon the Challenger in the years to come.

VII. Conclusion

Overall, the Dodge Challenger is a classic muscle car that has been updated with modern features and technology. The 2019 model continues to honor the car’s legacy while also incorporating new design elements and engine options. The Challenger’s combination of classic style and modern power and features make it a standout in the muscle car market.

Whether you are looking for a car with impressive performance capabilities or a vehicle that pays tribute to the muscle car era of the past, the 2019 Dodge Challenger is a car worth considering. Additionally, its available customization options and ability to modify the car with aftermarket parts and car tuning stages make it a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking to personalize their vehicle.

The post The 2019 Dodge Challenger: A Classic Muscle Car with Modern Power appeared first on Muscle Car.

The Chevrolet Camaro is an iconic American muscle car that has been a favorite among car enthusiasts since its debut in 1966. The fifth generation Camaro, which ran from 2010 to 2015, was no exception. Among the models available in this generation, the Camaro Z28 stands out for its impressive specs and performance. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation specs and what makes it a true powerhouse on the road.

Introduction

The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is a high-performance version of the Camaro that was introduced in 2014. It was designed to be the ultimate track-ready Camaro, with a focus on performance and handling. The Z28 is powered by a 7.0-liter LS7 V8 engine, which produces 505 horsepower and 481 lb-ft of torque.

Engine and Performance

The LS7 engine is one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines ever put in a Camaro. It is based on the engine used in the Corvette Z06, but has been modified for the Camaro. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which is the only transmission available for the Z28.

The Camaro Z28 also comes with a number of performance features that make it stand out from other Camaros. It has a special track-tuned suspension, with unique springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars. It also has lightweight wheels and brakes, which help to reduce the car’s weight and improve its handling.

The Z28’s performance is truly impressive. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 184 mph. It can also stop from 60 mph in just 107 feet, thanks to its high-performance brakes.

If you’re looking to improve the performance of your Camaro Z28, you might want to consider tuning it. Car tuning is the process of modifying a vehicle to improve its performance, handling, and overall appearance. There are many different aspects of car tuning, including engine tuning, suspension tuning, and exterior modifications.

One useful resource for car enthusiasts looking to tune their vehicles is the TorqueCars Car Tuning Guide. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of car tuning, from the basics of engine tuning to more advanced topics like forced induction and nitrous oxide systems. It also includes advice on suspension tuning, brake upgrades, and exterior modifications like spoilers and body kits.

Exterior Design

The Camaro Z28 has a distinctive exterior design that sets it apart from other Camaros. It has a more aggressive front fascia, with a larger grille and a unique hood that features a functional air extractor. The car also has a rear spoiler and a special rear diffuser, which help to improve its aerodynamics.

One of the most unique features of the Z28’s exterior design is its wheels. The car comes with lightweight 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are wrapped in high-performance Pirelli PZero Trofeo R tires. These tires are designed to provide maximum grip on the track, and are some of the most advanced tires available for any car.

Interior Design

The interior of the Camaro Z28 is designed with performance in mind. It has Recaro sport seats, which provide excellent support during high-speed maneuvers. The seats are also covered in microfiber suede, which helps to keep the driver and passengers in place during hard cornering.

The Z28’s interior also has a number of other performance-oriented features. It has a flat-bottom steering wheel, which provides better grip and control during spirited driving. The car also has a special performance data recorder, which allows drivers to track their lap times and other performance metrics.

Price and Availability

The Camaro Z28 was only produced for the 2014 and 2015 model years, and was a limited-production model. As a result, it is now a rare and highly sought-after car among collectors and enthusiasts.

When it was first released, the Camaro Z28 had a starting price of around $75,000. Today, a well-maintained Z28 can fetch prices upwards of $50,000 on the used car market.

Conclusion

The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is a true powerhouse on the road, with impressive specs and a design that is focused on performance. The LS7 engine is one of the most powerful ever put in a Camaro, and is paired with a track-tuned suspension, lightweight wheels and brakes, and high-performance tires to create a car that is built for the racetrack.

The Z28’s unique exterior and interior design features further set it apart from other Camaros, with a distinctive look that is both aggressive and functional. And while the Z28 was only produced for a limited time, its status as a collector’s item only adds to its appeal.

Overall, the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is a car that truly unleashes the power of American muscle, and continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts to this day.

FAQs

• What is the top speed of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation?

The top speed of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is 184 mph.

• What is the horsepower of the LS7 engine?

The LS7 engine in the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation produces 505 horsepower.

• What is the torque of the LS7 engine?

The LS7 engine in the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation produces 481 lb-ft of torque.

• What is the acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph for the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation?

The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation has an acceleration time of 4.0 seconds from 0 to 60 mph.

• How many units of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation were produced?

Only 7,199 units of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation were produced between 2014 and 2015.

• What is the fuel economy of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation?

The fuel economy of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

• What is the price of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation?

The original MSRP of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation was around $75,000.

• How does the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation compare to other muscle cars?

The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is considered one of the best muscle cars ever made, with a powerful engine, track-tuned suspension, and unique design features that set it apart from other muscle cars.

• Is the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation a good investment for car collectors?

Yes, the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th generation is highly sought after by car collectors due to its limited production and high-performance specs, making it a good investment for those interested in collecting muscle cars.

The post Unleashing the Power: Chevrolet Camaro Z28 5th Generation Specs appeared first on Muscle Car.

Specialty Vehicle Engineering (SVE) just unveiled their highly anticipated Yenko/SC Camaro, and it does not disappoint. With a price starting at $85,995, this iconic vehicle is equipped with an impressive powertrain that produces up to 1,150 hp.

The Yenko Camaro concept goes way back to the late 1960s when Don Yenko special ordered his own choice of parts to make the ultimate Camaro. These vehicles were made in limited numbers and are now super rare. Therefore, anyone using the Yenko name on a Camaro instantly gets the street cred of having a vehicle a cut above the rest.

This 2023 version lives up to its grandfather’s credibility with topline components and of course ridiculous power. From its intimidating matte black finish to its 4-piston Brembo brakes, the Yenko/SC Camaro looks as high-performance as it drives.

But what sets the Yenko/SC Camaro apart from any other muscle car? Well, the answer lies beneath the hood. Equipped with a 6.8-Liter LT1 V8 engine and a 3.0-liter supercharger, this car is capable of producing up to 1,150 hp and 975 lb-ft of torque with the stage II upgrades.

In addition to its powerful engine, the Yenko/SC Camaro also features a performance suspension package and an enhanced cooling system. The suspension system is designed to provide superior handling and stability, while the cooling system ensures the vehicle maintains optimal performance during long rides.

The 2023 Yenko gets its inspiration from the Camaro SS and the 1LE performance package, which includes features such as electronic limited-slip differential, transmission and a rear differential cooler. There’s also a fully working front splitter, carbon fibre hood, rear spoiler, and essential side stripes. The interior has Recaro front seats as standard.

The car also features a long list of driver assistance technologies. These include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and parking assistance, ensuring that drivers always remain safe on the road. To top it all off, the Yenko/SC Camaro comes with an array of safety features such as airbags, parking sensors, and ABS brakes.

At the end of the day, the Yenko/SC Camaro is undoubtedly one of the most impressive muscle cars to hit the market. From its stunning exterior to its powerful engine and luxurious interior, this vehicle offers the best of both worlds – style and speed.

The post Experience The Thrill of 1,150 HP With SVE’s Yenko/SC Camaro appeared first on Muscle Car.

The Ford Fairlane is one of the less obvious muscle cars sold between 1955 and 1970 in North America. It is well-known for its variety of body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, two-door and four-door hardtops, station wagons, and both traditional and retractable-hardtop convertibles. The Ford Fairlane was the predecessor to the Crown Victoria and 500 nameplates which later became stand-alone full-size models. From a muscle car perspective, the 427cu(7.0 L) Cobra V8 from 196-67 and the 428cu(7.0 L) FE V8 of 1969 are the standout versions. In South America, the sixth generation of Ford Fairlane was marketed until 1981.

Along with introducing the Ford Fairlane, Ford also introduced the 1955 model year with a full-size offering. The Ford Fairlane had six different body styles available, including the Crown Victoria with a tinted transparent plastic roof, the regular Fairline with stainless steel trim, a convertible Sunliner, the Victoria hardtop coupe, and a traditional sedan. Power options at this time included a 223 cu in I6 engine and a 272 cu in V8 engine.

In 1956, the Fairlane was given new and slimmer roofline, with a one-year-only two-door station wagon, the 1956 Squire, offered to compete against the Chevrolet Nomad. This same year, a safety package was also introduced. For the 1957 to 1959 model years, the Fairlane 500 was added to the Fairlane lineup while other new features included new trim, the 292 cu in V8 Y-block called the Thunderbird V-8, and the 302 V8 option was expanded with a 332 and 352 cu in V8. These changes were popular with customers who, for the first time since 1935, outsold the Chevrolet in 1957.

The Ford Fairlane was also the first vehicle to feature the push-button cruise control mechanism, an innovation that was eventually adopted by many competing car manufacturers. In addition, Ford introduced a new two-speed Ford-O-Matic transmission in 1958, giving drivers the ability to switch between low and high gear without the need for a clutch pedal.

The Sixties saw even more improvements and features added to the Ford Fairlane, including a chrome grille and a reshaped hood. The Fairlane also received an upgraded chassis, power steering, and body insulation to reduce noise levels. In 1967, Ford completely redesigned the Fairlane and included a much wider track and larger wheelbase. The new Fairlane also featured a new suspension system, variable ratio power steering, and a slew of other comfort and convenience features.

In 1968, the Ford Fairlane was given a restyle and in 1969, the Fairlane was completely redesigned again with an all-new body style. This last generation of the Ford Fairlane was sold until 1970 and came equipped with a powerful 429 cu in V8 engine, making the Fairlane very popular with muscle car enthusiasts.

In the years since production of the Ford Fairlane stopped in 1970, the car has gained in popularity with collectors and classic car fans alike. The Ford Fairlane is now seen as a classic American car, and its sleek and stylish design makes it a favorite among collectors. Today, Ford Fairlanes from all periods of production can still be found on the used car market with various price points depending on rarity and options.

The Ford Fairlane is also notable for being the first car to feature the now-popular “shaker” hood scoop. This feature, which was originally designed for improved engine cooling, is now a popular styling element with classic car enthusiasts. The Ford Fairlane’s shaker hood is one of the most iconic features of the car, and its popularity continues to this day.

The post The Ford Fairlane appeared first on Muscle Car.

Chevrolet has announced they are stopping production of the Camaro. This leaves the Ford Mustang as the only production V8 muscle/pony car with no signs of stopping production.
The current 6th generation model of the Camaro will continue to be produced until January 2024 at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant in Michigan, although no further plans for future editions have yet been revealed by GM.

GM is in the process of transitioning to an all-electric lineup by 2035, investing heavily in both vehicles and autonomous technology. This shift has left less room for traditional gas and gasoline-powered models, leading to their scaling back in favor of electric alternatives.
For GM, this is part of a longer history, dating all the way back to 1966 when the Camaro first entered the market as a rival to Ford’s Mustang. The Camaro has seen five generations since then, though it was briefly discontinued in 2002 before being reintroduced in 2010.
In recent years, the Camaro’s sales have trailed behind those of the more popular Challenger and Mustang models, with GM reporting just under 25,000 sales in 2022 compared to nearly 50,000 Mustangs sold by Ford and 55,000 Challengers from Dodge – though all three automakers have been increasingly directing their focus towards SUVs and trucks.

Ford unveiled a new design for the Mustang last September at the Detroit Auto Show, set for release in summer 2024. This seventh-generation Mustang will be solely powered by gasoline and marks the 58th straight year of production for the model, standing out as one of the last remaining car models amongst the three major automakers.

Ultimately, the decision by GM to stop production of the Camaro marks an interesting shift for the industry as a whole, as it looks to become increasingly electric and autonomous over the coming years.

This news has not been well-received amongst the Camaro’s large and loyal fanbase, who had held out hope for another generation of the beloved vehicle. Many of its supporters had continued to buy the new and updated iterations of the model in recent years, with some even opting to customize their own vehicles with additions, such as souped-up engines or custom body kits.
There are some dissenting opinions on the matter, with some believing the discontinuation of the Camaro will open up more opportunities for the Mustang in the future. Without the presence of the Camaro to rival it, Ford could have an edge in the market and can focus on creating a unique model tailored to the needs of its customers.

It remains to be seen how GM’s decision to move away from traditional muscle cars will impact the industry in the long run, although an apparent side effect is a need for competitors to rely on unique designs to stand out. This may be true not just for the Mustang, but for any potential new muscle car models that may enter the market in its wake: they need to have something that sets them apart from the crowd, making them desirable to drivers both old and new.

Still, the Mustang has evolved over the years, with everything from hybrid technology to 10-speed automatic transmissions being added since it was first introduced in 1964. For now, the Mustang will remain the muscle car icon, but the winds of change may be beginning to blow in the auto world.

The Mustang and Challenger, police in the short term, will now carry the torch for traditional cars in the US. Tesla’s recent announcement of the Model S Plaid hints at a future full of electric muscle cars, with obviously the Demon 170 and the new electric muscle cars coming from Dodge.
As time goes on, we will see which companies decide to make the leap into electric muscle cars, as the industry continues to change and evolve. In the meantime, the Mustang stands tall as the preeminent leader in the classic American muscle car scene, with the hope of a resurgence in the future.

With Chevrolet’s departure from the muscle car market, other companies have a chance to make their mark. Companies such as Hyundai and Dodge have already expressed interest in entering the arena with new muscle car models that could rival the Mustang in power and aesthetics.
These contenders could use their existing technology to create models that are more efficient and powerful than ever before. As the race against time continues, we will soon find out if these up-and-coming automakers are able to create cars that can live up to the legacy of the Camaro and Mustang.
The Camaro’s departure is undoubtedly a challenging moment, but with new automotive technologies emerging every day, there is still hope for the future of the muscle car genre.

If history is anything to go by, changes in regulations and the social climate impacting muscle cars can be traced back to the golden age of the early 1970s. Muscle cars changed dramatically from 1970-75, and while the V8s were the engine of choice, they were a shadow of their former selves. It basically took quite a few years for everything to get back on track. In other words, we are now seeing a similarly dramatic shift where the old templates need to be revised.

This is not to say muscle cars cannot coexist. Just like the classic muscle cars of the late 1960s-1970s are still around and enjoyed by many. High-performance V8 muscle cars will become a more niche pastime, but they will never go away as proven over the last 50 years.

The post The Final Farewell: Chevrolet Discontinues Its Iconic Camaro appeared first on Muscle Car.

Ford Shelby Mustang S650 Dark Horse

Ford is coming into 2023 with their Mustang S650 Dark Horse, sporting a naturally aspirated 5-litre V8 engine that produces 500 horsepower and 418 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission. A mechanical brake keeps things real, with modern accompaniments like a 13.2-inch touchscreen display also included. If you want to go completely back in time for the interior, there is a retro dial pack available which provides the analogue dials from the 1980s no less.
For those wanting something more sedate, the base model Mustang starts at a very reasonable $27,470 and comes with a 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder that puts out 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

The Mustang nameplate has been borrowed by Ford’s SUV side of things, and with electric vehicles coming at us like an unstoppable tsunami it’s likely the 23-24 years will see the last of these beasts. In other words, don’t be surprised if present models become highly sought-after, future classics.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Next up is Chevrolet’s iconic Camaro, which has been a staple in the muscle car world since 1967. The latest iteration of the Camaro ZL1 is the fastest ever, reaching a staggering 202 MPH at the Nürburgring test track in Germany. This is made possible by its supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine that cranks out 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a ten-speed automatic available as an upgrade. The cost of admission for the Camaro ZL1 is relatively low, starting at $69,695, with the base Camaro 1LS trim beginning at just $27,495 and featuring a 275 horsepower 4-cylinder engine with 295 pound-feet of torque.

The Camaro also strikes an even balance between the 2 offerings from Ford and Dodge. Basically, taking the pure muscle car power ideas from Dodge, and the more sporty, track focused ideas from Ford. The design and styling of the Camaro is still a head turner, and a great alternative to the rest of the performance market.

Dodge Charger Hellcat And Challenger Hellcat

Finally, there’s Dodge, the only company of the Big Three currently offering two separate muscle cars. The Challenger and Charger both feature Dodge’s legendary 6.2-liter “Hellcat” supercharged V-8 engine, with the Hellcat edition typically producing 717 horsepower and approximately 650 foot-pounds of torque, though the Demon has pushed that number up to 807 horsepower.

Dodge has publicly stated that 2023-24 will see the last of the V8 muscle cars, with 6 special edition versions being released. The final special edition of this run will be announced at the end of March 2023, and is expected to be one of the most powerful offerings from Dodge as yet. If you can manage to get your hands on one of these limited edition versions that’s great. If not, you can still treat yourself to one of the wide-body versions, all having more power than you will ever need.

Okay, So Who Wins?

To judge which of the Detroit Big Three makes the most impressive showing in 2023, it’s important to consider the whole package. While Dodge has had great success with the Hellcat, their Chargers and Challengers tend to lag behind the Camaro and Mustang in terms of suspension, handling, and innovation. However, Ford has managed to stand out from the crowd with their continued commitment to their Mustang platform, keeping the internal combustion engine alive and well in the face of the transition towards electric vehicles. They also have the most competitively priced model of all the muscle cars discussed here, plus the most standard power of the Big Three’s base models. All of these factors combined make it easy to see why, in the year 2023, Ford quietly emerges as the victor of the great muscle car war.

Customization

It is also important to consider the level of customization that each company offers with their muscle car models. Ford offers myriad options for customizing their Mustang, from exterior finishes and rims to interior trim packages and performance parts. The engine options are also impressive, allowing customers to choose from a variety of engine setups and power levels. Chevrolet has recently upped the ante when it comes to personalization, offering a wide selection of decals, badges, and other performance parts for their Camaro models. Meanwhile, Dodge has held strong with their Challenger and Charger having the most powerful configurations out of the Big Three, while also offering customers a choice between manual or automatic transmissions.

In addition to the base models of each car, there are several special editions worthy of note. Ford offers the Roush Performance line of Mustang cars, which add additional horsepower and aesthetic upgrades to the Mustang. The same can be said for Chevy’s Camaro, which features the V6 1LE package as well as the SS Special Edition, which adds further tuning and performance enhancements. Finally, Dodge’s Hellcat models offer 807 horsepower, the most powerful engine out of any of the Big Three.

Each of the Big Three has different exterior designs which echo their general ethos. The Mustang and Camaro reflect a more sports-orientated setups, while the Charger and Challenger stick more to the original muscle car template. The muscular design of the Charger and Challenger has worked so well, there has been little need to change over the last 10 years.

Safety

When comparing the muscle cars of 2023, safety is worth considering as well. All three companies have taken steps to improve their crash-worthiness in recent years, with Ford, Chevrolet, and Dodge all featuring a suite of active driver assistance and safety technologies on their models. They all meet or exceed the minimum requirements for crash-worthiness in the US as set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Resale Value

Finally, it is important to factor in the resale value of each vehicle. American muscle cars are known for holding their resale value well over time, with many models increasing in price due to their collector status. However, when it comes to muscle cars, Ford has undeniably been the king when it comes to resale value. The Mustang and its variants consistently hold their value better than the Camaro and Challenger, although the latter two have been gaining ground in recent years.

The limited edition offerings by Dodge in 2023 are bound to be future classics. So, as with the Dodge Demon, there will be huge interest and wild prices for the next year, then a slow and steady increase in value as the years go by. In other words, if the model is produced in limited numbers and features special options, it’s worth keeping hold of the thing for a good few years.

Since the start of the muscle car era in the late 1960s, the Detroit Big Three have had an on-off rivalry. Their offerings are slightly different these days, which means they appeal to different wants and needs. However, with the onset of EV vehicles, these V8 beasts now have more in common than ever before. An American-made rumble and soundtrack from the tried-and-tested V8 engine, plus an underlying design template that has steadily been refined over the years. Think of the offerings from Chevrolet, Dodge and Ford as a certain way of thinking. A steady tweaking and refining of the initial template to make it the best it can be, rather than morphing into completely brand-new models, completely different from what came before.

With an impressive lineup of cars with plenty of performance and customization options, a staggering resale value, and some of the best safety ratings in the industry, it is easy to see why the Mustang and its variants have been a staple of the American muscle car scene for nearly a century.

The post 2023 Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

From drag strips to car shows, American muscle cars have been a beloved part of the automotive landscape for years. Throughout the golden era of muscle cars, these powerful machines made an indelible mark in history due to their giant torque-rich engines and unique styling. With awesome-looking cars like the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Plymouth Barracuda, and Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette, it’s no wonder why these cars remain so iconic today.

If you’re a classic car enthusiast or collector, American muscle cars are certainly worth considering. While it’s certainly possible to find affordable models (like a 1966 Plymouth Barracuda for $5,500), some of the rarer ones can fetch an impressive amount at auction. For example, a 1967 L88 Corvette Convertible, 1971 Hemi Cuda Convertible 4-Speed, a 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88 2-Door Coupe, and a 1962 Shelby Cobra CSX2000 sold for $3.2 million, $3.5 million, $3.85 million, and a whopping $13.75 million, respectively.

However, even though emissions standards and other regulations tamed muscle cars in the 1980s, many of these cars are still filled with stories and badass power. So, without further ado, here’s a list of some of the most badass American muscle cars ever made.

2019 Dodge Challenger Redeye

For the modern muscle car enthusiast, the Challenger Redeye is definitely worth checking out. Even though it’s a hefty 4,514 pounds, it’s powered by a 797-hp engine under the hood. Not only that, but with its classic muscle car looks, it also features all of the modern amenities and features we’ve come to appreciate.

1966 Plymouth Barracuda

At first glance, the ’66 Barracuda looks like a low-slung muscle car with a massive rear window that gives it a distinctive look. It’s also one of the more affordable muscle cars on this list, since they’re relatively easy to find.

Barracudas are also noteworthy for being serious high-performance machines right out of the box. Despite this, some buyers felt like the cars were overly expensive, which is probably why Shelby made some features like adjustable Koni shocks, a fiberglass hood, and a Detroit Locker Rear Differential optional.

1968 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

The Mustang Shelby GT500 is among the most desirable cars for Mustang purists. The 1965 and 1966 GT 350s had a lightweight design, perfect for racing on the track. But the later 1967 and 1968 models were the ones to own if you wanted to win drag races.

With significantly more power and torque than earlier models, these cars could hit 60mph in the mid-to-low 14 second range, thanks to 428 cu in V8 engine. The Shelby Mustangs also featured more scoops and flashier styling than older models, making them even cooler.

Ford Mustang Boss 429

The 1969 Boss 429 was an incredibly limited edition muscle car from Ford. It featured an impressive 375 horsepower engine and could reach a top speed of 126 mph. Despite the underside of the hood being cramped and the fuel economy being appalling, the Boss still stands as one of the most desirable muscle cars ever made.

1969 ½ Dodge Super Bee A12

The Dodge Super Bee A12 was a muscle car with a bold hood and huge forward-facing scoop. It also featured a 440 Magnum engine and Edelbrock intakes. After the engines received regular production status, Chrysler-cast aluminium intakes were fitted at the plant.

1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

The Chevelle SS 454 was a force to be reckoned with. With its massive 454 cu in V8, the car could pump out up to 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, was capable of achieving a top speed of nearly 140 mph. This powerful engine was mated to a heavy-duty three-speed manual transmission and a limited slip differential, allowing the Chevelle SS 454 to achieve 0-60 times of 6.3 seconds.

1984 Chevy Corvette

The C4 Corvette was highly anticipated before its launch, with some speculating that it would feature a mid-engine chassis like a European exotic. In the end, the 1984 Corvette featured a transverse-mounted engine, along with other performance upgrades.

Designed to win races on the superspeedways, the car was lightened up and featured modifications to its body to reduce drag. This included a huge rear wing that was designed to allow the trunk lid to open fully.

1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda

When it comes to muscle cars, the Plymouth Hemi Cuda is undeniably one of the most revered and sought-after cars ever made. It was designed to compete with and beat the Corvette Stingray on the drag strip, and with its 425 horsepower V8 engine, it certainly delivered. The 440 and 426 Hemi V8s packed quite a punch and gave the car some serious acceleration.

1971 Pontiac GTO Judge

The 1971 Pontiac GTO Judge was one of the most iconic muscle cars of its time. From its racy design to its impressive performance, this car was a force to be reckoned with. It was equipped with a 455 cubic inch V8 engine that put out 370 horsepower, and combined with its lightweight body and responsive handling, the GTO Judge was a formidable adversary on the drag strip.

1969-1971 Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette

With legendary status among muscle car lovers, Baldwin-Motion Corvettes were delivered from a dealer in Baldwin, New York to Motion Performance speed shop down the road. Joel Rosen wanted to create a fast, functional all-American GT that fused Italian and American workmanship, resulting in a 3,300-pound sports car.

Powered by an AMC 390-cid V8, the Phase III GT Corvette was capable of 340 hp, making it quite a beast in its day. The cars were so popular that more than 25 went into production, with one fetching nearly $900,000 at an auction in 2017.

1968 Ford Torino GT

The Torino GT was Ford’s answer to the mid-size muscle car market in 1968. It featured a 390 cubic inch V8 that put out 335 horsepower, giving the car enough power to keep up with its competitors. In addition to its potent engine, the Torino GT also boasted an attractive design and generous list of features, making it a great car for cruising and racing alike.

1969 Dodge Charger RT

The 1969 Dodge Charger RT is one of the most iconic American muscle cars ever made. It was powered by a 375 horsepower 440 Magnum V8 engine, making it one of the fastest vehicles on the street. The Charger RT is also known for its signature cosmetics, including its menacing grille, aggressive hood scoop, and sleek bodylines.

1970 Buick GSX Stage I

The Buick GSX was a powerful, yet luxurious muscle car released in 1970. It featured Buick’s biggest engine — a 455 cubic inch V8 — that put out 360 horsepower. It also had plenty of other performance goodies, like a Hurst four-speed transmission, a Quick Response Suspension package, and an optional air induction system.

1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455

The 1973 SD-455 Trans Am was Pontiac’s last hurrah before emissions standards started strangling performance. This car was equipped with an incredible high-output 455 cubic inch V8 engine that generated 290 horsepower. The grand finale was the legendary Super Duty option, which added an additional 10 horsepower and an aluminum intake manifold.

1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am represented the pinnacle of Pontiac performance. It was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine with a four-barrel carburetor and Ram Air induction, giving it a whopping 220 horsepower. The car also featured a stiff suspension, a fist-shifting four-speed manual transmission, and four-wheel disc brakes.

1984 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

The Monte Carlo SS was a classic boulevard cruiser, but it was also capable of handling the occasional track day. It was powered by a 5.0 liter V8 engine that produced 180 horsepower and a hefty 275 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with its light weight, the Monte Carlo was one of the most well-rounded muscle cars of its time.

Conclusion

Throughout the golden era of muscle cars, American automakers created some awesome vehicles that remain popular and powerful today. From drag strips to collector cars, muscle cars offer plenty of fun, power, and style. With iconic cars like the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, Plymouth Barracuda, and Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette, these badasses remind us why they’re still so beloved.

The post Highly Regarded American Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Slamming cars into things and things into cars seems to be the best way to observe how a vehicle reacts in a potential crash. All roadgoing vehicles have to go through this rigorous testing phase along with the most common makes of muscle cars such as Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge.

IIHS HLDI or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway loss data Institute has the job of testing out roadgoing vehicles for how they react in various types of collisions. The videos below demonstrate how 2016 versions of a Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger are put through their crash test paces and the general outcomes for each vehicle.

Bear in mind that these video tests are from 2016. Vehicle safety is an ongoing work in progress, with the results fed back to the manufacturers to implement ever-better standards. So, expect a vehicle in the 2020s to have far more safety features than even a car from a few years before.

The post Crash Testing Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

If you have watched enough of Joe Rogan’s very popular podcast, you will have no doubt about his love of classic muscle cars. One standout vehicle in Mr Rogan’s collection is a custom 1969 Chevy Nova Restomod, produced by Pure Vision Design with a supercharged LT4 V8 powertrain.

In reality, Mr Rogan has quite an eclectic mix of vehicles in his collection, going from off-road performance like a 2021 Ford Raptor Hennessey Velociraptor 600, to even German engineering like a 2008 SharkWerks Porsche 997 911 GT3 RS. But for somebody who is American born and raised, a custom muscle car build is an obvious choice. Especially an example such as in 1969 Chevrolet Nova, a vehicle that is as tough and rugged looking now as it has ever been.

The video below walks you through the background behind the custom build, inspiration, and mechanicals. The custom build is also clearly a labor of love for the team, who quite rightly wax lyrical about every aspect of the car.

As with any custom muscle car build worth its salt, the powertrain is a key component. This particular Chevy Nova features a supercharged 6.2L LT4 V8, basically, the same variant found in the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Without any tweaks to the power levels, the engine is good for 650 hp and 650 lb-ft. of torque, going through a 6-speed manual Tremec transmission. No power steering here.

The sheet metal used in the build was custom shaped and sourced from other vehicles such as a Camaro and Firebird, resulting in a 3 inches extra width to the vehicle. The interior is also completely bespoke, with added old and new extras such as an infotainment screen, and even Fender Telecaster electric guitar knobs for some of the accompaniments.

In essence, check out the full video below, even if it is just to get an idea of all the subtle details added to this wonderful custom build.

The post Joe Rogan’s 1969 Chevy Nova Restomod appeared first on Muscle Car.

One specific genre of vehicle that has stood the test of time is muscle cars. While the build-up and cool-down from the golden years cover a few decades, it was really the late 1960s and early 1970s which produced the classics. Huge engines, unique designs, and straightforward power meant the average guy and girl could own world-class car performance, with a simple enough design to tinker with on the weekends. So, let’s check out some of the obvious and not-so-obvious standout old muscle cars that have stood the test of time.

Driving a muscle car is a unique experience. The rumble of the engine, the feel of the road, and the sense of power make for an unforgettable ride. And while some old muscle cars may not be as practical as modern vehicles, their raw horsepower and classic style make them stand out in a sea of bland cars on the road today.

AMC

AMX: This 2-seater sports car was introduced in 1968 and was designed to compete with the Corvette. The AMC AMX had a powerful 390cu V8 engine and a stylish design that made it stand out from other muscle cars of the time. The 1968 to 1970 models are the ones to look out for.

Javelin: The Javelin was a sporty coupe that was introduced in 1967. It was available with a variety of engines, ranging from a 232 cubic inch 6-cylinder to a 390 cubic inch V8. The Javelin was a popular car for racing and set a number of records on the drag strip.

Rebel: The Rebel was a full-size car that was introduced in 1967. It was available with a range of engines, including a 343 cubic inch V8 and a 390 cubic inch V8. The Rebel was known for its comfortable ride and smooth handling.

Hornet SC 360: The Hornet SC 360 was a compact car that was introduced in 1971. It was powered by a 360 cubic inch V8 engine and was designed to be a lightweight, high-performance car. The Hornet SC 360 was a popular car for racing and set several records on the drag strip.

Buick

Buick GS 455 Stage 1: The GS 455 Stage 1 was an upgraded version of the Buick Gran Sport that was introduced in 1970. It was powered by a 455 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 360 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. The GS 455 Stage 1 was known for its speed and acceleration and was one of the fastest muscle cars of its time.

Buick GS 400 (Stage 1): The GS 400 was a higher-end option of the Buick Gran Sport for 1968. It was powered by a 400 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 340 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. In 1970 the Stage 1 produced a 13.38 second quarter-mile at 105.50mph.

Buick GNX: The GNX was a high-performance version of the Buick Regal that was introduced in 1987. It was powered by a turbocharged 3.8 liter V6 engine that produced 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. The GNX was one of the fastest cars of its time. This was a rarity in the 1980s muscle cars scene.

Chevrolet

Chevelle SS 454: The Chevelle SS 454 was introduced in 1970. Powered by a 454 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, the SS 454 was arguably the king of the muscle cars. The Chevelle SS 454 still stands out as a shining example of the breed.

El Camino SS 454: The 1970 El Camino SS 454 was essentially a Chevelle SS 454 with lots of carry space at the back. It was powered by a 454 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 450 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The El Camino SS 454 combined utility and performance, still being overshadowed by many of its contemporaries.

Camaro Z/28: The Camaro Z/28 was a special performance package for the 1967 year. It was powered by a 302 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 290 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Just 602 examples were bought by the public in 1967. But the template proved so popular, the model is still available today.

Camaro ZL1: The Camaro ZL1 was a special order vehicle through Chevrolet’s COPO system, producing the most potent and valuable car of its day. It was powered by an all-aluminium 427 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 430 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Due to low sales numbers, the ZL1 is arguably one of the most collectable muscle cars around.

Nova SS: The Nova SS was introduced in 1963. It was available with a range of engines, including a 327 cubic inch V8 that produced 350 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. The Nova became a bone-defied muscle car in 1968, with a tough exterior, and plenty of options. The top of the pile is the Yenko Nova, with only 37 examples being produced.

Monte Carlo SS 454: The 1970 Monte Carlo SS 454 is a bit of a sleeper car, combining luxury and power. The car housed a 454 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 360 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The Monte Carlo may not have the street credibility of its contemporaries, but it sure has the power.

