Advancements in tire technology have broadened the range of options available, from specialized rain tires that effectively disperse water to versatile all-season tires. Yet, you might have observed that high-performance vehicles, particularly muscle cars, often sport wide, slick tires or drag radials under their rear fenders. This choice is deeply rooted in racing history and is not due to cost-cutting or maintenance oversight.
Performance Advantages of Slick Tires
Slick tires, including brands like Hoosiers or Mickey Thompson drag radials, are commonly found on powerful cars such as vintage Dodge Chargers or contemporary Chevrolet Camaro ZL1s. These tires are designed to maximize contact with the racetrack surface, thereby enhancing grip. This is crucial for achieving quick launches and maintaining traction in high-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive vehicles, helping drivers shave critical seconds off their drag racing times. Notably, models like the Dodge SRT Demon come factory-equipped with these specialty tires to optimize performance right from the start.
Limitations and Safety Concerns
While slick tires are exceptional for dry, track conditions, offering superior grip and efficient heat dissipation, they are impractical and often unsafe for regular street use. The absence of tread patterns, which are vital for channeling away water, makes slick tires highly unsafe in wet conditions. This can dramatically increase the risk of hydroplaning and accidents during rain. Therefore, despite their performance benefits, slick tires are not suitable for everyday driving due to significant safety concerns and potential legal restrictions.
Over the decades, muscle cars have been a staple of the American automobile industry, seizing the fantasy of car enthusiasts worldwide. From the rumbling engines of the 1960s to the supercharged beasts of the 21st century, each decade has brought forth a legendary muscle car with its own unique personality and style. Discover 15 iconic …
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Over the decades, muscle cars have been a staple of the American automobile industry, seizing the fantasy of car enthusiasts worldwide. From the rumbling engines of the 1960s to the supercharged beasts of the 21st century, each decade has brought forth a legendary muscle car with its own unique personality and style. Discover 15 iconic American muscle cars that embody the true spirit of power, speed, and prestige.
1940s: 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88
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Before the term “muscle car” was even coined, the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88 laid the foundation for what would come. With its lightweight construction and revolutionary Rocket V8 combination, the Rocket 88 blazed a trail for the muscle cars of future decades, earning its place in automotive history as a true pioneer.
1950s: 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
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The 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air symbolized style and performance during the golden age of American automotive design. While not a traditional muscle car, the Bel Air’s sleek lines and optional V8 engine options, including the legendary “Fuelie” fuel-injected variant, provided ample power, exhilarating acceleration, and an eye-catching design.
1960s: 1969 Dodge Charger R/T
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The 1960s witnessed the rise of the muscle car era, and amidst the fierce competition, one vehicle stood out: the 1969 Dodge Charger R/T. A symbol of American muscle, this beast dominated the streets and the track with its grit. Its most impressive option is the legendary 426 Hemi V8 engine that had fans and critics dumbfounded by its sheer grunt.
1970s: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454
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As the ’70s dawned, muscle cars faced new challenges, but the Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 stood tall as an indicator of uncompromising power. Housing a monstrous 7.4-liter V8 churning up to 450 horsepower, this brute force machine highlighted the essence of muscle car performance during the decade of disco and rebellion.
1980s: 1987 Buick GNX
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Although traditional muscle car production declined in the 1980s, Buick defied the odds with the 1987 Buick GNX. It delivered astonishing acceleration and became the “Grand National on steroids.” With a limited production run and performance figures rivaling the era’s supercars, the GNX reignited interest in American muscle cars.
1990s: 1996 Dodge Viper GTS
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During the 1990s, muscle cars experienced a rebirth of sorts, and the Dodge Viper GTS became an iconic representation of unparalleled performance. Thanks to its impressive powerhouse, the Viper GTS provided breathtaking acceleration and precise handling, revolutionizing what a muscle car could accomplish on the road and the track.
2000s: 2009 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
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As we approached the end of the decade, the 2009 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 made quite an impact with its powerful performance. It pays tribute to the iconic Mustang models of the past while incorporating advanced technology to enhance its performance.
The 2010s: 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
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There was a revival of muscle car popularity in the 2010s, and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat emerged as the undisputed leader. Powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, this car generates an astounding 707 horsepower. The Hellcat redefined the boundaries of production car performance and is considered the ultimate modern muscle machine.
