Muscle car#North America

{{Unbalanced|section|reason=Too many dubious/disputable claims made.|date=April 2021}}

The definition of a muscle car is subjective and endlessly debated,{{cite web|url= http://www.musclecarclub.com/muscle-car-definition/ |title=Muscle Car Definition |work=Muscle Car Club |date=2 January 2015 |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite web |title=Muscle Car Definition: Understand the Requirements |url= https://www.carsdirect.com/car-buying/muscle-car-definition-understand-the-requirements |website=carsdirect.com |access-date=9 February 2019 |language=en}} resulting in the term having few universally agreed characteristics:{{cite web |title=Super-iority: Defining the Supercar and Muscle Car |url= https://ateupwithmotor.com/terms-technology-definitions/supercar-muscle-car/ |website=ateupwithmotor.com |access-date=9 February 2019 |date=28 July 2009}}{{cite web|url= http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/muscle%20car |title=muscle car |publisher=Merriam-Webster Online |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite news|url= https://www.nytimes.com/2006/06/04/automobiles/04MILLION.html |last=Sherman |first=Don |title=Muscle Cars Now Worth Millions| newspaper=The New York Times |date=4 June 2006 |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars |title=Classic Muscle Cars Library |date=19 October 2007 |website=musclecars.howstuffworks.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20151104051617/http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars |archive-date=4 November 2015 |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite web|url= http://www.musclecarsociety.com/muscle-car-definition |title=Muscle Car Definition |work=Muscle Car Society |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120722070047/http://www.musclecarsociety.com/muscle-car-definition |archive-date=22 July 2012 |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite web |title=Muscle car definition and meaning |url= https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/muscle-car |website=collinsdictionary.com |access-date=9 February 2019 |language=en}}

• A large high-performance V8 engine, often in the most powerful configuration offered for a particular model
• Rear-wheel drive
• Being manufactured in the United States in the 1960s or early 1970s (the specific year range of 1964–1973 is sometimes used){{cite web |title=Why Are Old-Fashioned Muscle Cars Louder than New Ones? |url=https://www.classiccardeals.com/Page/why-are-old-fashioned-muscle-cars-louder.aspx |publisher=Classic Car Deals |access-date=23 January 2024}}
• A relatively lightweight two-door body (though opinions vary as to whether high-performance full-size cars, compacts, and pony cars qualify as muscle cars,{{cite book | last=Mueller |first=Mike |title=Motor City Muscle: The High-Powered History of the American Muscle Car | publisher=MBI Publishing |year=1997|page=13 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=ZLP8kKL4w2kC&q=muscle+car+definition&pg=PA13 |isbn=978-0-7603-0196-8}} and why a two-seat AMC AMX could be, but a two-seat Chevrolet Corvette was not. While some feel that only mid-size cars can be considered muscle cars, this view is not held by the top, industry-defining, enthusiast publications, including Car and Driver, Road & Track, and Motor Trend.

High-powered pony cars are sometimes considered muscle cars, as by the above-mentioned publications, with some exceptional personal luxury cars also regarded by some as qualifying on their merits. In the opposite direction, by the late 1960s a wave of inexpensive, straight-line speed oriented stripped down intermediate sedans offered at prices under as {{USD|3000|year=1968}}{{inflation-fn|US}}{{cite web |last1=Ray |first1=Manny |title=The 29+ Best American Muscle Cars Ranked |url= https://daquan.tv/news/great-american-muscle-cars-ranked |website=daquan.tv |access-date=18 May 2022 |date=3 November 2021}} expanded the original definition from a "muscle car" as one offering both performance and some measure of style, accessories, and cachet, and doubled it back toward the drag strip focus{{cite web |title=1960s Muscle Cars - The Beginning, Downfall & Best Muscle Cars Ever |url= https://www.supercars.net/blog/sixties-muscle-cars/ |website=supercars.net |date=3 March 2020 |access-date=18 May 2022}} of such exceptional early proto-muscle cars as the limited production, factory experimental 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt.

Sports cars – including those which meet all the above most basic criterion, such as the 1969 ZL-1 Corvette, with an all-aluminum {{cvt|427|cuin|L}} V8 listed at {{cvt|430|hp|kW|0}} but reported to produce {{cvt|560|hp|kW|0}}, that slung the car through the {{convert|1/4|mi|km}} traps in 10.89 seconds{{cite book |title=Corvette: 50th Anniversary |author=((Editors of Consumer Guide)) |year=2003 |publisher=Publications International |isbn=978-0785379874}} – are considered muscle cars by some,{{cite magazine | magazine=Hot Rod | title=10 Most Collectable Muscle Cars | publisher=Hot Rod | issue=3 (March) | year=1986}} and not by others. Drag strip-oriented fans see muscle cars as an extension of the hot rodding philosophy of taking a small car and putting a large-displacement engine in it to maximize straight-line speed.{{cite book|last=Henshaw |first=Peter |year=2004 |title=Muscle Cars |publisher=Thunder Bay Press |isbn=978-1-59223-303-8 }} However, widespread public acceptance and use of the term, including that exemplified by the Car and Driver, CNBC, Road & Track, and Motor Trend top muscle car lists below, affirm a much broader interpretation as the norm.