Yenko Camaro: The Yenko Camaro was a limited edition version of the Camaro. Don Yenko used the Chevrolet COPO ordering system to obtain the best engines, transmissions, and other parts available at the time. The highest-rated engine was a 427 cubic inch V8 that produced 425 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Due to each vehicle having the best of the best parts of the time, they were very expensive, thus only a handful was ever produced.

Dodge

Dodge Dart GTS: The Dart GTS is a great example of the idea of stuffing a huge engine in a small car. Dealers such as Norman Kraus (Mr. Norm), added a 440 cu. V8 (375hp) engine, making them competitive enough for NHRA Super Stock racing.

Charger Daytona: The Charger Daytona was adapted from the Dodge Charger in 1969 specifically for NASCAR racing. the most competitive engine was a 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 that produced 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. The car stood out with its huge nose cone and tail wing. Dubbed the ‘Winged Warrior,’ the Dodge Charger Daytona hit 200 mph in 1970, making the car the first in NASCAR history to do so.

Charger R/T: The Charger R/T was introduced as a performance package. Engine options included a a 440 cubic inch V8 producing 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. While the first Chargers came out in 1966, it wasn’t until 1968 with the B-body and the availability of the 440 Magnum and 426 Hemi V8 engines that hit the mark. Arguably the Charger R/T is most famous for starring in the 1968 movie Bullitt.

Dodge Super Bee: Spanning the years 1968 to 1971, the Dodge Super Bee was based on the Dodge Coronet, with added performance. It was available with a range of engines, including a 440 cubic inch V8 that produced 390 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. The Super Bee cost more and had better options than its Plymouth counterparts, with a 426 Hemi V8 being one of the options.

Ford

Mustang Boss 429: produced between 1969 to 1974 for NASCAR racing, the Mustang Boss 429 housed a 429 cubic inch V8 engine with 375 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The engine was good for a 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds time, and was the largest engines dropped into a Mustang at the time. The whole car had to be modified to accommodate the new engine, including the front suspension, shock towers, and hood.

Mustang Mach 1: The Mach 1 lasted from 1969 to 1978. Various engine options were available from the 351 cubic inch V8 to a 428 cubic inch V8. The car had a distinctive hood scoop, with early versions being the most prized.

Fairlane GTA: The Fairlane GTA was a performance variant of the Ford Fairlane available since 1955. Engine options ranged from a 390 cubic inch V8 to a 427 cubic inch V8, with the latter capable of producing 425 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. lots of performance options were available time such as tuned suspension, a limited-slip differential, and power front disc brakes.

Mercury

Cougar GT-E: produced between 1968 in 1970, the Cougar GT-E was available in either a 390 cubic inch V8 with 335 hp and 427 lb-ft of torque or a 428 cubic inch V8 with 360 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. With its distinctive styling, the Cougar may not be the most obvious performance muscle car, but it is definitely up there with the rest.

Oldsmobile

Oldsmobile 442: The Oldsmobile 442 was inspired by the Oldsmobile cutlass in 1964. The model gained its reputation from its 455 cubic inch V8 engine producing 370 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful cars of its time. The ‘442’ comes from the 4 barrel carburettor, 4 speed transmission, and dual exhaust.

442 W-30: The 442 was good enough in itself, but the Oldsmobile W-30 package added something extra. The package was designed for drag racing, so added features such as a highlift camshaft, aluminium intake manifolds, heavy duty suspension, and tuned exhaust system. The W-30 package also included styling upgrades such as ram air induction, fibreglass hood, along with bucket seats and a fancy steering wheel. Expect pay top dollar for one of these examples.

Plymouth

Fury 426 Hemi: The Fury 426 Hemi was capable of a 0 to 60 mph time in under 6 seconds. The engine was a 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 producing 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. The Hemi version was only built in limited numbers, making it a rare collector’s item today.

GTX 426 Hemi: Produced between 1967 and 1971, the Plymouth GTX 426 Hemi used a 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 with 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. Many performance upgrades are available on the options list along with luxury features such as power windows, power brakes and an upgraded audio system.

Plymouth Road Runner: The Plymouth Road Runner was produced from 1968 to 1980 as a muscle car for the masses. Based on the Plymouth Belvedere, the Roadrunner was a more basic offering, but still had the power. The 426cu. Hemi V8 was an option with 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. but you could also go for at the time the 383 cubic inch V8, which was still very capable. Many optional upgrades are available at the time like heavy-duty suspension, more powerful brakes and a performance exhaust system. most famously, the horn sound was based on the loony Tunes cartoon.

Plymouth Barracuda: The Plymouth Hemi Barracuda was built between 1964 in 1974. Arguably one of the most famous muscle cars around, the topline engine was the 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 with 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, and a 0 to 60 mph time of just over 5 seconds. The huge body design and wealth of options became a firm favourite in the muscle car community.

Plymouth Superbird: Just like the Dodge Daytona, the Plymouth Superbird was a ‘Winged Warrior’ based on the Plymouth Road Runner designed for NASCAR racing. The topline engine was the 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 with 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. While the Superbird is one of the most collectable muscle cars today, it didn’t sell well back in the day, looking more like an oddity compared to the rest of the pack.

Plymouth Duster 340: Produced between 1970 – 1976, the Plymouth Duster 340 was small in appearance with distinctive styling. The 340 cu. V8 was capable of 275 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque, and was popular with enthusiasts of the time. The Duster was also a great example of the range of loud colors available at the time such as Plum Crazy Purple and Hemi Orange.

Pontiac

Pontiac GTO: The Pontiac GTO is one of America’s original muscle cars. General Motors produced the vehicle from 1964 to 1974, inspired by the Pontiac Tempest. The 389 cubic inch V8 version could produce 348 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque, but it was the 1968 and onwards styling that won over fans. The GTO was available with plenty of performance options such as Ram Air Induction and heavy-duty suspension, but eventually succumbed to early nineteen seventies emission regulations, insurance charges and the tastes of the time.

Pontiac Firebird: Firebird was originally introduced in 1967 as a direct answer to the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. Engines range from a 6-cylinder up to a 455cu. V8 with 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The Firebird essentially kept going up until 2002, showing its worth over the years. Most iconic from this model was the ‘screaming chicken’ decal on the hood

Grand Prix: Originally introduced as a luxury performance car in 1962, the Pontiac Grand Prix built up to have a 455 cu. V8 engine, along with its luxury accompaniments. This model may not fund the street credibility or sporty looks of the others, but it definitely had the engine performance.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in owning one of these classic American muscle cars, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, old muscle cars can be expensive and need a lot of ongoing maintenance, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Research and more research is needed for every potential muscle car purchase, along with ideally buying from a reputable source.

One option is to buy a muscle car which is in need of restoration. While you may initially pay less for the vehicle, you have to factor in obtaining all the parts and the time and work involved. Sometimes in life, buying the finished article is more cost-effective and less of a headache.

If you’re in the market for a classic American muscle car for sale, check out the most popular muscle car dealers and auction houses as a start point. The outlet you choose really depends on your budget. For instance, you could find a cheap base model on websites such as eBay. But most likely be prepared for some restoration work. If you require a vehicle that is numbers matching, in near original condition, and with loads of documentation, you will need to visit a specialist dealer or auction house.

When it comes to the best American muscle cars, opinions can vary. Some may argue that the 1970 Plymouth Superbird is the ultimate muscle car, while others may choose the Chevelle SS 454. And of course, the debate over the fastest muscle car continues, with the likes of the Chevy Camaro ZL1 and Dodge Charger Daytona vying for the title of the fastest muscle car in the world.

In conclusion, old muscle cars are an important part of muscle car history in America. They are a certain way of thinking and following the mindset of a certain template, i.e. There is no replacement for displacement in an ICE car, and obviously bigger is better.

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American muscle cars, love them or loath them, they are admired for their unbridled power and unapologetic design. In this article, we’ll take a look at the 10 best American muscle cars, highlighting their features, power, and main features.

1. 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona

The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona is one of the most recognisable American muscle cars of all time. Its distinct design and aerodynamic nosecone contribute to its high top speed. The car has a 425 horsepower engine and was designed for NASCAR racing. When it was released, it was priced at $5,903. Only 503 were made, making it one of the world’s rarest and most collectible muscle cars.

The Daytona’s interior was designed with racing in mind, with high-backed bucket seats, a centre console, and a shifter mounted on the floor. The car also included a number of options, such as power steering and brakes, air conditioning, and a variety of audio and visual upgrades.

2. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS

Another classic American muscle car is the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS, which features a powerful 454(7.4L) cubic inch V8 engine. This engine could propel the Chevelle SS from 0 to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, making it one of the fastest muscle cars of its era. A 350 cubic inch (5.7-liter) V8 and a 396 cubic inch (6.5-liter) V8 were also available. The car was known for its sleek design, which included a cowl-induction hood and a bold front grille. It has 450 horsepower and was released at a cost of $3,500.

The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is now a highly coveted collector car, with prices ranging from $50,000 to well over $100,000 for rare and well-preserved examples.

3. 1970 Plymouth Superbird

The Plymouth Superbird of 1970 was a heavily modified Plymouth Road Runner. It was built for NASCAR racing and featured a 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 engine with 425 horsepower. According to reports, the car’s top speed was over 200 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars of the time. It had a distinctive high rear wing and a long nose cone that added nearly two feet to the front end of the car. Some critics called the design outrageous and over-the-top.

When it was released, the car was priced at $4,298 and was notable for its distinctive rear spoiler and front nosecone.

4. 1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351

The 1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351 is a strong American muscle car powered by a 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8 engine producing 330 horsepower. The engine was coupled to a four-speed manual transmission with a close ratio and a 3.91 rear axle. When it was released, it was priced at $4,124.

The Boss 351 had a distinct front air dam, blacked-out grille, rear deck spoiler, and hockey stick stripes on the outside. High-back bucket seats, a Hurst shifter, and a black instrument panel with a 120-mph speedometer were all added to the interior.

The Boss 351 was a limited-production model, with only 1,806 units produced. This rarity has made it a highly sought-after collectable today, with prices often reaching six figures.

5. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 was a high-performance version of the Chevrolet Camaro designed to compete with other popular muscle cars of the time, such as the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda. It is known for its aggressive design and performance, as well as its 302 cubic inch V8 engine that produces 290 horsepower. This engine came with a four-speed manual transmission and a high-lift camshaft, forged-steel crankshaft, and solid-lifter valve train. A dual-exhaust system, stiff suspension, and power front disc brakes were also standard on the Z28.

It had a top speed of around 125 mph and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The Z28 was also known for its excellent handling, with a well-tuned suspension that allowed it to easily corner at high speeds. When it was released, the car was priced at $3,112 USD.

6. 1967 Shelby GT500

Carroll Shelby designed the 1967 Shelby GT500, which was manufactured by Ford Motor Company. The GT500 was based on the Ford Mustang fastback and came standard with a powerful V8 engine that produced 355 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to fully engage with the power and performance of the vehicle. The GT500 also had a performance-tuned suspension system and disc brakes, which helped it to remain popular even today.

Only 2,048 units were produced, with the GT500 being priced at $4,195 when it was released.

7. 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge

The 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge was a collaboration between John DeLorean, Bill Collins, and Russ Gee, who wanted to create a high-performance car for younger drivers. It is distinguished by its distinctive hood and rear spoiler, as well as its 400 cubic inch V8 engine that produces 366 horsepower. The powerful engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission, resulting in an exciting driving experience. The car also had a Hurst shifter, heavy-duty suspension, and power brakes, making it a great road car.

The GTO Judge was a low-volume vehicle, with only 6,725 units produced in 1969. However, because of its powerful engine and aggressive styling, it was a popular choice among car enthusiasts and drag racers. When it was first released, the car was priced at $3,750.

The years of production ranged from 1964 to 1974. The GTO was available with a variety of engine options, including a V8, and had a top speed of around 130 mph. Despite the fact that production of the GTO ended in 1974, it is still a popular classic car among enthusiasts.

8. 1970 Buick GSX

The 1970 Buick GSX was built by General Motors’ Buick division and was only available for one model year. The GSX was created to compete with other muscle cars of the time, including the Pontiac GTO, Chevrolet Chevelle SS, and Oldsmobile 442.

There were two versions of the GSX: the GSX and the GSX Stage 1. The Stage 1 model had a 455 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 360 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine was available with a three-speed automatic transmission or a four-speed manual transmission.

The GSX was distinguished from other muscle cars of the time by a number of features. It was distinguished by a blacked-out grille, a front air dam, and a hood scoop. It came in a variety of colours, including Saturn Yellow, Apollo White, and Harvest Gold.

The GSX was distinguished by its distinctive colour and stripes. Only 678 GSXs were built in 1970, with 400 of them being Stage 1 models that cost $4,782 when they were released.

9. 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30

The 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 is a classic American muscle car with a 455 cubic inch V8 engine producing 370 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a 4-speed manual transmission for quick and precise shifting.

The 442 W-30 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and reach 114 mph. It was also one of the fastest muscle cars of its time, with a quarter-mile time of 13.91 seconds at 102 mph. Only 1,032 W-30s were produced in 1970, making it a rare and valuable vehicle among collectors and enthusiasts.

The 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 is now a highly collectable vehicle, with prices ranging from around $70,000 to more than $100,000 depending on condition and originality. When it was first released, it was priced at $4,780.

10. 1968 Plymouth Road Runner

The Plymouth Road Runner of 1968 was a mid-sized two-door coupe named after the popular cartoon character. It was a no-frills performance vehicle intended to provide a high-performance driving experience at a low cost. The 426 cubic inch Hemi V8 engine that powered the Roadrunner produced 425 horsepower. The transmission options for the car were a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic.

The post The 10 Best American Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

It’s easy to forget that the Chevrolet Corvette C5 was a cost-effective way to take on more highly fettled sports cars such as the Noble M12 GTO, BMW M3, TVR Tuscan or even the supercars of the day. At the time of release, the Chevrolet Corvette C5 was seen as a bit of a bargain in the performance world and still holds that criteria today. In today’s market, you’re still getting a lot of car for your money, with a unique look that is bound to turn heads.

The engine and stuff

First and foremost, let’s talk about the engine. The C5 debuted with an all-new 5.7-liter V8 engine, dubbed the LS1, which was rated at 345 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. This engine was a significant improvement over the C4’s engine and went on to be used in other high-performance vehicles at the time, such as the Camaro and Trans Am. The C5’s engine provides the car with an incredible amount of power, making it an absolute joy to drive. This was more than a surprise to most at the time, considering its design principles were still based on older principles. The engine could output 344bhp through a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. The engine block was now made from aluminium, providing an overall lighter weight to the car.

The engine management system gave a wide range of torque values. Adding in things like antiroll bars and switchable suspension gave the C5 plenty of options for the average user.

Design

Another notable feature of the C5 is its sleek and stylish exterior. The car is long, low, and lean, making it both attractive and aerodynamic. Its low center of gravity also contributes to its excellent handling, providing the driver with a more connected and engaging driving experience.

The C5 also comes with various technological features that were ahead of their time. For example, it was one of the first vehicles to have a head-up display (HUD) that projected essential information, such as speed and RPMs, onto the windshield. This allowed drivers to keep their eyes on the road while still accessing vital information. Also available as a targa-roofed coupe or a convertible model, with plenty of tech of the times such as the Twilight Sentinel system which automatically switched on the headlights in bad weather.

One potential concern for buyers considering the C5 is its age. After all, the car is over 20 years old at this point. However, it’s worth noting that the C5 was built to last. Its sturdy frame and reliable engine make it a durable car that can withstand the test of time. Additionally, the C5 has a large community that provides support and parts for maintenance and repairs.

In conclusion, the 2000 Chevrolet Corvette C5 is a car that’s still worth buying in 2023. With its powerful engine, advanced technology, and sleek exterior, it provides an excellent driving experience that’s both engaging and enjoyable. So, if you’re in the market for a classic car that’s still relevant today, the C5 is an excellent choice to consider.

How much is a C5 Corvette worth today?

Depending on the condition of the vehicle, a C5 Corvette can cost you around $25,000. that’s a lot of car considering its 345bhp can hit 170mph and do a 0-60mph time in 4.7 seconds. For the best experience, the 6 speed manual is the best option, although gear changes can be quite heavy-handed.

In total, you’re getting a lot for your money here with the C5 Corvette. Unique looks, a tried and tested powertrain, and a fantastic driving experience will definitely make you stand out from the crowd with this one.

The post Why The 1998 – 2002 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Is A Great Buy appeared first on Muscle Car.

The concept of a muscle car largely stems from hot rod and drag racing culture, with the basic premise being to take a small, relatively lightweight car, add in an oversized engine, and then boosting proceedings with upgraded brakes and suspension to match.
The above may seem like a simple template, but there is lots more to the genre than meets the eye. For those who want some simple answers to the most common questions asked about American muscle cars, the list below will give you a jump-off point for further research.

If you want to delve further into the world of American muscle cars, then simply do a quick search on our website to find out everything you need to know about these wonderful vehicles.

What are American Muscle Cars?

A muscle car is a high-performance vehicle with a powerful engine, manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The concept of muscle cars stems from the hot rod and drag racing culture, where small, lightweight vehicles were fitted with oversized engines and reinforced with upgraded brakes and suspension to match.

Brands of American Muscle Cars

Some of the most notable American muscle car brands include:

AMC (AMX, AMC Rebel The Machine)
Buick (GS 455 Stage 1, Buick GNX)
Chevrolet (Chevelle SS, Camaro Z/28, Camaro SS, Nova)
Dodge (Dart GTS, Dart Demon, Charger, Charger Daytona, Super Bee, Challenger)
Ford (Mustang Boss 429)
Shelby (Mustang GT500, Mustang GT350)
Oldsmobile (442)
Plymouth (GTX, Road Runner, Barracuda)
Pontiac (GTO, Firebird)

What is America’s Best Muscle Car?

This is subjective and varies based on personal preferences. Some of the most popular muscle cars include the Chevrolet Camaro, the Dodge Challenger, and the Ford Mustang. If we interpret the word ‘best’ for ‘most sales,’ then the title will go to the Ford Mustang for sheer sales numbers, both in America and abroad. However, the Ford Mustang is strictly a pony car, and more sports car these days. The Dodge Challenger and Charger are The last vehicles to follow the true old-school muscle car template design.

What is the Baddest Muscle Car?

This is also subjective and varies based on personal preferences. However, some muscle cars known for their powerful engines and aggressive styling include the Pontiac GTO, the Dodge Charger Daytona, and the Ford Mustang Boss 429. Personally, you can’t go far wrong with the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 for this status.

Classic Muscle Cars

The classic muscle car era is often considered to be the late 1960s and early 1970s. During this time, many iconic muscle cars were produced, such as the Chevrolet Chevelle SS, the Plymouth GTX, and the Pontiac Firebird. However, don’t discount the other decades for some classic examples. The 1980s produced the Buick GNX, Which is a highly collectable example today.

Is There a British Muscle Car?

Although there are many high-performance vehicles produced in Britain, the term “muscle car” is typically associated with American cars. At a stretch, you could include the British Ford Capri, which did have a muscle car-like design. However, engine sizes in the Capri were never as large as their American counterparts.

What is the King of Muscle Cars?

This is subjective and varies based on personal preferences. Some people consider the Pontiac GTO to be the king of muscle cars, while others might consider the Ford Mustang Boss 429, the Dodge Charger Daytona or the Chevrolet Chevelle 454 to hold this title.

What Does GTO Stand For?

GTO stands for “Gran Turismo Omologato,” which is Italian for “Grand Touring Homologated.”

Which is the No. 1 Muscle Car in the World?

This is subjective and varies based on personal preferences. However, some of the most popular muscle cars globally include the Chevrolet Camaro, the Dodge Challenger, and the Ford Mustang.

What Was the 1st Muscle Car?

The first muscle car is often considered to be the Pontiac GTO, which was introduced in 1964.

What is the Most Stolen Muscle Car?

This can vary depending on the year and location. However, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that the most stolen muscle car in the United States in recent years has been the Dodge Charger.

What is the Greatest Muscle Car of All Time?

The ranking of the best muscle car in the world depends on the individual’s personal preference and the current market demand. Some of the most popular muscle cars in the world include the Dodge Challenger, Chevrolet Camaro SS, and the Ford Mustang Boss 429.

Should you buy a Muscle Car Right now?

Yes…. does it really need more explanation?

The post Answering The Most Common American Muscle Car Questions appeared first on Muscle Car.

Today, the muscle car has become a timeless classic that continues to resonate with automobile enthusiasts to this day. From their beginnings as affordable performance cars to their transformation into high-end collectables today, there’s hardly a facet of these iconic automobiles that haven’t been explored. What started out as simple cars with low production and little aftermarket support soon turned into a fully-fledged culture of modified street machines with an atmosphere all its own. Today, many of these modern classics are valued at prices that reflect how rare and special they are. Here are some of the most sought-after muscle car collectables today:

Dodge Charger Daytona

The Dodge Charger was one of the first-ever muscle cars to be built, produced from the mid-1950s to the 1970s. The very top-line model was the Daytona, equipped with a 4.05-litre V8 Magnum engine that could generate 345 horsepower. Although the Charger Daytona was only released for two consecutive years (1968 and 1969), it was available in two- or four-door coupe or convertible forms.

The rarity of this classic muscle car, with only 1,046 Chargers manufactured that year, has made it a highly sought-after collector’s item today. Along with its exclusivity, the Charger Daytona also made history as the first muscle car to hold a proper performance title. The Daytona could reach 60 mph in 7 seconds and 171 mph at its peak speed.

Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

The iconic Chevrolet Corvette was unveiled in 1953 as the American answer to European sports cars such as Ferrari and Porsche. With its fibreglass body, detachable roof, and lightweight aluminium chassis, the Corvette was the first affordable US sports car of its kind and a popular choice among performance car fans.

The Stingray, which was produced from 1964 to 1967, was the mid-engine version of the classic model and is still highly sought after by muscle car collectors. Equipped with a 327-horsepower, 4-barrel V8 engine connected to a 3-speed automatic transmission, the Stingray could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 145 mph. With only 27,901 Stingrays ever built, the model’s rarity has only added to its desirability.

Ford Mustang Mach 1

In 1969, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 made its grand debut and quickly became the best-selling sports car in the nation. This ‘muscle car’ of the South quickly made its mark outside the traditional Southern car culture and was modified in several ways. Six model variations were available throughout its production run, with the Mustang Mach 1 being the most sought-after option.

The Mach 1 was based on the fastback Mustang coupe and featured a redesigned exterior to show off its aggressive look. Powering the vehicle was a 4-barrel V8 engine with 351 horsepower and a 3-speed automatic transmission. Despite the fact that only 40,970 of these Mach 1 models were produced, they are now among the most sought-after muscle car collectables.

Shelby GT500KR

The Shelby GT500KR, released in 1967, was Shelby’s most powerful offering, available in limited numbers and exclusively in black with a white hood stripe. Based on the Shelby GT500 sports car, the GT500KR boasted a 5.8-litre engine and was connected to a 4-speed automatic transmission, together producing an impressive 527 horsepower. In addition, the Shelby GT500KR was capable of reaching a top speed of 202 mph, making it one of the rarest and fastest muscle cars of all time. Less than 2,500 of these vehicles were ever produced, making them a real collector’s item.

Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

The Pontiac Trans Am was one of the earliest pony cars to make a lasting impression on the racing scene. It featured a 4.5-litre V8 engine and 3-speed automatic transmission and delighted drivers with its performance variants until 1994, when it was discontinued. During the 1988 model year, only 3,531 Trans Ams were produced, making them one of the rarest muscle cars to collect. Even after the car was discontinued, it continued to be a popular model among enthusiasts and collectors, making it a sought-after classic to this day.

Chevrolet Camaro ZR-1

The Chevrolet Camaro was one of the first modern muscle cars in America to feature independent front suspension. The ZR-1 was an ultra-rare performance package available on the 1993 Camaros in two colours: black and blue. This limited-edition model featured a manual 6-speed transmission, alloy wheels, and a free-flowing exhaust. On top of that, the ZR-1 was equipped with a powerful 6-cylinder engine that could generate up to 355 horsepower—an impressive increase compared to the regular Camaro SS, which was powered by a V8.

Pontiac GTO

The Pontiac GTO was the epitome of the muscle car era in the 1980s, and its legacy continues to this day. It was built from 1968 through 2003, and its engine was a 6.0-litre V8 mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Production of the GTO was limited, with only 9,721 produced in 2006, making it one of the rarest muscle cars to collect. Such was its popularity that the Pontiac GTO is still one of the most sought-after models for car enthusiasts and collectors. With its power and reliability, the GTO continues to be one of the top muscle car models available today.

Chevrolet Camaro SS

The Chevrolet Camaro made its debut in 1966, paving the way for a new era of affordable American muscle cars. Its revolutionary independent front suspension made it one of the first post-war American cars to feature this innovative technology. The Camaro SS model, produced between 1967 and 1978, was one of the most desirable and powerful cars of its time. Boasting a 6.2-litre V8 engine that produced 580 horsepower, the Camaro SS was easy to maintain and drive, making it an extremely sought-after model. The Camaro SS was the perfect blend of power, convenience, and aesthetics.

Speaking of aesthetics, the quality of the car finishing or polishing products you choose can make or break the look of your car, especially if you own a muscle car. With the right car polishing products, you can bring out its true beauty and make it stand out from the crowd. Plus, well-maintained cars last longer, so investing in quality car products is an investment in your car’s future.

The post 7 Most Sought-after Muscle Car Collectibles appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

It was only a matter of time before Chevrolet would release news of electrifying one of their top-line models, the Camaro or the Corvette. The first offering in this department is an all-wheel-drive, electrified Corvette, named the E-Ray.

For a vehicle that has been going since 1953, the new Chevrolet Corvette has a lot to live up to and proven from the videos below, it’s surely heading that way. A 6.2L LT2 Small Block V8 provides 495 HP and 470 lb-ft of torque powering the rear, while an electric motor provides 160 HP and 125 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via a 1.9 kWh battery pack. The total power output is 655 HP. the current power figures equate to a 2.5-second 0-60 mph and a 10.5-second quarter-mile.

We will not have to wait long for the new Corvette to hit the roads as it should be due in 2024. But it also raises the question of if hybrid solutions are better than full electric powertrains. While fully electric vehicles seem to be the way everything is going, it also seems that the public is not currently fully convinced. Range anxiety still seems to be a thing, cold weather operations, and the infrastructure of frequent charging points as readily available as gas stations seem to be front of mind.

In terms of hybrids, at least you are hedging your bets with the option of using either liquid fuel or electrons. Dodge has decided to go fully electric with the next versions of their muscle cars. But with a fully electric solution, they know they have to produce a winning formula to convince existing muscle car fans.

It’s too early to speculate which solution will win out. But at the least, each manufacturer is trying their utmost to produce worthy, next-generation sports and muscle cars to hopefully please us all.

The post Electrified Corvette: Are Hybrids The Way? appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Chevrolet the iconic bowtie brand has released a limited edition 2023 COPO Camaro. The factory drag racer built for off-road use only features Chevy’s huge crate engine. All 10.35L or 632 cubic inches of V8 power, are designed to drink regular pump gas or 93 octane for full performance. In real-world terms, this equates to 1,004 hp and 876 lb-ft of torque.

To give some semblance of an idea of the power levels, the engine can produce 600 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm, with the peak torque levels maxing out at 5600 RPM.
This engine shares the same basic iron block as the ZZ572 crate engines, but with a larger bore and longer stroke to accommodate the larger displacement. Fuel hits the cylinders through port injectors, pushing through to forged aluminum pistons and a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods.
The transmission will be an ATI Racing Products TH400 3-speed automatic with a Hurst shifter, fuel injection, and Strange Engineering rear differential.

The limited edition run of muscle cars will be offered with 3 engine options. The engine previously mentioned, a 7L/427ci V8 with 470HP and a supercharged 5.7L/350ci V8 with 580HP.

The vehicles available are usually 69 units, corresponding to the original 1969 COPO Camaros which featured aluminum 427 ZL1 engines.

The history behind the limited edition run goes back to the Central Office Production Order (COPO) system run by Chevrolet for fleet vehicles. The original idea behind the COPO system was to provide utilitarian options such as different paint colors and work equipment. But, guys such as Illinois-based dealer Fred Gibb use the ordering system to drop the ZL1 427 engine into a Camaro for peak power levels.

The post 2023 COPO Camaro 1004HP From 10.4L V8: Highest Powered Muscle Car Ever appeared first on Muscle Car.

Just when we thought the party was over for the internal combustion engine muscle car, Ford announced the latest Mustang GT with a 5.0-litre V8 engine. The 7th generation Mustang was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show, with a statement from Ford CEO Jim Farley, ‘Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles.’

Mr. Farley goes on to say, ‘Ford is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars – all in the Ford Blue family – on top of investing $ 50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026.’

The new Mustang promises to be the best yet with an upgraded 5.0-liter V8 engine. A new air induction system, dual air intake and throttle, six driving modes, and yes it will be thirsty, predicted to sip 24 to 25mpg.
As for the transmissions available, there should be a 6-speed manual and a 10-speed automatic, along with 19-inch alloy wheels, and Brembo brakes. The cabin will also have some tasty updates such as a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, HD driver display, and plenty of safety features such as Speed Sign Recognition, and Lane Centring Assist. Basically, all the mod cons you would expect from a 2023 vehicle, just without the electric motor bits.

Electric or ICE?

It’s obviously commendable of Ford to carry on the charge of the mighty V8, but how long will this last? While the likes of Dodge has openly stated electric is the future, they are still rolling out their ‘Last Call’ ICE vehicles, such as the 2023 Dodge Charger King Daytona.

Dodge’s take on these last-call models harks back to the classic muscle car days, but they will be limited edition models, not mainstream offerings like the Mustang. At this point, the writing on the wall is that Dodge is fully committed to e-muscle in the next few years, while Ford is plowing on the head with ICE’s and as for Chevrolet, we will have to wait and see.

However, reading between the lines, it will be around 2030 when new ICE vehicle sales will be phased out. Then a few years after that before we see fewer and fewer ICE’s on the road. That means we could have 15 years as of now for ICE’s to be enjoyed to their fullest. If we follow this simplistic line of thought, then it is no wonder that the Mustang has plenty of years left in ICE form.

In reality, Ford is beavering away in the background just as vigorously as any of the others with electric motors. The Mustang SUV thingy is the obvious signpost to this way of thinking, they just haven’t fully committed publicly to turning the hallowed Mustang GT electric, yet.

We just want them to go ‘Vroom’

At heart, we humans are simple creatures. We like good vibrations, and symphonic sounds, which is why the V8 has lasted so long. So, expect quite a few V8 models to to come our way in the next few years. Many will be limited edition models, but they will be out there.

One such tasty model is Trans Am Worldwide’s Chevelle Super Sport, a recreation of the classic 1970s model. Not only does this offering look like a great modern interpretation of a classic, but it also comes in different engine flavors. The first is a 450Hp 6.2-litre LT-1 V8, a 900hp option, and a LS6/X 454 1500HP wet your pants version.

There may be only 25 versions of these vehicles ever built, but in some ways it shows a possible future for ICE cars. Limited run, custom models, for those with the money and the want.

The post Muscle Car Round Up: ICE’s Live! appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

Transitional periods are always rocky. During this time fans are gained, while others are lost. It’s going to be the same course of action when Dodge released their first e-muscle car, but what can we expect in the future from the likes of Chevrolet and Ford?

The Build-up

Dodge and their parent company Stellantis have not been shy in announcing their future electrification plans. The Hornet SUV will be the first in BEV form, with the concept Charger Daytona SRT EV giving us a glimpse of a full e-muscle car. 2024 should be the date where we can all rush out and buy one.

Legislation and environmental issues seem to have been the driving force behind going completely electric in the car industry. However, muscle car sales have been slowing at least over the last half-decade, further pushing the change.

According to the website Motrolix.com, sales of the Camaro, Challenger, and Mustang have been dropping since 2014 as seen below.

2014 Camaro sales – total 86,297
2021 Camaro sales – total 21,893

2014 Mustang sales – total 82,635
2021 Mustang sales – total 52,414

2014 Challenger sales – total 22,602 (an increase in 2015 – 66,186, then a drop)
2021 Challenger sales – total 54,314

While these sales figures are not very inspiring, the ‘halo effect’ of these alpha male vehicles produce sales for the rest of the line. But as these models are so iconic and culturally relevant, the impetus to go electric has never been clearer.

What’s next?

Ford motors already have the Mustang Mach-E SUV to give a taste of what’s to come, while General Motors are yet to announce its future muscle car plans. There have been whispers that the Camaro will end production in 2024, but also taking the Mustang proper into electrification is yet to be announced.

2024 seems to be the landmark date at least for Dodge to go fully electric. We will have to wait and see with the other big brands…

Ironically, those eco groups out there who are completely against any type of performance vehicle are not looking forward to electric muscle cars either. The groups that constantly challenged the likes of Dodge for their ‘aggressive advertising campaigns’ and violent vehicles, think e-muscle cars will be even worse.

Electric vehicles are heavier than ICE’s due to the battery packs(16% heavier), and this extra weight could cause more severe road injuries. These new Electric muscle cars can potentially have more power and torque, also adding to the risk. If you want to check out more on this side of the argument, then visit streetblogs.org.

Conclusion

If you’re for, against, or still need convincing on the e-muscle topic, simply hold judgment until we have a roadgoing version.
Up to now, Dodge seems to be doing a good job of pleasing both the classic fan base and potential future buyers. The initial concepts are heading in the right direction, but we still have a few years to wait before the full story unfolds.