The history of American automobiles is only complete if we mention the ’60s and ’70s when muscle cars were the most common vehicles on the roads. Manufacturers had to develop aggressive designs to complement the powerful engines of these beasts. But sometimes, these vehicles came up with strange designs to stand out in an overcrowded market.
The Bugatti Coupe or the Type 57 Aérolithe
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French automaker Bugatti designed and built this concept car in 1935 to showcase their advanced engineering. It had a shortened Type 57S chassis with a magnesium alloy body, also known as Elektron. This feature made it significantly lighter than other cars of its time. Sadly, the Aérolithe only appeared at a few car shows.
Stout Scarab
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William Bushnell Stout conceived an idea way ahead of its time when aerodynamics wasn’t a thing. The aeronautical engineer built a car with a smooth, teardrop-shaped profile to minimize wind resistance. He also placed the engine at the rear to improve weight distribution and give the driver more visibility. Scarabs are incredibly rare and valuable collector’s items today.
Plymouth Prowler
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The design drew inspiration from classic hot rods and muscle cars of the 1930s, particularly roadsters like the Ford Thunderbird and Chevrolet Corvette. Although it was under the Plymouth brand, they borrowed most of its parts from a Chrysler vehicle. Surprisingly, the Prowler was relatively lightweight due to its aluminum chassis and body panels, contrasting its hefty look.
1934 Voisin C-25 Aerodyne
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French aviation pioneer and car manufacturer Gabriel Voisin designed the C-25 Aerodyne during the Art Deco. He kept the weight down with lightweight aluminum, contributing to its performance and efficiency. He added uncommon features like a pneumatic retractable roof and a radial engine, similar to those used in aircraft. The interior had luxurious amenities like adjustable shock absorbers and Lalique ashtrays.
Lotus Europa
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This distinct GT car was built by British automaker Lotus Cars. The engineers placed its engine behind the driver and passenger compartment before the rear axle. Based on the founder Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplify, then add lightness,” the Europa was built with a lightweight backbone chassis covered in fiberglass body panels. Also, it was one of the first cars with Renault engines, twin-cam technology, and a four-wheel-drive.
1932 Ford Speedster
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The 1932 Speedster is a custom creation commissioned by Edsel Ford, son of Henry Ford and the company’s president. He reportedly drew inspiration from European sports cars he had seen and wanted a sporty vehicle for personal use. After Edsel passed, Ford House bought the car for $770,000 after restoration at an auction.
1966 Rolls Royce FAB 1
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The FAB 1 isn’t an actual Rolls Royce model! This piece was a fictional car featured in the 1960s British television series “Thunderbirds” and its subsequent film adaptations. When Rolls-Royce brought the concept to life to promote the film and convey the author Gerry Anderson and his wife Sylvia to the premiere, the unique six-wheeled car broke down.
1963 Chevrolet Impala RPO Z11
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The “Lightweight” was a high-performance machine with a monstrous 427 cubic inch (7.0 liter) V8 engine. The Z11 also had a high-performance camshaft, dual four-barrel carburetors, and a high compression ratio to produce a whopping 430 HP. These features made it the most rugged and classy muscle car of the 60s. Estimates suggest Chevrolet built around 57 Z11s, making them highly collectible today.
1955 Chrysler Streamline X Gilda
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In 1955, Italian design house Ghia collaborated with Chrysler to build the Streamline X. Since they built it during the “Jet Age,” it had a sleek, low-slung profile with a pointed nose cone and angled lines to reduce wind resistance. However, the “Gilda,” named by Giovanni Savonuzzi after the Rita Hayworth film noir classic, wasn’t intended for production and remained a concept car.
Dodge Coronet Hemi Sedan
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The most surprising aspect of the Coronet Hemi Sedan was its engine. On the outside, it appeared to be a regular family car, lacking the aggressive looks and spoilers of the muscle cars; however, the mighty 426 cubic inch (7.0 liter) Hemi V8 rivaled machines like the Charger and Challenger. Despite its intriguing potential as the fastest four-door in that period, Dodge stopped its production in 1966.
