Who hasn’t seen at least one of the movies from The Fast and the Furious saga? And who hasn’t been swayed by the cool, car-savvy characters with their even cooler iconic cars?
For whatever it’s worth, the automotive industry was undoubtedly influenced. From the moment the first film was released in 2001, the demand for sports cars and muscle cars has risen. Even now, nearly 20 years on, the legacy of high-speed chases in sleek, high-performance automobiles holds a considerable amount of attraction.
What makes muscle cars so captivating?
Going from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a matter of seconds is probably what gives your head the initial spin.
But generally speaking, a muscle car can be used to describe a variety of powerful, high-performance vehicles. However, the qualities that define a muscle car are often a topic of much debate.
Some common features include:
- A large, oversized V8 engine to provide a powerful configuration for a particular model.
- Rear-wheel drive
- A relatively lightweight body, possibly a two-door model
- Designed for straight-line drag racing but remain legal for driving on the streets
- Muscle cars totally worth buying
There are a number of classic and modern muscle cars available in the market. While the classics are older, perfectly-manufactured masterpieces, the newer ones are sportier and more modernly furnished. But whether old or new, muscle cars are collector's items for enthusiasts all over the world.
Finding perfect muscle car models is nothing short of a treasure hunt. Yet dealers such as Hippo Prestige Cars are making this feat as simple and straightforward as possible.
In no particular order, here are some of the best muscle cars on the market that you should be aware of:
1. Ninth-Gen Thunderbirds
Millennials won’t be able to relate to this beauty, as they were manufactured between 1982 and 1988. In that era, they were the coolest models out there. These performance machines were all about speed.
The Thunderbird models included the standard 3.8 liter V-6, the Turbo Coupe that remained true to its name with a turbo-packed V-4 engine, and a 5.0 liter V-8. While most were automatics, some T-5 manuals can still be found.
2. Chrysler 300 SRT8
Even though the 300 is a full size, four-door automobile, it falls into this category. Like all muscle cars, this one also starts with a roar and boasts of a powerful, big engine. But even after its 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine settles down, you can still feel the immense power in its silent shiver.
Recent model upgrades include adaptive cruise control, Garmin navigation, and an active suspension. But it’s the bold exterior styling of the Chrysler models that is helping to seal the deal.
3. Dodge Challenger R/T
Dodge Challenger R/T is the perfect car for those in search of a retro-styled vehicle backed with a modern touch. With its double-bulge hood with functional vents, it has the unmistakable appeal of the 60s and 70s.
This two-door coupe has the complete package, from sinister speed to uncompromising power. So whether you select an automatic or manual transmission, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable sports-car experience.
4. Ford Mustang Boss 429
Also known as Boss 9, this automobile is a variant of the Ford Mustang. Ford initially built it in 1969-70, who, at the time, was seeking to develop an engine to compete better in NASCAR. Even today, with its potent V8 giving an impressive 375 horsepower (possibly more), the Boss 429 continues to be recognized as one of the rarest and highly valued muscle cars to date.
5. Chevy Monza
The Chevy Monza is another rare muscle car, designed and developed from 1975 to 1980. But Chevrolet only made around 700,000 Monzas, so there’s a limited supply out there. Not only are they difficult to find but expensive to buy as well.
But no matter the age, this muscle car was born with fatal looks, and it still remains a hot item today. And the 4.3-liter and 5.7-liter V4 or V8 engine meant it just sipped gas.
6. Chevrolet Camaro
As one of America’s trendsetting vehicles, this model has shaped the features we demand from sports cars today. And like other muscle cars, it symbolizes freedom, potential, and power. The first generation of Camaro debuted in September 1966 and continued to be released till 1969.
Each successive generation proved to be as impressive as the next. They all offer high performance and exceptionally good looks, mostly available for a reasonable price. However, some special models are historically more significant than others. For example, now an extremely rare model, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, can be purchased in some places as a collector’s item for almost $100,000!
7. Shelby Cobra CSX2000
The Shelby Cobra came along in 1962. Though nearly 60 years into its making, the Shelby Cobra CSX2000 was the very first Shelby Cobra to be ever assembled. It clocked an astonishing 4.2-second for 0–60 mph, with top speeds of 153 mph.
Over the years, the Shelby Cobra CSX2000 exhibited a long history of reputation. Known for its magical combination of a Ford V8 in an AC Ace, it created an automobile with a bold style and aggressive performance that continues to live on as an iconic muscle car even today.
8. Zenvo ST1
To finish off this list, let’s bring a reasonably new name that’s been circulating in the market. Not many have heard of it, probably because in over a decade, Zenvo has built exactly 11 cars. And it isn’t entirely clear whether Zenvo ST1 is classified as a hyper luxury car or a muscle car. But whatever the case, this automobile is currently one of the most expensive muscle cars in production.
Packed with a supercharged V8 engine under the hood, it brings along a breathtaking 1140 horsepower and top speeds of 156 mph. But with newer Zenvo models already in the making, these numbers are expected only to improve, not to mention its price as well.
Final thoughts
So you’ve fallen in love with one of the most glamorous cars out there. Welcome to the muscle car club. These rare and expensive models are going to need more than the usual TLC than ordinary cars typically require.
Though they come with a hefty price tag, the pride and joy associated with their experience are enough to make the purchase worthwhile. But everything aside, owning one of these powerful beauties is just as hard to pass off.
And since this dream of yours has come true, there’s no harm in dreaming about how your muscle car might wind up in the next Fast and Furious franchise!