The post The Dodge Charger And Challenger Go Electric, But who’s Next? appeared first on Muscle Car.

The Chevrolet Corvette has remained a symbol of style for many years. Since 1953, the Corvette has retained its status at the top, as no other vehicle has been able to overtake it.

Other sports cars are well-loved and sought after, but the Corvette remains in a league of its own. From the C1 to the C8, the legend of the Corvette only seems to grow as it becomes more romanticized and iconic. 

The Corvette’s Beginnings

The Corvette was invented by Harley Grey, who was inspired by the sports cars that existed in Europe at the time. The name of the car was taken from a type of ship used in World War II. 

While the original Corvette was technically invented in 1951, it did not roll out until 1953. Only 300 of these vehicles were made, making the Corvette a status piece right from the beginning. 

These original C1 Corvettes were equipped with a 150-horsepower, six-cylinder engine and automatic transmission. Every Corvette made in 1953 had a white exterior and a red interior, making it an eye-catching and iconic-looking car right from the beginning. 

In the 1960s, the Corvette increased production by a large margin, making it easier for people to own the vehicle. This led to the creation of the Corvette C2. 

This new Corvette had many different engine options, along with the chance for users to purchase performance editions of the vehicle. The increased production of the Corvette with the C2 allowed the Corvette’s fame to continue growing.

Creating a Long-Lasting Legacy

The Corvette C3 is one of the longest generations of Corvettes that have been produced so far. First rolling out in 1967, the C3 was produced until 1982. This model helped to keep the Corvette as an iconic car until the fourth Corvette model was announced.

The Corvette C4 was released in 1984 after its rollout had been delayed due to design issues. This model was redesigned from the ground up, making it a departure from the styles that had made the previous models popular. The C4 also improved in quality and horsepower throughout the time it was produced.

Present Day: Chassis and Performance Enhancements

The Corvette C5 was designed from the ground up just as the C4 was. This new model was released in 1997 and was well received by most.

The C6 was introduced in 2005 and was primarily an evolution of the vehicle that was introduced as the C5. However, the C6 did come with some major changes, including being equipped with exposed front headlights, which had not been a feature of past Corvette models.

The Corvette C7 rolled out in 2014 and was built around a new aluminum frame that previous models did not have. This model came with many new changes, especially in the vehicle’s performance.

The eighth-generation Corvette, or C8, was rolled out to the public in 2020. This most recent model is the first to position its engine behind the passenger apartment and ahead of the rear axle, improving the car’s handling and cornering ability with greater weight distribution. 

The C8 has excellent performance and is a great modern vehicle to keep the legacy of the Corvette alive into the modern day.

The Corvette’s Popularity Among Celebrities

Even to this day, the Corvette can still create a sense of awe that few others can. Those that disagree can just look at the 2019 Met Gala. This event featured multi-time Grammy winner Kacey Musgraves pulling up in a pink Corvette Z06 Convertible. 

If an award-winning singer still thinks a Corvette is a symbol of cool, then it probably is. Many cars can be eye-catching, but none are like the Corvette. That truth has existed even in the modern era of cars.

No matter the time period, the Corvette will always be able to inspire a sense of awe. Whether it’s an old-school Corvette C1 or a brand new modern Corvette, these vehicles are likely to stay on the road for a long time. Trends change and opinions are always different, but the Corvette is unlikely to ever go out of style.

Luke Williams writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, QuoteInspector.com. His passions include writing about car insurance, popular car models, and ways people can save money and drive with peace of mind.

The post How the Corvette Keeps Its Cool & Remains a Fave appeared first on Muscle Car.

There is a reason why there are so many songs written about muscle cars: owning one is a rite of passage for aficionados of all ages. This is one of the reasons why so many songs have been made about muscle vehicles.

Muscle cars provide a one-of-a-kind driving experience that cannot be replicated by other vehicles because of their musculature, which can be seen on the exterior curves, and their brawniness, which can be heard from the engine bay. You can conduct detailed analysis of vehicles by using pocket Dyno Apps.

Take a few test drives in a few different models of today’s best two- and four-door cars since each one is equipped with cutting-edge technology and engineering, and it will help you regulate which one feels most comfortable for you.

Muscle car sales data were collected from June 1, 2021, through November 30, 2021, and were used to construct the list of the top muscle cars for 2021 shoppers. This list was compiled to assist you with your search.

• Chevrolet Camaro LT
• Dodge Challenger SXT
• Ford Mustang EcoBoost
• Ford Mustang GT
• Chevrolet Camaro SS
• Dodge Charger SXT
• Ford Mustang
• Dodge Charger R/T
• Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack
• Dodge Challenger R/T

Chevrolet Camaro LT:

The standard dynamic 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the 2017–2021 Chevrolet Camaro LT produces 275 horsepower, creation it the most powerful vehicle in our top three rankings. Have a need for more power? An excellent choice for an upgrade is the 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 335 horsepower.

You will take great pleasure in the timeless combination of power and usability offered by the 2017–2021 Camaro LT, which is available as either a coupe or a convertible prepared for warm-weather driving.

For model years 2017–2021, the Camaro LT comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, and an eight-speed automatic transmission is accessible as an option. Regardless of which transmission you choose, you’ll experience the same nimble handling and the exhilaration of driving a legendary muscle car.

Dodge Challenger SXT:

One of the reasons why the Dodge Challenger is so well-liked is that it has a lot to proposition in the way of exciting and muscular driving while at the same time being suitable to be used on a daily basis as a vehicle.

The base model, Dodge Challenger SXT from 2017–2021, is equipped with a robust V6 engine that generates 305 horsepower and is coupled to a lively eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination gets the job done.

It also comes with comfy cloth seats that cradle you while you joyously drive it from errand to errand or out for a night on the town. And beginning with the 2017 model year, the Challenger GT will have an all-wheel drive system as an option, allowing you to experience its zippy performance regardless of the weather.

Ford Mustang EcoBoost:

The 2.3L EcoBoost engine is in a league of its own when compared to other muscle vehicles because it utilizes direct injection technology and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. With also a manual or an automatic transmission, it generates 310 horsepower and lives up to its billing as a Mustang in every respect.

Your ride will also be improved by the limited-slip rear differential, which directs torque to the wheel that is currently providing the most traction in response to changing road conditions. Standard equipment for the 2017–2020 model years of the Ford Mustang EcoBoost includes the following items:

• Seats covered in fabric
• Driver’s seat with six-way power adjustments
• Passenger seats motorized in four directions
• Active noise cancellation
• Both the entry and the ignition are keyless

Ford Mustang GT:

Fans of eight-cylinder beasts absolutely need to get their hands on a 2017–2021 Ford Mustang GT because it is equipped with a jaw-dropping 5.0L V8 engine. The Ford Mustang GT receives an increase in power from 435 to 460 horsepower for model years 2018–2021, with the increase beginning with the 2017 model year.

That’s a rather sizable number of horses. The Ford Mustang GT is a delight to drive no matter where you go, and it comes in two different body styles: a sun-loving convertible and a rugged coupe. It’s possible that you’ll find yourself coming up with excuses to get out of the home simply so you can get behind the wheel.

The Ford Mustang GT from 2017–2020 comes with a plethora of additional wonderful features, such as:

• Seats covered in fabric
• Launch control (manual transmission only)
• Driver’s seat with six-way power adjustments
• Passenger seat motorized in four directions
• Rearview camera integrated with a reverse sensing system

Chevrolet Camaro SS:

The Chevrolet Camaro is a modern pony car that nevertheless maintains its famous presence at its core, despite having undergone a redesign for the 2016 model year. Camaro SS models produced between 2017 and 2021 come standard with a thundering 6.2-liter V8 engine that is proficient of producing 455 horsepower in order to live up to the legacy “SuperSport” appellation.

Because it has rear-wheel drive (RWD), not to mention all that power, driving it is an absolute blast. You have the option of profitable with the six-speed manual transmission that is standard, or you can go with the eight-speed automatic transmission; either way, you get a rip-roaring 455 pound-feet of torque in the bundle.

Imagine yourself behind the wheel of this vehicle, whether it be in its coupe or convertible form, and donning a grin each time you step inside. The Chevrolet Camaro SS from 2017–2020 comes with a plethora of standard amenities, including the following:

• Performance brakes with four pistons and an anti-lock braking system
• a rear differential with a mechanical limited-slip system
• a suspension optimized for sport
• Back-up camera system

Dodge Charger SXT:

The 2017–2021 Dodge Charger SXT is packed to the gills with features and extras that are sure to please buyers interested in purchasing a four-door muscle car. Every single Charger SXT produced between 2017 and 2021 is equipped with a mighty 292-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6 engine.

Both the automatic transmission with eight speeds and all-wheel drive (AWD) are available as optional extras. When you own a Charger, you have broad, roomy back seats in which your passengers can stretch out and rest during your next coastal road trip.

This is one of the best aspects of having a Charger. This is one muscle vehicle that you could take on vacation with friends or family — enjoy the rumble under the hood while packing its capacious trunk (16.5 cu. ft. in 2017–2021 models) with all the goods you need to take with you. Dodge Charger SXT trim levels contain the following features for the model years 2017–2021:

• Upholstery made of fabric
• Connectivity via Apple Car Play and Google Android Auto
• Driver’s seat with power adjustment in six different directions
• LED daytime lights and automatic headlights are both included
• Both the steering wheel and the gear handle are upholstered in leather

Ford Mustang:

It would be absurd to compile a list of muscle cars and leave off the legendary Ford Mustang, which is why we have given it three spots on our list. The 2017–2021 Ford Mustang is the pony car you’ve wanted ever since you were a kid.

You can get it in a two-door coupe or a convertible body style. Aside from that fantastic Mustang roar, which is produced by a number of engine options, including a base V6 engine, an EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a hefty V8 engine, the Mustang is truly an involvement in and of itself.

It all depends on the power plant you go with, but the amount of horsepower you’ll have at your disposal might range anywhere from 300 to 435, so rev those engines. Ford Mustangs come equipped with all of the following features as standard, in addition to many others:

• The ability to connect through Bluetooth
• Cruise control
• The steering wheel tilts, telescopes, and is wrapped with leather
• Ignition and access without the need for keys

Dodge Charger R/T:

A 2017–2021 Dodge Charger R/T is an excellent option for those looking for a full-size sedan that is both comfortable and functional. To begin, you will be provided with an exhilarating 5.7L Hemi V8 engine that is capable of producing 370 horsepower.

In addition to the eight-speed automatic transmission, Dodge equips its vehicles with paddle shifters, which provide the driver with additional control and enhance the driving experience. This is one sedan that your children will not object to receiving as a hand-me-down for their first vehicle.

Vibrant color options include a bright orange Go Mango, a subtle Maximum Steel, and a bright White Knuckle. The following items are included as typical equipment on every model year of the Dodge Charger R/T from 2017 through 2020:

• Connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto
• USB ports
• Driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustments
• The seats are heated.
• A suspension optimized for sport

Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack:

You should not feel concerned if you are dead-set on purchasing a muscle automobile despite the fact that you also require a vehicle that is capable of accommodating the needs of your entire family. It may have the appearance of a sedan, but as soon as you press your foot on the gas pedal, you’ll understand that the 2017–2021 Dodge Charger was designed with performance in mind.

If you’re looking for a car with a large back seat but don’t want to sacrifice any power, the Dodge Charger from 2017–2021 is a fantastic option to consider. It comes in colors like Green Go, Yellow Jacket, and Contusion Blue, all of which evoke thoughts of having a good time.

Who is to say that you can’t have a car that’s suitable for a family but still performs well on a racetrack? You may anticipate these features and more on a Dodge Charger manufactured between 2017 and 2021:

• 4L V8 engine
• Controls for both stability and traction
• Brakes with the improved overall performance
• Rear parking sensors

Dodge Challenger R/T:

If you’re the type of car driver who views every red light as an opportunity to rev their engine, the 2017–2021 Dodge Challenger is an excellent choice for you. The experience of driving a classic muscle vehicle is replicated by the Challenger R/T, which comes equipped with a powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine that generates 372 horsepower when paired with an automatic transmission.

The 375 horsepower when paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Inside, the armrests on the seats, doors, and center console are all generously padded to provide a level of comfort that is appropriate for daily driving.

You won’t have to worry about your engine overpowering the music coming from your six-speaker audio system when you have sound-deadening materials installed in your vehicle, as this won’t happen when you’re driving at high speeds on the highway.

The following items are involved as standard on all Dodge Challenger R/T models manufactured between 2017 and 2020:

• Infotainment system
• Connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto (2018 models and newer)
• Powered seat for the driver
• Aluminum alloy wheels of 20 inches
• Fog lights

The post 10 Modern Muscle Cars of 2022 That You Shouldn’t Overlook appeared first on Muscle Car.

Whether you’re a serious collector, enthusiast, or dreamer, you will love this selection of the best classic muscle cars. They may not be your top five favorites, but you’ll probably agree that they’re pretty special. 

If you’re in the market for a classic muscle car, you’re going to need the right kind of insurance that will understand your vehicle’s unique needs and provide you with a custom policy. We’ll cover that after we highlight the five best muscle cars that classic car owners will want to know.

#1 – 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Cost: $1 million+

Pros: 427 cubic-inch engine, 500+ horsepower

Cons: Incredibly rare

There were only 69 built, making this one of the rarest, most desirable, and most expensive muscle cars of all time. Even though Camaro wouldn’t officially sell a Camaro with an engine over 400 cubic inches, they filled an order for a dealer, Fred Gibbs, for this unique high-power, low-weight engine installed in 50 1969 Camaros. 

Later, they manufactured 19 more to round the total out to 69 ‘69s.

#2 – 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible four-speed manual

Cost: $5.75 million+

Pros: Four-speed manual transmission, 425 horsepower

Cons: Cost, rarity

Only 119 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cudas were produced in 1971. Of that number, 12 were convertibles, and only three were equipped with A833 four-speed manual transmission. When one of these three hit the auction floor in 2021, the high bid of $4.8 million wasn’t enough for the owner to sell. 

#3 – 1973 Pontiac GTO

Cost: About $18,700

Pros: Affordable, secure handling, disc brakes

Cons: Gas mileage

Finally, we included a classic muscle car that the average collector may be able to afford. You might even be able to find one that needs some work for under $10,000. This popular car is as fun to drive as some far more expensive muscle cars, and you can enjoy your time on the road knowing you won’t lose a multi-million dollar investment if something goes wrong.

#4 – 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

Cost: $400,000+

Pros: Racing engineered suspension, front disc brakes

Cons: Cost, rarity

Only 562 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350s were produced in 1965. The scarcity of this product contributes to its value. Its racing stripes complete its classic 60s look, and exhaust and lightweight upgrades contribute to its excellent performance.

#5 – 1970 LS6 Chevy Chevelle

Cost: $125,000+

Pros: 450 horsepower, 454 cubic-inch engine, popular in movies, availability

Cons: Clutch durability, cost

Chevrolet produced 4,475 1970 LS6 Chevelles, which isn’t that many. When you compare that to the production numbers of others on this list, though, it seems like a lot. The Chevelle’s racing stripes are a favorite among enthusiasts as is the classic design.

Insurance for Classic Muscle Cars

When you have a special, highly sought-after, expensive muscle car, you need a special kind of insurance policy to go with it. The standard car insurance policies aren’t adequate for the unique needs of classic cars.

There are a few different companies that specialize in insurance cars with high and increasing values. If your muscle car is in the lower cost range, you may be able to use a standard insurance company, but if your vehicle is pushing the $100,000 price point, you’ll be better off with a specialty insurer.

Melanie Musson writes and researches for the auto insurance comparison site, AutoInsurance.org. She strives to help people understand their insurance needs so they can protect their finances and future financial stability.

The post The 5 Best Muscle Cars Throughout History appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Classic cars require a classic hobby. So, why not get started with the very old-school world of stamp collecting via the U.S. Postal Service’s ‘Pony Cars Forever collection.’

As you have guessed, the theme is American pony cars consisting of five classics including the 1969 AMC Javelin SST, 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, 1967 Mercury Cougar XR-7 GT, 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, and a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302.

The Pony Cars Forever collection will be launched at the 2022 Great American Stamp Show on August 25th, then available at post offices and through the Postal Service’s Web portal.

It’s understandable that given the task of picking only five classic pony/muscle cars, means some obvious choices were left out. Some sort of Mustang and Camaro are obvious, as with a Challenger. But, with only two choices left, would you have picked an AMC Javelin and a Mercury Cougar?

Some opinions online have already said there is the obvious exclusion of the Plymouth Barracuda. But, in fairness, there were a bunch of limited edition stamps back in 2013 featuring a Pontiac GTO, Shelby GT500, Dodge Daytona, Hemi Cuda, and obviously a 1970 Chevelle SS. Therefore, we should be celebrating the fact that these stamps are pushing muscle and pony cars to the front of mind of the general population. And, maybe, the inclusion of the Javelin and Cougar may inspire some to dig into the less obvious classics out there.

The post Postal Service Pony Car Stamps Coming Soon! appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Imagine a place in the world where there are open roads with no speed limits. Somewhere to take the most potent vehicles on the planet, and let’s face it, to feel a little bit naughty hitting top speed on public roads. This is the exact situation with the German Autobahn.

AutoTopNL has gathered together a bunch of topline American muscle cars to sling around the heady roads of the Autobahn. These include a souped-up Ford Mustang GT, a Dodge Hellcat widebody, a Chevy Camaro Z1, and for good measure a 1966 Ford Mustang.

A few things to bear in mind about the German Autobahn – only certain areas have de-restricted speed limits, and there are very strict rules on the road over there such as no passing on the right.

A 780HP Mustang GT

The first vehicle to open up the taps or if you are in the US – faucets, is a Mustang GT with a 5.0L V8 and Whipple supercharger pumping out 780HP. The driver-side viewpoint gives a good representation of the driving experience. Plus, the in-car commentary provides nice feedback on the actual sensation.

888HP Dodge Hellcat XR Wide-Body

This particular Dodge Hellcat has been tuned by AEC Performance to produce 888HP and 737lb. ft. of torque. That’s more juice than a Dodge Demon in full flight. All this from a 6.2 L supercharged Hemi V8.

On this particular run, the roads had low amounts of traffic. This meant the Hellcat could touch nearly 200mph.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 boasts a 6.2 L supercharged V8 producing 650HP and 650lb. ft. of torque. Clearly, the Camaro isn’t short of power, but what’s also important is the driver’s feedback about the driving experience. As what seems to be happening with the current Ford Mustang GT, the Camaro these days is a viable alternative to European sports cars. Just a little food for thought……

The 1966 Ford Mustang

https://youtu.be/rGtB0Fwgk38

You may think on the surface that this old classic would be a more sedate drive. This 1966 example has a 289c.u.(4.7L) V8 with 203HP, and while that may not seem much compared to the other vehicles here, it’s still capable of touching nearly 200mph.

Ironically, this video doesn’t have much in-car commentary. This is probably due to the vehicle needing far more concentration to drive, not having all the latest, fancy safety features we take for granted today.

The post American Muscle Cars Hit the German Autobahn appeared first on Muscle Car.

The 1960s was a transformational period for the automotive industry as muscle cars became more popularized. The average consumer went from demanding a sleek, high-speed vehicle to requiring more power and acceleration from their cars. It was the dream of every young driver to have a muscle car parked on their front pouch. Those manufactured between the 60s and 70s became very popular because of their exemplary performances on the road. Here are the most popular muscle cars with engines that will blow your socks off.

What Muscle Car Engines are Most Iconic?

The Ford Flathead V8

The Flathead V8 from Ford is among the most iconic old-school muscle cars with an out-of-this-world engine. The first of these ford engines were manufactured in the early 30s, and its improvement spread to the 50s. One of the most significant roles this engine has in the automotive industry is its impact on the hot-rodding culture.

Although the V8 engine featured in this vehicle doesn’t maximize performance, its authenticity and retro style make it outstanding. One aspect distinguishing it from other engines is its intake and exhaust pipes inside the engine block. Most units have these components on the engine’s cylinder heads.

Dodge 426 Hemi

The Dodge 426 Hemi is another high-performance engine featured in several muscle cars. It is a famous unit that guarantees animal-like power under your car’s hood. It was easier to spot a muscle car fitted with this Dodge engine in the 60s and 70s than it is now.

The 426 Hemi compared to other top engines from Dodge, like the 440 V8 manufactured in the same era. The 440 V8 went ahead to replace the 426 Hemi in the market because of its affordability, reliability, and good performance scores.

Ford 302 Cubic Inch V8

Most of the engines fitted in muscle cars were V8 engines, and so was the Ford 302 engine. It was an outstanding engine dominating the American automotive culture for decades. You can find the engine in modern Ford’s like the Raptor F-150 and Mustang and other Ford units produced in the late 60s.

The 302 V8 engine size is not as substantial as other manufacturers’ units. However, you can achieve higher performance than engines in higher classes with the correct modifications. The base motor reliability and durability of the 302 are forever unmatched.

Chevrolet LS V8

The Chevrolet LS V8 is an engine featured in several vehicles, including numerous muscle cars. These engines are more compact and lighter than most V8 engine replacement units, making them popular across the United States. Despite its compact size, the power generated from this engine is enough to power your mid-sized SUV. It is an ideal replacement consideration for any V8 Chevrolet engine if you want to save money, although others find it uncreative.

6.2 Liter Hellcat V8

The most powerful engine to sit in any American muscle car is the 6.2 Liter Hellcat V8 engine. The engine delivers 707 horsepower and 650 lb of torque under normal driving conditions. The manufacturers destroked the 6.4-liter Hemi engine to create the 6.2 variant. Destroking it meant the engine would maintain functionality even under significant boost or unfriendly driving situations.

It is normal for a performance engine to produce a lot of heat. The 6.2 Liter hellcat V8 engine features two intercoolers and a high-capacity cooler to help cool your engine, specifically at incredibly high temperatures. The only problem is that it sits in heavy muscle cars, which compromises its mechanical grip and overall performance.

Ford 427 Cammer

The Ford 427 Cammer is another outstanding V8 engine from Ford. The manufacturers decided to increase heads on the 427 high riser race engines for more power and speed. The modification saw the introduction of the 427 Cammer variant, which was featured in several muscle cars in the 60s and 70s. It guaranteed a horsepower of 657 and 575 lb/ft torque, placing it among the most powerful units. NASCAR denied the engine from competing in races, limiting its popularity and market exposure.

Chevrolet 454 Big Block V8

If you believe the bigger an engine is, the more powerful it is, then the Chevrolet 454 big-block V8 is your ideal engine. The engine was not as popular as other units manufactured in the same decade, but its performance scores were outstanding. You are more likely to find the engine variant in pickup trucks and only a few old muscle cars. The 454 Chevrolet engine was more famous for its torque and reliability than speed and horsepower.

5.2 Liter Voodoo Flat Plane Crack V8 from Ford

The only American production with a V8 engine featuring a flat-plane crankshaft is the 5.2 Ford Voodoo engine. Most American-made V8s have a cross-plane crankshaft. The main difference between flat and cross planes is that the former is lighter, has a smaller crankcase, and guarantees a lower center of gravity. It provided the perfect driving experience as it could rev higher and proved to be more responsive.

What is a Muscle Car?

Muscle cars became more popular in the 1960s. The term described mid-sized cars with massive and robust engines, most of them being V8s. Other outstanding characteristics included a unique trim that facilitated maximum acceleration.

These cars are high-performing units manufactured between 1964 and 1971. At first, they were known as supercars. The name gradually changed to muscle cars regarding the horsepower ratings of the engines fitted in these vehicles.

As gasoline became plentiful and highway systems more expansive, the demand for muscle cars increased significantly in the United States. Manufacturers adopted the trend of fitting massive engines on mid-sized chassis from the early 60s onwards. The price was fair, but you had to pay more for optional equipment and increased engine size.

Do The Police Use Muscle Cars?

Several law enforcement departments find muscle cars effective in their daily operations. In the early days, police cars were huge and slow. It was not an issue until manufacturers started providing high-speed vehicles for the market. Some administration units like the Alabama State Troopers concluded that they needed faster cars to help them chase down lawsuit offenders.

The Alabama State Troopers were the first to use Muscle cars as patrol units. They bought an AMC Javelin fitted with a v8 engine. These vehicles could attain speeds of up to 150 mph, which significantly helped them in highway law enforcement.

Conclusion

Muscle cars continue to steal the limelight in the automotive industry as collectors and enthusiasts maintain their retro units. The engines featured in these vehicles are some of the most powerful engines manufactured in history. Units like the 6.2 Hellcat V8 and the 426 Hemi will continue to be our favorites for their performance and reliability.

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Pony cars are very sporty, and garner lots of attention. They are often compared to muscle cars for their flashiness. However, they tend to be more compact than muscle cars. The term “pony car” is derived from the equestrian image of a Mustang, because the Ford Mustang was the first car released of this type. 

They are fun and classic, and although they had their heyday in the 60s and 70s, they’ve made a few comebacks. So don’t count out the pony car. 

They definitely have evolved over time, however. So we’ll take a look at the best ones, and compare their original days to their current models. 

Pontiac Firebird 

Photo from Pexels

For the Pontiac Firebird, it all started in 1967 as a response to the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro. People instantly took to it because the Firebird was very powerful and more luxurious than the Camaro. It was flashy and came with a fiery decal. And it was immediately a legend.

Unfortunately, in 2008, General Motors cut out the brand in order to simplify its market. However, that has not deterred its enthusiasts from keeping the Firebird presence alive. In fact, there are many options when it comes to Pontiac Firebird insurance, even though it is no longer manufactured. 

Ford Mustang 

The Ford Mustang is definitely the most popular pony car. The Mustang is sleek, aerodynamic, and rides close to the ground. 

It first went on sale in 1964 and appealed to a wide variety of customers, including both men and women of all ages. Ford planned for 100,000 sales in the first year, but dealers had already sold 22,000 on the first day. And many people even now purchase first-generation Mustangs. 

The original engine lineup included a 170-cid straight-six, 4.3-liter V-8, and the 289-cid V-8 that went up to 271 horsepower. It had elegant contours and a bold look.

The modern Mustang includes a 300-hp V-6, a 435-hp V-8, and a 310-hp, 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It is sharp in aesthetic and a powerful ride.

Chevrolet Camaro

Ford held the monopoly on the pony car market for several years, but in 1966 Chevrolet introduced the Camaro, and the monopoly ended.  The Camaro almost identically matched the dimensions of the Mustang, and the Camaro came close to matching the Mustang’s option list as well.

The original Camaro had a very fluid, smooth shape, in contrast to the more muscular Mustang. The modern Camaro has a dark front-end treatment. Its aesthetic is less smooth and fluid, more robust and intense. 

While the Camaro started out as a response to the Ford Mustang, it definitely has held its own, standing the test of time.

Dodge Challenger 

The Dodge Challenger came a little later in the game than the rest. Dodge released the Challenger in 1970, and it did not outsell the Camaro or Mustang. It did, however, secure itself a name on the list of the wildly popular pony cars. The Challenger is considered to be the last of the pony cars.

The Challenger had a complete line of nine available engines. These ranged from the Slant Six to 426 cubic inch Hemi. The Hemi was in effect a race engine that was re-adapted for the street. It had a vibrant appearance and vibe.

The modern Challenger is powerful, fast, and can hit 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. It, too, has stood the test of time, though it has evolved over its course.

Iconic and Powerful

Pony cars have remained popular over the decades, in varying degrees. For some, the appeal is the classic look. For some, it’s the sporty, compact, aerodynamic ride. Whatever the reason they have stuck around, they truly are iconic and make for a great joy ride. 

Dorothea Hudson writes and researches for the car insurance comparison site, QuoteInspector.com. She is passionate about many types of cars and enjoys educating her readers on the topic.

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By Dave Ashton

The original DeLorean DMC-12 could have ended up a short-lived, esoteric car if it wasn’t for a certain ‘Back to the Future’ film franchise. The ‘BTTF’ movies were so successful, the DeLorean was cemented in science-fiction movie history and the public’s consciousness. After a few failed starts at bringing back the car over the years, it now seems that there will be an Electric DeLorean vehicle launched at this August’s 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

The 1981 DeLorean DMC-12 wasn’t exactly a muscle car per se, and now with an upcoming electric powertrain, is even less so. But, the new version is worth a mention as it appeals to the same generation as golden age muscle cars and may have an impact on EV muscle cars of the future. More on this later…

Time Travel has now gone Electric

DeLorean the company has already teased a promo video as below, with Tweets, along with initial ordering. But, what do we know about the car so far? It looks like the new version will have the iconic gullwing doors, with obviously some sort of electric powertrain – no details on this area as yet.

We can definitely expect a very futuristic design, marking the 40th anniversary of the original DeLorean DMC-12. We are guessing details about the car will slowly be drip-fed to us running up to the initial launch in August. For the time being, we have to make do with teaser clips and lots of bad puns about time travel.

In comparison, the original DeLorean DMC-12 was a plain steel sports car, featuring a 130bhp, 2.9-litre V6 engine.

Knock-on Effect

If this new electric DeLorean gains traction, it could have implications for future electric muscle cars. Like it or not, the car world is going electric which also opens the doors for bringing back past classics. We would all love to see a modern interpretation of a Chevrolet Chevelle SS or similar with a stinking huge V8, but at least a futuristic EV version would be the next best thing.

Bringing back a past classic such as the DeLorean in an EV format could spark interest in the old inventory. Why invent a new model when you can piggyback on the history of an old one. That may sound like a cynical statement, but the reality is that a recognized model name brings back familiarity and nostalgia. It also carries on the legacy of the original vehicles, as the designers know to make a nod to the past, while also implementing the latest features.

Electric powertrains aren’t exactly going to blow the hats off the average muscle car fan. But, at the least, the inevitable EV wave that is coming will hopefully incorporate the best of the old integrated with the best of the new. In that respect, we can’t really ask for more from future EV muscle cars.

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By Dave Ashton

GM President Mark Reuss, at first announced on CNBC, then on LinkedIn an ‘electrified’ Corvette arriving in the next few years followed by a fully electric version. This ‘electrified’ Corvette could be with us as soon as 2023, which will also use the Ultium platform, i.e a smart energy recovery system to boost range, charging times, and heat the interior of the vehicle.

Below is the official statement from Mark Reuss,
‘Some time ago we moved the Corvette team into the EV space in Warren, Michigan, and when we revealed the new mid-engine Corvette, I said there would be “more to come.” This morning I sat down with Phil LeBeau of CNBC and finally answered the question I’ve been asked countless times.

Yes, in addition to the amazing new Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and other gas-powered variants coming, we will offer an electrified and a fully electric, Ultium-based Corvette in the future. In fact, we will offer an electrified Corvette as early as next year. Details and names to come at a later date.’

GM’s Ultium energy recovery system is a feature set to be incorporated into all future GM vehicles. Best described from the below statement,
‘EV batteries, power electronics, and other propulsion components produce heat.
The Ultium Platform can recover and store this waste heat from the Ultium propulsion system. Further, it can also capture and use humidity from both inside and outside the vehicle, including body heat from passengers. The Ultium Platform can then deploy energy stored through the recovery process to heat the cabin more quickly in cold weather than comparable systems found in vehicles with an internal combustion engine.’

Electrified, not fully Electric

It’s a bit confusing, but ‘electrified’ is not a fully electric vehicle, and we will have to wait for GM to release full details about the technology. GM also plans to have a complete all-electric lineup by 2035. Therefore, this electrified version seems like an interim model to test the waters moving forward.

As with other carmakers, Chevrolet has big plans for its EV lineup. They hope to have 30 new EV models by the mid 2020’s and hope to sell 1 million EVs from that point on.

Fear not on the gasoline-powered side of things, as the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3LZ Convertible will start production later this year.

The General EV Landscape

We are currently living through interesting crossover times between traditional gasoline-powered cars and the next generation of electric vehicles.

Electric vehicle websites are now starting to feature the plans for electrified versions of traditional muscle car-related vehicles and vice versa. Neither looks kindly on each other. The EV brigade inherently seeing the older technology of gas-guzzling, muscle cars as the old, and the muscle car fraternity just seeing EV’s coming along and spoiling the party.

However, no matter where your allegiance lies, traditional muscle car makers have a different set of criteria to fulfill when moving into the EV world. A brand like Tesla has been electric from the start, no gasoline-powered back history.
Turning models which have been around for decades into electric versions is a tricky position of having to please everybody all the time. Pleasing both the old and the new at the same time. This means that the companies that have been building gasoline vehicles for years have to take more tentative steps into the EV world.

One EV related website said that an electrified version by 2023 and a full EV ‘later’ by GM is disappointing. They also say that the Ultium’s battery energy recovery system is just a glorified version of a heat pump. Guess what the comparison was towards? That’s correct, a Tesla.

While Tesla are developing some groundbreaking technology, they also don’t have the worry of having to please existing gasoline car users, both past and present. Muscle car makers have to tread a fine line to produce an EV that has all the positive qualities of a rumbling V8, while also fitting into the new landscape. You can’t please all the people all the time, which traditional carmakers are in the position of being in moving forward.

Therefore, it’s going to be very interesting to see in the next few years the initial offerings from Chevy, Dodge and Ford.

… And lastly, just like EV websites inherently pooh-pooh us muscle cars, let’s have a light-hearted look at a Tesla crashing into a $3 million jet after the owner activates ‘smart summon.’ A fully electric muscle car would never be automatically summoned, as the driving experience matters, …ahem. The only automatic feature we need in an electric muscle car is ‘auto rev up’ at 100 dB to annoy the neighbors.