Peel P50
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This fascinating microcar holds the title of the smallest production car ever made, according to the 2010 Guinness World Records. When you ignore safety, function, and practicality so you can squeeze into small parking spaces, you end up designing the Peel P50. This car is only 54 inches (134 centimeters) long and 39 inches (99 centimeters) wide, accommodating only the driver.
Ford Mustang McLaren M81
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The M81 was a fascinating and short-lived collaboration between Ford and McLaren Engines, a subsidiary of the renowned British Formula One team. Unlike most Mustangs that relied on V8 engines, the M81 had a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder engine. According to Ford, the lessons learned from the car’s development and performance testing laid the groundwork for their Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division of the early 1980s.
Vanguard-Sebring CitiCar
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This unique electric car coincided with the 1973 oil crisis, a period of rising fuel costs and growing interest in alternative energy sources. Although it wasn’t the first of its kind, the CitiCar was relatively affordable and practical for consumers who wanted alternatives to gasoline-powered cars. However, sales were low because nobody wanted to ride in a vehicle with minimal safety features.
1953 General Motors Firebird 1 XP-21
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The Firebird 1 ran on a revolutionary gas turbine engine nicknamed “Whirlfire Turbo-Power.” However, fuel efficiency and reliability were major issues as this single-seater expelled exhaust fumes at 1,250 degrees. Today, a miniature version of the car graces the top of the Harley J. Earl Trophy, awarded to the prestigious Daytona 500 stock car race winner.
1970 Ferrari-Pininfarina Modulo
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Paolo Martin’s striking design for Pininfarina made the Modulo look more like a futuristic spaceship than a car. He kept it low to the ground (only 35 inches tall!) to reduce wind resistance and improve handling. Instead of conventional doors, the driver entered through a forward-tilting canopy, much like an aircraft. The Modulo has won 22 design awards since its first appearance at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show.
For most of the 1990s and into the early 2000s, the 360-based 5.9-liter Magnum V8 was the only Chrysler engine that truly kept the spirit of classic Mopar muscle car engines alive. However, that all changed in 2003, when Chrysler resurrected the Hemi name for an all-new 5.7-liter V8 to power that year’s Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks.
Hemi wasn’t just a marketing gimmick for the new engine, either. The new 5.7-liter engine sported hemispherical combustion chambers similar to those of its predecessors, living up to the Hemi name. Other notable features included aluminum cylinder heads and dual spark plugs, akin to some classic Mopar drag-racing engines. This first-generation 5.7-liter Hemi was good for 345 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque in the 2003 Ram truck and would later be the standard engine for the revived Dodge Charger in 2006.
Chrysler upgraded the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 in 2009 to coincide with the resurrection of another classic Mopar name, the Dodge Challenger. Among the upgrades was the introduction of variable valve timing, which significantly improved fuel economy and power. The 2009 version also had tweaked cylinder heads with better airflow, increased compression, and a new engine block. The final result of the changes was a cool 375 horsepower and 404 pound-feet of torque.
While the 5.7-liter Hemi isn’t the most powerful modern Mopar Hemi engine, it’s ground zero for every other modern Hemi V8 since — including monsters like the 6.2-liter Hellcat V8. For that, it deserves a place in the history books.
The Chevrolet Chevelle is one of the best muscle cars of all time, although many refer to it as a traditional sports car. However, this is a vehicle that didn’t last very long on the market despite the degree of notoriety it has amassed over the years. Not only did it compete with the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette, but it still gets mentioned alongside the best years of those cars. Many people feel there needs to be a new version of the Chevy Chevelle, but not as an EV.
The Chevrolet Chevelle is one of the best muscle cars of all time
The Chevrolet Chevelle is one of the most dynamic cars from its era, as some models are among the best sports cars. Chevrolet introduced the now-long-discontinued car in 1964 as an attempt to compete with the Ford Fairlane. Of course, the car was a success in the beginning as it offered a diverse group of body styles. Notably, this is where the Malibu name came from, as it was a trim on the Chevelle.
However, the real star of the show for gearheads was the Chevrolet Chevelle SS. In the beginning, this was the car to get as it came with a V8 instead of the standard six-cylinder engine. For most, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 is the most iconic.