{{distinguish|text=the expensive exotic automobile known as a supercar}}

Muscle cars were initially referred to as "supercars" in the United States,{{cite web|url= http://ateupwithmotor.com/terms-technology-definitions/supercar-muscle-car/ |title=Super-iority: Defining the Supercar and Muscle Car |first=Aaron |last=Severson |date=27 July 2009 |work=ateupwithmotor |access-date=21 May 2016}} such as the 1957 Rambler Rebel, which was described as a "potent mill turned the lightweight Rambler into a veritable supercar."{{cite web |title=1957-1960 Rambler Rebel |work=How Stuff Works | url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1957-1960-rambler-rebel1.htm |date=22 August 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200727033220/http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1957-1960-rambler-rebel1.htm |archive-date=27 July 2020 |access-date=14 February 2022}} From the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s, "dragstrip bred" mid-size cars equipped with large V8 engines and rear-wheel drive were also referred to as supercars, more often than muscle cars.{{cite book |last=Harless |first=Robert |title=Horsepower War: Our Way of Life |year=2004 |publisher=iUniverse |isbn=978-0-595-30296-3 |page=1}}{{cite book |last=Gunnell |first=John |title=Standard Guide to American Muscle Cars: A Supercar Source Book, 1960–2000 |publisher=Krause Publications |year=2001 |isbn=978-0-87349-262-1 }}{{cite magazine |last1=Norbye |first1=Jan P. |last2=Dunne |first2=Jim |title=The Hot Ones: Supercars of medium size flaunt their suspension, brakes, and engines |magazine=Popular Science |volume=189 |issue=4 |pages=83–85 |date=October 1966 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=rykDAAAAMBAJ&q=The+Hot+Ones:+Supercars&pg=PA84 |access-date=21 May 2016}}

In 1966, the supercar became an "industry trend".Harless, p. 8. This was when the four domestic automakers "needed to cash in on the supercar market" with eye-catching, heart-stopping cars.{{cite book |last=Campisano |first=Jim |title=American Muscle Cars |publisher=MetroBooks |year=1995 |page=91 |isbn=978-1-56799-164-2 }} An example of the use of the supercar description for early muscle car models includes the May 1965 Car Life road test of the Pontiac GTO,{{citation needed|date=April 2024}} followed in 1968 with a Car and Driver review of the 1969 American Motors SC/Rambler describing it as ready to compete in "the Supercar street racer gang" market segment,{{cite magazine |title=Rambler Scrambler |magazine=Car and Driver |volume=14 |page=84 |year=1968}} with the initials "SC" signifying SuperCar,{{cite book |last1=Lyons |first1=Dan |last2=Scott |first2=Jason |title=Muscle Car Milestones |publisher=MotorBooks/MBI Publishing |year=2004 |page=89 |isbn=978-0-7603-0615-4 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=eQK68tbpAVIC&q=the+SC+stood+for+SuperCar&pg=PA89 |access-date=21 May 2016}} and a 1969 Car Life review that included how "Hurst puts American Motors into the Supercar club with the 390 Rogue".{{cite magazine |title=Rambler Scrambler |magazine=Car Life |volume=16 |pages=33–36 |year=1969 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=UvY6AAAAMAAJ&q=Supercar+Rambler+Scrambler |access-date=21 May 2016}}

The supercar market segment in the U.S. at the time included special versions of regular production models{{cite book |last=Bonsall |first=Thomas E. |title=Muscle Plymouths: The Story of a Supercar |publisher=Bookman Publishing |year=1985 |isbn=978-0-934780-71-1 }} that were positioned in several sizes and market segments (such as the "economy supercar"{{cite book |title=Hot Rod Magazine: Muscle Car Files |page=112 |year=2004 |publisher=MotorBooks International |isbn=978-0-7603-1647-4}}), as well as limited edition, documented dealer-converted vehicles.{{cite magazine |last=Carner |first=Colin |title=1967 Chevrolet Stage III Nickey Camaro |magazine=Sports Car Market |date=February 1999 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=-SixJrUESDcC&q=define:+supercar&pg=PT22 |access-date=21 May 2016}} However, over time the term came to be applied to much, much more expensive and exotic cars, which claimed the name supercar.

File:1949 Oldsmobile 88.jpg|1949 Oldsmobile 88

File:55 Chrysler C-300 (8940990679).jpg|1955 Chrysler C-300

File:1957 Rambler Rebel hardtop rfd-Cecil'10.jpg|1957 Rambler Rebel

Opinions on the origin of the muscle car vary, but the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 is cited as the first full-sized muscle car.[https://www.nascarhall.com/blog/oldsmobiles-rocket-88 Oldsmobile Rocket 88], NASCAR Hall of Fame{{cite web |url= http://www.drivingtoday.com/kpix/greatest_cars/olds_rocket88/ |last=Nerad |first=Jack |title=Oldsmobile Rocket 88 |publisher=Driving Today |access-date=18 January 2016 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170704153153/http://www.drivingtoday.com/kpix/greatest_cars/olds_rocket88/ |archive-date=4 July 2017 }} The Rocket 88 was the first time a powerful V8 engine was available in a smaller and lighter body style (in this case the {{convert|303|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} engine from the larger Oldsmobile 98 with the body from the six-cylinder Oldsmobile 76).{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/muscle-car-information/how-muscle-cars-work1.htm |title=The Birth of Muscle Cars |work=How Stuff Works |date=16 January 2007 |access-date=14 February 2022}} The Rocket 88 produced {{convert|135|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} at 3600 rpm and {{convert|263|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on}} at 1800 rpm and won eight out of ten races in the 1950 NASCAR season. The Rocket 88's Oldsmobile 303 V8 engine, along with the Cadillac 331 engine, also introduced in 1949, are stated to have "launched the modern era of the high-performance V-8."{{cite magazine |url= http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0708phr_general_motors_432_ci_oldsmobile/index.html |last=Dulcich |first=Steve |title=Rocket Man |magazine=Popular Hot Rodding |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20131101035848/http://www.popularhotrodding.com/features/0708phr_general_motors_432_ci_oldsmobile/viewall.html |archive-date=1 November 2013}}