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By Dave Ashton

The merest thought of future muscle cars not having a V8 heart of power fills most fans with dread. Electric powertrains seem to be the way forward for everyone, but is there an alternative? While most car manufacturers are fully committed to electric, there are also inroads into keeping the internal combustion engine going for as long as possible. In this case, hydrogen may be the answer.

Ford is currently restructuring to separate out their internal combustion and electric programs. Muscle Cars and Trucks recently discovered a U.S. patent for a hydrogen-fuelled, turbocharged engine created by Ford. In this scenario, hydrogen will be combusted via direct injection in the engine and is said to provide 15% more power than traditional gasoline.

At this stage of the game, the patent is only for the controlling and combusting of hydrogen. All the internals and the engine design are steps in the future. However, if everything goes to plan, a hydrogen-powered engine can make use of a large oversquare bore-to-stroke ratios, as there is no residue like burnt hydrocarbons. In theory, this means that the average engine could be capable of 20,000 rpm.

Other Car Companies Developing Hydrogen Power

Ford isn’t the only company who are hedging their bets with hydrogen technology. Toyota is beavering away with the development of their own hydrogen engine technologies via motorsport.

These engines will emit zero CO2, burn more efficiently than gasoline, and could possibly be adapted to existing ICE engines. For roadgoing vehicles, Toyota already has the Mirai available which is hydrogen-powered. The plus points here are 12% more power, a 9 second 0-62mph time, lighter weight than a car full of batteries, and should have a range of 400 miles.

Ultimately, the Mirai is a testbed, with the technology likely to end up in commercial vehicles. However, the Mirai shows that hydrogen is currently a viable option.

BMW, Land Rover, and Vauxhall all have plans for future hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles of some sort. Then there is the Hyundai Nexo SUV, which is an older design but still shows the viability of hydrogen.

So, if hydrogen technology comes to fruition, it could be the future solution to keeping all V8s running indefinitely. There is also the big elephant in the room of refueling times. A hydrogen-powered car can be refilled in 5 minutes. Electric cars take far longer to fully recharge. While this doesn’t seem to be a problem at present, once every car on the road has turned electric, it’s not hard to imagine huge lengthy queues at recharge points. Hydrogen fuelled cars can offer the same quick fuelling times as we currently enjoy.

The other main hurdle to the main adoption of hydrogen power is the refueling infrastructure. There simply aren’t enough refueling points currently available to make the technology attractive to everyone. Hopefully, this will change in the future.

But what about muscle car manufacturers? Clearly, Ford is looking into the idea, but there doesn’t seem to be any clear public plans from Dodge In the hydrogen department, at least when it comes to muscle cars. Dodge seems to have full focus on an electric muscle car, which may or may not be a version of either the Charger or Challenger. However, it seems Dodge is fully committed to a hydrogen-powered Ram HD pickup truck which debuts after the introduction of their electric variants, probably later this decade. Therefore, don’t rule out a day in the future when we see a hydrogen-powered Dodge muscle car. It could happen…

Chevrolet has the Sequel Hydrogen-powered SUV and the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZH2. GM have also linked up with Honda to produce hydrogen-powered generators for commercial use.

If you want to learn about the nitty-gritty details of current hydrogen engine research, then the science direct website is a good starting point. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/hydrogen-engines

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By Dave Ashton

When it comes to writing about pertinent muscle car topics, we could talk about how Ford has recently dropped the Bullitt Mustang and GT350 in favor of the Mach 1. There’s also the topic of the C8 Corvette getting a Swiss edition, presumably to boost European sales. However, we prefer to yak on about frivolous topics like the link between superhero movies and muscle cars. In this case the new Bat bloke movie and his muscle car derived Batmobile.

In this latest iteration of the Bat bloke franchise, Mr. Wayne is seen in the first few years of his Bat career donning the black cape. Thus, a more basic, but still tough as nails Batmobile was needed. Production designer James Chinlund and producer Dylan Clark spent a long time refining the car design, while also taking hints from previous Batmobiles, such as the red tail lights and firebreathing exhaust.

As Bat dude is just starting off in his early years, the car had to be more about function, while also being intimidating to baddies. The car we see in the film is custom built from the ground up, with a V8 engine producing 700 HP in four-wheel drive. Thus, what we see in the film is no way computer-generated, but down to the skill of the designers and stunt drivers.

The new Batmobile is more of a custom creation, designed by Mr. Wayne independent of Wayne Enterprises. Therefore, it’s not a stretch to see muscle car influences being used, as a huge chassis was needed, with room for a huge V8 engine, and obviously the American car influences of the day.

I Want a Muscle Car

Isn’t it strange how we see something on screen and then have a yearning for those objects? We suspect the situation will be no different with the new Batman movie.
Even in the early stages of the movie release, talk of the Batmobile and its muscle car influences are going hand-in-hand. The knock-on effect could mean a heightened awareness of the muscle car scene both past and present. As the new Batmobile isn’t any one brand or model, awareness and appreciation could increase for all types of muscle cars.

If we look back at the Transformer movies, GM saw a doubling of sales in the month of the Transformers 2 movie being released. While it’s unlikely all current muscle car manufacturers will see increased sales across the board due to the new Batman film, the heightened awareness is a push in the right direction.

Any TV show or movie that shows a particular vehicle center stage is a great promotional tool. In season 5, episode 4 of ‘Breaking Bad’ Walter Jr. is treated to a Dodge Challenger SRT8. That shifted a few extra cars for Dodge at the time.

The next steps are to see how the likes of Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and independent muscle car makers capitalize on the heightened awareness. Will Dodge bring out a limited edition, blacked-out Hellcat with bat symbols? Maybe something from independent builders like a Hennessey, Roush, or Lingenfelter limited edition model?

Blue sky thinking aside, any movie or TV show that raises the awareness of the muscle car scene is a good thing. We just hope the new Bat movie is a smash, with the main talking point being, ‘ what are these wild and exotic muscle cars and where can I get one??’

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Fans of the UK Top Gear and the famous trio Hammond, Clarkson, and May will have watched the recent The Grand Tour series, which features an episode starring American classic muscle motors. The three motors chosen had outrageous engine sizes and an even bigger chassis surrounding them – typical classic American muscle motors.

The trio decided to go for the biggest muscle automobiles they could find, but that doesn’t always define an American muscle motor, especially modern ones – but the bigger they are, the harder they are to drive. That begs the question, how much harder are classic muscle vehicles – typically, they’re much bigger – to handle? Let’s explore.

The Classic American Muscle Vehicle

The classic American muscle motor is iconic – one that has featured in many rappers’ music videos and famous films over the years because they hold that much of a status symbol. You’ve got the Pontiac Trans Am featured in Smokey and the Bandit and the classic Ford Mustang in Bullitt. They roar to life with power, and most people expect them to come with at least a 6L V8 as standard.

Whether it’s turbocharged or not, the sound of a 6L V8 engine in a classic American muscle motor commands respect, and boy did the people of the 60s and 70s respect the American muscle automobile. The classic muscle car era with engine power ended in the 70s when the American Clean Air Act came into fruition.

Arguably, the most iconic classic American muscle automobile is the Dodge Challenger – a motor still produced in modern versions today. Then you have the likes of the Ford Mustang – again, still made today – Chevrolet Camaro, Plymouth Road Runner, and the Pontiac GTO that also dominated the roads.

What’s more, you can still get your hands on one of these motors today, but you’ll have to seek insurance for a classic car tailored towards the make and model of your motor. Indeed, some companies have relatively strict parameters which define a classic car: age, mileage, manufacturer, for instance. All these things make the financial commitment to owning, running, and maintaining a classic car tangible, more than just the beauty of owning these kinds of cars. However, when you’re on the road, you only have one question: are they easy to drive? Read on to find out.

The Modern American Muscle Vehicle

Everyone can appreciate a classic American muscle car, but there’s something about a modern American muscle car and the sheer power they contain that the old-school models can’t beat. Take the Ford Mustang GT, for example – the model is miles quicker than the original Ford Mustang. Technology has taken the old-school principles and given them a modern twist of unrelenting power.

Thanks to games like Need for Speed and films like Fast and Furious – the modern-day American muscle car has a different sort of status symbol. It’s a status that’s souped-up and ready to attack, compared to the classic American muscle motor that dominated the roads with its size and sound rather than speed.

Here are some of the most popular modern-day American muscle cars that you might like to get your hands on:

• Ford Mustang GT
• Chevrolet Camaro SS
• Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack
• Ford Mustang Mach 1
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

When shopping around, you’ll notice many manufacturers have approached building modern American muscle cars with a view of the quicker, the better. Plus, you won’t catch a modern American muscle car with less than a V8 engine. The 2022 Ford Mustang GT, for example, has a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 with port fuel injection that produces 460 bhp. Classic car manufacturers had the mindset that the bigger, the better.

So, How Much Harder Are Classic Muscle Motors To Drive?

Plenty of auto blogs online details the difficulty of driving a classic American muscle motor. Hot Cars, for example, says that driving an old-school American muscle motor is more about a statement than a physical experience. The bigger classic cars are hard to drive because of the size of the chassis and have terrible fuel consumption. Smaller classic automobiles also have the same fuel consumption problem and a size problem of a different variety – there’s not enough room inside them.

You’ll also find that it’s harder to insure a classic car. They have such a high value, and spare parts are hard to find, making them less appealing to insurance providers. You can also forget modern luxuries like air conditioning, electric windows, and seat warmers. Typically, a classic motor is much harder to drive because of old technology and mechanics – but that doesn’t mean they’re not excellent to be behind the wheel and driving.

Both classic and modern American muscle motors have their pros and cons. Both types are expensive, they can be hard to drive, and both are hard to maintain. But that doesn’t make either a classic or a modern model any less fun to drive. There’s just something about sitting behind the wheel of an American muscle car – whether old or not – that any other motor can’t replicate.

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By Dave Ashton

My vague attempts at creating an alliteration title are overshadowed by the discontinuation of one engine and the release of another. First, it was the supercharged LT5 GM engine that has been discontinued. Now it is the turn of the LS7 and the LS427/570.

The LS7 was the largest naturally aspirated LS engine made by GM. Bred for racing with a 427ci. capacity, the engine was originally built for the 2006 C6 Z06, producing 505 HP, the most oomph from any Corvette engine up to that point. Now, without any fanfare or official farewell, the engine has left the mainstay inventory.

Why was the LS7 important?

The LS7 was a race-ready powerplant with a new for GM, 4-inch stroke, titanium rods, and valves, producing a very underestimated 505 HP. The 427ci/7L V8 offered a dry-sump system, with 12-degree rectangular port heads and 270cc intake ports. Other standout points include titanium intake valves, CNC-ported combustion chambers and sodium-filled exhaust valves. All these bits easily make the LS7 capable of 600 HP.

Other useful stats for the engine include:
Displacement: 427ci (7.0 liters)
Engine Type: LS series small-block V8
Crankshaft (P/N 12611649): forged steel
Pistons: hypereutectic aluminum
Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
Maximum rpm: 7,000 rpm

If you want to pick up your own LS7, then there are plenty of 2006-2013 Z06 Corvettes on the second-hand market. There’s also the option of the limited production run, 2014-2015 5th generation Camaro Z/28 that houses the LS7.

What’s next?

Usually, the end of one thing usually means the start of something new. Chevrolet currently has their Performance eCrate engine, dropped into a 1977 K5 Blazer-E back in 2020. Chevy has also been working on their racing eCOPO Camaro, but there is nothing as yet as a direct replacement for the LS7. There is of course the likes of the Chevrolet Volt, which has been around since the end of 2010. But, we are looking at engines with a bit more spice.

However, with most countries now legislating with a firm end date to ICE production, most carmakers are scrambling to get regular electric roadgoing vehicles onto the streets. Electric race engines are probably second in line.

It doesn’t seem too far off now where there is a landscape of electric crate engines. Conversion kits for either old or new classics, with the addition of needing a healthy amount of AA batteries to run the things. Cynicism aside, we are still in the early days of electric motor and battery development. By the time we are all forced to run electric engines, the offerings should be mature and tempting enough to warrant the swap.

For instance, the Swedish hypercar guys Koenigsegg have developed a 63 pounds, 335 HP and 443 lb-ft of torque electric engine, dubbed ‘the Quark.’ The unit is designed to run in conjunction with an ICE in a hybrid vehicle, covering the low-speed range. This is due to the electric engine only able to produce the above power levels for roughly 20 seconds. After which power drops to roughly 134 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. The company is also developing a full EV drive unit from two Quark motors.

In other words, it’s more than likely that smaller and easier-to-fit electric drive units will hit the market in the coming years. Personally, we can’t wait to see what Dodge has in store for 2024, when they plan to release a full-bore electric muscle car.

The post The Chevrolet LS7 and LS427 Engines End, While Electric Accelerates appeared first on Muscle Car.

Dave Ashton

The Chevrolet Camaro was originally birthed to counter the overwhelming popularity of the Ford Mustang. The Camaro was produced with a clear run from late 1966-2002, then from 2009 to the present day. There have been plenty of standout Camaros along the way, such as the ‘SS’, ‘RS’, and ‘ZL1’, but in recent years sales have been flagging.

From current sales reports, Dodge and Ford have the most sales with the Camaro lagging behind. At the end of Q3 2021, Camaro sales fell 32.13% from 22,226 to 15,084 units. Ford Mustang sales also dropped 13.8% from 47,637 to 41,065 units in the same period, while the Dodge Charger and Challenger had an increase of 14.67% to 15.1%. Dodge holds a 65.3% muscle car market share, while Ford has 25.4% and Chevrolet 9.3%.

We Need Another Transformers Movie.

The Chevrolet Camaro has arguably one of the best designs since its late sixties form. Models such as the ZL1 1LE have 650HP+, so power levels aren’t a problem. Plus, the Camaro has a long racing history going back to the original Trans-Am series in the late nineteen sixties.

Therefore, the public perception could be a factor. Dodge has the Demon and the Hellcat. Both of these models unapologetically pour on the power and insanity. The Ford Mustang has its iconic status and is also bolstered by native hand drive sales throughout Europe. The Camaro on the other hand is still an exotic import over the water, and while it has iconic history, it’s now trying to be all things to all men – part pony/muscle car and sports car.

The Transformers movie franchise gave the Camaro a shot in the arm. But as the movies were aimed mostly at kids, we need a few more decades for those kids to mature and buy their own Camaros.

Chevrolet also recently released a holiday film depicting the poignant scenes of a classic 1966 Chevy Impala as seen below. The ad. pulled on the old heartstrings, but cynical me only got from the message, do up that old classic you have in the barn instead of leaving it to rot. If the daughter had turned up in a brand-new ZL1 1LE and stated, ‘it’s what mother would have wanted.’ I’m sure a few more Camaros would have flown out of dealerships.

But if we stick with the nostalgia of the classic market, it seems the Mopars and Fords still grab the headlines. A 1965 Shelby Mustang GT 350R Competition R Model 5R002 prototype is heading to the Mecum auction and is being touted as the world’s most valuable Mustang. There are of course some tasty Camaros in the auction such as a pristine 1969 RS Z28, but more headline getters are needed in the Chevy department overall.

Onwards and Upwards

The next phase of the pony/muscle car evolution seems to be electric. Dodge has already announced their EV intentions from 2024, while Ford is already acclimatizing everyone to an electric Mustang via the Mach-E. The Camaro is likely to follow suit with a hybrid or fully electric version in the near future, but their plans aren’t as publicly solid as the other two makers.

For such a long-standing vehicle, the Chevrolet Camaro isn’t going away anytime soon. Chevy may be holding their cards close to their chest with future plans for the Camaro. But it’s more than likely big news will be coming soon concerning the Camaro’s future intentions……

The post The Chevrolet Camaro Needs More Sales. appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

Dodge recently announced the reintroduction of its Direct Connection program. Enthusiasts were first treated to this concept by Chrysler in 1974, with the same type of offerings today, everything from powertrains to the nuts and bolts.

The first set of parts are available for Challenger models, as long as your car is not older than a 2015 model. Currently, there are 14 kits available for the Challenger model, and 13 kits for the Mopar Drag Pak dragstrip special. The most potent of these kits is the ‘Stage II kit’ for the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye, taking power levels from 807 HP and 717 lb-ft. to 885 HP and 787 lb-ft. of torque via the challenger’s 6.2L supercharged V8.

This kit has all the mod. cons. to exactly dial in the power and performance you need. A digital controller and touchscreen display allows you to tweak power levels, along with a 3.17-inch engine pulley lifted from the Hellephant engine.

Those out there directly interested in crate engines will have available to them the 1,000 HP Hellephant crate engine, along with other Dodge power plants which include the Hellcat Redeye V8, the standard Hellcat 717 HP V8, the 382 Hemi V8, and the 345 Hemi V8.
There’s even a complete car body available, and NHRA Factory Stock approved engines with all the trimmings. It’s good to note that all these upgrades are still within emission regulations, as long as they are fitted via the Dodge Power Brokers dealer network. These dealers and locations will be made available by the Dodge website in 2022.

If you want to whet your appetite with all the goodies available, the Direct Connection catalog can be viewed online here. A hardcopy version should be available in spring 2022.

The Next Generation Please.

Up until the recent past, the next generation of muscle cars meant ever more power and refinement from the internal combustion engine. Now, carmakers have the double problem of not just having to slowly morph into the EV world, but also attracting millennials and the like to the wonderful world of muscle cars.

Ford is acutely aware of this dilemma, with the average age of Mustang owners going up every year. This is why they introduced the ‘Mustang Millennial Club.’ But, what are Chevrolet and Dodge doing to please both the old and the new?

In the next year or two, we are going to hear plenty about Dodge and Chevy’s electric program. Mainly because they have to swim with the times, but also with the plan to snag the interest of the next generation.

Gm are likely to announce their electric crate motor program in 2022, with Lingenfelter Performance Engineering having already dropped a version of the electric crate motor into their ‘eCOPO Camaro drag racer.’ This one first appeared at the 2018 SEMA show, apparently clocking a 9.84 second quarter-mile time. Ford also has an electric crate motor coming called the ‘Eliminator,’ borrowed heavily from the Mustang Mach-E GT.

Dodge has already announced their EV intentions, with fully electric vehicles coming in the next few years. The shift to completely electric will be slow and steady, most likely gaining new fans, but also losing a few along the way. This is inevitable, just like your favorite singer leaving your favorite band. The new guy or girl may be better looking and a better singer, but to some, it’s just not the same.

The post Dodge Push The Hellcat to 885HP Via Direct Connection appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The US was treated to a short-run Chevrolet Camaro Wild Cherry Design Package in 2021, subsequently replaced with the 2022 Design Package 3. Now, Japan will get it’s own Wild Cherry Tintcoat Camaro, but there will only be 10 examples available.

The standout features of the Wild Cherry edition include a silver racing stripe across the hood and five split-spoke silver wheels. The interior will feature a jet black and adrenaline red color scheme, available on the LT RS base model, featuring a 2.0L LTG turbo powerplant, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The Wild Cherry Camaro is available for 5,690,000 yen ($52,608 USD), which works out to be 300,000 yen ($2,635) more than the Camaro LT RS. In comparison, the 2022 Camaro convertible comes in at 6,590,000 yen ($57,878 USD), with the Camaro SS at the top of the pile costing 7,290,000 yen ($64,025 USD).

This news may not be much use to US or European muscle car fans, but if you’re in the market for a classic and have a friend residing in Japan, he may just be able to snap up one of these beauties on your behalf.
Limited edition and rare optioned muscle cars have always been the hallmark of future investments. So, it will be no surprise if all 10 of these examples are snapped up and pop up for sale again in a few year’s time…

The post Chevrolet Camaro Wild Cherry Edition: Only Ten Available appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Every automotive era has standout examples which define the times. When it comes to the golden era of muscle cars, one of the figureheads is the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6.

The year 1970 was the point in time when muscle cars hit their sweet spot in general. They had the looks, power, performance, street cred, and were relatively affordable to the average guy.

If you’re familiar with the Chevrolet Chevelle or not, this article will hopefully serve as a start point for this standout muscle car and the first one off the block.

A Bit of Background History

In roughly October 1969, Chevrolet decided to produce a car with more oomph than the Corvette. The ‘pilot car’ Chevelle was built on December 9, 1969, rolling out of the Baltimore plant, and into the possession of plant manager Earl Prentice. The build sheet states, ‘pilot car’ and ‘if it had wings it would fly.’ Not a surprise when the thing had 450HP at 5,600 rpm and 500 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Some say the horsepower output was downplayed for insurance purposes, with the real output being around 500HP.

Under the hood is a 454cu.(7.4L) Turbo-Jet LS6 V8, with a forest green metallic paint job, white SS stripes, and a tan interior. The original list price was $3,486, which was quite a climb from the Chevelle’s basic price of $2,719.

Automotive magazines of the day tested the LS6 against the equally reputable HEMI over a quarter-mile. The LS6 had a time of 13.13 seconds at 107.01mph according to the Nov. 1969 issue of Car Craft, while the HEMI did 13.34 seconds at 107.52 according to Superstock and Drag Illustrated December 1969.

The LS6 used the LS5 block with a 800-cfm Holley four-barrel, and 11.25:1 compression pistons. An Air Injection Reactor (A.I.R.) pump was added to comply with new Federal emission standards, which was usually removed by new owners. As regulations continued to squeeze the muscle car market after 1970, the 454 Chevelle and the like represented the last of the unregulated muscle cars.

A Muncie M22 ‘Rock Crusher’ four-speed manual or a three-speed M40 Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission with options were available, up to 4.33:1 rear gears.

Auction

Only 4,475 RPO LS6 cars were ever built, making the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 quite the collector’s item. The pilot car underwent a full restoration in 2010 by MuscleCar Restoration & Design, Illinois, who are specialists in this type of thing, bringing the car back to its original condition.

The car went under the hammer on August 21, 2011, at at Russo and Steele, fetching $181,500.
If you want to own a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 these days, you’ll be paying roughly $125,000–$150,000. The pilot car’s worth, far more, if you can ever persuade the present owners to part with the thing.

The restoration process is documented in images over at musclecarrestorationanddesign.com.

The post The Very First 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS LS6 Pilot appeared first on Muscle Car.

Planning on buying a muscle car? For many people, this is one of their biggest goals in life and something that they often dream about. If you have a passion for muscle cars, owning your own is an incredible feeling and will help you to feel like you have made it in life. Whether you are buying a Dodge Charger, Pontiac GTO, Chevrolet Camaro, or any other muscle car, it’s important that you take your time and try to find the best deal. This will be a major financial decision to make and there are a few tips that will help.

Pick Your Model

Firstly, you’ll need to settle on a model that you want. Most people will have a favorite muscle car in mind, which can make it much easier to search and find what you are looking for. While it is helpful to have a model in mind, it is a good idea to be flexible when it comes to the spec. You might be able to make big savings by opting for a model that has less horsepower, for example.

Look At Used Car Dealerships

It is always worthwhile looking at the stock that used car dealerships currently have, and you might be surprised at what you can find. These days, you can buy from dealerships all over the place. This means that you are not limited by location, so you can find the best muscle car sales Uttoxeter has online with virtual showrooms and the ability to have the car delivered. Buying from a used car dealership is also smart because you can arrange finance deals, which will make the cost easier to manage.

Get A Mechanic’s Assessment 

Before putting pen to paper, you should always get a mechanic to check over the muscle car. You can check the vehicle over and take it for a test drive, but as such a large and important financial decision, you want to make sure that the car is in a safe condition. This is why it is worth hiring a mechanic to check over the vehicle to give their verdict – this will also give you peace of mind.

Get Sufficient Insurance

As your prized possession, it is important that you protect yourself financially with insurance. Obviously, you will need to have car insurance in place, but you may also want to look into classic car insurance and make sure that you have a clear understanding of what is included and what is not included.

Join An Owner’s Club

It is also a smart idea to join an owner’s club for your specific make and model (these are easy to find online). Not only is this a great way to connect with other muscle car enthusiasts, but it can also be helpful in terms of advice and getting questions answered. They will be able to advise on how to best look after the vehicle, where you can source parts from, and what garages you should take the car to (and which to avoid).

This post should come in handy when taking the plunge and buying a muscle car and hopefully help you to get the most out of the vehicle.

The post Handy Tips For Investing In A Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

There are approximately more than 1 million rear-end crashes annually. Unfortunately, a large number of crashes are fatal and cause massive damage to vehicles. Repairing damaged vehicles, especially muscle cars, is very expensive. Vehicles such as Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, and the Dodge Challenger are some of the most desired vehicles in the world. They have powerful V8 engines, are attractive and sleek. Moreover, they have been designed for everyday street use and formal and informal drag racing.

Therefore, if you have been rear-ended by a distracted driver and your expensive muscle vehicle is damaged, you need to protect your legal rights with assistance from a car accident lawyer and get compensation to repair the damaged muscle vehicle. Rear-end collisions are caused by reckless driving, driving while drunk and mechanical malfunctions and defects. After being rear-ended, you should;

Check for injuries and damages

You should check yourself for any injuries before getting out of the vehicle. You should also check whether your passengers are okay. After a crash, everyone is usually shaken up, especially if the airbag has deployed. Double-check for injuries.

Don’t admit fault

In many cases, the one at fault is the one who rear-ended the vehicle. However, this is not always the case, especially if a vehicle was reversing, slammed its brakes without warning, or made a risky maneuver. Therefore, never admit fault.

Call the police

If you have been involved in a rear-end collision, call the police. You need to have an accurate record of the incident and an officer will accurately document the scene and file a report.

Take photos

Take a lot of photos of the damages the vehicles sustained and the scene. Since rear-end collisions can cause damages that are not easily visible, you should look for things such as trunk damage, transmission damage, alignment issues, electrical damage, bumper and frame damage.

Exchange information with witnesses and drivers

You should obtain all the relevant information from the parties involved including; full names, addresses of the parties involved, insurance providers of the drivers, and license plate numbers of the drivers involved in the collision. Make sure to write the time, date, and location of the collision and the models, makes, and colors of the vehicles involved.

See a doctor

You may sustain injuries from the collision that may not be noticeable at the time. You should seek medical assistance to check for pain, injuries, or any discomfort. Some unpleasant symptoms of rear-end collisions include dizziness, fatigue, headache, whiplash, neck stiffness, numbness of certain body parts, and loss of motion.

Notify your insurance agent

After reporting the collision to the relevant authorities, you should notify your insurance company within the stipulated timeline in the policy. When talking to them, don’t assume blame and allow them to record the call.

Conclusion
Rear-end crashes are very common. If you have been involved in a rear-end collision (especially one involving a heavy-duty muscle vehicle), you should check for injuries, call the police and take photos and videos. You should also exchange relevant information with the parties involved, see a doctor, notify your insurance company about the collision and reach out to a qualified attorney for legal assistance. You will get fair compensation if you work with the best attorneys.

The post Muscle Cars: Rear-Ended by a Distracted Driver? appeared first on Muscle Car.

When people talk about the big block engine sound in Chevy vehicles, they are usually talking about large V8 engines. They were a mainstay of the company’s line of cars from the 1950s through the early 2000s. Even though Chevrolet had already developed a reputation for producing reliable smaller V8 engines, the company needed something more powerful for its heavier trucks and SUVs. This led to the development of the big block engine. From there, the line of engines would become a critical part of automotive history, with many people still using the engine to this day.

The First Chevy Big Block Engine

By the time the big block engines were developed, Chevy had already developed a reputation for performance. The company produced its first V8 engine in 1917. It was an overhead valve engine with a 90-degree angle. The small-block engine was introduced in 1955, which served as the precursor to the famed big-block engines.

The first generation of true “big block” engines was introduced in 1958. The 1958 Mark I, W Series engine featured more than 430 horsepower and greater than 435 foot-pounds of torque.

The Most Notable Chevy Big Block Engine: The Mark IV Big Block

After the development of the Mark I W Series, there were a few other big-block engines produced. The Mark II Big Block engine was designed in 1962 and released in 1963. It featured greater power and better reliability. While there was also a Mark III engine, it did not have a lot of notable differences from the Mark II Big Block, as Chevy was already working on a new Mark IV, which would become its flagship “big block” engine.

In 1965, the Mark IV engine made its debut. This engine had several notable differences from the original Mark I, W Series big-block engine. The valves were in a different location, and the shape of the combustion chambers varied significantly. The Mark IV engine also featured a conventional wedge chamber along with a 90-degree angled deck.

Some people refer to this as the “rat motor,” as the popular small block engines were often called the “mouse” motor. The comparison made sense, and the nickname would stick.

The engine also received a few changes that would improve the flow of oil. The goal was to maximize the oil flow throughout the engine at all times to ensure the engine remains lubricated. This would reduce the friction throughout the parts, increasing the power and efficiency of the engine while also reducing wear and tear. This led to an engine with a much longer lifespan.

Even though this engine was used throughout numerous Chevrolet vehicles, it made its debut in the 1965 Chevrolet Corvette, quickly making this one of the most popular makes and models in the company’s history. It was also used in Chevrolet Chevelles from 1965 to 1972, Chevrolet Camaros from 1967 to 1972, and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo from 1970 to 1972.

The Generation V Big Block Engines

The popular line of big-block engines went largely unchanged for the next few decades. Eventually, General Motors would make significant changes to the big block engine for Generation V. The main oil galley was moved, and the mechanical fuel pump was eliminated. The valve train was adjusted as well. Minor structural changes were made to improve the strength and durability of the bores, reducing the frequency of problems.

The engine continued to make use of the popular Throttle Body Injection System (TBI), which was introduced in other big-block engines in the late 1980s. Overall, the engine had a positive reception, improving on a lot of the flaws of the Mark IV, which had become outdated in some ways.

The Generation VI Engines of the Late 1990s

The late 1990s saw the introduction of the Generation VI big-block engines. Technology had come a long way, and the engine received some updates. Multiport fuel injection improved gas mileage efficiently, and onboard diagnostics reduced the frequency of repairs. Even though mechanical changes were relatively minor, the Vortec 7400 became a mainstay of Chevy vehicles in the late 1990s, including the Chevrolet Suburban and the Chevrolet Express.

Author Bio: This article is brought to you by the automotive content marketing team at automotive-marketing.com.

The post Big Block Chevy Engine History appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The recent announcement that Dodge will cease production of the ICE Challenger and Charger by 2024 has caused a polarizing effect in the muscle car community. Those who vehemently oppose the idea, and those who have resigned themselves to the future landscape. I say resigned, as EV vehicles are coming if we like it or not.

Dodge will still produce all variations of the Challenger and Charger up to 2024. After that point, the offerings from Dodge will be full-fat EV’s and possibly hybrids.

However, like any seismic change in the muscle car industry, it’s worth looking back in history to see how big changes have been accepted or not in the past.

Brutes to Compacts and Back Again

The Dodge Charger has been one of the world’s standout muscle cars since its release in 1966. No replacement for displacement was the mindset, with a base engine of a 318cu.(5.2 L) V8 going up to a 426cu.(7L) Hemi V8. With fuel costs so low in the US at the time, especially compared to Europe, the times felt plentiful.

By 1971, increased insurance costs, new emissions, and safety regulations started to put a dampener on all the fun. This meant by 1975 the Dodge Charger had turned into a personal luxury car, with ever smaller engine capacities. Then there was a break in production between 1978 to 1982. By 1987 the Dodge Charger was cut from the inventory, only to re-emerge in 2006.

Summing up, the Dodge Charger had gone from 1967 to 1987 transitioning from a roadgoing brute to a limp 142hp compact to fit the times. It was only in 2006 that the original template was reimagined with a 6.1 L Hemi engine and what we think of as a modern muscle car.

Obviously, ICE powertrains were the heart of all the cars above. But I can’t help but wonder if EV’s had been introduced in the mid-1980s, when muscle car production was at its lowest and had the least interest. Would we have cared as much back then and would we have adapted?

In some ways, the landscape is the same now as it was in the early 1970s. Legislation is forcing a major change, with carmakers having to adapt or possibly be left in the dust.

The difference between muscle cars in 1987 and 2021 is today’s version’s have never been better or more potent. When your favorite car is going from strength to strength, it seems counterintuitive to stop production a few years. In 1987 when the Dodge Charger ceased production for years to come, the model fizzled out.

A Polarized Fan Base

If you think of any other car manufacturer, an EV model of their current inventory is not much of a big deal. However, muscle cars and V8’s are almost one of the same.

Think of something like an AMG Mercedes EV. We can accept that one. However, an electric Dodge Charger is more of a bitter pill to swallow. But, and it’s a big but, the whole muscle car future comes down to basically ‘adapt or die.’ Therefore, we have to adapt to the changes or everyone needs to buy a classic muscle car and keep it running forever.

One worrying statement from a Motor Trend interview with Dodge Brand CEO Tim Kuniskis, states ‘..a split consumer base: those who will embrace electrification and those vehemently opposed to the idea and have sent Kuniskis death threats.’ If this statement is literal, then I understand the passion of muscle car fans, but really, death threats, that’s a step too far.

A stepping into other people’s shoes scenario is worthy at this point. If we were in the position of Dodge Brand CEO Tim Kuniskis, now taking directions from Stellantis, the future of the brand and models are key. They have to stay ahead of the pack and now that means going electric, with all the implications. Its going to be a rough few years, but let’s see what Dodge produces in 2024, then judge.