The problem with the Chevelle is that Chevy didn’t keep it in production for very long. According to HH Classic, by 1978, the automaker had decided to decrease its lineup as a way to cut costs, and the Chevrolet Chevelle was a victim. In essence, Chevy replaced it with the more family-friendly Malibu. Notably, sales were down for the Chevelle as fewer people were interested in high-performance cars.
Will there be a new Chevy Chevelle?
There have been rumors for years that Chevrolet will produce a new Chevelle. Notably, TransAm Worldwide has released a version of the car based on the sixth-generation Camaro. However, there has been no official word from Chevy about bringing back the car despite the high demand from those seeking the best modern sports cars.
There have also been talks that the new Chevy Chevelle could be an EV. While EVs are the future, this might be a mistake for what many call one of the best muscle cars. Yes, electric cars are fast and powerful, but if the automaker brought back the Chevelle, it would need to consider what type of buyer has supported the car for all these years on the used market. After all, look at the backlash over the Dodge Charger EV.
Naturally, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to offer a version of a new Chevrolet Chevelle as an EV. However, having this as the only powertrain could be a failure, especially considering how sales for even the Ford Mustang Mach-E are cooling. Still, a new Chevelle could be a real game changer as it’s been so long since there’s been a new one.
KITT represented an AI-equipped, crime-fighting car of the 1980s. However, while KITT was science fiction, AI assistance in your car is a reality today.
You can probably hear the synthy theme music at the mere mention of Knight Rider. But just as memorable as the Knight Rider theme song is the black 1982 Pontiac Trans Am and its on-board artificial intelligence (AI), KITT. However, times have changed. Siri can handle several of the tasks that KITT performed to aid David Hasselhoff in his crusade for justice.
Years later, KITT from Knight Rider might just be David Hasselhoff’s first glimpse of Siri
The “Knight 2000 Microprocessor,” or the AI brain behind the 1982 Pontiac Trans Am in Knight Rider could do all sorts of crazy things for its driver, or “Knight.” Upon David Hasselhoff’s demand, KITT could use electronic jamming architecture to disable hostile vehicles. Beyond countermeasures, the intelligent muscle car had a turbo boost facility which would allow the car to vault through the air, per Volo Cars.
However, artificial intelligence isn’t science fiction like it was in the 1980s. Today, car drivers can use Amazon Alexa or Siri in hundreds of different models, from the now-discontinued Chrysler 300 to a 2023 Indian Chieftain touring motorcycle. Better yet, the AI-equipped digital assistants will do everything from finding you the next available gas station to prioritizing your favorite playlist.
A KITT replica’s interior | Herencias via iStock
OK, there are a few things KITT could do that you won’t accomplish with Siri or Amazon Alexa. You’re not going to get anywhere asking Siri to use on-board flamethrowers or flares. That, and Amazon Alexa probably isn’t going to allow you to use a grappling hook in your 2023 Chevrolet Corvette. However, you could tell Siri to call you Michael Knight. I’m just saying.
“I can’t believe this. A car that talks back to me.” Thus began the relationship between David Hasselhoff and his sentient 80s muscle car. Check out the clip below to get a glimpse at the first time Hasselhoff hit the streets with KITT in Knight Rider.
What’s more American than a Ford Mustang? It would have to be a convertible Mustang. What’s more for ‘Stang fanatics, the 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible starts the pony car’s seventh generation with an EcoBoost and GT variant. So, how much is a fully loaded drop-top Mustang?
Which 2024 Mustang models are available as a convertible?
The 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible is available in the EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, and GT Premium trims. However, enthusiasts who want a manual Mustang EcoBoost with a drop top are out of luck; Ford dropped the row-your-own option for the EcoBoost in 2024.
Further, Ford hasn’t indicated that the standard GT will offer a convertible top as of this writing. That’s a shame for fans who want a budget-friendly V8-powered Mustang; the GT Premium Convertible starts at $10,025 more than the GT Fastback.
How much will the 2024 Mustang convertible cost?
Unfortunately for shoppers with their eyes on a 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible, every drop-top adds to the base price, especially on the base-model EcoBoost.