In 1955, the large-sized Chrysler C-300 - the first in a long, 15-year series of large, expensive, performance-first Chryslers - was introduced that produced {{convert|300|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} from its {{convert|331|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine, and it was advertised as "America's Most Powerful Car". Capable of accelerating from 0 to {{convert|60|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} in 9.8 seconds and reaching {{convert|130|mph|0}}, the 1955 Chrysler 300 is also recognized as one of the best-handling cars of its era.{{cite web |url= http://www.edmunds.com/chrysler/300/history.html |title=Chrysler 300 History |website=edmunds.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20161111050817/http://www.edmunds.com/chrysler/300/history.html |archive-date=11 November 2016}} {{Additional citation needed|date=May 2025}}

The compact-sized 1956 Studebaker Golden Hawk was powered by a {{convert|275|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} {{convert|352|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} Packard V8, the second most powerful engine to the Chrysler 300.{{cite web |title=What Was The First Muscle Car? |url= http://www.classic-car-history.com/first-muscle-car.htm |publisher=Classic Car History |access-date=14 October 2019}}

The Rambler Rebel, introduced by American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1957, is the first mid-sized car to be available with a big-block V8 engine. The Rebel followed most of the muscle car formula including "make 'em go fast as well as cheaply."{{cite web |last=Hardin |first=Drew |title=Was the 1957 Rambler Rebel the First Muscle Car? |url= https://www.automobilemag.com/news/1957-rambler-rebel-first-muscle-car/ |publisher=Automobile Magazine |date=20 June 2019 |access-date=14 October 2019}} It is therefore considered by some to be the first muscle car.{{cite magazine |url= http://photos.imageevent.com/mmm_mag/pdffiles/USA%201967%20AMC%20Rogue%20343%20Musclecar%20Enthusiast.pdf |title=John Goergen's 1966 343 prototype (sidebar) |page=59 |magazine=Musclecar Enthusiast |first=Richard |last=Truesdell |access-date=18 January 2016}} With a {{convert|327|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine producing {{convert|255|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, its 0–60 mph acceleration of 7.5 seconds made it the fastest stock American sedan at the time.{{cite web|url= http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1957-1960-rambler-rebel2.htm |title=1957–1960 Rambler Rebel |work=How Stuff Works |date=22 August 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200719185547/https://auto.howstuffworks.com/1957-1960-rambler-rebel2.htm |archive-date=19 July 2020 |access-date=14 February 2020}} Only the fuel-injected Chevrolet Corvette beat it by half a second.{{cite magazine |last=Strohl |first=Daniel |title=Silver-Sided Dawn – 1957 Rambler Rebel |magazine=Hemmings Muscle Machines |date=February 2007 |url= https://www.hemmings.com/blog/article/silver-sided-dawn-1957-rambler-rebel/ |access-date=14 October 2019}}

File:A 1964 Ford Thunderbolt Muscle Car.jpg]]

The popularity and performance of muscle cars grew in the early 1960s. This was when Mopar (Dodge, Plymouth, and Chrysler) and Ford battled for supremacy in drag racing. The 1961 Chevrolet Impala offered an SS package for $53.80, which consisted of a {{convert|409|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine producing {{convert|425|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}{{citation needed|date=April 2020}} along with upgraded brakes, tires, and suspension. The 1962 Dodge Dart 413 (nicknamed Max Wedge) had a {{convert|413|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 which produced {{convert|420|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and could cover the quarter-mile in under 13 seconds.{{cite web |last1=Stupski |first1=Brian |title=This $1,000 1962 Max Wedge Dart Is Better Than Nothin' |url= https://blog.dodge.com/events/this-1000-1962-max-wedge-dart-is-better-than-nothin/ |website=dodge.com |access-date=28 January 2019 |date=7 August 2013}}{{cite web |title=What is a Max Wedge? |url= https://maxwedge.com/orangemonster/orangemonster.php |website=maxwedge.com |access-date=28 January 2019}}{{cite web |title=1962 Dodge Dart 413 |url= https://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1962-dodge-dart-413.htm |website=howstuffworks.com |access-date=28 January 2019 |date=22 December 2006}}

In 1963, two hundred Ford Galaxie "R-code" cars were factory-built specifically for drag racing, resulting in a full-size car that could cover the quarter-mile in a little over 12 seconds.{{cite magazine |last=Shaw |first=Tom |title=Anatomy of a Lightweight |magazine=Legendary Ford |date=December 2005}} Upgrades included fiberglass panels, aluminum bumpers, traction bars, and a {{convert|427|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} Ford FE-based racing engine conservatively rated at {{convert|425|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. The road-legal version of the Galaxie 427 used the "Q-code" engine which produced {{convert|410|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |title=Q-Code 1963 Galaxie |url= https://bangshift.com/bangshift1320/ebay-find-this-q-code-1963-galaxie-is-ford-performance-heritage-perfection/ |website=bangshift.com |access-date=29 January 2019 |date=28 March 2016}}{{cite web |title=Big Car, Bigger Job: 1964 Ford Galaxie Q-Code |url= https://barnfinds.com/big-car-bigger-job-1964-ford-galaxie-q-code/ |website=barnfinds.com |access-date=29 January 2019 |date=17 July 2018}} The following year, Ford installed the proven 427 "top-oiler" engine in the smaller and lighter Fairlane body, creating the Ford Thunderbolt. The Thunderbolt included several weight-saving measures (including acrylic windows and fibreglass/aluminium body panels and bumpers){{cite book |last1=Holder |first1=Bill |last2=Kunz |first2=Phil |year=2006 |title=Extreme Muscle Cars: The Factory Lightweight Legacy |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=978-0-89689-278-1 }} and a stock Thunderbolt could cover the quarter-mile in 11.76 seconds.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1964-ford-thunderbolt.htm |title=Ford Thunderbolt |work=How Stuff Works |date=30 November 2007 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200925155543/http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1964-ford-thunderbolt.htm |archive-date=25 September 2020 |access-date=14 February 2022}} The Thunderbolt was technically road-legal, however, it was considered unsuitable even "for driving to and from the (drag)strip, let alone on the street in everyday use". A total of 111 Thunderbolts were built.{{cite book |last=Gunnell |first=John|year=2005 |title=American Cars of the 1960s: A Decade of Diversity |publisher=Krause Publications |isbn=978-0-89689-131-9 }}