There’s Plenty of Time Left…

According to the ‘International Council on Clean Transportation‘ , targets for most countries to phase out internal combustion engines, the deadline is around 2035-2040. That gives us roughly 13+ years to buy a V8.

That’s the sale and registration of new ICE cars. That doesn’t necessarily mean the use or not of ICE vehicles after the above dates. We think ICE-powered cars will always be around, just with higher fuel costs and more stringent legislation and taxes.

What The Other Guys are Doing

Dodge is under the microscope at the moment as they have clearly drawn a line in the sand for 2024. But what about the other modern muscle car makers such as Ford and Chevy?

Ford has obviously crowbarred the Mustang name into the Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV. Chevy has a few small electrics like the Bolt EV and is going to turn the Silverado all-electric. Both companies haven’t made official announcements for the end of production of ICE cars. It seems like they are going the route of a more slow transition.

Even if it is a slow transition for both Chevrolet and Ford, they are both diving into the EV market as much as possible.

Ford has made a $500 million investment into Rivian Automotive, an EV start-up that has had the knock-on effect of increasing Ford Motor stocks according to the Motley fool. It’s not a stretch to think lots of investment money is going to be poured into the EV market in the coming years. Thus, compounding the move forward into electric.

Conclusion

Instead of thinking this is the end of the muscle car V8 story, the operative word should be ‘evolution.’

We don’t know what’s coming next, but it’s definitely electric-based. It’s almost a shame that nuclear-powered cars like the concept ‘1957 Ford Nucleon’ didn’t take off. A nuclear-powered Dodge Charger, now that would be cool…

The post Predictions for the Future of Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

Muscle cars have always been collectible assets, well….sort of. From the golden era of the 1960s and early 1970s to the present day, there have always been standout examples. Current muscle car valuations continue to increase, and with the latest news of Dodge turning electric in 2024, gas-powered engines are bound to become more scarce and collectible.

The future for V8 powered Muscle Cars

The next 5 to 10 years is going to be a very surreal time for V8-powered muscle cars. Whatever happens with legislation, cars that are powered by the good old tried and tested dinosaur juice, will slowly disappear off the roads. This most likely will mean people will be offloading their gas-powered vehicles for those battery-powered thingies. This might include the classics, as it will simply cost more to own and run the things.

According to Hagerty’s pricing index Jan. 2011 was the lowest value point of muscle cars in the last 10 years. Current muscle car values seem to be the highest. The coronavirus years saw a slump in muscle car values, with 2021 bringing everything back up to speed. We recommend keeping an eye on Haggerty’s index and the values of certain models in the coming years. This along with car price listings in general.

The Tastiest Muscle Car Investments

If we eerr on the idea of muscle cars steadily increasing in value long-term, what are the choice picks you may ask. This will depend on if you fancy an old classic or a more recent model. Limited editions and rare option models are a good starting point, but not always set in stone.

There always has to be a good deal of demand for certain makes and models for their value to constantly increase. If you own a vehicle that is only one of 5 examples on the planet, but nobody wants them, it’s worthless (…that’s until somebody makes a FaceTube video about them, then the price skyrockets).

Modern Muscle Cars

The more well-known, rare optioned makes and models of muscle cars usually perform the best over time. The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon was one of the most recent, high-profile, modern collector’s items with only 3,300 models produced. With over 840HP, the Demon has instant street cred. if nothing else. The original sales price of the Dodge Demon was $84,995 MSRP. In 2021, the value of a Dodge Demon is now around $120,000 to $140,000.

Another example is the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon. It may be a fancy station wagon with a V8 engine, but it packs 556HP, and there were only 514 stickshift models ever made. You can pick an example up today for roughly $50,000, with values likely to increase over time.

Other modern examples include the 2010 Ford Mustang GT Roush Stage 3 with a 4.6-liter supercharged V8 and a 2003 Dodge Viper SRT-10 with an 8.3-liter V10.

Classic Muscle Cars

You can judge this era from roughly 1968-1974. The current stars of this period go to Hemi Cuda convertibles, increasing in value by 79%. 1970 Buick GS455 convertibles have risen 20% in value, along with 1964 Impala SS 409 convertibles rising by 52%. The commonality here is convertibles as they were made in far fewer numbers.

Other makes and models are slowly increasing in value, including likely candidates like the 1967-69 Chevrolet Camaro SS and 1968-67 Dodge Charger R/T’s. The former went up 14% and the latter increasing by 28% in value.

If we stick with the criteria of the more well-known, limited edition/options, and obviously coolness factor, there are plenty of muscle cars to choose from in the classic era. A 1974 AMC Javelin AMX coupe with a 304cid V8 is not the most obvious choice, but for fans, a highly collectible model.

You can’t go wrong with a 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS or even a 1970 example for sheer brutishness. The Chevelle SS is more than just an investment piece. It represents an example from the height of the golden muscle car era – huge displacement, and sheer raw fun.

Other examples to keep an eye on include the 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Super Cobra Jet, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS, 1970 Plymouth AAR ‘Cuda, 1967 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS, 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS(basically a Chevelle SS with more fun at the rear), a 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS, and a 1971 Chevrolet Corvette. All these examples are slowly rising in value.

We obviously can’t forget the numerous Ford Mustang, which may be the easiest to get hold of in its basic model form. The Mustang is probably the easiest entry point to collecting classic muscle/pony cars, but just make sure you buy a well-maintained example, with ideally a complete history, and something like a Marti Report to prove its authenticity.

Which muscle car should I pick?

Ultimately, a muscle car investment will come down to your current budget, then which one tickles your fancy. With a little research from our humble little website and the likes of Haggerty, you can quickly get an idea if a certain muscle car is going to keep climbing in value.

The examples above will give you a good start point, but you still have to do your own research, especially if you want a snag a low-cost example.

The post Now Could Be The Best Time To Invest In A Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

The origin of muscle cars is a fundamental part of motoring history, although, like all of history, it tends to change over time. What originally started as a two-door coupe with a big V8 engine no longer remains the only way that people can now enjoy muscle cars, as the modern take has shaken this up a bit. The modern take on the muscle car could include a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, four-door sedans, and even six-cylinder vehicles. As such, it seems like people are spoilt for choice year upon year when choosing a new muscle car, and 2021 is no different. This article will go into more detail about the vehicles available this year that you should consider purchasing.

Why Are You Purchasing a New Car?

It’s important to understand why you want to purchase a new car as this will guide your decision as to what the right one for you is. For instance, are you looking for something with a bit more speed? Then you should be looking at the vehicles with the larger engines. Are you hoping to find something that is less prone to damage? Maybe you’re simply looking for something that is a bit more stylish? All of these aspects should be taken into account when you are looking at these vehicles. So, what are some of the top contenders to consider buying?

Dodge Charger SE

This is a great example of a muscle car that doesn’t just limit itself to a two-door sedan. This four-door model comes with some of the amazing specs that normally come with muscle cars such as RWD, and it is also powered by a strong V6 engine. It is a great choice if you would like to have a bit of practicality with your vehicle because as well as being powerful, it is also ideal for tasks such as daily errands and school drop-offs. As such, you may find yourself more inclined to use it than simply admire it. Of course, this may put your Charger SE at risk of sustaining damage while out and about. Fortunately, places such as SanDiegosAutoBody.com can easily mend the damage and leave your car as good as new.

Ford Mustang

The always iconic Ford Mustang is famed for coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the newest model is no different. It comes with a lot of different powertrains, and you can also opt for a two-door coupe or convertible. There are added extras that you can take advantage of as well, such as a modern EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine that adds a bit of variety to their standard V8’s.

Chevrolet Camaro LT

If you are looking for a good and modern muscle car, then there is nothing else you need to consider over than the Chevrolet Camaro LT. This vehicle comes with a potential 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is packed with a whopping 275 horsepower. You have the option to choose it as a coupe or a convertible, and it is a fantastic choice of car if you are hoping to balance both power with practicality.

The post What Are the Best Muscle Cars Available to Buy in 2021? appeared first on Muscle Car.

There was a golden age of American car manufacture in the 1960s and 1970s. This was when a spate of US-based marques released an array of vehicles that were then regarded as extraordinarily elegant, manly, and high-performing.

Of course, we’re referring to the mythical and forever-in-style American muscle cars. Sure, these famous vehicles have been out of production for half a century. Yet, car fans and collectors still hold them in high respect and want them.

If you’re new to the world of muscle cars, then no worries. You’ve come to the right place. Keep on reading for our full breakdown of everything you need to know about American muscle cars. We’ll explore some of the greatest muscle cars to have ever made it to the market.

American Muscle Cars 101: The Basics

Okay, so the phrase “American muscle vehicles” is a misnomer for many reasons, the first of which is that it should be dropped entirely. All officially sanctioned muscle vehicles are from the United States.

So, when you think about the best classic cars under the “muscle” category, then you bet that they’re all American.

Although, you may have heard of muscle cars from Australia or Latin America. But, the Detroit Three also built automobiles in other countries.

A V8 engine is standard equipment in muscle vehicles, which have a two-door body design. Cars like this are great for daily driving around town and the odd drag race. European high-performance automobiles like the Shelby Cobra are quite different from a muscle car.

Vehicles in Europe were created for agility, while muscle cars were built to be quick and powerful when you want them to be. Several blockbuster films, such as 1957’s Rebel Without a Cause, helped popularize drag racing.

Muscle vehicles, on the other hand, didn’t really take off in popularity until the mid-’60s. Until the 1973 oil crisis and ensuing legislation, interest rates would have remained high.

The Original: 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88

This was originally intended for the company’s larger saloon vehicles. However, Oldsmobile engineers decided to put a strong V8 engine in the 88 to give it some more oomph.

Despite the Rocket 88’s high-tech for the time high-compression V8’s lack of earth-shattering performance by subsequent muscle car standards, many auto enthusiasts consider it to be the first of the muscle car breed.

The 303 cubic inches (5.0 litre) Rocket V8 engine produced around 140 horsepower. But, it was more than enough in 1949 to make the 88 a serious contender on the NASCAR racing track. It finished first in six of nine races in its first season and deserves a place in any “Muscle Car” museum.

1964 Pontiac GTO

The Pontiac GTO, a classic American muscle vehicle from the 1960s, was very fast for its day.

Most people credit the Pontiac GTO with kick-starting the Muscle Car craze in the 1960s. It was the first mass-market high-performance car to use a modified 389 cubic inch (6.4-litre) V8 engine.

This was in lieu of the entry-level Tempest’s 140bhp six-cylinder. It was originally available as an option on the mid-size Pontiac Tempest.

Three 348bhp carburetor-equipped GTOs were available. As was a four-speed manual transmission, upgraded suspension, and larger wheels and bonnet scoops.

It only costs $4,500, or around £24,000 in today’s money, when you include all the extras. For its day and price, the GTO’s speed was so astounding that magazines of the day pitted it against the Ferrari 250 GTO to see how fast it could go from 0-60 mph. It took only 5.7 seconds.

Of course, a classic car like this one needs specialized tires. You’ll want to check out Ozzytyres.com.au for one of the best tire collections on the market.

1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 

The Chevelle Super Sport (or SS) was Chevrolet’s initial entry into the Muscle Car market when it was unveiled in 1964. The Pontiac GTO had a huge advantage in terms of raw power early on, but Chevy quickly caught up.

A colossal 454 cubic inch (7.5-litre) large block V8 with a claimed 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque was available as an option for the 1970 Chevelle SS.

The 1970 Chevrolet SS 454 was one of the world’s fastest-accelerating road vehicles, and it’s now a tremendously valuable collectible.

1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird

While the majority of Muscle Cars were built for drag racing – or at the very least, the traffic light Grand Prix – some significant models owe their origins to racing on closed circuits like the Indianapolis 500.

Prior to playing a prominent part in the Pixar blockbuster Cars, the Plymouth Superbird was possibly the most well-known. The car’s razor-sharp front end and soaring rear wing were created to help it dominate the Nascar field.

Nascar’s regulations in 1970 dictated that 1,920 units of the Plymouth Road Runner had to be road registered in order for it to participate, which led to the development of the Superbird and its sibling, the Dodge Charger Daytona, as a stock car racer. It was standard for a manufacturer’s US sales network to have a minimum of two vehicles for each dealer.)

However, although the car’s design was produced in a wind tunnel, its tall rear wing seemed to be built for cutting through the clear air. But, its height was actually decided by the requirement of opening the boot lid.

1967 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

The Chevrolet Camaro was designed to counter the Ford Mustang’s meteoric rise in popularity since its introduction in 1964. A fast coupe and convertible based on the Chevy Nova chassis, the Camaro arrived three years later with a variety of powerful engine choices including a 396 cubic inch V8 with up to 375 horsepower.

However, performance purists had the choice of the Z/28 package, which contained severe chassis modifications geared for racing versions, rather than the racy option packs that included the blacked-out grille with disguised headlight, simulated air intakes, and “bumblebee” striping.

Best Vintage Cars: Exploring Muscle Cars

Things can get overwhelming if you get too deep into the research process of which one is the crowned best American muscle car in history.

Hopefully, our guide has shed some light on the top American muscle cars that can compete for the title. And, if you enjoyed reading our article, then you’ll love checking out our automotive section for all the additional tips and tricks you could possibly need.

The post What Are the Greatest American Muscle Cars of All Time? appeared first on Muscle Car.

The original muscle car was the Oldsmobile Rocket 88, which hit the streets in 1949. While there have been some periods where it looked like the muscle car was going extinct, they’ve always come back stronger than ever.

Let’s look at 3 of the best modern muscle cars available right now.

What Are Muscle Cars?

While the first muscle car debuted in 1949, the term itself wouldn’t show up until the 1960s when Pontiac described the 1964 GTO as a “muscle car.” The term quickly caught on and was used for all brands of vehicles.

At its core, a muscle car is an intermediate-sized vehicle with a powerful engine, usually a V8. Traditionally, muscle cars were American-made but there’s some debate over that point.

One of the nice things about muscle cars is that you can easily get parts from a source like redlineautoparts.com. That’s just not possible with a lot of “supercars” with this kind of performance like Porsche or Ferrari.

1. Ford Shelby Mustang GT350R

The Mustang is one of the original muscle cars and Carroll Shelby’s versions were even higher-performance than the factory models. Ford and Shelby had their ups and downs since then but they’ve been working together again for several years.

The modern GT350R is one of the most powerful Mustangs to ever hit the pavement. Its 5.2-liter V8 generates 526 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque. The “R” in its name means it was designed for racing, with carbon fiber components throughout. The combination gives it a 0-60 time of 3.8 seconds and a quick 12.5-second quarter-mile.

2. Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

We couldn’t mention the Mustang without including its arch-rival, the Chevrolet Camaro. The Camaro is another genre-defining vehicle from the 1960s.

The modern ZL1 version sports a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 that generates a whopping 650 pound-feet of torque plus a matching 650 horsepower. It bests the Mustang GT350R with a 3.5-second 0-60 time and only 11.4 seconds for the quarter-mile.

3. Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

To complete the trifecta of the big three brands of muscle cars from the 1960s, we’ve got the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon. Dodge has several high-performance versions of the Challenger but the Demon is the most extreme muscle car to ever come straight from the factory.

The SRT Demon sports a 6.2-liter turbocharged engine that’s also equipped with a 2.7-liter supercharger. The combination produces 840 horsepower — enough to need a special type of drag radial road tires.

This monster can go from 0 to 60 in only 2.3 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in only 9.65 seconds, hitting 140 miles per hour in the process.

Modern Muscle Cars Might Be the Best Ever

While purists might tell you the 1960s were the golden age of the muscle car, that’s definitely up for debate. Modern muscle cars are faster, more powerful, and more comfortable to drive than anything in those early years. That’s pretty hard to beat.

Check out the rest of our site for more articles about muscle cars — modern and classic.

The post 3 Modern Muscle Cars You’re Going to Love Driving appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

For those who believe there is no replacement for displacement, Chevrolet has a rare treat for y’all. A new crate powerplant packing 1,004 hp and 876 lb-ft of torque, via a 632-cubic-inch/10-liter V8 block.

In the muscle car world, Dodge has held the power crown for some time with the 840 horsepower Demon model. Then Dodge upped the ante with the Hellephant crate engine, producing 1,000 hp. Now it’s the turn of Chevrolet with their new ZZ632/1000 crate engine. It may only have 4 hp more than the Hellephant, but differs tremendously in design. The Chevy engine has opted to go for a free-breathing 10 liters design, rather than Dodge using a 6.2L V8 and a supercharger to make up the power levels. The Chevy incarnation also runs on 93 octane pump gas.

The Chevrolet ZZ632/1000 Gritty Details

As you would expect from this type of engine, it takes a tried and tested formula, with old-school sensibilities, then adds on top modern design techniques. The engine block is hewn from cast iron, with more or less the same mold as the ZZ572 crate engine, just made bigger to fit in the 632 cubic inch capacity. The bore is 0.040 inch larger than the 572-cubic-inch ZZ572 V8, and has a stroke that is 0.375 inch longer.

Power in the ZZ632 crate engine hits its power peak at 6,600 rpm, and tops out at 7,000 rpm. There is no direct injection here, instead, the engine uses eight-port injectors going through high-flow aluminum cylinder heads with symmetrical ports. The port heads have been given a special codename by GM – RS-X, after Ron Sperry who came up with the design after his 50-year stint at General Motors.

For the general specs of the engine, please see the bottom of the page.

The next pertinent question is which unsuspecting car is going to have this beast of an engine dropped into it? Silly sized engines require a certain level of controlled recklessness, with the job of pairing engine to car going to Hoonigan. The car they have chosen or have been thrown their way is a 3rd generation Camaro Z/28, which has apparently been part of Chevy’s development fleet since the 1990s. The task here is to get the car kinda ready in 3 weeks for the 2021 SEMA Show. Check out the video below to see where the guys are up to with the build….

As for this post’s title question of if the ZZ632/1000 is better than the Hellephant is really quite subjective. One thing’s for sure, there will be some sort of drag race in the future between these two crate engines. We just need two parties who are mad enough or brave enough to put a spectacle like that together.

Chevrolet Performance ZZ632/1000 Specs

Displacement: 632 cu in (10,348 cc)
Bore x Stroke: 4.60 x 4.75 in
Compression Ratio: 12.0:1
Power: 1,004 hp @ 6600 rpm
Torque: 876 lb-ft @ 5600 rpm
Maximum Recommended Engine Speed: 7,000 rpm
Block: Tall Deck 632 Bowtie Sportsman, cast iron, four-bolt main caps
Cylinder Heads: RS-X Symmetrical Port, CNC-machined aluminum
Crankshaft: Forged steel
Connecting Rods: Forged steel
Pistons: Forged aluminum
Fuel: Electronic port injection

The post Chevy Release 1,004-HP 10-Liter Engine. Better than The Hellephant? appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

It’s the way of things with muscle cars. Every new year’s model gets a few more ponies shoved under the hood for good measure. However, this time around the EPA has decided that the Mustang GT and the Mustang Mach 1 need to be downgraded in power by 10 horses. This makes the Ford Mustang GT for 2022 come in with 450 hp and the Ford Mustang Mach 1 with 470 hp.

For the 2022 year, both of the above models will stay more or less the same in every other regard, apart from the addition of some new colors and tweaks to some of its handling packages. There will also be a new active antitheft system, along with a wheel locking kit.

A drop of 10 horsepower isn’t going to register on most people’s radar unless you want to scream down a quarter-mile track every weekend. But in the world of muscle cars, every horsepower counts, even if it’s just for bragging rights. Possibly one of the reasons why the Dodge Challenger has outsold the Ford Mustang in the 9 months through 2021. That’s a difference of 44,142 Challengers compared to 41,065 Mustangs being sold in 2021. In comparison, the Chevrolet Camaro is further down the sales figures with 15,084 units sold in 2021. As another comparison, the now supercar-like, mid-engined Corvette sold 24,748 up to the third quarter of 2021.

If this snippet of news had come out a decade ago, the Ford guys would understandably be getting worried and scratching their Henry Ford-inspired haircuts. However, in these times Ford also has the Mustang Mach-E. The possible template for their electric vehicle future.

While the Mustang Mach-E is more SUV than muscle car, it’s still being classed as a Mustang variant. Plus, with all its electrical gadgetry, it’s more appealing to the wider masses along with plenty of oomph under the hood. As a comparison, the Mach-E GT can hit 62 mph in 3.7 seconds, while the Mach 1, using a 5 L V8 does it in 4.4 seconds. Obviously, the EPA doesn’t mind the Mach-E GT going like s**t off a shovel, but the Mach 1 with its ICE engine is deemed too scary with its current power levels….ahem.

So, while it may be a mild blow for Ford to have to drop even 10 horsepower, they now have more than one egg in the muscle car basket. Dodge and Chevrolet will also have their own electric muscle car equivalents in the next 2 years or at least plans for. From there it will be interesting to see how each company will treat its traditional ICE engines compared to the electric versions.

The post 2022 Ford Mustang GT and Mach 1 To lose Horsepower appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

If you reside in the fair Isles of Britain, the average performance car has only a few liters capacity and generally comes from Germany, Italy, or Japan. American muscle cars are usually reserved for the Uberfan or those who want something a bit different. This makes showrooms and part suppliers a bit thin on the ground, but as in the US, an off-the-shelf or tweaked muscle car provides heaps of power and fun for the money.

The guys over at autocar.co.uk recently borrowed a few muscle cars from Clive Sutton, a long-time seller of Americana, based in London, to see what all the fuss was about. For starters, the Ford Mustang CS850GT has 847bhp and 665lb-ft of torque from a Whipple supercharger-powered 5.0-liter V8. This example comes in at £115,000.

The other vehicle on test is a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 which only comes in left-hand configuration. This one sports a 6.2-liter V8 with 770bhp and 737lb ft. of torque. The Camaro has the most custom setup, and by the time it’s ready for British roads, costs the same as much in pounds as it does in dollars.

By the way, this test isn’t to see which has the fastest 0-60mph or quarter-mile time, but rather a general test round a track to feel out the general characteristics.

There’s not a definitive winner here, but the main takeaway is the usual message with American muscle cars. Considering the power, they offer a lot of fun for their asking price. The Clive Sutton CS850GT Ford Mustang provides the most wallop at 847bhp but also costs the most at £115,000. The Camaro on the other hand comes in at £75,000(estimated) for 770bhp. Each car is capable of a 3.5sec(estimated) 0-62mph time, with a top speed of 180mph(estimated) from both. In other words, if money was the single deciding factor, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 would come out on top.

But if the Mustang or Camaro didn’t take your fancy, then there are other options. While the Camaro and Mustang have pony car DNA and are more like traditional sports cars, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat follows the muscle car template as near as we can get today. This means a 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 engine, producing 717bhp straight from the factory. For the average Brit, the $74,720 asking price can easily convert to the same in pounds. Still, that’s a lot of car for the money.

Ford has another offering in the form of the Mustang Shelby GT500, with 760bhp and 625lb ft. of torque. The price point here is $72,900 (£53,270). Lastly, if you want a vehicle that looks like it can smash through a skyscraper without noticing, the Hennessey Venom 775 Supercharged F-150 has muscle car sensibilities in the shape of a truck. This equates to a 5.0-liter V8 producing 400bhp with torque levels ranging from 410lb. ft. to 685lb. The price for this one is $110,000 (£80,370) with a limited run of only 100 examples.

So, what is the conclusion here? Basically, if you want to splash the cash on something with supercar prices, then maybe an American muscle car can provide you everything you need, with change left over for an everyday driver. You may even have enough money left over to buy one of those battery-powered things to ease your conscience.

The post Camaro ZL1 vs Sutton Mustang: A British Perspective of 1600bhp appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Swiss watchmakers Breitling have honored three classic muscle cars by producing these high-octane chronographs. The inspiration for these watches comes from the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, and the Shelby Cobra.

Breitling aren’t strangers to producing vehicle-inspired timepieces, previously using the McLaren and Lamborghini as inspiration. This time around it’s the turn of classic muscle car designs from the nineteen sixties, with an equally vintage timepiece design.

The Corvette-inspired timepiece has a stainless steel case with racing-inspired calfskin straps. Red and black are the color themes here, with a dual flag logo on the dial.

The Ford Mustang version sports a traditional green Mustang face, with the iconic Mustang logo at the 12 o’clock position. Last but not least the Shelby Cobra-inspired timepiece sports a bold blue color with a Cobra badge, white center dials and surround.

The Top Time Classic Cars collection comes in two distinct varieties. The Corvette and Mustang versions come in a 42mm housing, with a self-winding 1/8th-second chronograph, and a 42-hour reserve of power. Both watches also feature contrasting black subdials and a tachymeter scale.

In contrast, the Shelby Cobra version has a 40mm casing, using the COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 41 as a power source, a self-winding 1/4th-second chronograph, and a power reserve of 42 hours. In contrast to the other two watches, the Cobra version has white subdials and a white surround.

Other added benefits to these high-class watches are the 38 jewels, water resistance to 100m, cambered sapphire crystal faces, and calfskin leather straps.

If you already own one of these classic cars in one of these respective colors, then adding a bit of bling to your wrist may just finish off the effect.

If one of these timepieces takes your fancy, they are available for at $5,500 each.

The post American Muscle Car Inspired Breitling Watches appeared first on Muscle Car.

While we all love muscle cars for their performance, it would be nice if they would catch up to the modern technology on most new cars.  The good news is that more safety systems are being offered by the Ford Mustang, Chevy Camaro, and Dodge Challenger this year.  

What does this mean for a muscle car owner?  Well if you’ve got these systems, you are less likely to get into a situation where a crash occurs. You are less likely to scratch or damage your muscle car.  And, you can protect your insurance rates by staying out of fender benders.  

Should you value your trade or wait another year?  Let’s take a look at the new safeguards offered in the three leading Muscle cars.

2021 Ford Mustang

The Mustang has the most standard features of the three.  The pre-collision assist system includes pedestrian detection and a forward collision warning. It has dynamic brake support to assist the driver. Automatic braking is also part of the system just in case. 

The lane-keep assist is a warning with an automatic straightening capability.  The blind spot monitor has no automatic features, but it lets the driver know if there is a car too close for a safe lane change. This system has a rear cross-traffic warning for safer parking maneuvers.  The Pony car even has rain-sensing wipers and automatic high beams as standards.  

Only adaptive cruise control is left as an option.  This desirable system can regulate speed to match traffic. While a Pony car driver tends to love the open road, they will appreciate having this system when they are in slow-and-go traffic situations.

Ford is clearly calculating that those in search of a new sports car may be persuaded to put the Mustang at the top of the list.  The package of technology would be expensive to purchase separately, and it is competitive with more conventional cars. 

2021 Chevy Camaro

The newest Camaro is the only one to offer the rear camera mirror feature. It can switch between a regular mirror and a digital screen that shows a wide rear image. This optional feature is one of many offered on higher trim levels.  Chevy is offering a blind spot monitor and a forward collision alert as options on lower trim levels.  Other options include the rear cross-traffic alert and a GM-product called the Lane Change Alert, which is a more active system as a backup to the blind spot monitor. 

2021 Dodge Challenger

Like the Camaro, the Challenger doesn’t offer its equipment as standard. It is offering a full-speed forward-collision warning with active braking. There is a blind-spot monitor with the usual cross-traffic warning.  There’s also adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams on the menu.

Final Analysis

Ford clearly has taken the lead on crash avoidance systems, making them all standards. It is surprising given that Chevrolet isn’t even offering automatic braking or adaptive cruise control on the Camaro.  The Challenger slots in between the two, offering more like the Ford but keeping everything options like the Chevrolet.  

All three Muscle cars have rear view cameras and the latest stability controls.  The Camaro and Mustang both have two extra airbags. These are airbags for the driver and front passenger.

While safety isn’t nearly as fun as performance, it’s still good to know that the three famous Muscle cars are being modernized in this way.  Now, if self-driving Muscle cars go on sale, you can count me out.

The post Muscle Car Safety: It’s Never Been Better appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

As with any performance car, horsepower, torque, and styling cues are the usual talking points. However, rarely discussed are the ongoing costs which include insurance. So, what are the real-world costs of insuring the likes of the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, and Challenger?

Over at motortrend.com, the guys have worked with Insure.com to put together quotes based on the template of a single 40-year-old male, with clean credentials. Other criteria slotted into the equation include a policy limit of $100,000,’$300,000 for all injuries, and $50,000 in property damage, with comprehensive and uninsured motorist coverage and a $500 deductible.’

The Cheapest Muscle Cars to Insure in Each Category

Life would be simple if it was just one model compared to another. But each model has a range of pricing and power options. Therefore, the first comparison is between a Mustang EcoBoost, Camaro 1LS Vs, and the Challenger SXT.

The above three examples have power ratings knocking around the 300hp mark coming from V6 power plants. the Challenger is the most expensive to insure at $2000 per annum, with the Chevrolet Camaro 1LS costing $1,732.

Next up is the comparison between the Mustang GT Vs. Camaro LT1, and the Challenger R/T. Slightly more horsepower here from V8 units, ranging from 375 hp for the Challenger R/T to 460 hp from the Ford Mustang GT. The Challenger R/T is the most expensive again to ensure at $2,091, while surprisingly the Ford Mustang GT has the lowest cost at $1,951.

Next, the middle-of-the-road V8’s are compared – the Mustang Bullitt, Camaro SS, and the Challenger R/T Scat Pack. Generally, these vehicles provide more styling and options than the previous category, along with a touch more power. The costs in this category don’t vary that widely with the 485 hp Challenger R/T Scat Pack costing $2,329 per year, followed by the 475 hp Mustang Bullitt at $2,247, and the cheapest being the 455 hp Camaro SS at $2,016 per annum.

Lastly, we have the full-fat V8’s in the form of the Mustang GT500, Camaro ZL1, and the Challenger Hellcat Redeye. More performance means higher insurance costs, with the least surprise being the 797 hp Redeye costing $3,282 per annum to insure. Next is the 650 hp Camaro ZL1 at $2,539, then the 760 hp Mustang GT500 at $2,488 per year.

The takeaway here is the Dodge Challenger is generally the most expensive to insure, with the Camaro and Mustang almost having equal weighting.

These findings aren’t a massive surprise for anybody who has owned any type of performance vehicle in the past. But it’s something to bear in mind if this is your first foray into the muscle car world.

Muscle Cars Available for 2022

If a muscle car appeals to you, then the tried and tested V6 and V8’s are plentiful for the 2022 year.

Camaros

Chevrolet recently opened up their 2022 Camaro configurator, with lots of options available. The LT 1LE Track Package is no longer available, as with 20-inch Caliente wheels, but there are plenty of new options to whet your appetite.

There is now a Design Package 3 option, with other appearance package options, including the new colors of Vivid Orange and Rapid Blue. As usual, the Camaro is available in both convertible and coupe forms covering the 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, LT1, 1SS, 2SS, and ZL1. Prices start from an MSRP of $25,000, with horsepower ranging from 275 to 650 hp. Engines go from a 2.0 L 4-cylinder, to a 6.2 L V8.

Dodge

For 2022, the Challenger comes with a new SRT super stock trim, with minor trim and feature updates. There are also plenty of engine choices and models covering the Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye, Dodge Charger R/T, Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack, Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, and the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye. Prices start from a MSRP of $28,870, with horsepower ratings going from 303 to 807 hp. Engines range from a 3.6 L V6, to the 6.4 L V8.

Ford

The long-standing Ford Mustang is available in the forms of the Ford Mustang GT, Ford Mustang Bullitt, Ford Mustang Mach 1, and the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. Horsepower ratings range from 310 to 480 hp, with engines from a 2.3 L 4-cylinder, to the 5.0 L V8.

The Most Bang for your Buck

Below is a list of top picks for what you can get for your hard-earned cash. This takes into account not just overall costs, but also hp, mpg, and the most important factor of how each vehicle tickles our onions.

1. Chevrolet Camaro LT
This is the most affordable car with an MSRP of $25,000. The LT provides 275 to 335 hp, an MPG of 22 City / 30 highway, and engines ranging from a 2.0 L, 4 cyl to a 6.2 L V8.

2. Ford Mustang Ecoboost
The still respectably powered Mustang Ecoboost can be picked up for an MSRP of $27,155. This version provides 310 to 330 hp from a 2.3 L 4-cylinder and can do an MPG of up to 21 city / 32 highway.

3. Dodge Challenger SXT
If you want to go the Dodge route, then the SXT costs $28,870, with a power rating of 303 hp, MPG of 19 city / 30 highway, from a 3.6 L V6.

However, muscle cars have rarely been about sensible options. Therefore, if raw power is the top of your list, then you will have to search the dealerships and used market for a Dodge Challenger Demon which is capable of 2.3 seconds to 60 mph. However, be prepared to pay around $130,000.

Other notable tire burners include the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 taking 3.3 seconds To 60 mph. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody – 3.4 Seconds To 60 mph, then the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 only needs 3.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. The 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack can also hit 60 mph in 3.8 seconds.

You can read the full article covering insurance costs over at Motor Trend via the link below

https://www.motortrend.com/features/ford-mustang-chevrolet-camaro-dodge-challenger-insurance-prices-premiums/

The post The Cost of Insuring a Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

After 15 months of us all experiencing muscle car content virtually, the 2021 SEMA Show is going ahead at the Las Vegas Convention Center this November.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet has big plans for the event, with the return of their design awards and some tasty examples from Chevrolet performance. The brand will be bringing ‘over a dozen’ vehicles to the event, which should include the 2023 Corvette Z06, and the new COPO Camaro. It’s also more than likely that Chevrolet will gauge feedback with their latest ideas on electrification. The 2018 eCOPO Camaro drag car and eCrate concepts were past musings, but we’re more interested in the proper stuff in the form of V-8 powered Chevrolet Camaros, Corvette, and possible crate engines.