Convertible trim
Starting price
EcoBoost Convertible
$39,020
EcoBoost Premium Convertible
$41,945
GT Premium Convertible
$52,515
The EcoBoost Convertible on the seventh-gen platform adds around $8,100 to the base model, a staggering ask. Furthermore, the EcoBoost Premium and GT Premium Convertibles demand an additional $5,500 over the EcoBoost Premium and the GT Premium Fastbacks, per Hagerty.
Not only does every Mustang trim get a price bump for 2024, but upgrading to a drop-top costs more for each available trim. The swollen price tags also reveal that the most affordable V8 Mustang with a convertible top now demands over $50,000. What’s more, a fully loaded GT Premium Convertible can swell the model’s pricing with options like the $1,595 10-speed automatic transmission. As a result, a fully loaded GT Convertible could cost over $70,000.
What is the difference between the 2024 and 2023 Mustang?
The 2024 Ford Mustang gets a new lease on life for the next generation. In addition to fascia updates like squinted, tri-bar headlights, the Mustang gets a more prominent maw and aggressive creased rear-end styling. Additionally, the Mustang’s interior receives a welcomed update with larger infotainment and digital display screens.
Moreover, the new Mustang gets a power bump, producing as much as 486 horsepower in the GT and 500 ponies in the all-new Dark Horse.
Will the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse come in a convertible?
Like the 2023 Mach 1, the range-topping 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium will not be available as a convertible. Instead, both track-ready models will be hardtop coupes only.
Still, the omission of a drop-top makes sense; the added rigidity of a coupe promises to handle track work better than a convertible.
The 1969 AMC SC/Rambler: A Milestone in Muscle Car History
At the halfway mark of our Top 10 Muscle Cars series, the 1969 AMC SC/Rambler proudly secures the fifth position. This remarkable vehicle not only stands out for its distinctive design but also for its influential role in the muscle car era. AMC’s leap into the muscle car domain, despite their initial hesitations, was a game-changer that significantly altered their market trajectory and left a memorable imprint on automotive history.
AMC’s Unexpected Gambit
AMC’s entry into the muscle car market was a surprising twist, given their earlier reluctance to join the trend. The SC/Rambler, known for its lightweight yet robust performance, marked a strategic shift for the company. While risky, this bold move ultimately proved essential for AMC’s broader success in the automotive world, showcasing their ability to compete fiercely in a rapidly evolving market.
Top 10 Muscle Cars of All Time
1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 – Esteemed for its superb handling and robust V8 engine, the Camaro Z/28 exemplifies the perfect blend of speed and precision, setting a high benchmark for muscle cars.
1970 Dodge Challenger R/T – Featuring a striking design and powerful Hemi engine, the Challenger R/T is an iconic figure from the muscle car era, celebrated for its raw power and exhilarating performance.
1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 – Equipped with a high-performance 429-cubic-inch V8, the Boss 429 Mustang is revered for its speed and resilience, cementing its status as one of the era’s most celebrated muscle cars.
1970 Pontiac GTO Judge – The GTO Judge stands out with its daring design and remarkable performance, making it a highlight of Pontiac’s muscle car offerings with its potent engine and distinctive features.
1969 AMC SC/Rambler – Despite AMC’s initial reluctance, the SC/Rambler made a significant mark with its lightweight construction and impressive performance, demonstrating AMC’s newfound prowess in the muscle car segment.
1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda – Known for its powerful Hemi engine and aggressive styling, the Hemi Cuda is a legendary model in muscle car history, admired for its outstanding power and commanding presence.
1968 Chevrolet Corvette L88 – The L88 Corvette is celebrated for its racing legacy and exceptional performance, boasting a high-output engine that pushed the limits of muscle car engineering.
1970 Buick GSX – With its powerful engine and notable torque, the GSX stands out in Buick’s muscle car lineup, offering a blend of performance and luxury that set it apart from its peers.
1966 Shelby GT350 – The Shelby GT350 is renowned for its lightweight build and racing heritage, making it one of the most influential and iconic muscle cars of its time.
1970 Oldsmobile 442 W-30 – Recognized for its robust performance and unique styling, the 442 W-30 exemplifies Oldsmobile’s commitment to the muscle car tradition with its powerful engine and advanced features.
These remarkable muscle cars, including the 1969 AMC SC/Rambler, each contributed uniquely to the evolution of automotive performance, reflecting a diverse range of innovations and design achievements.