The General Motors competitor to the Thunderbolt was the Z-11 option package for the full-size Chevrolet Impala coupe, of which 57 examples were produced in 1963 only.{{cite web|url= http://www.348-409.com/z11.html |title=Chevrolet's 1963 Z-11 Impala |website=348-409.com |access-date=18 January 2016}} The Z-11 Impala was powered by a {{convert|427|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} version of the W-series big-block engine, which was officially rated at {{convert|430|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. With a compression ratio of 13.5:1, the engine required high-octane fuel. The RPOZ-11 package also included weight reduction measures such as an aluminum hood and fenders, the removal of sound-deadening material as well as the deletion of the heater and radio.

In 1964, a drag racing version of the Dodge 330 was created, called the "330 Lightweight".{{cite web |title=1964 Dodge 330 Lightweight 'Hemi-Honker' |url= https://www.mecum.com/lots/FL0117-269781/1964-dodge-330-lightweight-hemi-honker/ |website=mecum.com|date= 14 January 2017 }}{{cite web |title=1964 Dodge Polara Hemi 330 factory lightweight |url= https://www.barrett-jackson.com/Events/Event/Details/1964-DODGE-POLARA-HEMI-330-FACTORY-LIGHTWEIGHT-16292 |website=barrett-jackson.com |access-date=3 February 2019 |language=en}}{{cite web |title=1964 Dodge 330 Lightweight Superstock |url= https://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z10937/Dodge-330-Lightweight-Superstock.aspx |website=conceptcarz.com |access-date=3 February 2019}} It was powered by a {{convert|426|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} version of the Hemi racing engine which was official rated at {{convert|425|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, but rumored to have an actual power output higher than this.{{cite web |title=1964 Dodge 426 Hemi |url= https://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1964-dodge-426-hemi.htm |website=howstuffworks.com |access-date=3 February 2019 |date=30 November 2007}} Weight reduction measures included an aluminium hood as well as lightweight front bumpers, fenders and doors, polycarbonate side windows, and no sound deadening. Like other lightweights of the era, it came with a factory disclaimer: "Designed for supervised acceleration trials. Not recommended for general everyday driving because of the compromises in the all-round characteristics which must be made for this type of vehicle."

Also using the 426 Hemi racing engine was the limited production 1965 Plymouth Satellite 426 Hemi. In 1966, the racing version of the 426 Hemi was replaced by a detuned "Street Hemi" version, also with a size of 426 cu in and an official power rating of {{convert|425|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on}}). The 1966 Plymouth Satellite 426 Hemi could run a 13.8-second quarter-mile at {{convert|104|mph|abbr=on}} and had a base price of $3,850.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1966-plymouth-satellite-426-hemi.htm |title=1966 Plymouth Satellite 426 Hemi |work=How Stuff Works |date=5 January 2007 |access-date=14 February 2022}}

{{clear}}

File:1966 & 1969 Pontiac GTO (34841847634).jpg]]

File:1970redGTX.JPG]]

File:1970 AMC Rebel "The Machine" (28293464911).jpg]]

Although pure muscle cars often sold in relatively small volumes, manufacturers valued the halo effect of the publicity created by these models. Competition between manufacturers led to a horsepower war that peaked in 1970, with models such as the LS-6 Chevelle advertising as much as {{convert|450|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url= https://heacockclassic.com/articles/the-best-muscle-car-1970-ls-6-chevelle/ |title=The 1970 LS-6 Chevelle Was America's King Of The Streets |website=heacockclassic.com |access-date=July 5, 2018 |editor-first=Paul |editor-last=Zazarine |date=November 14, 2014}}

The Pontiac GTO, a car that captured the public mind and strongly influenced the muscle car era, was introduced in 1964 as an optional package for the intermediate-size Pontiac Tempest. The GTO was developed by Pontiac division president John DeLorean and was initially powered by a {{convert|389|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine producing {{convert|325|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. The success of the GTO led other GM divisions to develop muscle cars based on intermediate-sized platforms: the 1964 Oldsmobile 442, 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle SS, and 1965 Buick Gran Sport.

The AMC V8 engine was enlarged to {{convert|390|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} in 1968,{{cite web |title=AMC V8 engines – history, descriptions, and more |url= https://www.allpar.com/threads/amc-v8-engines.229904/#post-1085224002 |first=Mike |last=Sealey |website=allpar.com |date=16 November 2020 |access-date=27 August 2023}} which produced {{convert|315|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and was first used in the 1968 AMC Rebel SST,{{cite web |title=Sharp Restoration: 390/727 1968 AMC Rebel SST |url= https://bringatrailer.com/2016/11/28/sharp-restoration-390727-1968-amc-rebel-sst/ |website=bringatrailer.com |access-date=3 February 2019 |date=28 November 2016}} AMC Javelin Go-package, and AMC AMX.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/muscle-car-information/amc-muscle-cars.htm |title=AMC Muscle Cars |website=How Stuff Works |date=20 December 2006 |access-date=14 February 2022}}{{cite web |url= http://blogs.discovery.com/velocity/2012/03/how-about-some-love-for-the-amx.html |title=How About Some Love for the AMX |date=25 March 2012 |first=Bill |last=Stephens |publisher=Velocity by Discovery |access-date=18 January 2016 |archive-date=5 May 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130505022601/http://blogs.discovery.com/velocity/2012/03/how-about-some-love-for-the-amx.html }} A staid and distant fourth behind Detroit's "Big Three", AMC hired Dick Teague as a designer, who later became the vice president. The clean sheet Javelin pony car and two-seat Corvette-competitor AMX were bold moves, and moved AMC directly into the era's "horsepower wars".{{cite web |title=Evolution of the American Motors AMX-The Other American Muscle Car |url= https://heacockclassic.com/articles/evolution-of-the-american-motors-amx-the-other-american-muscle-car/ |website=heacockclassic.com |date=13 May 2019 |access-date=31 October 2021}}