In terms of the Chevy Awards, they will come in the form of the Designer’s Choice, Chevy SEMA Car of the Year, Innovative Use of Technology, and Chevy SEMA Truck of the Year. In order to qualify, each vehicle must be branded up with the pre-requisite bowtie, run from a GM powerplant, and have photo evidence of the build process. All contestants must also register at chevysema.com http://www.chevysema.com/ by October 22.

Ford

The blue oval company will more than likely show off its 2022 GT Heritage edition, which is inspired by the Le Mans-winning 1964 Ford GT40 prototype. These super limited edition vehicles first came to light in 2006 with the Ford GT Gulf Livery Heritage Edition. Subsequent models were released in 2017 and each year thereafter, with the latest version being powered by a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine.

The new version will follow the original race livery, in Wimbledon White and Antimatter Blue. Production of these ultra-limited edition models is scheduled for January 2022.

As for the rest of the Ford lineup, there should be a healthy mix of Mustangs, along with variations of that electric SUV thingy that has borrowed the horsey name.

Dodge

Stellantis and Dodge will be on site with their project vehicle program, featuring the likes of the Wagoneer, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, Jeep Gladiator, Ram 1500 TRX, Ram 2500 Mega Cab, Ram 2500 Power Wagon, Ram 3500 Chassis Cab, and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody. As with the other programs, you have to jump through some hoops to qualify, with all submissions going to submissions@moparbuilds.com.

Dodge also teased this summer possible ideas for their next generation of muscle cars, the ‘we can’t ignore it any more’ EV models. It’s more than likely to be years before we see any type of roadgoing EV Challenger or Charger. But drip-feeding the public with possible ideas will help us acclimatize the change and gauge if they’re going in the right direction. Thus, don’t be surprised if we get to see the conception of future EV muscle cars at this year’s event.

The post 2021 SEMA Show appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby is simply the best movie ever made….apart from Highlander. Dodge recognize this cultural phenomenon, helping to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the movie, with the help from the Dodge Durango SUV.

Reese Bobby is back, the immensely flawed and deity-like father of Ricky Bobby, who this time around is giving his two grand children words from the wise. Youngster Ricky and Cal Jr. are fully suited in NASCAR attire, being treated to the rules of the road in a Dodge Durango R/T Blacktop Tow N Go in Granite with Dual Carbon Stripes. In the original movie, Bobby SNR. drives a 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu. However, a people carrier may now seem the more sensible option now he has grandkids.

The video completes with a trifecta of the only cars you need in your life, a 2021 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack Widebody and a 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody.

If you want to snap up a Durango, they are available with 2935hp 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6, 360hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8, a 6.4L HEMI V8 or a 6.2-liter Supercharged HEMI V8 with 710 horses and 645 lb-ft of torque. None of these are supplied with a live cougar.

The post Talladega Nights 15th Birthday With Dodge appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Like any long-standing classic car design, the Chevrolet Corvette has inspired creators to come up with a variety of offshoot designs over the years. In this case, it’s turning the two seater classic into a more practical four seater. Well…almost, as the design only got to the fibreglass mockup stage.

By today’s standards, it may seem weird to mess with a classic design, but back in 1962 the ‘Vette was barely a decade old. Therefore, it seemed more acceptable at the time to have more carte blanche with offshoot ideas. Plus, a four seater car was more the norm. back then as a people carrier, rather than our modern day glut of SUVs.

As you can see below, General Motors shared this Instagram post about this long forgotten design.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by GM Design (@generalmotorsdesign)

This concept Corvette was put together before the second generation Corvette hit the shelves in 1963. The idea was to keep many of the ‘Vette anaesthetics, such as the split rear window, but also to take on the Ford Thunderbird. The idea originally conceived by Chevrolet head Ed Cole. Chevrolet even got their hands on a four seater Ferrari for inspiration cues.

To cram in the extra two seats, the wheelbase was extended to 104 inches, six inches more than the regular Corvette. The doors were also made longer, with a slightly taller roof.

To my eyes, the design of this four seater ‘Vette is in keeping with the classic, compact versions we know today. Looking at the side view, the design looks just slightly more elongated, but not out of character. Almost like the classic E-type Jag. in length, just with extra roof bits.

But this wasn’t the end of Chevrolet fancying making the Corvette into a four seater. California Custom Coach, Pasadena, were commissioned by Chevrolet to build six four-door Corvettes with T-top styling in 1980. At the time, the cost would have been $35,000, three times the amount of a regular Corvette. One of these prototypes still survives, being sold at auction last year for the princely sum of $100,000.

If you want to find out about more Chevrolet prototypes, check out our other articles matter here.

The post The 4-seat 1962 Chevrolet Corvette That Never Was. appeared first on Muscle Car.

Many of us have dreams of buying a muscle car and save desperately to own one. But maintaining a classic muscle car can be expensive. However, there are a few options that are worth considering.

Classic muscle cars are like treasure items in the automobile industry. They take us back into the evoking memories from the ’60s and ’70s. Although many new cars are entering the market daily that come loaded with newer technologies, classic cars still have significant importance to anyone’s garage.

Some classic muscle cars still generate lots of power, but maintaining them in their original shape can be tiresome. A simple reason for this is the spare parts for these cars are hard to source. And if someone gets the spare part, that could cost a fortune.

Muscle cars are expensive, and if you want to save, then a pre-owned car is an ideal choice. Even the price of a new vehicle depreciates in a few moments of getting out of the showroom. You can buy a used muscle car or trade-in your car with Gettacar.com, which deals in almost every car category.

Let’s categorize a few muscle cars that are a pain to maintain and easily maintainable. You can base your choice on the discussion below.

Muscle Cars That are Tough to Maintain

1. Plymouth Volare Road Runner

Surprisingly, the launching of Plymouth Volare was for a more comfortable version over its predecessor, the Plymouth Valiant. The car had an appealing and fantastic interior with comfortable seats and adequate room. 

With all these attractions, the car still had a crucial issue of frequent water leaking. It made the car critical to driving in wet conditions, and in addition, it requires regular repairs for water leaking, which is both troublesome and expensive.

2. Ford Ranchero 500

The muscle car was launched in 1973 and was very powerful with comfortable seating. However, the car didn’t gain much acceptance as per the expectations. When we talk about maintenance, for rare and unpopular models, the maintenance cost is usually higher. 

To add to the troubles, you could hardly source the spare parts. The only source for spare parts is the previous owners, who are not interested in the car’s further maintenance and sell off its spare parts.

3. Dodge Charger

In 1970, Dodge launched its muscle car, which gained quick popularity for its uniqueness, better features, and power when compared to the competition. The handling and driving experience of the Dodge Charger was also very smooth and good. However, repairs can give the owner a shock as they are too expensive. Also, the 1970 Dodge Charger is a rare model, and hence repairs are costlier.

4. AMC AMX

AMX was launched in 1970 and came equipped with commanding features. Even the exterior looks gave a head-turner appeal. The car hosted a V8 engine and generated around 375 horsepower. Muscle cars are not always about power, but their maintenance is also crucial. 

Maintaining the muscle car in its original condition can be sweating and tiring. Critical problems that arise in this car are rusting of the rear and A/C issues. Repairing these parts is time-consuming as well as expensive.

5. Chevrolet Camaro Z28

Undoubtedly, the Camaro Z28 was an attractive car with an engine that generates a horsepower of 302. This classic muscle car takes us back to the days when this much power was quite an excitement. 

However, the suspension gives frequent troubles and needs an upgrade for a smooth and efficient drive. Faulty car suspensions can be frustrating while driving a car. Also, the powerful engine consumes a lot of fuel and can be very expensive.

Muscle Cars That are Easy to Maintain

1. Chevy Nova

Chevy wanted to design a muscle car that is affordable and compact and came up with a design for Nova. They achieved their milestone of producing over 1 million Novas with an option of two different engines. The car has a cost-friendly MPG as it consumes less fuel. The car is fun to ride and yet quite affordable. Because of its easy maintenance, the car passes on to generations, and people still love to drive it.

2. Ford Falcon

Falcon hosts a simple look and is very easy and cost-effective in maintenance. The best thing is that the company has started manufacturing commonly used spare parts again for the enthusiasts who still drive this car. This step is quite commendable, as now finding a spare part for repairing common faults has become easy. A muscle car that is easier to maintain encourages you to drive it regularly.

3. Chevrolet El Camino SS

The best thing about the car was that it has a lot of space, even in the trunk area. El Camino SS is admired for its superb handling and was loved and got attention immediately after its launch. 

Chevy always wanted to have this car on roads for several decades. To make this possible, Chevy produced bulk spare parts and still reproduced them to ensure spare part availability. Even the rusts get removed with complete care in the Chevy service centers.

4. Chevrolet Bel Air

The car was in production from 1955 to 1957. The car production lasted only for two years, but many improvements and modifications were done during this time. The increased production led to an increase in the number of cars produced. 

It resulted in increased availability of spare parts as most of these cars were not sold. The availability of spare parts is such that you can assemble a completely new Chevrolet Bel Air from scratch.

5. Dodge Dart

The car was launched in 1967 and is still the best low-maintenance muscle car. The production of the Dodge Dart continued for nine years, and that’s the reason it can be still seen on the roads. In addition to that, this muscle car is the most affordable option when compared to other used classic muscle cars. Finally, the car has an excellent MPG even with a V8 engine.

Final Say

Finally, investing in a muscle car is always high. It is imperative to do all your research before considering buying a used muscle car. Always opt for classic muscle cars that can be easily maintained. 

Make a habit to ride your muscle car regularly to ensure everything is working fine. Check for the availability of the spare parts and buy the ones whose parts are found easily. A muscle car with low maintenance can be fun to have in your garage.

The post Planning to Buy a Classic Muscle Car: Suggestions of What to Choose and What Not? appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

There’s nothing better than a passing comment to get the rumor mill turning. This was the case recently when Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis stated in an interview with Muscle Cars & Trucks, ‘We will have some pretty interesting stuff July 8.’

Some kind of announcement from Dodge will be scheduled for the Roadkill Nights, August 14 at the M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan. Kuniskis also goes on to say, ‘We’re not going to show anything new there. We had something that we’re trying to get done in time to share right around the event.’

If the last statement is anything to go by, a fully electric Dodge Charger or Challenger announcement is unlikely. Plus, with SEMA coming up this November, that event seems a more obvious platform for any major announcements. So, what could this news from Dodge possibly be about?

The slow rollout of EV concepts for all the major V8 manufacturers is starting to unfold. Ford has the Mach-E SUV, Chevrolet may spit out a Camaro EV SUV of some kind in the future, which leaves Dodge to announce some sort of interim EV vehicle before it steps onto the hallowed grounds of fully electrifying the Challenger and Charger.

SUVs are very fashionable and the average owner is generally more concerned with trunk size and if the rear seats are baby sick proof. Not so much the legacy, power, and rumble of a good old V8. Thus, an electric SUV with some sort of previous Dodge model name attached should get people warming to Dodge producing electric vehicles……..maybe.

At this stage of the party, the V8 knows last orders are coming up and is ready to get in as many drinks as possible before we are told to go home. In reality, drink-up time for the V8 will probably last until the end of the decade. So there is still plenty of time to buy a brand-new muscle car. As one of the last vestiges of the true muscle car template, we hope Dodge announces the most mind-blowing V8 car they have ever made. Something like a 9L supercharged V8 monster with close to 1,000HP would be nice.

The post Will Dodge Announce Electric Vehicles on July 8? appeared first on Muscle Car.

There has been a lot of talk over the past few years within the automotive industry about fuel injector cleaning solutions that promise to create a more efficient and clean fuel injector system for both petrol and diesel muscle cars. Fuel injectors are important components of a vehicle and are needed for the even and optimum distribution of fuel. They work by controlling the volumes of fuel delivered to the combustion chamber, whilst ensuring that the correct amount of fuel is injected at the right times. 

Fuel injectors were introduced to replace old carburetor systems as they have been designed to optimize greater fuel efficiency whilst reducing emissions. With this in mind, fuel injector cleaners are a simple and cost-effective way of maintaining and cleaning the fuel injectors of a vehicle. 

What are fuel injector cleaners?

Fuel injector cleaners are made up of a combination of different solvents that have been designed to clean out the fuel lines, unblock clogged injectors and optimize the overall fuel efficiency. There are numerous fuel injector cleaners on the market and as the case with any consumer product, higher quality is always preferred and much more likely to deliver better results. 

Fuel injector cleaners are simply poured into the fuel tank and gradually start to take hold by cleaning the injectors. With a high-quality fuel injector cleaner, the solvents within the cleaner act by dissolving any build-up of debris such as unwanted sludge that resides within the fuel injectors of a muscle car and other parts of the fuel line. As the solvents within the cleaning solutions are combustible, they will be burnt away along with the rest of the fuel mix when the engine runs, which means there will be no new build-up of residues within the combustion chamber. 

Three of the most common ingredients

The ingredients within fuel injector cleaners vary between different products and different manufacturers, however, the three most common ingredients to be found are polyether amine, polyisobutylene, and polyisobutylene amine.

Polyisobutylene

Polyisobutylene is targeted towards both diesel and petrol run engines. Polyisobutylene helps to reduce the misfiring and knocking from an engine, both common problems that result from restricted fuel flow due to a build-up of residue.

Polyisobutylene amine

Polyisobutylene amine shares a similar chemical composition to polyisobutylene and similar cleaning outcomes. One additional feature of this ingredient is that it is able to help remove moisture from the fuel lines. Condensation within the fuel lines and injectors can occur from stale fuel which can result in combustion problems. For those that are experiencing condensation problems or if their muscle car has been stored away and not run for a while, a fuel injector cleaner with this ingredient will be a good solution.

Polyether amine

This chemical ingredient is the strongest out of the three and is used for removing the more solid built-up residues within the injectors and fuel lines. Solid residues can cause a more significant reduction in fuel flow which can have a real negative impact on the overall performance of the engine. This compound is highly concentrated and tends to be used in the more extreme cases of fuel flow restrictions and is more of a troubleshooting solution compared to frequent maintenance.

Signs of a faulty fuel injector

In some cases, faulty fuel injectors can cause an impact in engine performance and can lead to breakdowns. This is often the result of a build up of residue within the injectors and fuel lines. The aim of fuel injector cleaners iis to prevent the injectors from becoming faulty in the first place, however, as soon as sign occurs application of a cleaner is recommended. Common signs to look out for include:

• Engine warning light appears on the dashboard
• A Misfiring or vibrating engine occurs
• Rough idle
• Engine keeps stalling
• Fuel economy is poor
• Fuel leak
• Failed MOT due to emissions 

Are fuel injector cleaners effective?

In short, yes, fuel injector cleaners are effective at cleaning the fuel injectors and fuel lines of a vehicle. They are an inexpensive form of muscle car maintenance that can be carried out home without any specialist assistance required from an auto repair shop. However, it must be noted that whilst fuel injector cleaners are effective, for the more severe blockage cases with a build-up of heavy residue, they won’t be powerful enough and the faulty injectors will need to be serviced with an injector cleaning machine from a garage.

The post Fuel Injector Cleaners – Do They Really Work On Muscle Cars? appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

It’s still an uneasy topic of conversation talking about electric muscle cars. However, the winds of change could bring some of the most frighteningly fast muscle cars ever. Dodge will produce the tried and tested V8 engine until at least 2023, but after this point, the parent conglomerate of Stellantis should have at least the basic structure of the next generation, superduper muscle cars in place.

As documented by the Detroit Bureau, the first Dodge EV muscle cars will be lined up to take on the likes of the Tesla Model S Plaid. A vehicle that costs $129,990 and can zap from 0-60 in only 1.99 seconds. The next generation of Dodge Challengers and Chargers may not have a V8 engine at its heart and will be a bit depressing, but wiping the floor with the competition is a good consolation prize.

The Dodge Electric Muscle Car

It’s not just the competition Dodge has to consider with the next generation. When it comes to performance, they have set the bar high with the likes of the Demon which can move from 0-60 mph in only 2.3 seconds, and a quarter-mile in a touch under 10 seconds.

Dodge also has the added responsibility of legacy. That’s over 70 years of muscle car V8 production. Arguably, the likes of Tesla don’t have this level of back history to juggle with all future models. Dodge has a more treacherous balancing act, more like a tight rope walker taking a high-up stroll over a volcano comes to mind.

Going back to the report from the Detroit Bureau, there are plans for up to six EV’s from the muscle car maker which should be spawned in the next 10 years.

What Happens to the Humble V8?

One thing’s for sure, there are no immediate plans to phase out the V8 concept. However, with Stellantis having the last say in direction, Ev’s are inevitable. With both the Challenger and Charger having a design over 10 years old, 2023 seems to be the date for a redesign, which also coincides with the Chevrolet Camaro running through its current product life-cycle.

Both the Challenger and Charger are selling well, and no one seems to be screaming out for a complete re-design. Both vehicles have morphed into a classic design, squarely bringing up the term ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ So, we expect a very familiar-looking Dodge EV lineup of designs in the future. Not some spaceship on four wheels which just so happens to have a Dodge badge.

All this means that the long-standing V8 engine isn’t going to be resigned to a cupboard in a museum with locked doors. V8-powered cars may not be sold as new in the future, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be used. Most likely, special permits will be issued to existing V8 owners in the future, with an added benefit. In a world where you will only be able to hear the noise of tires on the tarmac, the roar of a V8 will stand out more than ever.

The post Dodge Will Take on Tesla With EV Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

Muscle cars have an undeniable appeal, from the absolute classic icons such as the 1964 Pontiac GTO and the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 to the lesser-known models and often underappreciated Studebaker Avanti R2. They are stylish, retro, and a lot of fun to drive.

There are many practical advantages of owning a muscle car in comparison with other types of vehicle—the simplicity of their engineering makes them easy to tinker with, replacement parts are cheap and accessible, and the communities of muscle car enthusiasts are welcoming and vibrant!

However, any type of vehicle has some potential drawbacks. Here are some top tips for muscle car owners to help avoid the possible pitfalls and make the most of the advantages.

Take Advantage of the Aftermarket

Compared to modern vehicles, vintage muscle cars have low gas mileage, lack luxuries such as heated seats and climate controls, and safety technologies are often pretty much limited to just a seatbelt.

Thankfully, you can overcome many of these issues by taking advantage of the huge aftermarket (both online and in physical stores) for parts, usually at low prices. Why not have the best of both worlds by installing more comfortable seats, air conditioning units, and other modern benefits in your vintage ride? If you plan on selling your car in the future, be cautious about making these changes, though, as it could lower the value.

Get Insured

This tip is essential for all vehicle owners but can be especially important for muscle car owners due to their cars’ age and the aforementioned lack of safety features. Car accidents can be extremely expensive, so insurance is a must-have. There are many companies offering vehicle insurance plans at competitive rates, such as KBDinsurance.com. Don’t go out on the road until you are covered!

Use Your Car as a Project

Modern cars have much smaller engines but more power than muscle cars, with some cars having a 213 cubic-inch V-6 engine developing 500 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. In comparison, the 1967 Shelby Cobra develops 425 horsepower with a V-8 427 cubic-inch engine. Therefore, it can be a great project for you to undertake to see how much engines have changed over the years and whether you can replace your engine with something more powerful if you wish.

The good news is that the simplicity of the ignition systems and valve trains of old V8 engines makes them easy to tinker with.

If you want to learn about how cars work or even try out your first auto engineering project, you can’t go wrong with an old muscle car. It is important to note that not all muscle cars are equal when it comes to power or fuel efficiency, so a less popular model might be more difficult to source parts for.

Meet Other Muscle Car Fans

A large part of the appeal of owning a muscle car is owning a piece of history. Aside from the driving experience (which is exhilarating), the knowledge that you are preserving an important and iconic part of American culture makes any drawbacks more than worth it.

Why not show off your muscle car project to others who will appreciate it? Going to track meets and muscle car conventions will not only give you a chance to show off your pride and joy, but you can also learn some useful maintenance tips from more experienced muscle car veterans. You never know—you may even make friends for life. The muscle car community is a lot of fun to be a part of.

The post Top Tips for Muscle Car Owners appeared first on Muscle Car.

Muscle cars each have their own distinct look, but if you get a bunch of similar-looking models in a line, how do you tell them apart at first glance? You check the logo.

Manufacturer logos are as unique as the cars they sell, and each has a rich and varied history. Let’s take a look at the stories behind some of your favorite muscle car logos.

1. Plymouth

The Plymouth Barracuda is one of America’s favorite muscle cars, but how did the brand develop its signature sailboat logo? Plymouth started as a way for Chrysler to compete with the lower-priced models Ford and Chevy had already saturated the market with. The name spoke to the country’s patriotic streak, harkening back to Plymouth Rock, where the Pilgrims first landed in the 1600s.

Plymouth didn’t get its first official logo until nearly two decades after it launched. It featured the Mayflower, and you can still see it on models that came out between 1949 and 1958. After that, it switched to model-specific logos. When Crysler tried to bring the brand back in the 1990s, it exchanged the big ship for a smaller sailboat, though the vaguely suggestive sail design didn’t do anything to endear the brand to fans.

2. Chevy

Chevy dates back to 1911 and, while founded by William Durant, was named after a famous race car driver named Louis Chevrolet. The first Chevy truck rolled off the assembly lines in 1917, and the rest is history. The funny thing about the Chevy logo isn’t its simplicity but the fact that it really hasn’t changed in the last 100 years.

The most popular story behind the gold or silver cross logo is that Durant saw the pattern on the wallpaper in a hotel room and liked it so much he tore off a piece to take home with him. It premiered in 1913 as a silver bow tie and changed to gold in 2004.

3. Dodge

Dodge is known for muscle cars and powerful trucks, but the logo that first debuted more than a century ago doesn’t look anything like the Ram we know and love today. The first Dodge logo was a six-pointed star with the letters D and B intertwined in the center. The star had a circle around it with the words “Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicles” encompassing the logo. The brand dropped this in the 1930s, replacing it with the first incarnation of the leaping ram hood ornament.

The ram adorned hoods until the 1950s, when it lost its head — or rather, its body. The ram’s head appeared on the logo until 1955, when Dodge dropped it entirely. From the 1940s to the early 1980s, you could also see a crest logo similar to a coat of arms that would pop up from time to time. This wasn’t terribly popular, but you could still find it here and there.

The crest was retired in 1981, and Dodge switched to the Pentastar logo that it shared with Chrysler and Plymouth. It changed the color to red to differentiate it from the other two brands. Dodge and Ram eventually separated, so you’ll find the iconic Ram logo on its trucks and a simple shield with the Dodge name in the middle for the rest of its vehicles.

4. Pontiac

Who doesn’t love a classic Pontiac Firebird? This brand started as the Oakland Motor Car Co., which had a shield logo with the Oakland name written diagonally across it. It eventually dropped this name, and the first Pontiac logo featured the brand name as well as a Native American wearing a headdress. It used various emblems that depicted the same man wearing a headdress in multiple shapes and designs through the decades.

In 1959, Pontiac introduced the Dart, an arrowhead pointing downward with a four-pointed star in the middle. The brand never gave official reasoning for switching to the Dart logo, though some believe it’s because the star and the color red were both prominent in Native American art.

5. Ford

Ford’s blue oval logo is another one that hasn’t changed much through the decades, after its first incarnation in the early 1900s that featured an art nouveau border and a black background. By 1907, the brand had switched to the first signature-based logo, though it didn’t have the oval surrounding it that we know and love today. This made its first appearance in 1912, and the iconic blue oval appeared in 1927.

The rest is history. The only thing that’s changed over the years is that as technology advances, we’ve seen the logo become more 3D — something that wasn’t possible with the manufacturing techniques of the time. Contrary to popular belief, the logo is not Henry Ford’s signature, though it’s neat to think of his John Hancock adorning every car that ever bore his name.

Muscle Forever

As much as muscle car logos change over time, these iconic vehicles are destined to last forever.

The post The Stories Behind Your Favorite Muscle Car Logos appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

If you spend a good chunk of your time tracking down a rare barn find muscle cars, you’re bound to stumble across a royal gem from time to time. In this case, Patrick Glenn Nichols, who specializes in finding the rarest of the rare, has found possibly one of the rarest 1969 Chevrolet Chevelles around.

Mr. Nichols was first made aware of the car’s existence after receiving an email from the owner in Virginia. The car was then purchased and taken to Clarksville for further examination. But, what makes this particular Chevelle so rare?

Starting with the paint code 76 Daytona Yellow, only 2,184 examples were made in this color. This being one of only 400 made in 1969 and attached to an SS396 Chevelle. The car also houses a L78/L89 396 V8 engine, with upgraded L89 aluminum cylinder heads, an original M21 Muncie 4-speed transmission, and an original KK code 4.10 positraction rear axle. At this point, this could be the only two-door Malibu sports coupe in Daytona yellow with a L78/L89.

The car also comes with its original bill of sale and protect o plate. The Chevelle was built at the Atlanta assembly plant, in the 4th week of October, with quite a few options according to the original sales sheet.

What is quite surprising is the original owner added the burnt orange/fish scales paint job(yes, this did look cool in 1969…) along with most of the identifying Chevelle emblems removed. Otherwise, everything else looks mostly original.

The car is also in surprisingly very good condition. At the start of the video, the engine bay is shown to be devoid of rust and even has the original 779 radiator fan as fitted to late ’68-69 Chevelles. The original sunflower American racing wheels are in place and are as solid as the rest of the bodywork. The interior is also in great shape, with the original Hurst shifter, and tachometers showing 38,000 original miles.

Right at the end of the video, we are treated to an engine start-up, just to show the thing can run. That boys and girls is the sound of the late 1960s. A sound you can feel as much as you can hear.

The post The Rarest 1969 Daytona Yellow Chevelle SS Ever Found appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Back in 1988 when everybody had hair like a lion’s mane, the Chevrolet Corvette Callaway SledgeHammer could crank out a top speed of 254.76 mph. Traditionally, the 1980s are seen as quiet times for muscle cars, but the Callaway SledgeHammer Project proves car tuners were as busy as ever. Now, you have a chance to get your hands on this mighty beast as it is currently for sale over at bringatrailer.com.

A Bit of Back History

This particular Corvette was originally dealer ordered by Reeves Callaway with option code B2K, then sent to Callaway Engineering for a complete makeover. The idea behind Project Sledgehammer was to produce a production car that could break the top speed record, which was accomplished at the Transportation Research Center. John Lingenfelter was the pilot for the day who hit 254.76 mph round the 7.5 mile oval track.

The car was then stored away in a snug, controlled environment for a few decades until it was acquired in 2004. With only 2k miles on the clock, Callaway Cars gave the car a once over in October 2018, now to be sold with full documentation and a Colorado title.

The Gritty Details

Back in the late 1980s when most performance vehicles were struggling to produce just a few hundred brake horsepower, the Corvette Callaway SledgeHammer was ahead of its time. Power came from a 5.7-Liter V8, with handbuilt Turbonetics T04B twin turbochargers, an intercooler, and a ZF six-speed manual transmission. This equates to 880 horsepower and 772 lb-ft of torque, using a Cosworth crankshaft, dry sump and a Zytek engine management system. Other pertinent points include GM experimental rear half shafts, a custom Centerforce clutch, and a 3.54:1 ratio rear end.

Visually, the Corvette Callaway SledgeHammer could be differentiated from other C4 Corvettes with a more streamlined front fascia. The front of the car included multiple vents, a front fender, and a large Corvette logo. The rear of the car also got changed up with a redesigned rear fascia, spoiler, and quad exhausts. Finally, 17-inch Dymag magnesium wheels were added, wrapped with Goodyear Eagle tires.

This era of Corvette typifies the long, sleek design principles of the times. Most vehicles of the day featured a long flat nose, with a very sweptback look from the side. If you wanted a performance car design template for the late 1980s, you needn’t look any further than the C4 Corvette or a Ferrari Testarossa. Basically, think of a big wedge cutting through the air for the fashion of the times.

Personally, it’s the rear end of the C4 Corvette that appeals. It may look antiquated by today’s standards, but back in the day the dual rear lights integrated into the rear sleek design looked very cool. The rounded rear lights are a simpler statement than today’s Corvettes, which look more like stealth fighter jets.

If you wanted to customize the car, you might want to buy car interior LED lights at Autobarn. You know the ones: they’re blue or purple, or maybe even green or red if you’ve gone wild with the customization options. They come in strips that are designed to fit under the dash or around the sun visors, and they plug right into an accessory outlet (or sometimes even into the cigarette lighter). When you turn them on, they create a whole new mood inside your vehicle—and suddenly it doesn’t feel quite so much like a box anymore

The current price for this eighties classic is $425,476, with 9 days left at the time of writing for final bids.

Find out more details about the listing here.

The post 1988 Chevrolet Corvette Callaway SledgeHammer Could Be Yours appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

If you own a high-powered vehicle such as a Dodge hellcat, it invariably invites competition. The Dodge Hellcat in either Challenger or Charger variants have 6.2-liter HEMI V8s with 707HP at their disposal. In the performance car arena, this is the same as waving a red flag at a bull when it comes to other car owners.

The two videos below show a Porsche 911 Turbo S and a C7 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 going toe to toe with both a Challenger and Charger Hellcat.

The first matchup is with a Porsche and shows a Modded Dodge Charger Hellcat with a E85 tune. The Porsche is no slouch with a 572 hp twin-turbo 3.8-liter engine and weighs in at 3,650 lbs. The Charger in this case is 800 lbs heavier, so it’s down to the usual formulation of can a lighter car with less horsepower beats a heavier car with more power?

Porsche 911 Turbo S vs Dodge Charger Hellcat Bolt Ons E85

The second race involves a Dodge Challenger Hellcat widebody up against a C7 Chevrolet Corvette Z06. In this scenario, the Hellcat has 717 hp with 656 lb-ft of torque, while the Corvette sports a 6.2-liter V8 with 650 hp. The Charger is still the heavier beast here, being 900 lbs heavier than the Hellcat. Who’d you think will win out of these two heavyweights?

Hellcat Manual vs Corvette C7 Z06 CAI Auto

Like all good drag races, it’s best to watch the footage to find out the eventual winner.

The post Dodge Hellcats Drag Racing The Competition appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The American Motors Corporation or AMC, may not be front of mind when it comes to priced muscle cars. But in the golden age of high displacement vehicles, AMC made some outstanding vehicles like this AMC 1969 AMX California 500 Special.

For a bit of back history, AMC was born in 1954 from the Nash and Hudson company. The merger joined the other big 3 carmakers, Chrysler, Ford and GM, pumping out general roadgoing vehicles like the Nash Metropolitan and Rambler American. It wasn’t until the mid to late 1960s that the most commonly known muscle car variations were produced. These included the likes of the AMC Marlin, AMX, 390, Javelin, The Machine, Javelin AMX 401, and the Hornet SC 360. Renault took over the reins of the company in 1979, and eventually merged into the Chrysler brand in 1990.

The AMX popped into existence in 1968, scrapping it out in the pony car market with the Chevrolet Camaro and the Ford Mustang. At the time it was the only US produced 2 seater sports car, along with the Chevrolet Corvette. The AMX(American Motors eXperimental) stood out for its short wheelbase at 97 inches, and cost less than a Corvette at $3,250.

Under the Hood

The AMX California 500 Special was sold through the Southern California American Motors Dealer Association to acknowledge the 1969 Riverside International Raceway. As the pace car that season was a Big Bad Green AMX with a 390 ci V8, the roadgoing versions were given the same treatment, with a saddle leather interior, and an engine producing 315 hp and 425 ft lbs of torque.

Only 23 of the 283 Big Bad Green AMX models became California 500 Specials. As this example is in such pristine condition, it’s expected to fetch between $100,000 – $120,000 USD at RM Sothebys at the end of April.

The post AMC 1969 AMX California 500 Special Auction appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

In a world where most car manufacturers are eyeing up their future electrical go-karts, it’s refreshing to see a Chevrolet Camaro pump out old-school horsepower. In the short video below, the guys from FuelTech USA push this dragster Twin Turbo Camaro to its power limits.

To reach the heady heights of 3,581 hp at 8169 RPM, the whole vehicle had been reworked from the ground up, with only the outer shell being original. While the video doesn’t give the full specs of the car, the description shows that the engine has been treated to a FuelTech FT600 EFI System, FTSPARK Ignition System, and new FuelTech FT Injectors. The owner of the car is listed as Scott Tidwell, with the driver being Paul Gargus, and the whole build is optimized for the limited drag radial class.

The whole twin-turbo setup can be heard in its full glory halfway through the video. Two dyno passes are documented in the video, producing ever-increasing horsepower numbers. The car also looks like a showcase piece for FuelTech’s product line. From the evidence in the video, the company has done a fine job on this front.

The post LDR Twin Turbo Camaro RS With 3600 HP appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

With all the talk of electric vehicles taking over the planet, it’s left muscle car fans and classic collectors scratching their heads over future fuel sources. Will it turn into a Mad Max situation were we have to scour desert landscapes for the merest drop of fuel? Hopefully, e-Fuels may come to the rescue, with early results showing promise.

In today’s rundown, we will look at the current state of e-Fuels, the pros, and cons and what it could mean for the future of muscle cars.

What are e-Fuels?

