Muscle cars. American Muscle. They don’t make sense, but car enthusiasts long for them like moths drawn to a candle. What does it really mean? And why do people like them?
Muscle Cars, which are mostly American, are mostly two-door, or four-door cars which are sporty, and come with huge engines (V-8 engines) and are mostly rear-wheel drive, designed for spirited driving. They are not necessarily the best handling cars, most of them handle like boats. But they are designed for straight-line speed, a loud, guttural, and deep exhaust note and an exhilarating experience. Americans started this trend, with their large cars, with larger engines, rear-wheel drive, and dollops of torque, made them visceral and one-of-a-kind. The 1960s and 1970s birthed the American muscle car scene, a beloved American pastime for those who enjoy learning about the different car specs and a hobby for collectors who can afford it. This era of power created some of the rarest and most iconic muscle cars packing giant torque-rich V8s the world has ever seen. But what is the difference between a muscle car and a conventional sports car? A muscle car is made for straight line speed, drag racing and highway-cruising, whereas a sports car is designed to go fast not only on a straight line, but also in the corners and can handle really well on a track.
So, what are my favorites?
1. 1965 Ford Mustang-I love the earlier first gen mustangs for that iconic look, and also their Shelby GT350 and GT500 versions for starting the muscle car craze. The iconic American look, a big V-8, and a manual gearbox, and rear-wheel drive. The formula of plonking a big V-8 engine in a small car just made this car a sales success. This never gets old, does it?
2. Pontiac GTO-Another car responsible for starting the muscle car craze, thanks to Mr. Delorean, a small car with a big engine, the GTO was also a sales success and an icon. I am talking of course, about the first generation 1964 GTO. It just has so much character and looks so 60s. a V-8, rear-wheel drive, and manual transmission, makes it irresistible.
3. Dodge Charger/Daytona- The Dodge Charger, the 1970, is indeed my favorite, because of Vin Diesel, and Fast and Furious, but also because of the Hemi V-8, multiple engine options, iconic looks, and the black color. I also like the Daytona, which dominated NASCAR so much, it was banned. It is unique because of it’s amazing aerodynamics which helped it easily cross 200 mph, the first NASCAR car to achieve this feat.
4. Dodge Demon-This modern muscle car is known for being a champion in drag-racing. It is purpose-built from factory to dominate drag racing and it set some records. I love the whine the supercharger makes and it’s impressive performance, which caused it’s ban at one point in drag racing. Also, the distinct Challenger looks.
5. Chevrolet Impala and Chevelle SS-I just love these two for their timeless looks and the traditional Chevy V-8s they get. Nothing gets more muscle car than these two.
So, here goes. I would love to know your opinions on muscle cars and their relevance. Which ones do you like?