As the 1960s progressed, optional equipment and luxury appointments increased in many popular models of "performance-oriented" cars. With the added weight and power-consuming accessories and features, engines had to be more powerful to maintain performance levels, and the cars became more expensive. In response, some "budget" muscle cars began to appear, such as the 1967 Plymouth GTX,{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1968-plymouth-gtx.htm |title=1968 Plymouth GTX |work=How Stuff Works |date=9 January 2007 |access-date=14 February 2022}} the 1968 Plymouth Road Runner,Car Life January 1969. and the 1968 Dodge Super Bee. In 1969, the Plymouth Road Runner was awarded Motor Trend magazine's Car of the Year.{{cite magazine |last=Sanders |first=Bill |title=Road Runner |magazine=Motor Trend |date=February 1969}} With optional performance parts such as intake and exhaust manifolds, upgraded carburetor, and drag-racing tires, the Road Runner had a quarter-mile time of 14.7 seconds at {{convert|100.6|mph|abbr=on}}. In this customized form, the cost of the Road Runner was US$3,893.

The Plymouth Barracuda was a pony car that could be turned into a muscle car with the addition of the famed Chrysler 426 Hemi, available as an option beginning in 1968, after debuting in street form two years earlier in the Plymouth Belvedere, Dodge Coronet, and Dodge Charger. Originally based on the smaller compact car body and chassis of the Plymouth Valiant, the Barracuda was also available with a {{convert|383|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine producing {{convert|300|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. It could run a quarter-mile in 13.33 seconds at {{convert|106.50|mph|abbr=on}}on the drag strip. The base price was $2,796.00; the price as tested by Hot Rod was $3,652.{{cite magazine |last=Kelly |first=Steve|title=Barracuda on the Line |magazine=Hot Rod |date=December 1968}} The related 1970 Plymouth Duster was powered by a {{convert|340|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} V8 engine producing {{convert|290|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}. Performance figures were 0 to {{convert|60|mph|abbr=on}} in 6.0 seconds and the quarter-mile time of in 14.7 seconds at {{convert|94.3|mph|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1970-plymouth-duster-340.htm |title=1970 Plymouth Duster 340 |website=How Stuff Works |date=10 January 2007 |access-date=14 February 2022}}

The {{convert|427|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} Chevrolet L72 big-block engine became available in the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle in 1969 as the COPO 427 option. The 427 Chevelle could run a 13.3 sec. quarter-mile at {{convert|108|mph|abbr=on}}. Chevrolet rated the engine at {{convert|425|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, but the NHRA claimed power output to be {{convert|450|hp|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1969-chevrolet-chevelle-copo-427.htm |title=1969 Chevrolet Chevelle COPO 427 |work=How Stuff Works |date=11 January 2007 |access-date=18 January 2016}} The following year, the "Chevelle SS 454" model was introduced, which used the {{convert|454|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} Chevrolet LS6 big-block engine rated at {{convert|450|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, the highest factory rating at that time.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1970-chevrolet-chevelle-ss-454.htm |title=1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 |work=How Stuff Works |date=10 January 2007 |access-date=18 January 2016}}

The fastest muscle car produced by American Motors was the mid-sized 1970 AMC Rebel "The Machine", which was powered by a {{convert|390|cuin|L|1|abbr=on}} engine producing {{convert|340|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite book |last=Cheetham |first=Craig |title=Ultimate Muscle Cars |publisher=MBI Publishing |year=2007 |pages= [https://archive.org/details/ultimatemuscleca00chee/page/12 12–15] |isbn=978-0-7603-2834-7 |url-access=registration |url= https://archive.org/details/ultimatemuscleca00chee/page/12 }} The Rebel had a 0–{{convert|60|mph|abbr=on}} time of 6.8 seconds and a quarter-mile run in 14.4 seconds at {{convert|99|mph|abbr=on}}.{{cite web|url= http://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/classic-muscle-cars/1970-amc-rebel-machine.htm |title=1970 AMC Rebel Machine |work=How Stuff Works |date=12 January 2007 |access-date=14 February 2022}}

The popularity of muscle cars declined through the early and mid-1970s due to a combination of power-sapping emissions controls and a switch to unleaded fuel mandated by the Clean Air Act, the 1970s energy crisis, and increased insurance costs for performance cars.{{cite book |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=J_a1AAAAIAAJ&q=The+muscle+car+business+boomed+until+shifting+social+attitudes,+crippling+insurance+rates,+the+Clean+Air+Act+and+the |page=97 |first=Brock W. |last=Yates |title=The decline and fall of the American automobile industry |publisher=Empire Books |year=1983 |isbn= 978-0-88015-004-0}} The 1973 oil crisis notably resulted in rationing of fuel and sustained higher prices, which quickly made muscle cars unaffordable and impractical for many people.{{cite book|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=U9fjwQOR_5QC&q=Decline+of+Muscle+cars&pg=PA12 |title=Muscle Cars |first=Katharine |last=Bailey |year=2006 |publisher=Crabtree Publishing |page=12 |isbn= 978-0-7787-3010-1}}

Before the Clean Air Act of 1970, a majority of muscle cars came optioned with high-compression engines (some engines were as high as 11:1), which required high-octane fuel. Prior to 1970, 100-octane fuel was common. However, following the passage of the Clean Air Act of 1970, octane ratings were lowered to 91 (due in part to the removal of lead). Manufacturers reduced the compression ratio of engines, resulting in reduced performance. Simultaneously, efforts to combat air pollution focused Detroit's attention on emissions control rather than increased power outputs.