According to the e-Fuels Alliance, e-Fuels are produced from electricity coming from renewable energy sources. These fuels don’t release any CO2, and should be climate neutral. These fuels can be used by any internal combustion engine(ICE) from airplanes to ships, existing transport, heating systems, and of course muscle cars.

The main idea behind the process is to break down water to extract oxygen and hydrogen. The second step in the process is called Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, where CO2 is extracted from the air and mixed with hydrogen to produce a liquid – e-Fuels. This liquid will hopefully replace regular gas-powered engines, oil, and kerosene, and can also be mixed with conventional fuels.

The advantages of this new e-Fuel are twofold. The ability to transport and store renewable energy. The existing infrastructure doesn’t need changing either, and e-Fuels will be far cheaper in the future than existing fuels like diesel.

If you want to read a more in-depth study on e-Fuels, then vda.de has a downloadable PDF on the subject available here.

Car Manufacturers Currently on Board With e-Fuels

We would ideally want the first carmakers to jump on board with e-Fuels to be Chevrolet, Dodge, and Ford. These being the most popular muscle car producers. We can forgive Dodge in this department as there are currently working out who is doing what in the Stellantis merger. But some carmakers are testing the waters which include Porsche, Mazda, and Audi.

In an interview with Evo magazine, Dr. Frank Walliser, vice president of Porsche gave his take on the subject.

From the article and interview:

‘Synthetic fuels are very important to allow us to reduce our CO2 output. Emissions are way better than current pump fuel, with less particulates and less NOx produced; synthetic fuels have between eight to ten components whereas petrol today has 30-40 and not all of them are welcome,” Walliser explained.

“Synthetic fuel is cleaner and there is no bi-product and when we start full production we expect a CO2 reduction of 85 percent. From a ‘well to wheel’ perspective – and you have to consider the well to wheel impact of all vehicles – this will be the same level of CO2 produced in the manufacture and use of an electric vehicle.’

Mazda have also joined the eFuel Alliance, according to Engine Technology International.com, stating that they are strong advocates for multi-solution approaches.

The Mazda spokesman stated, ‘We believe that with the necessary investment, CO2 e-fuels and hydrogen will make a credible and real contribution to emissions reduction – not only for newly registered cars, but for the current fleet. This would open up a second and faster route to achieving climate neutrality in transport, hand in hand with continued electrification.’

Audi is also looking into e Fuels, as shown on their media center. Their version of eFuel which is called ‘e-benzin’ hasn’t had an update on their website since 2018, but testing looks to be in progress.

Planes and Ships The First To Use e-Fuels?

While the initial findings for e-Fuels look very promising for cars in general, ships and planes will most likely be prioritized. A study by Ricardo Energy & Environment shows that transport that cannot use batteries, like ships and planes will create a large demand for e-Fuels.

In essence, producing e-Fuels just for the car market will put a large burden on the infrastructure above electric vehicles.

The Downsides

Before we all start dancing a jig with a viable alternative to fossil fuels, there are a few caveats. The technology looks promising, but it’s still in its early days.

Producing e-Fuels is currently very inefficient. Roughly only half of the electrical energy is converted into a usable fuel source. Once the e-Fuel hits the engine, the efficiency drops to 16%. Wind and solar equipment is still costly, but prices are dropping every year. On the flip side, electric vehicles only lose 10% of energy in the charging process, and 20% used by the motor, leaving an efficiency of 72%.

Therefore, e-Fuels need to increase their energy efficiency conversions before they become viable alternatives.

Image Credit: theicct.org

Conclusion

Although e-Fuels may not currently have the efficiency of conventional electric motors, the technology still has legs. Large-scale transport is the most likely first user, with fuels then trickling down to the car market. With so many ICE cars currently on the road, along with the rare and cherished examples, a renewable liquid fuel source will be needed for the foreseeable future.

It’s highly unlikely that a cherished 1968 Dodge Charger will be forced in the future to have an electric engine fitted. Therefore, Some form of compatible fuel will be available to keep these historically significant vehicles going.

The post Will e-Fuels Be the Future For Muscle Cars? appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The ubiquitous muscle car represents more than just a huge engine and stocky design. Back in the golden age of muscle cars, from the late 1960s to the early 1970s, these vehicles coincided with the space race and the height of rock ‘n’ roll. We were going to the moon baby, and we had the soundtrack to match. Add in some of the most powerful vehicles on the planet at the time, such as the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454, and you end up with a heady mix. There were lots of vehicles to choose from back then, but what are the most popular muscle cars worldwide today, and how are muscle cars faring in today’s market?

Back in the nineteen sixties, the big three (Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors) owned 89.6% of the market. These guys still produce the most popular muscle cars as we will come onto later. But the automotive scene is far different than in the mid to late last century. Today we will go through the most popular muscle cars worldwide and the possible future for our beloved muscle cars.

The Muscle Car Formula

A vehicle needs a specific set of criteria to be classed as a muscle car. The ideal recipe needs an American-made vehicle, a bass-rich V8 engine, two doors, rear-wheel drive, and two seats upfront and in the back. There are variations on the theme, along with the ‘Pony car’ sector, which is more strictly the Ford Mustang and Camaro. More loosely, the Chevy Corvette is a two-seater sports car and the Shelby Cobra was originally a British body with an American V8.

Back in the late 1960s when muscle car makers ruled, there were a plethora of brands to choose from. Many have gone the way of the Dodo, but living examples are very much rare collectible classics. Muscle car brands of the day included – AMC, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Mercury, Oldsmobile, Plymouth, Pontiac, and Shelby. Many of the designs were quite similar, but it was what was under the hood that counted.

Muscle Car Engines

The outer shell and even the interior of a car may leave you drooling, but it’s nothing without a potent engine. These original drag racers became more ‘plush’ as time went on, but the space race for the most power was equally as important. By roughly 1969, the no replacement for displacement concept had almost been pushed to its limits.

Ford had the Boss 429 V8, Chevrolet with the 454Ci. V8, and Mopars with the legendary 426 Hemi engine. Nostalgia shouldn’t be underestimated in the car world, which is why modern interpretations follow the same theme. Huge displacement V8 engines, but now with almost twice the horsepower. Owning a car in 1970 with 425HP or the Plymouth Superbird going round the NASCAR track at 200mph+, is still impressive today.

The Most Popular Muscle Cars Sold In The US

Tracking down the most popular muscle cars sold in the US from the current breed was the easiest task. It’s no surprise that Ford sells the most with the Mustang, followed by the Dodge Challenger and the Chevy Camaro. However, according to Goodcarbadcar.net the Dodge Challenger outsold the Ford Mustang with 5,631 units sold compared to 4,935 sold by Ford in December 2020.

Most Popular Muscle Cars Sold Worldwide

Tracking down non-US muscle car sales, along with the used market is a much harder proposition. Taking into account private sales is harder to quantify. However, auction websites and international shippers provide some data.

International muscle car sales are more important than ever to raise awareness of the breed and to keep the current inventory going. According to hagerty.com, 30,000 classic cars were shipped from American ports to European destinations in 2018.

Many of these American classics go to Sweden and Finland, with Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and France also been strong contenders. Many vehicles also go to the Netherlands and Germany, where they are distributed to surrounding countries. Popular types include muscle cars, pony cars, and classics from the 1950s and 1960s. One of the apparent reasons for so many exports is that the climate in the US is far better than in Europe. Thus, more solid examples are available from the US.

There’s also the fact that there are more variety and supply of vehicles in the US. The shipping costs are also very reasonable, making the US rich pickings for classic vehicles.

According to wcshipping.com, the Ford Mustang is the most popular vehicle to be exported to the likes of Europe, Australia, and Asia. 2nd is the Chevrolet Corvette, with the Chevrolet Camaro coming in 3rd and the Dodge Charger in 6th place.

For solely modern muscle cars, the Ford Mustang is romping ahead with sales in 140 countries. The Ford Mustang has done especially well in Europe being available in native hand drive. The Mustang has also been a big seller in China, being one of the best selling sports cars.

Popular Muscle Car Selling Websites

If you want to own your own muscle car, what are the most popular muscle car selling websites? These websites can be arguably split into specific and generic. Some websites specialize in buying and selling classic vehicles, while others sell a bit of everything. Both types have their pros and cons. Dedicated classic car websites generally list the more expensive examples, but also have the best aftermarket service and checks. Generic car websites are where you can find a bargain, but there is also less reassurance if anything goes wrong.

Dyler – This website is the newest of the bunch, but also a good port of call for overseas car buyers.

Mecum – Some of the rarest and most valuable muscle cars pass through this auction house.

Barrett-Jackson – Another auction house that specializes in ultra-rare and expensive muscle cars.

Hemmings – There are plenty of classic cars for sale on this website, being one of the most popular in the US.

ClassicCars.com – This website lists plenty of reasonable value vehicles, with a huge inventory.

Ebay Motors – For the sheer variety and size of the audience, you can’t beat eBay motors. You can search country centric versions of the website, and if you land on your feet, you can snag a very good value bargain.

Autotrader Classics – back in the days before the Internet, Auto Trader was the number 1 spot to find used vehicles. It was especially popular in the UK and Europe and is still one of the most respected in the US.

Conclusion

No matter if you want that one-off pristine classic or a beat-up restoration project, there is a muscle car out there for you. Muscle car prices have steadily increased over the years, making them a worthwhile investment for the future.

The post The Most Popular Muscle Cars Worldwide appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The iconic Chevrolet C2 Corvette is receiving a complete makeover by the Irish car company Studio AVA.’ They are currently turning the classic into an all-electric 1470kW ‘Hyperclassic,’ with refinements to the original design.

Two of the main players in the company include Peter Brock, the original C2 Corvette designer, and Ian Callum, from Aston Martin and Land Rover fame. The main concept behind the project is a healthy balance between the old and the new, mixing ‘the body and soul of a classic’ along with ‘hyper-modern power and performance.’

While the project is still in its early stages, the accompanying video and information see the company taking the original C2 sketch design and improving where necessary. Having two heavyweight designers on board is a clear sign of the legitimacy of the company. But these aren’t going to be mass-produced vehicles, rather a limited line of bespoke cars. This is echoed by the company statement, ‘each car’s creation embodying the unique personality of its owner.’

While details about the car are thin at this moment, the electric power plant should kick out as much as 1470kW. According to an online calculator(as I can’t do the conversion in my head) which changes kilowatts to mechanical horsepower, the power equates to 1971.302HP. If the figures are correct, that’s a lot of horses, or should we now say electric horses, to power this American classic.

The original Chevrolet C2 Corvette wasn’t short on power from its 1963 to 1967 life-cycle. Engines ranged from a 5.4L(327cu) to a 7L(427ci) V8 with 425HP at the time, and the car was obviously praised from then on for its distinctive looks.

Reimagining a Classic

If nothing else, it will be very interesting to see how the original designer of the Chevrolet C2 Corvette will tweak the concept. The video above briefly touches on how Peter Brock will change certain elements for the new car.

Like any designer’s work, their final proof has to be finished within a certain time period. This means there will always be elements that could be refined if given enough time. Peter Brock has obviously had a few decades to mull over improvements to the original, which will now be set in place.

The other interesting factor is taking a bona fides classic and making it all-electric. No matter how you view the current electric vehicle wave, it’s coming thick and fast, with all manufacturers gearing up for an all-electric car future. In this respect, AVA is simply ahead of the curve, as it’s more than likely a good portion of future classic owners will want to turn their vehicles electric. The fine balancing act should deliver topline power and performance, while still respecting the heritage of the design and original power plant.

If you want to keep track of the car’s development, check out the AVA website here.

The post All Electric Chevrolet C2 Corvette, The 1470kW ‘Hyperclassic’ appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The elephant in the room for most muscle car fans is a slow onslaught of electric vehicles. If we recognize the fact or not, anybody with a passing interest in muscle car is wondering how the mighty V8 engine will fit into this new world. Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis has recently addressed this issue in an interview with CNBC https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/26/dodge-boss-says-evs-can-save-americas-new-golden-age-of-muscle-cars.html stating, ‘The days of an iron block supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 are numbered.’ But he continues to say, ‘They’re absolutely numbered because of all the compliance costs. But the performance that those vehicles generate is not numbered.’

Mr. Kuniskis continues by turning a negative into a positive showing that the ‘golden age of muscle cars’ can be saved by either all-electric or hybrid vehicles. This he calls ‘Performance 2.0.’ Basically, once the cost of EV technology starts to drop, performance-based vehicles will emerge.

The Current Lineup

The latest comments from Mr. Kuniskis may surprise some, especially when the Dodge Charger and Challenger are still selling in droves. According to Mr. Kuniskis, 50,000 Hellcats have been sold over the last 5 years. This means that we are not going to see any drastic changes over the next few years. However, the discussion point is more about what’s lurking over the horizon.

Most of the thought process comes from looking back at the original golden age of muscle cars from the late 1960s and early 1970s. The original performance muscle cars were popularized by blue-collar types. Eventually, the vehicles succumbed to national regulations, producing what was supposedly more fuel-friendly vehicles. Those fuel-friendly cruisers also changed their body design, which most would argue was a shadow of their former selves.

The same scenario seems to be looming for current muscle cars. In 1972 huge displacement engines got hit on all sides. Safety parameters increased, as with insurance costs and overall standards of emissions. While there were standout examples of muscle cars along the way, it still took a good few decades for those vehicles to hit a sweet spot. Therefore, planning for the future seems to be the wisest move at this point. As Mr. Kuniskis further states, ‘Without that technology, without electrification. This is 1972 right now, this thing is going to end.’

The Way Forward for EV Muscle Cars

Now Fiat Chrysler has become the conglomerate of Stellantis(linking up with French automakers PSA), shared platforms, ideas and technology are sure to emerge.

Dodge doesn’t currently offer any type of electric vehicle, but that is sure to change over the coming years. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares recently said that new vehicles up to 2025 will be offered with an electric equivalent.

Ford to go Electric by 2028

The video above at 4:30 from Autoline Daily shows that Ford and the Mustang may be gearing up to go all-electric. The video prediction is a 2028 timeframe for an all-electric Mustang. But that doesn’t consider the reports of the S650 Mustang which could see the light of day by 2023. Some have said that the life-cycle of the S650 Mustang will clash with a 2028 all-electric Mustang release. This may push the Mustang EV forward to the end of the decade.

Ford has already shown glimmers of what could be in store for the future. The Mustang Lithium Concept was first shown at SEMA 2019, along with the Mustang Mach-E 1400. However, at this stage of the game, these designs are almost sealed units, without the ability to tune up as per the regular upgrades. It’s not like you can quickly add a new supercharger or strap on a turbo.

There is also talk of Ford releasing a 415cu/6.8L pushrod V8 into the Mustang. If this is true, the internal combustion engine still has many years ahead. The Coyote, Predator, and Voodoo V8 engines still have plenty of life left in them.

General Motors EV’s

At this point, it’s anybody’s guess if the 6th generation Chevrolet Camaro or further will turn electric or not. The next few years will see downtime for the sprightly pony car. However, the current Camaro’s home base of Lansing Grand River, which also makes the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 could be the center point. It would be no surprise if the Camaro emerges as a hybrid or full electric vehicle.

Conclusion

It’s clear at this stage that all the muscle car manufacturers are beavering away in the background working out how to take the best elements of a V8. The tricky balancing act of pushing the technology, while also respecting the past will be interesting to see emerge.

It’s likely that the introduction of a full-blown electric muscle car will be done in tentative steps. Gauging user feedback, with hopefully the ability to tune the engine. How the side benefits of the V8 engine will be addressed will also be interesting. The low-end rumble, tone, and as the Beachboys put it, good vibrations, will all need consideration.

The post Dodge CEO States EVs Could Save The Modern Muscle Car appeared first on Muscle Car.

You only have to mention the term ‘muscle car’ to bring up visions of a large, monstrous vehicle that has power as a priority. While scouring the Internet thingy, there are plenty of lists showing the ‘best’ or the most expensive muscle cars out there. But which one claims the title as the most muscular muscle car?

Anybody with a passing acquaintance with bodybuilding will know the most muscular pose is just like the one shown in our header image. The gentleman in question is multiple Mr. Olympia winner Phil Heath throwing the pose made famous by Lou Ferrigno in the Hulk TV series. What Mr. Heath is actually showing is how muscle cars look all the time. Constant flexing of all sinews, in all areas, so the judges don’t deduct any points.

But a muscle car isn’t just about the exterior appearance. It also has to have gargantuan power under the hood. Still using the bodybuilding analogy, those guys are highly optimized for their chosen niche event, but they still have the strength and power like any top-line athlete. Therefore, our highly subjective view of which is the most muscular muscle car is evaluated on looks, performance, and if all those muscles are in perfect symmetry. Once the winner is announced, they can quit their diet and eat as much cake as possible.

1966 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake

Mr. Carroll Shelby certainly produced some potent muscle machines in his time. From looks alone, the Shelby Cobra looks like one huge muscle, with a powerplant and traction to scare the most experienced driver. The 427cu. or 7L V8 features two Paxton superchargers, pumping out twice as much power as a regular 427cu. at 800bhp.

Unfortunately, if this is your ultimate muscle machine, then you’ll have to part with at least $5.5 million to own one.

1970 Buick GSX Stage 2

In music, culture, or industry, there are certain years where all the stars seem to align. 1970 was one of those years for muscle cars.

Both the 1970 Buick Stage 1 or 2 could have been dropped in this spot. The car’s design was typical of its time. ‘Huge’ is the operative word in all areas, featuring a 455cu. V8 engine, 11.0:1 compression, 500BHP, and an equal amount of torque. All that power was good for a 5.5 second 0 to 60 time and a 13.38 second quarter-mile.

The design is not just muscular-looking but also sharp. Other notable mentions from the Buick camp which could have got the most muscular award are the GNX and Grand National. Yes, the eighties did produce some muscle cars….

1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda

Like most muscle cars that started their life in the mid-sixties, the Plymouth Barracuda started out looking quite sedate. By 1970 The Plymouth Barracuda had morphed into a full-blown muscle machine. The topline 426cu./7L V8 engine produced 420hp and 490 lb. feet of torque. This was translated to a 0 to 60 time of 5.8 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 14 seconds.

As well as having muscular looks, the ‘Cuda could handle corners better than most of its day. This was due to the added torsion bars, Sure-grip rear differential, and the option of power front disc brakes.

Just like the Cobra above, if you want a convertible 71 ‘Cuda then you had better have a few spare million in your bank accounts.

1970 Chevelle SS 454

The second-generation Chevrolet Chevelle started in 1968. By 1970, the Chevelle design had morphed into a definitive muscle car shape. While the Plymouth Road Runner and Cuda seemed longer and flatter, the Chevelle looked muscular and bulbous in all areas. The power was equally impressive from the 454cu./7L V8 producing up to 450hp.

In other words, the Chevelle SS had the power and the looks to perfectly sum up the times. If it wasn’t for the modern examples, the Chevelle SS 454 would easily win the contest.

Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody

Ever since Dodge decided to make widebody versions of the Charger and Challenger, the muscle car tag has never been more firmly fixed. Instead of everybody buying and fitting huge aftermarket wheel arches, Dodge decided to fit them as standard. An extra-wide Dodge Charger was the finishing touch the model needed. The extra-wide wheel arches completed the muscular look with the power to back it up.

The Charger SRT hellcat widebody has 707HP and 650 feet of torque, which can be laid down in a four-second 0-60mph time.

Dodge Challenger Demon

The Dodge Challenger Demon is exactly what a modern muscle car should be. Displaying huge deltoid muscles, and power to destroy a set of tires in an instant. The Demon was debuted in 2017, with an over-the-top 6.2 L V8 engine, 2.7 L supercharger, and power rated at 808HP and 770lb. ft. of torque. All that power equated to a 0-60mph time of 2.3 seconds.

The Demon also came with a bunch of ‘you have to read it twice to believe’ stats. The Demon could pull 1.8G’s on the dragstrip, and pop a wheelie on takeoff. The car also had some unique features such as the air-con. system used to pre-chill the intercooler.

With only 3,300 Challenger Demons ever made, they were soon snapped up. But the Demon’s influence carries on to the current Dodge lineup, for example, the Super Stock and latest Hellcat models.

Therefore, being the latest and greatest, and the most powerful production muscle car, makes the Demon the strongest contender. From looks alone, you could swing the vote to any of the current Challenger models. But the Demon is now also a modern classic that is bound to be talked about for decades to come.

Conclusion

When picking the most muscular muscle car, it was a hard choice between the old and the new. There are so many to choose from concerning the golden era of muscle cars. But we couldn’t help but think that the Dodge Demon summed up everything perfectly for what a modern muscle car should be. Heaps of power and performance, looks, and a constant nod to the past.

For each car we have listed above, there are clearly many more examples that could fit the bill. This is especially true from the golden age of muscle cars, where there was no replacement for displacement and bigger was always better.

The post Which is the Most Muscular Muscle Car? appeared first on Muscle Car.

GM muscle cars are a popular choice for both collectors and new buyers. Those out there who are partial to a GM muscle car could have the chance to grab a solid classic from the Muscle Car City auction coming at the end of January.

We’re going to take a closer look at the inventory from the muscle car city collection. Plus, for those interested in the development of the mid-engined C8 Corvette, Chevrolet has put together a few videos documenting the design cycle.

No matter if you’re interested in the old or the new from GM, there’s plenty of examples out there to choose from.

Muscle Car City Auction

Rick Treworgy, the owner of Muscle Car City, will be selling off his huge collection of General Motors vehicles on January 22 via Mecum Auctions. The auction will include 80 Corvettes from all generations, including the latest version such as a 2020 Corvette C8. There are also plenty of examples of golden era muscle cars such as classic Chevelles, Camaros, GTOs, and everything in between.

Although Mr. Treworgy had it in the pipeline to retire and sell his car inventory in the next few years, the coronavirus has pushed forward proceedings. Treworgy will still keep some prized examples for his own mini collection which will include 20 1967 Corvettes.

If you’re interested in any of the vehicles in the auction, all the cars are listed on the Mecum website.

Corvette C8 Development

Although a mid-engined Corvette seems like a totally new proposition, GM have been tinkering with the idea for many a decade. The 2019 C7 ZR1 with 755HP and 715 ib. ft. of torque pushed the platform as far as it can go. Executive chief engineer Tadge Juechter and his team matched the new C8 design against other boutique super cars such as the Aston Martin and Ferrari. This was to weigh up the best elements from these models, while also producing a car that was still familiar to Corvette owners.

The initial design process involved creating full-sized and scaled clay models, with input from the Corvette interior and exterior design departments. Test mules were then put through their paces at the Nürburgring with the help of Le Mans champ. Oliver Gavin. The Nürburgring lap times were crucial, as the course has become the public benchmark for all performance cars.

The videos below succinctly chart the development of the C8 Corvette, providing a nice overview from the initial idea to final production.

More Muscle Cars For Sale – http://fastmusclecar.com/muscle-car-for-sale/

The post GM Cars Old and New: Chevrolet Auction and C8 Development appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Saying that the year 2020 has been a weird one is an understatement. However, muscle car makers have been beavering away in the background, prepping everyone for a hopefully more exciting 2021.

All the leading muscle and pony car manufacturers have new vehicles in store for 2021. Some of these you will already know about, while others are new to the table.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1

There have been polarized viewpoints and lots of chin-scratching over the electric Mustang Mach-E SUV. Mainly due to Ford reviving the iconic ‘Mach’ name, then sticking it on an electric SUV. Now Ford will release a 2021 Mustang Mach 1 car, which should be more in line with what we expect for the ‘Mach’ name.

The Ford Mustang is now in its sixth generation, the present version being in its seventh consecutive year. The Mach 1 should come with a 5 liter, 480bhp V8. The same powerplant as housed in the Bullitt edition. Options for transmissions are either a 6-speed manual or a 10 speed automatic. A handling package will also be available.

The front of the car should be slightly tweaked with the addition of a rear aerodynamics package and oil catch can. This will include a rear wing, Brembo brakes, large exhaust tips, and diffusers. The suspension setup has elements lifted from the Shelby GT350 and GT500, which also include 19-inch wheels and magnetic dampers.

The Mustang range will also be treated to the Co-Pilot360 suite, which adds in loads of driver-assist functionality. Other fancy features that come as standard in 2021 will be rain-sensing wipers and safety belt reminders. The GT500 will also be treated to a new carbon fiber handling package which includes 20-inch carbon fiber wheels, adjustable struts, and oil catch can. However, the GT350 and the performance pack level 2 won’t be available in 2021.

New Corvettes In 2021

If you’re a car company releasing a groundbreaking new vehicle, you don’t exactly expect a strike and global pandemic to feature in your timetable. This has been the case with the Corvette C8, who are now hitting their 20,000 vehicle targets. 2021 models should be hitting showrooms by the end of 2020.

Production of the new Corvette has been in overdrive, with production running to December 23, restarting on January 4. This should have pumped out an extra 500 to 600 extra 2021 models for existing backorders.

The 2021 models will have slight upgrades, with the colors Red Mist and Silver Flare Metallic now being available. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come as standard, with magnetic ride control suspension now available as an option. Prices will also stay the same in 2021, with base models starting at $59,995 which includes destination fees. The same engine is also in place, the 6.2 liter 495hp, 470lb.ft of torque V8.

For those interested in the development of the Chevrolet Corvette C8, the video below is a good starting point. The video documents feedback from members of the Corvette development team, such as Tom Peters the former director of exterior design.

Dodge SRT Super Stock

Just when you thought the Hellcat variants couldn’t get any bigger, Dodge dropped the ‘Super Stock‘ in 2020 with 807HP. Dragstrip optimized, the Super Stock can do 0 to 60 mph in 3.25 seconds and a quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds. Both the Super Stock and the Redeye now have online configurators letting you build and play with your own custom setup.

The Super Stock is obviously the priciest of the bunch at $96,851, with a starting price of $79,595. Additional costs include $995 for over body stripes, $3,495 for a satin black hood, roof, and trunk graphics, $425 for black hood pins, $595 for black brake calipers, and $995 for an SRT performance spoiler. There are also plenty of interior options, with the cheapest option being the $1 rear seat deletion.

If you prefer the SRT Hellcat Redeye, then prices start at $78,595, going up to $88,330, with a $6,000 discount. Many of the same options are available to the Hellcat as per the Super Stock, such as the 13 paint options, three-season tires, and black, gunmetal grey, or orange brake calipers. Interior options are also cheaper with the Hellcat.

The post Ford Mustang Mach 1, New Corvettes and Dodge Super Stock Configurator appeared first on Muscle Car.

There are some who tend to think that the muscle car is a relic of the past, something of a bygone era, perhaps the 1960s to the 1980s. Nothing could be further from the truth. The beloved muscle car is alive and well and continues to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of millions of drivers. So, if you’re in the market for a sports car rental or another prestige motor, go for the best of the best and get a muscle car. While you’re doing that, you should think to yourself, what are some of the best features on the market? In this piece, we’ll reveal a few of them:

1. Massive Horsepower and Torque

By definition, a muscle car has to boast huge power and torque. This has always been a pretty standard feature, but nowadays you can find some really astonishing numbers. Take the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, for example. For some, this model doesn’t even count as a proper muscle car, but rather a “pony car.” Having said that, the 6.2L supercharged HEMI V8 engine outputs 707hp and 650lb-ft of torque, which outstrips quite a lot of modern competition. The best thing about the modern muscle car is that even the so-called “borderline” muscle cars are jacked up to the max.

2. Beautiful Interiors

Traditionally, muscle cars were all about the horsepower and torque, but the advantage of modern muscle cars is that makers now pay closer attention to interior quality. A good example of this is the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which has comfortable and supportive sports seats, an athletic flat-bottom steering wheel, terrific brushed-metal finishes to give a clean, contemporary look, and also the many mod cons drivers really want like touchscreen infotainment, climate controls and more. They’re way more luxurious than muscle cars past.

3. The Names

Companies like Dodge have helped the cause of muscle cars in the modern age by ensuring they retain their edgy, attractive names. Badges like Hellcat, Trackhawk and Demon are epithets that evoke a powerful reaction from both driver and passer-by. For other models, clever use of alpha-numeric names adds a sense of athletic edge to these muscle cars — GT350R, SRT8, ZL1, ATS-V and more — and create the idea of speed and precision that people just can’t get enough of.

4. Technology

As we touched upon in the point on interiors, modern muscle cars are built for the modern marketplace, and are usually, therefore, loaded with technological goodies. Take the Cadillac ATS-V, for instance. It’s not the most powerful muscle car out there but has a great presence thanks to its athletic lines, hood scoop and imposing presence. On the inside it also has a Bose Premium sound system, rear camera mirror, advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot and far more. It has been done since 2018! 

5. Track Credentials

Muscle cars are for more than just revving loudly at a red light. Modern muscle cars are built with extraordinary abilities that make them ideal for the racetrack. One great example of such a well-engineered machine is the Equus Bass 770. With a top speed of 200mph and a 0-60mph time of just 3.4 seconds, this car is faster even than a Ferrari F50. In addition to the throttle and acceleration, the 770 boasts magnetic selective ride suspension, traction management systems and top-notch Brembo brakes. This is a true track star!

Muscle for the Modern Age

A sports car rental is great, but make it a muscle car for the most memorable experience. Remember also to check out everything that these cars can do. They have evolved far beyond just massive V8 engines and raw horsepower. You can look deeper and find a car that can do so much more for you in the long run.

The post Best Features of Modern Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

If you fancy landing a brand-new Chevrolet Camaro SS or ZL1 and you live in the California or Washington areas, then your days are numbered. Due to the now apparently high levels of copper in the brake pads, both models will soon be illegal in the above states.

The clampdown started in 2010 with California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and governor at the time Mr. Arnold Schwarzenegger signing off the bill, ‘The California Motor Vehicle Brake Friction Material Law.’ The bill stops suppliers and carmakers using brake pads ‘containing more than trace amounts of copper, certain heavy metals, and asbestos.’ Any brake pads containing more than 5% copper after January 2021 will not be allowed.

While the rest of the Chevrolet lineup carries on unaffected, it’s the Camaro SS and ZL1 which are hit by the new rulings. Any vehicles currently in stock can still be snapped up and are still available everywhere else. Chevrolet is currently redeveloping their brake pads to comply with the new legislation.

What is the Best Muscle Car 2020?

The Camaro SS or ZL1 is still a topline muscle car, even though these days it is more general sports car orientated. The ZL1 is equally at home on the track or down the straights, with an extremely mean and moody body styling. The ZL1 has the most oomph, with a 6.2-litre V8 pumping out 650HP with the 1LE pack which adds carbon fiber parts, upgraded suspension, and track-worthy tires. A very potent deal for a vehicle starting at $70,000.

If you want to stick as close as possible to the tried and tested muscle car template, the Dodge Charger and Challenger are the best bets. The Charger Scat Pack is still very capable with its 392 Hemi V8 engine, producing 485HP, with a starting price of $40,000. However, it is the Hellcat Redeye, producing 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque from a 6.2L supercharged V8, and the 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock with 807HP which are going to frighten people the most. Both vehicles come fully equipped with all modern conveniences.

The Mustang GT is still a top performer, with 416HP from a 5L V8 engine, and is the most readily available in both hand drives for domestic and foreign markets. The Mustang GT is very popular across Europe in native hand drive as it strikes a fun alternative to traditional European sports car fair and comes in at a respectable price starting at £36,040.00.

Mopar Gift Ideas

‘Tis the season to wear gaudy sweaters and other clothing items you would never wear at any other time of the year. However, Mopar has you partially covered with every conceivable gift idea you can think of with Mopar branding. While some of the gift items are Christmas themed, such as the snowflake covered face mask, most items wouldn’t look out of place on the dragstrip in the height of summer.

We picked out this Mopar hoodie which will keep you warm through the winter days and cold summer nights.

On the official Mopar merchandising page, there is every conceivable item you can think of to fill up your own or somebody else’s stocking this year. If there is someone you particularly hate in the family or you simply want to make them look ironic, then Mopar have you covered with their ‘Ugly Holiday Sweater.’

If you want to show that you are top-dog on the dragstrip, the sweater comes with a custom knit design, custom graphics, and primary colors loud enough to blind all the opposition. The stop you in your tracks look of the sweater may just be enough to put off the competition in your next race.

The post Chevrolet Camaro SS and ZL1 Banned and Mopar Gift Ideas appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

Muscle car fans have been witness to some murky clouds on the horizon for some time. Those clouds being the onset of electric vehicles or EVs. Luckily, we are quite a few years off the internal combustion engine going away. Although the likes of Tesla, General Motors, and Ford amongst others are gearing up for big EV investments, it’s the car company Dodge that are still all in with plans to produce V8s for the foreseeable future.

What Kind of Car Does Dodge Make?

Dodge make a variety of vehicles from small cars such as the Dodge Caliber, sedans like the Dodge Challenger and Charger, pickups like the Dodge Dakota and Ram 1500, and SUVs like the Durango. While Dodge are known for a wide variety of vehicles, it is the performance vehicle line which includes the Charger and Challenger Hellcat which shows the most promise of longevity with a traditional V8 engine.

What Dodge Car has the Most Horsepower?

In order of horsepower rating, Dodge has the limited edition Demon with 840HP, the newer Super Stock at 807HP, the Redeye at 797HP, and the regular Hellcat with 717HP. As all the Dodge Demon vehicles were snapped up a few years ago, it’s now the Super Stock which is the most powerful Dodge vehicle currently available.