With performance drained, MPG mattering, and raised insurance rates, the handwriting had already been on the wall in Detroit by the early 1970s; when Ford introduced a much-downsized base inline 4-cylinder powered Mustang II in 1974, which did not even have a V8 option, the harbinger of an end to an era had arrived.

{{Multiple image | align = right | direction = vertical | width = 220

| image1 = 1986 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 T-top.jpg

| caption1 = 1986 Ford Mustang GT 5.0

| image2 = 1996 Pontiac Firebird Formula.jpg|thumb

| caption2 = 1996 Pontiac Firebird Formula

}}

Muscle car performance began a resurgence in the early 1980s with high-output V8 engines introduced for the Ford Mustang GT, Chevrolet Camaro Z28, and Pontiac Firebird Formula/Trans Am. Initially using four-barrel carburetors, engine performance, and fuel economy were increased by the mid-1980s using electronic fuel injection systems and advanced engine management controls. Muscle car performance began to reappear on intermediate two-door coupés such as the Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS and Buick Regal. The Buick Regal used turbocharged V6 engines on the Grand National, Turbo-T, T-Type, and GNX models which rivaled the performance of V8 engines.{{cite web|url= https://www.hagerty.com/articles-videos/articles/2018/12/11/buick-regal-turbo-t-was-fast|title = Everyone remembers the Grand National, but the Buick Regal turbo-T was even faster |date= 11 December 2018}}

The few muscle cars remaining in production by the mid-1990s included the fourth generation Mustang,{{cite web |title=1994 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra |url= https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15141034/1994-ford-mustang-svt-cobra-review/ |website=caranddriver.com |access-date=8 February 2019 |date=1 April 1994}}{{cite web |title=1994 Ford Mustang GT – Long-Term Wrapup |url= https://www.motortrend.com/cars/ford/mustang/1994/1994-ford-mustang-gt/ |website=motortrend.com |date= November 1995 |access-date=8 February 2019}} the 10th Generation Ford Thunderbird Super Coupe with its supercharged engine, the fourth generation Camaro,{{cite web |title=The '93 Camaro Z/28: Why It Was the First Modern Muscle Car |url= https://www.drivingline.com/articles/the-93-camaro-z28-why-it-was-the-first-modern-muscle-car/ |website=drivingline.com |date= 8 December 2018 |access-date=8 February 2019}}{{cite web |title=1993 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 – the High Compression Muscle Car Returns |url= https://oldcarmemories.com/1993-chevrolet-camaro-z28-the-high-compression-muscle-car-returns/ |website=oldcarmemories.com |access-date=8 February 2019 |date=10 July 2012}} and fourth generation Firebird.{{cite web |title=1995 Pontiac Firebird Formula review |url= https://www.caradvice.com.au/owner-reviews/1995-pontiac-firebird-formula-review/ |website=caradvice.com.au |access-date=8 February 2019 |language=en}}{{cite web |title=The Firebird Facts and Trans Am Truths |url= https://www.wilsonauto.com/wilson-auto-blog/the-firebird-facts-and-trans-am-truths/ |website=wilsonauto.com |access-date=8 February 2019 |date=29 June 2015}}

{{clear right}}

File:2006-Pontiac-GTO.jpg ]]

File:2012 Ford Mustang Laguna Seca -- 2011 DC.jpg ]]

For the 2004 model year, the Pontiac GTO was relaunched in the United States as a rebadged captive import version of the Holden Monaro. The model was to recreate the past versions, but the new version "was nothing like the old aggressive and evocative model from the 60s" and it was discontinued in 2006.{{cite web |last1=Karn |first1=Medha |title=The True Story Of Why The Pontiac GTO Was Discontinued |url= https://www.hotcars.com/the-true-story-of-why-the-pontiac-gto-was-discontinued/ |website=hotcars.com |date=9 January 2021 |access-date=26 November 2022}}{{cite web |last1=Mateja |first1=Jim |title=GTO to Be Discontinued Again |url= https://www.wardsauto.com/news-analysis/gto-be-discontinued-again |publisher=WardsAuto |access-date=26 November 2022 |date=23 February 2006}}

For 2005, Chrysler introduced muscle car heritage to high-performance V8-powered versions of four-door sedans, the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300C, using nameplates traditionally used for two-door muscle cars.

For 2005, the fifth-generation Ford Mustang, designed to resemble the original first-generation Mustang, brought back the aggressive lines and colors of the original.

For the 2006 model year, GM relaunched the Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS with the first V8 engine on the Monte Carlo in 15 Years. The same V8 was used on the Monte Carlo's W-Body sister cars like the Pontiac Grand Prix GXP, Buick Lacrosse Super, and the Chevrolet Impala SS. All Monte Carlo production ended on June 19, 2007, because of declining sales of coupe models in general as well as Chevrolet's plan to reintroduce a new Camaro.{{cite web |title=Future Chevrolet Monte Carlo |url= https://gmauthority.com/blog/gm/future-general-motors-vehicles-products/future-chevrolet-vehicles-products/future-chevrolet-monte-carlo/ |website=gmauthority.com |date= 30 November 2017 |access-date=26 November 2022}}

For 2008, Chrysler re-introduced the Dodge Challenger, which features styling links to the 1970 first-generation Challenger and was claimed by the Chrysler CEO to be "a modern take on one of the most iconic muscle cars".{{cite web |url= https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2006/07/02/challenger-headed-to-production |last=Strohl |first=Daniel |title=Challenger headed to production |work=Hemmings |date=2 July 2006 |access-date=27 August 2023}}

A year later, running on that same sentiment, Chevrolet released the 2009 fifth-generation Camaro, which bears some resemblance to the 1969 first-generation Camaro.

{{Multiple image | align = right | direction = vertical | width = 220

| image1 = 1970-1971 Holden HG Monaro GTS 350 coupe 01.jpg

| caption1 = Holden HG Monaro GTS 350 (1968–1971)

| image2 = Chrysler Valiant VH Charger E49 (3) (cropped).jpg

| caption2 = Chrysler VH Valiant Charger (1971–1973)

| image3 = 1972 Ford Falcon XY GTHO Sedan (12995029084).jpg

| caption3 = Ford XY Falcon GTHO (1971–1972)

}}

The first Australian-designed car to be marketed as a performance model{{Dubious|Just being a "performance model" does not ipso facto make it a "muscle car"; that case needs to be made.|date=April 2021}} was the 1963 Holden EH S4 model, of which 120 road cars were produced to homologate it for the 1963 Armstrong 500 motor race at Bathurst.{{cite web |title=Holden History |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/heritage_holden.php |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}{{cite web |title=Milestones 1960–1969 |url= http://www.holdenhistoricalservices.com.au/milestones/milestones-1960-1969 |website=holdenhistoricalservices.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} The EH S4 was powered by an upgraded version of the standard six-cylinder engine, enlarged to {{convert|179|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} and producing {{convert|90|kW|bhp|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |title=EH S4 Holden History |url= https://www.ehholden.com.au/eh-s4-holden-history/ |website=ehholden.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}{{cite web |title=Holden EH S4 (1963) Review |url= https://www.tradeuniquecars.com.au/feature-cars/1112/holden-eh-s4-(1963)-review |website=tradeuniquecars.com.au |date= 14 December 2011 |access-date=10 February 2019}} In 1964, the Ford Falcon (XM) became available with an enlarged {{convert|200|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} "Super Pursuit" version of the standard six-cylinder engine, which produced {{convert|90|kW|bhp|0|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |title=Detailed specs review of 1964 Ford Falcon Deluxe Hardtop 200 Super Pursuit Six 3-speed (XM) offered since July 1964 for Australia |url= https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1964/998870/ford_falcon_deluxe_hardtop_200_super_pursuit_six.html |website=automobile-catalog.com |access-date=10 February 2019}}

In 1965, the Chrysler Valiant AP6 became the first Australian car to be available with a V8 engine. This optional engine was the {{convert|273|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Chrysler LA engine, which produced {{convert|135|kW|bhp|0|abbr=on}} and was imported from the United States.{{cite web |title=Chrysler Valiant AP6 |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_chrysler_valiant_ap6 |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} The first Australian-designed Ford to be available with a V8 was the 1966 Ford Falcon (XR), with a {{convert|289|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Ford Windsor engine (imported from the United States), which produced {{convert|200|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.{{cite web |title=Ford Falcon XR Specifications |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/falcon_XR_technical_specifications |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} The first Holden to be available with a V8 was the 1968 Holden HK, with a {{convert|307|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Chevrolet small-block V8 (imported from the United States) which produced {{convert|210|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.{{cite web |title=HK Holden Specifications |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/holden_HK_technical_specifications |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} Later that year, a {{convert|327|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the engine became available in the Holden HK Monaro GTS 327 coupe.{{cite web |title=Holden HK |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_holden_hk |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}

The pinnacle of 1970s Australian muscle cars were the 1971–1972 Ford Falcon GTHO, Holden Monaro 350, and Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T (the smaller Holden Torana GTR was also a successful performance car of the era, but it is not considered a muscle car due to its prioritization of lighter weight over outright power output). The Ford Falcon (XY) GTHO Phase III model was powered by a {{convert|351|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Ford Cleveland V8 engine, officially rated at {{convert|300|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}, but estimated to produce between {{convert|350|-|380|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.{{cite web |title=Ford Falcon XY GTHO Phase III Technical Specifications |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/ford_falcon_xy_gthoiii_technical_specifications |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} The Holden HQ Monaro GTS 350 was powered by a {{convert|350|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Chevrolet small-block V8 producing {{convert|275|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.{{cite web |title=HQ Holden Specifications |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/holden_HQ_technical_specifications |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}} The Chrysler Valiant Charger R/T E49 model was powered by a {{convert|265|cuin|L|1|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the Chrysler Hemi-6 six-cylinder engine producing {{convert|302|bhp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.{{cite web |title=Chrysler VH Valiant Charger |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_chrysler_valiant_vh_charger |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}

In 1972, the production of Australian muscle cars saw a setback when the Supercar scare caused Ford, Holden, and Chrysler to cease development of upcoming performance models, due to government pressure.{{cite web|first=Mel |last=Nichols |url= http://falcongt.com.au/HO-DTH.html |title=HO down the Hume |website=falcongt.com.au |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130523130032/http://falcongt.com.au/HO-DTH.html |archive-date=23 May 2013 |access-date=18 January 2016}}{{cite web|url= http://smartbeard.com/ford-falcon-xa-gt-ho-phase-4-muscle-car/ |title=The Ultimate Muscle Car: Enter the Ford Falcon XA GT-HO Phase 4 |website=smartbeard.com |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160627013411/http://smartbeard.com/ford-falcon-xa-gt-ho-phase-4-muscle-car/ |archive-date=27 June 2016}}{{cite magazine|url= http://www.gtho4.com/The-Final-Finest-Phase-1987.pdf |first=John |last=Wright |title=The Final Finest Phase |magazine=Super Ford's |year=1987|pages=20–27 |access-date=18 January 2016}} The Australian muscle car models produced during the 1970s later consisted of the limited production 1977–1978 Holden Torana (LX) A9X option and the 1978–1979 Ford Falcon (XC) Cobra model, both created as homologation models for Group C touring car racing. These were less powerful than their predecessors.{{cite web |title=Holden Torana LX A9X |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_holden_torana_lx_a9x |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}{{cite web |title=Ford Falcon XC Cobra |url= https://www.uniquecarsandparts.com.au/car_info_ford_falcon_xc_cobra.php |website=uniquecarsandparts.com.au |access-date=10 February 2019}}