The Hellcat engine has clearly made a mark in the car world at large, so it’s no surprise that for the 2021 year the Durango SUV will also be treated to the 710HP of fun. Power, the thrill of the ride, and plenty of torque are the names of the game here, so why go off track and build a bunch of EVs when there is clearly still a market for these powerful vehicles.

The 6.2-liter Hemi V-8 housed vehicles have also had a few external tweaks to make them slightly more economical. The front splitter produces a 10% reduction in lift to the front end, while the rear spoiler creates 140 of downforce, providing a total of up to 30% of aerodynamic improvements.

Therefore, Dodge has no plans in the coming years to throw in the towel as they continue to spearhead the V8 movement.

Are Dodge cars reliable?

In 2019, Dodge jumped up 13 places to number eight in Consumer Report’s rankings of reliability, with the Dodge Challenger getting the highest placing. This placing was ahead of Ford and Chevrolet who came in 16th and 25th place, making Dodge the most reliable American-made manufacturer.

Limited Edition Gold Rush Paint

At this stage of the game, Dodge doesn’t have major plans for any new models in 2021, but there will be a limited edition gold rush color and more wide-body options. The wide-body options will come to he R/T Scat Pack Shaker and the T/A 392, while previously the option was only available to the Redeye, SRT Hellcat, and R/T Scat Pack.

To grab hold of this limited edition color it will be available for the T/A, T/A 392, Hellcat, and Hellcat Redeye. Those vehicles will need to have also picked the options of the black satin hood, trunk, and roof. This new color joins other retro looks which include F8 Green, Frostbite, Go Mango, Hellraisin, Sinamon Stick, and TorRed.

At this point in the schedule, Dodge still has no plans for a redesign for either the Challenger or Charger. There is no surprise there when both models fall into the category of, ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’

Summary

To the outside world, it may seem like Dodge is just being pedantic, slogging on with ever more powerful V8 vehicles. However, the market and enthusiasm are still there for this type of car and unlikely to go away soon. In terms of sheer horsepower for the money, you can’t really do better. Plus, as these types of vehicles are a niche following, in the grand scheme of things they will have as much long-term impact as the production of any EV vehicle.

The post Dodge Concentrate On Muscle Cars As Everyone Goes Electric appeared first on Muscle Car.

If you’ve always wanted the power and performance of a topline muscle car but don’t want to part with your own cherished vehicle, there are options. The ubiquitous crate engine has been a long-standing route to drop any engine into most any car, delivered straight to your doorstep.

To make sure a muscle car crate engine is fitted properly, you will also have to make sure that your doorstep is surrounded by a fully kitted out garage, winches, and a Snap-on socket set to rival those of an overly enthusiastic drag racing team. Both Dodge and Ford currently supply crate engines for their top-line vehicles. This means if you have always fancied dropping a hefty V8 from one of the latest and greatest muscle cars into your own vehicle, then read on.

The 807 Horsepower Hellcat Redeye Crate Engine

The route to the Redeye crate engine production was quite simple. Those who couldn’t lay their hands on a Dodge Demon were then given the option of buying the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye or the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye. The price point for both of these vehicles is amazing considering the output power of both. But if you already had your own tasty vehicle and wouldn’t mind the zest of the Redeye powerplant, the crate engine option was born.

Essentially, the 6.2L supercharged Hellcat Redeye V8 is now available at a starting price of $21,807. This engine has the same specifications as the production vehicles, producing 807 hp and 717lb. ft. of torque when it’s run on 91-octane fuel. The supercharger comes in at 2.7 L, with 14.5 psi of boost and a red line top limit of 6,500 rpm. These basic specifications are a definite increase over what is available in the ‘Hellcrate’ engine, which comes straight from the Hellcat, which you can also buy as an alternative.

The engine itself comes supplied with the basics of the supercharger, water pump, oil pan, throttle body, flex plate, front-sump, fuel injectors, and coil packs. If you need things like an alternator, pulleys and belts, mounting hardware, and power steering pump, then there is an optional front end accessory drive kit available.

If the Redeye crate engine doesn’t take your fancy, then Dodge supply variations of the 5.7L and 6.4L V8’s available in other Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles.

Shelby GT500 Crate Engine

For Mustang and Ford fans out there, the Shelby GT500 is one of those bucket list vehicles to own. Coming very soon, the 5.2L supercharged Predator V8 from the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 will be available as a crate engine.

Although at the time of writing the launch time and price of the engine is unconfirmed. It will have the same 760 hp and 625 pound-feet of torque from the production GT500. Our completely unsubstantiated guess at the production price will be something like the price of the Hellcat crate engine to stay competitive, but time will tell.

The Predator crate engine will join the likes of the 5.0L Coyote V8 and the beastly 7.3L Godzilla big-block V8 as crate options.

As for General Motors, they are dabbling in the electric side of things, with the possible launch of an electric crate motor, based on the Chevrolet Bolt EV. For this conversion, you should be good with a soldering iron and a couple of lithium-ion batteries before your good to go…ahem.

The post Muscle Car Crate Engines appeared first on Muscle Car.

When the new decade dawned at the beginning of 2020, we were optimistic. We counted down as the ball dropped, with visions of a return to the Roaring ‘20s swirling in our heads — dancing, pixie cuts, men in dapper suits and a healthy dose of celebration.

And then, reality threw a wrench in all of our plans. The coronavirus pandemic forced cancellations of everything from small local car shows to enormous national conventions and everything in between, and we’ve been struggling to get back to normal ever since. As 2020 comes to a close, a sense of normalcy is starting to return — not because we’ve beaten the virus, but because we’ve learned how to stay safe while we wait for a vaccine.

If you’re planning to attend a car show or two in the next several months, what do you need to do to stay safe?

Protect Your Car from Eager Fans

People are impatient for things to return to normal. After months in quarantine, you might feel like even the smallest social interactions are challenging. Overeager fans might inadvertently damage your show car. It’s rarely malicious, but that won’t stop you from panicking or save you from the expensive repair bill. Use barriers if you don’t want people getting too close, or fender covers to prevent scratches if you’re showing off what’s under the hood.

Deep-Clean Your Car Before and After

Even with all the precautions, the shortage of testing and tracing has made it impossible to know who might have COVID-19 — even asymptomatically — and who doesn’t. Precautions and deep cleaning are your best tools for protecting yourself from this pandemic. Clean all high-contact surfaces — door handles, seatbelts, the dashboard, etc. — with a CDC-approved disinfectant such as diluted bleach or isopropyl alcohol. This step becomes even more crucial if you plan to allow fans to sit behind the wheel or explore your show car’s interior.

Opt for Cashless Transactions

Everyone loves to take home mementos and souvenirs from events. Branded swag is also an excellent way to connect with your fans and offset some of the costs of traveling to car shows. While traveling to car shows in the age of COVID has changed many things, the desire for swag remains the same. To keep yourself safe, opt for cashless transactions. You can use tools like Swipe or PayPal, or even offer online ordering for options people can pick up in person on the day of the show. Use all the necessary COVID precautions to help your fans get their swag while keeping everyone involved safe.

Stay Safe and Healthy

While the world is adapting to the pandemic, we’re not in the clear yet. It will take a long time before it’s safe to head to crowded car shows where you can mingle shoulder to shoulder with other automotive enthusiasts. For now, masks and social distancing are our best tools for slowing the viral spread. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some car shows while we round out 2020. It might not be the Roaring ‘20s we imagined, but we can still make the best of it.

The post How to Stay Safe at a Car Show appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The year 2020 may not have seen a deluge of muscle cars hitting the market, but at least the top players have some vehicles in the pipeline to look forward to.

More Dodge Chargers and Challengers

Even though the Dodge Challenger has been with us since 2008 and the Dodge Charger birthed in 2011, the template still stands up. There are no specifics about what will be released apart but there will be three new variants in the lineup. Fiat Chrysler automobiles are clearly serious about the ongoing future of the vehicles as they are investing $1.2 billion and creating 2000 new jobs, with the Brampton Assembly plant being the center for the Challenger and Charger operations.

Loving the mid-engined Corvette

The C8 Corvette certainly raised eyebrows when it was announced in the mid-engine format. Although the design still looks ‘Vette-like in appearance, the mid-engined layout is there to take on the supercar fraternity at much more affordable price points.

We can throw specifications at you all day long, but it’s how the car drives and feels in the real world that counts. The rather meticulous guys over at businessinsider.com have put the C8 Vette through its paces and to see what the vehicle is like and to live with on a daily basis.

Without giving away the final outcome as it’s best to read the full article, the results will depend on your own back history. For those who are fans of the original ‘Vettes up until the C7, the C8 is clearly a fine piece of craftsmanship but will take some getting used to. For those eyeing up this machine as an alternative to the general run-of-the-mill sports car or even supercar, the C8 is value for money and has the performance to boot.

The post Muscle Car News: Dodge and Corvettes appeared first on Muscle Car.

Current affairs over the last few months in the muscle car world haven’t exactly been running like a nitrous fuelled monster down the dragstrip. But neither have things ground to a halt. Muscle car prices have remained buoyant and the sale of plenty of classics come to mind.

Fast and Furious

Up for sale through the auction house Lloyds, is a rather tasty 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS as featured in the Fast and the Furious 4. This prime example from arguably the best year in the golden age of muscle cars was driven by Mr Vincent Petrol himself and was apparently the principal car used while shooting.

At the time of writing, the current bid is only at $42,500, but the final sale price is expected to reach six figures. The vehicle itself was imported from the US to Australia by the current owner in 2012 and comes with a Universal Studio certificate to prove its title. Although it is an SS model, it doesn’t come with the full-blown 454ci, but rather a 350 V8, which is not too bad as a movie car. It also has a four speed manual transmission, Willwood brakes, Hotchkis suspension, alloy wheels and the bonnet is signed by Paul Walker’s brother Cody Walker in April 2015.

If you want to dive into the bidding, there’s currently 2 1/2 days left at the time of writing. You can find out more about the auction and the vehicle here.

Top-10 quickest muscle cars of 1970

As we are already in 1970, it’s worth noting some of the quickest muscle cars from that year as recorded by their dragstrip times from publications of the period. The little video below documents the best cars from the period and how well they did over a quarter mile spans.

All the cars featured were factory spec. tuned and ran on bias-ply street tires, with some notable examples coming from the Brothers Collection. For those in the know, the results are hardly surprising. But for everybody else, the video is worth checking out just to see how much horsepower and torque these things could muster up back in the day.

Cash off the new Dodge Super Stock

The Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock proves that Dodge are far from done when it comes to producing ridiculously high-powered muscle cars with a tried and trusted template. The 6.2-liter supercharged V8 monster which can produce 807-horsepower and crosses the best sensibilities of the Hellcat and Demon, should be eligible for the ‘$10 per horsepower’ rebate which has been graced to the rest of the Challenger lineup.

This translates to a $8,070 deal, with the possibilities of a 0% APR incentive over 72 months, but you have to choose either one or the other. For a vehicle that can spit out a quarter mile in 10.5 seconds at 131mph, do a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 168mph, even without the incentives it’s a great price for all that power.

The post The Fastest Muscle Car for sale and The Super Stock Dodge Rebate appeared first on Muscle Car.

If nothing else, 2020 will go down as one of the weirdest years for muscle car manufacturers and fans. But that doesn’t mean everything has come to a complete stop, as vehicles are still being made and records being set. However, as the output of things is slower than usual, we are bringing you more of a summary of the latest happenings in the muscle car world.

New Dodge Muscle Car Stuff

Muscle car news wouldn’t be the same without at least some input from Dodge. For 2021, the figureheads of the modern muscle car world will be stuffing the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 from the Hellcat into the 2021 Dodge Durango SUV, with the 2021 Charger being treated to a 797 horsepower Redeye makeover. The Challenger is obviously getting the 807HP Super Stock for those who missed out on the Demon, which should for all intents and purposes be a future classic.

The Super Stock itself will house a 6.2 liter supercharged V8, producing 807HP, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.25 seconds. While the 2021 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye get slightly less with 797HP, with an equivalent 6.2 liter V8. As for the regular old Hellcat, the 2021 Dodge Charger SRT will have its horsepower increase to 717HP.

Also worth mentioning is the 2021 Dodge Charger Pursuit police car, which comes with either a 3.6 liter V6 or a 5.7 liter Hemi V8. The V6 version will be all wheel drive with 300HP and 264ft.lbs. of torque going through an eight speed automatic transmission.

A Stripped down Corvette C8 and the 1LAP1LE

There’s been a ridiculous amount of buzz around the Corvette C8 and quite rightly so. The car has moved to a mid-engined layout to take on the supercars of the world, with its naturally aspirated 6.2 liter V8 producing 490HP and 470 lb-ft of torque. This equates to a 0-60mph time of only 2.9 seconds and a quarter mile time of 1.2 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph. Pretty impressive stuff.

But as seen in the video below, these guys have decided to strip everything back on the C8, which gives a small idea into its internal workings.

While the long-standing ‘Vette has moved into supercar territory, the Camaro in the form of the 2017 1SS 1LE, has been put together to take on the One Lap of America http://www.onelapofamerica.com/ event. Originally optimized straight for the track, the car now needs another set of criteria which includes a 2.9L Whipple supercharger, which produces 630HP on 93 octane gas. You can read the full story over @ musclecarandtrucks.com

The Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, the electric one

I know, all electric vehicles are evil, shall be shunned and we pretend they don’t exist. But the fact of the matter is they produce ridiculous amounts of torque and the Ford Mustang Cobra Jet 1400 which was announced early in the year, has now hit the drag strip with some impressive numbers.

Four electric motors produce the equivalent of 1,502 horsepower, which translates to a quarter-mile time of 8.27 seconds at 168mph. Each of the four motors runs at 800V and outputs 469HP. But each motor doesn’t throw out the same amount of power at the same time. At this early stage, the future of electric dragracing looks promising. We now just need a high octane soundtrack to go with the visuals.

Muscle Cars That Are Apparently Scary To Drive

There’s an interesting article over @ hotcars.com, with the title of ‘4 Muscle Cars That Were Downright Scary To Drive.’ The header image depicts what looks like a Mustang GT wrapped around a tree, which is fair enough, considering all the online videos showing these things spinning out of control.

The list actually drops in a few Japanese variations, with a Porsche Carrera GT being in the number one spot. But if the article was wholly correct and only listed pure thoroughbred muscle cars, it would be take your pick time, as the whole point of a muscle car is to be sh** your pants scary.

No matter how much traction control is on offer, mixup rearwheel drive, a supercharged 6.2 liter V8 and enough torque to spin a planet and the end result is more constant scares than a Saw movie franchise. Plus, the older the muscle car, the more the need for man sized wet wipes. Which means if you like regular adrenaline spikes and seat of your pants driving, you’ve come to the right place.

The post New Muscle Car Lap times, Models and News For 2021 appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Dave Ashton

The writing is clearly on the wall. Electric vehicles are on a slow trudge to take over the world. This may not ultimately affect muscle cars as there will always be a place for the mighty V8. But when it comes to high-powered engine swap, electric alternatives are now trickling in, as discussed over a digitaltrends.com with a possible viable options for the traditional LS engine swap.

The initial argument for going down the electric route is simply reliability. According to the article, the basic premise is why have an engine with hundreds of moving parts with loads of icky liquids running through it, when you can have an engine with one single moving part. The traditional LS swap may provide all the power you need, but for every horsepower gained, the engine becomes ever more temperamental.

Electric GT are the guys behind the test engine in question, which provides not just the V8 lookalike e-Crate Motor, but also also all the other bits and battery cells to run the thing.

Checking out the company’s website, they have complete crate motor power plants, for instance the GTE-240 with 240 horses. While they also offer many other separate parts, such as battery management systems, motors, cooling systems and complete electrical hookup systems. All the systems available can be hooked up to a regular transmission and for anything from small roadsters to a large sized SUV.

If this particular way of thinking has already tickled your fancy, you may be already wondering about the initial costs. For a complete system dropped into your favorite vehicle, prices are on average are $59,999. One example build on their website is for a 1967 to 1969 Camaro or Pontiac Firebird conversion, which will deliver 240hp with 350lb/ft of torque, which they say feels more like 400hp in a traditional V8.

As for the looks of the engine, it certainly has the outer appearance of a traditional V8. Just with smaller dimensions and none of the usual wires, hoses and usual engine paraphernalia.

The initial costs will be the biggest downside to many. But we can see that it’s only a matter of time before these type of retrofits drop considerably in price. Especially when demand starts to increase and the cost of parts drop accordingly.

Which means that if you have the cash to splash, the current offerings from Electric GT could be a viable way to electrify a vintage muscle car. But for everybody else, even a Chevrolet Performance DR525 LS 6.2L drag racing crate engine that produces 525hp with all the bits needed, is still far cheaper, with plenty of money left over for when things do go wrong. Plus, a traditional engine has a built-in soundtrack, visceral feel and smells that are equally as important.

Electric engines are well on their way and there’s no denying their instant torque capabilities. But I think we have quite a few years before they become the de facto standard.

The post Can an Electric Crate Motor Be as Good as an LS Swap? appeared first on Muscle Car.

Many people might see their car as something that gets them from one place to another. Some people may even go as far as saying spending lots on an expensive car is a waste of money. If you run your own business, a good muscle car can be a great investment. Here’s how your new car could be one of the one of the best purchases for your business.

A measure of your success

First impressions are everything when it comes to business. That doesn’t just mean the first handshake and greeting as they welcome you into the boardroom. That first impression starts from the moment you pull into the parking lot. By arriving to their premises in a luxury muscle car, you are selling yourself to the person you’re having a meeting with.

One of the most obvious things someone can gather from your car is how much it’s worth, therefore showing you’ve already had a lot of success in business to be able to afford it. If your car is well maintained, it shows you are responsible, good at looking after things that are valuable to you, and have a good eye for detail. All these qualities will make whoever you’re meeting more confident that they can trust what you’re saying, and more likely to want to work with you.

Making new contacts

As well as impressing those you have arranged appointments with, your car can also help you make new contacts. As your car is such a rare yet beautiful sight in a long line of average family cars, many people may stop you on the street to start a conversation about it. Depending on who stops you, that initial chat could lead to further discussions and maybe even secure you a new customer or investor in your business.

There are also a number of events which you could attend with your muscle car to help make new business contacts. For example, Fast Lane Drive is an exotic car club in San Diego where members are not only passionate about their cars, but eager to network with people with the same interests. They hold events all over the West Coast for entrepreneurs and car enthusiasts to meet up in a fun and exciting way.

Relax

While you think that nothing but hard work will get you ahead in business, it’s just as important that you take time out of your busy schedule to relax. A muscle car offers you many different ways of relaxing. It could be that you fancy a change of scenery and want to go for a scenic drive to somewhere picturesque in your state or further afield.

Many people also find maintaining their vehicle relaxes them. If you spend all day in front of screens, sending emails and conducting meetings, it’s good to focus your attention on something more practical for a change. There’s nothing better than getting your hands dirty under a hood to distract you from your day-to-day worries.

The post How Your Muscle Car Can Help Your Business appeared first on Muscle Car.

Are you in possession of a classic 1967 Pontiac GTO? Is a Dodge Charger R/T sitting prettily in your garage? How often do you take your 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda out for some fresh air?

More importantly, do you know exactly how to take care of these marvelous muscle cars?

From basic cleaning tips to classic car restoration services, read on and find out how you can max out the pleasure of owning and driving one of the beastliest hot rods on the planet.

Muscle Car Maintenance 101

Muscle cars are a popular choice for classic car lovers. These were highly popular in the ‘60s with their attractive visage, affordable price tag, and oh-so-powerful performance.

While there are differing opinions in the motoring community as to how a muscle car is defined, it typically refers to an American-made, two-door, rear-wheel drive, compact or midsize car that carries a V8 engine.

Muscle cars can start with around 270 hp, but can zoom around powered by a little over 800 horses. These can accelerate from 0 to 60 in as little as 3.4 seconds and can reach a dizzying 204 miles per hour (as in the case of the 2017 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat).

Because of their speed and performance, muscle cars were also used as informal drag racing vehicles while still maintaining street-legal credibility.

As global fuel prices rose, safety legislation became stricter, auto insurance companies began to charge more, and awareness about the effects of cars on the environment began to take the stage, the muscle car industry started to slow down.

Thanks to technology (and perhaps the passion for performance vehicles), several car companies started revving their muscle car machines and started to unleash these automotive beasts back to the hands of muscle car enthusiasts.

These days, you can see muscle car aficionados putting their modern muscle machines through their paces or cruising down to their membership resort for a leisurely Friday brunch with friends.

With such an illustrious history behind this breed, most owners take extra care in their use, storage, and maintenance. If you don’t want to lag behind and get stuck with a rusty old heap of metal, then you’d better wisen up and follow these classic muscle car maintenance tips:

1. Clean, clean, clean

Rust is considered a muscle car’s kryptonite. You don’t want to ignore some rusty part because it can spread and eventually cripple your car’s looks and performance. To avoid this, it is best to be very thorough when cleaning your vehicle.

Make sure to clean your car after each drive. Wash, wipe or vacuum away all visible dirt from both the interior and exterior of the car. Give extra attention to its underbelly, engine, and wheels. When it’s in storage, you still need to make sure that you clean it to avoid dust and grime from piling up. Car floor mats add beauty to the interior of the vehicle, but they also get more of the dirt that sticks to the bottom of your shoes than any other. It is also prone to spilled food and drinks, so you have to thoroughly clean it as well.

If you notice that the muscle car has scratches on it, you might also want to know about touch up paints that are affordable and avoid extra fees if you have someone do your car’s paint. Touch up paints save you time since you can do it yourself.

Better yet, it is best to bring it to a reputable car care center. There, you are assured that your classic or modern muscle car will be given a thorough cleaning. Have it detailed regularly so every nook and cranny can be rid of dirt. Aside from the usual shampoo and moisturizer, you can also have your car professionally waxed and waterproofed. These days, conscientious car service centers also offer vehicle disinfection services to make sure that your car is safe and healthy to be in.

2. Storage considerations

It will also be helpful if you can store your car in an ideal location such as a brick garage as it creates the perfect moisture-free and temperature-controlled environment for your car. If time, space, or budget is a factor, then a pre-cast concrete or wooden structure will do.

Just note that since these structures do not have a lot of breathing room, it’s easier for mold or mildew to develop. Make sure to air it out or run some fans every week to keep the air from going stale.

If you’re leaving your car outdoors, then make sure to have a purpose-built car cover. Do not leave your car in direct sunlight or in a place where it’s too cold or too warm. Avoid using a standard tarpaulin or plastic sheet as it won’t provide the right kind of protection. Using an ill-fitted cover may result in condensation, mildew, and mold.

3. Drive responsibly

Muscle cars are meant to be driven. When you take them out for a spin, make sure to drive mindfully. You don’t want to just speed through bumps, cracks, potholes as these may damage your car. For muscle cars with a lowered chassis, be careful when going up or down inclines to avoid scraping the underbelly of your vehicle.

If you can, avoid going out unnecessarily in bad weather. Storming out in inclement weather is one of the most common reasons why there are dirty and damaged muscle cars.

When you store your car, make sure that you also open your window a little to allow air to circulate within. To avoid small animals from going in, make sure to vacuum it clean so no crumbs or litter remains inside your cabin. If your car’s a convertible, store it with the top up.

4. Restore properly

If you have or are planning to get a vintage muscle car, then make sure that you have it properly restored. There are classic car restoration specialists that will ensure your muscle car will be brought back to its former splendor.

Regardless of what the condition of a vintage muscle car is, there are a variety of services that can help get it back into shape. From frame-on or frame-off restoration to the carburetor, engine, or gearbox tuning, rebuilding, or overhauling, you can trust your muscle machine will be tended to with utmost care.

5. Get help from car specialists

When you have a vehicle that is as valuable as a classic muscle car, then you must also give it proper care. Whether it is cleaning, repairs, or restoration, you need car service professionals to do the job. It is also important that you schedule a periodic maintenance check to ensure that your vehicle gets a stringent health check-up.

Bringing your car to a reliable car service center will ensure your car is given expert attention. It will greatly benefit from state-of-the-art tools and equipment and the knowledge and experience of professionally trained technicians. You’re also sure to enjoy top-notch quality service as a car owner.

Mindful Car Ownership

Whether you have a rare 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 or an understated yet thoroughly thrilling Buick Wildcat, driving these macho machines all boils down to how meticulous you are in maintaining them.

When you take the time to properly clean, store, restore, or professionally maintain your muscle car, then you will be rewarded with a vehicle that can run many more miles with you.

AUTHOR BIO

Ahmad Ramadan is a Managing Partner at Deutsche Technik Service Center, Dubai’s first and largest VW, Audi, Mercedes, Bentley, Porsche, & Lamborghini vehicle specialist and performance tuner. DT has also built an illustrious portfolio in classic car repair, maintenance, and restoration, as well as bodywork (accident repair, painting, and denting). DT Service Centre offers a full range of services: mechanical repairs, maintenance, servicing, etc.

The post Top Maintenance Tips for Classic Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.

by Dave Ashton

It’s sometimes all too easy for us muscle car fans to view our favorite automobiles from our own perspectives. Not that we care anyway what anyone else thinks. But it’s sometimes good to know how the rest of the world view our beloved vehicles. Even if this is just to see if muscle cars in general can still compete alongside other performance vehicles.

One interesting listing in this regard has been put together by the people behind the likes of the Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival. Goodwood Racing brings together some of the rarest and most fancy vehicles on the planet. Which does include the American types, but is firmly fixed in European sensibilities.

This is why it’s very interesting that they put together a list of the ‘seven best muscle cars for 2020.’ Initially you would think that the Europeans would view muscle cars like some alien species. Or rather loud and brash American fair, without the refinement of their European counterparts.

Like all car enthusiasts, the rundown gives credit where credit’s due. So, in a world where no replacement for displacement doesn’t exist, how do today’s pony and muscle cars line up?

Well, for starters the word muscle car means a slightly different thing over there. Evident by the inclusion of a Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, Lexus RC F and a BMW M8. Muscle cars in this respect as they state, ‘are as simple to understand as they are to appreciate – take one standard saloon or coupe, insert a massive V8, sell at a vaguely attainable price and enjoy.’ No mention of Americana at all, but rather the mechanical setup. Is this valid? Depends on your point of view.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Camaro ZL1 gets a look in with the astonishment of a 6.2-litre V8 being available for the same price as a regular Golf GTI. With the upgraded 1LE pack, it’s also versatile around corners and as they put it so eloquently, ‘for $70,000, you’ve got a car capable of monstering Porsches costing twice the price on both road and track.’

Dodge Charger

A Brit gazing on a Dodge Charger is probably the same as them viewing a hot dog for the first time back in the 1940s. Wonderment, pleasure and is this thing actually edible.

With the heading of ‘the vaguely practical one,’ a regular Charger is good for chewing up the likes of the BMW M5s and E63 AMG. With the description also making note of all the exquisite color options available. The Scat Pack has also been noted as being great value for money and as we all know the 707Hp Hellcat version is the one to own.

Ford Mustang GT

Ford and the Mustang GT itself are the most common offerings on European roads. Fords being a common sight on European roads for decades. While the GT has made its mark being available in native hand drive and a very raw, cost-effective alternative to European performance vehicles.

Shelby’s aren’t available over the water, but everything from the four-cylinder Ecoboost to the GT with a V8 are available. The reason for why the GT has hit the mark in Europe? It’s simply the most fun for the money.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody

While superlatives such as sophistication are usually bandied about with performance vehicles, even the Europeans can’t help but give respect to a no-nonsense car such as the Hellcat Redeye Widebody. The 6.4-litre R/T Scat Pack 1320 is a great start point, but its the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody which only car enthusiasts will appreciate for its raw unbridled power.

I have a European friend who won’t go within a 100 miles of a vehicle unless it’s got an Italian nametag. Even he’s left speechless when it comes to the raw stats of a Hellcat.

Which brings us to the overall message here. No matter where you live on the planet, modern muscle cars offer great value for money and some of the most fun you can have without resorting to illegal activities.

The post The Best Muscle Cars According to Goodwood Racing appeared first on Muscle Car.

By Martin Banks

American automakers produce as many pony cars as they can sell. For Chevy in the 1980s, that meant six-figure production numbers. These “F body” Camaros are just now coming of age on the collector’s market, but with so many made, they’re not all special. An IROC or Z-28 car makes a nice prize, but how about a Player’s Challenge factory-built racecar?

What is the Player’s Challenge, you ask? It’s a one-make race series for which Chevy built around 100 factory racecars per year. Many retired racecars wind up in junk heaps, but fourteen Player’s Challenge Camaros just hit the market in pristine condition, and they all belong to one owner!

What Is a Player’s Challenge Camaro?

In the hair-band-heavy 1980s, showroom stock auto racing let race fans see cars go wheel-to-wheel for the glory that they could “walk into the dealership and buy.” This style of racing hasn’t faded entirely, but when these special Camaros were conceived in 1986, the Player’s Challenge was a Canadian race series that featured both the Camaro and its twin, the Pontiac Firebird, each in race-spec.

To make a Player’s Challenge Camaro, Chevy started with a 5.0-liter IROC-Z/28 car with the air conditioning removed and a tweaked gear set for better acceleration. But that was just the beginning.

These factory hot rods also received uprated brakes, high-performance shocks, an aluminum driveshaft and a baffled fuel tank to help combat starvation when the cars were flung into long corners. It was one of the earliest examples of the 1LE handling package that modern Camaro buyers can opt for if they value responsive handling over their back health.

Hypothetically, anyone could purchase a 1LE Camaro. However, as with many of the most fabled Chevy performance cars, you had to know how to unlock the high-performance option by selecting the right combination of option codes on your buy sheet. Only those in-the-know would understand that this special 1LE suspension package would only become available if they elected to have the G92 performance rear end and C41 A/C delete.

So, yes, anyone could walk into their local Chevy dealer and buy one. They just had to know the “cheat code” built into the option sheet.

A Brace of Canadian Muscle

Of the roughly 1,500 Player’s Challenge cars built, the Canadian-spec cars could be said to be the most special. They received an additional R7U option code during production from 1989 to 1992. To keep the competition fair, these cars all got sealed-block 305-CI V8 engines. A sealed block means the engine has special markings on it to ensure it isn’t tinkered with, ensuring that every driver gets the same performance from their car.

However, while the competition was even, R7U cars were said to output more than the factory-rated 230hp of the standard Z/28 Camaro thanks to ECU tuning.

In a recent Autotrader listing, the owner of one clean Player’s Special car states that they have 13 more available for sale. Each has seen limited use and no track miles. The cars were spares but were never used in the race series.

Based on the $40k+ price tag of the car that’s listed, one clever collector is cashing in on the wise decision to stash these back when they were fresh from the factory. Can it be that the F body’s moment in the sun has finally arrived? Love it or hate it, you have to appreciate the muscle car nostalgia these obscure Camaros offer.

The post Over a Dozen Rare Camaros up for Sale appeared first on Muscle Car.

Whether you’re a collector on a budget or buying your first muscle car, you don’t need to break the bank if you can score any of these affordable muscle cars.

A muscle car is a perfect purchase right now for anybody who needs to boost their confidence and morale. That is to say, buying a muscle car right now is perfect for just about anyone who loves to drive.

However, muscle cars are known for their high asking prices just as much as they’re known for horsepower and sleek, sporty looks. For the majority of people right now, funds are tight. Unless you’re ultra-wealthy, you can’t make that dream purchase unless you find affordable muscle cars for sale.

Lucky for you, cheap muscle cars aren’t as hard to find as you might think. Here’s a list of 2020s most affordable muscle cars for you to browse.

One of the Most Affordable Muscle Cars

The classic Dodge Dart Sport from 1975 runs you only $6,000-$9,000. It’s not the most powerful car, as the oil crisis of the 1970s led to an engine downgrade for the 1975 Dart, which comes with a 5.2L V-8.

It has the sleek looks you want from a muscle car, and its value is likely to rise over time like most classic muscle cars. Buying one isn’t a bad investment.

Chevy Camaro Z28 SS From 1996

At the start of the 2000s, the sports car market hit a slump, and Chevrolet made the hard call to discontinue the Camaro in 2002. In a bittersweet way, this works out for you, because cars from the period have all the looks and features you want with a lower price tag.

The zippy Z28 SS goes for around $8,000-$15,000.

1990 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

Another affordable 1990s Camaro is the 1990 IROC-Z. This muscle car has a robotic look that somehow appears futuristic 30 years after it came out. Buying this car will make you look at your current vehicle and call a “we buy junk cars” business because it looks so old!

Its 5.7-liter V8 engine hits 245 HP, and you can find one under $10,000, no sweat. An IROC-Z in need of a little TLC costs as little as $6,000

Late 60’s-Early 70’s Buick Riviera

Another cheap classic American muscle car is an early Buick Riviera. The cheapest of the full-size muscle cars are from between 1969 and 1972. You’ll pay only around $8000 for one.

If you have a little more cash in your pocket, Rivieras from more recent model years are right up your alley.

Muscle Car Fanatics Are at Home Here

Now that you know some of the most affordable muscle cars you can buy today, you can buy your dream car sooner than you thought possible. Owning a muscle car today will give you the morale boost you need in these difficult times, and gives you something to do to pass the hours at home.

If you want more lists of muscle cars or information on how to take care of one, everything you need is right on this blog. Take a look around and learn something new about muscle cars today.

The post Cheap Price, Solid Performance: 2020’s Most Affordable Muscle Cars appeared first on Muscle Car.