Brands still offered high-performance models with V8 variants throughout the 1980s, but these vehicles were low production and were generally underpowered compared to their late 1960s and 1970s predecessors. An example was the Ford Falcon (XD), which was available with a 5.8 L V8 engine. Subsequent generations of the Ford Falcon would not have any V8 options available until 1992, when the EB XR8 was introduced. The Holden Commodore debuted in 1978. However, a renaissance in muscle cars would be sparked by factory-backed aftermarket operations. Holden Dealer Team would release high-performance models of the Holden Commodore throughout the 1980s, such as the HDT Group A, which would become iconic for its blue paintwork.{{cite web|url= https://www.finestrestorations.com.au/restorations-projects/vk-ss-group-a-hdt-commodore-genuine/ |title=1985 VK SS Group A HDT Commodore Genuine |work=Finest Restorations |date=2023 |access-date=27 August 2023}} In 1988, Ford released the Ford Falcon (EB), which was available with a V8 in a 25th anniversary special model celebrating the original Ford Falcon GT.

File:Ikatorino380argentina.jpg

In Argentina, local subsidiaries General Motors and Chrysler produced two acclaimed models of muscle cars, commercialising them under the Chevrolet and Dodge brands respectively. The first was the producer of the third American generation of the Chevrolet Nova, which in this country was renamed "Chevy". This model was initially presented in a 4-door sedan version that maintained many physical features of the Nova coupe version, which would also be produced and marketed in Argentina a few years later.[http://www.autosdeculto.com.ar/argentinos-chevrolet-chevy/ Historia del Chevy] by Alejandro Franco on Autos de Culto

On the other hand, Chrysler Fevre produced a series of vehicles based on the fourth generation of the Dodge Dart that received the name of "Línea Dodge" (Dodge Line). This vehicle presented sedan and coupe versions, which in turn were a local redesign of the Dart model and which, depending on its level of equipment, received different names (Polara, Coronado, RT, and GTX).[http://www.argentochrysler.com.ar/historia.htm Historia] on ArgentoChrysler website

In return for these brands, both Ford Argentina and the national producer Industrias Kaiser Argentina ("IKA") would respond with the production of two high-performance sedans, such as the Argentine version of the Ford Falcon and a derivative of the AMC's Rambler American model, called Torino, which, in addition to its sedan version, would present a coupe version which would end up being acclaimed and popularized in the Argentine automotive field.{{cite web|url= https://www.macsmotorcitygarage.com/the-argentine-rambler-gt-too-good-for-the-usa-ika-torino/ |title=The Argentine Rambler GT Too Good For the USA: IKA Torino |date=28 August 2021 |work=Mac's Motor City Garage |first=Bill |last=McGuire |access-date=23 June 2024}} Production of the Torino would be resumed by Renault Argentina after it took over IKA in the 1970s.

{{main|Category:Muscle cars}}

According to Car and Driver, January 1990:{{cite web |title=Car And Driver Magazine 1990 back issues and used magazines |url= https://usedmagazines.com/titles/CarAndDriver/1990/ |website=usedmagazines.com |access-date=11 February 2019}}

{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}

• 1964–1969 Pontiac GTO
• 1966–1971 Plymouth/Dodge A-body 426 models
• 1966–1967 Chevrolet Chevy II / Nova SS 327
• 1966–1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396
• 1968–1969 Chevrolet Chevy II / Nova SS 396
• 1969 Ford Torino Cobra 428
• 1969 Plymouth Road Runner 440 Six Pack
• 1969 Dodge Super Bee 440 Six Pack
• 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
• 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

{{div col end}}

According to CNBC, April 2013:{{cite web |url= https://www.cnbc.com/2013/04/11/10-classic-american-muscle-cars.html |title=10 classic american muscle cars |website=CNBC |date=11 April 2013}}

{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}

• 1968 Shelby Mustang GT500KR
• 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429
• 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona Hemi
• 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
• 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30
• 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1
• 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6
• 1970 Pontiac GTO Judge Ram Air IV
• 1971 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda
• 1974 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am SD455

{{div col end}}

According to Road & Track, January 2021:{{cite web |url= https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/g6746/best-american-muscle-cars/ |title=12 of the Rarest and Fastest American Muscle Cars Ever Made |work=Road & Track |date=15 January 2021}}

{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}

• 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty
• 1963 Studebaker Super Lark
• 1963 Chevrolet Impala Z11
• 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt
• 1967 Dodge Coronet W023
• 1968 Hurst Hemi Dart L023
• 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
• 1969–1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429
• 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1
• 1970 AMC "The Machine"
• 1970 Plymouth Hemi 'Cuda Super Track Pack
• 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Drag Pack

{{div col end}}

According to Motor Trend, June 2023:{{cite web |url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/60s-muscle-cars/ |title=10 Best 1960s Muscle Cars |website=Motor Trend |date=20 June 2023}}

{{Div col|colwidth=30em}}

• 1962 Pontiac Catalina Super Duty
• 1963 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
• 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt
• 1965 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power
• 1966 Dodge Coronet Street Hemi
• 1968 AMC AMX
• 1969 Chevrolet Camaro COPO 427
• 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429
• 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona Hemi
• 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

{{div col end}}

• Sport compact
• Supercar
• Pony car

{{reflist}}

• {{Commons category-inline|Muscle cars}}

{{Automobile configuration}}

{{American Muscle Cars}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Muscle Car}}

Category:Cars introduced in 1949

Category:1966 neologisms

Category:Car classifications