During the 60s and 70s, American automakers introduced the muscle car to their lineups. The powerful machines quickly grew in popularity. Many of the models are still in production today or have been reintroduced.
1) Mustang Shelby GT350
The Shelby was first introduced in 1965. But, one year later, Shelby opted to replace some of the vehicle’s high-performance features in an attempt to cut costs. However, the manufacturer offered a Paxton supercharger option that was said to boost the engine’s output by 46 percent. Many new owners felt the addition to expensive and only 12 were sold. As of 1967, larger engines became standard. Interestingly enough, the tail lights of the ’67 models came from the Mercury Cougar and the lights on the ’68 models came from the Ford Thunderbird.
2) GT Corvette
In 1968, Joel Rosen was determined to build a newer, faster American GT sports car. Phase III was awe-inspiring. The vehicle boasted 600 horsepower from a choice of the 427 or a 454 big block eight-cylinder engine. When Zora Arkus-Duntov, father of the renowned Corvette, learned of the plan, some feared he might disapprove. However, when viewing the vehicle at the 1969 International Auto Show in New York, the engineer gave his blessing. But, a mere 12 vehicles were manufactured.
3) Pontiac Catalina
Many credit the Pontiac GTO with being the original muscle car. But, in 1964, the manufacturer equipped the larger Catalina with a 421 eight-cylinder engine that delivered up to 338 horsepower. The 2+2 model was considered a beast for its time. New owners also had the option of adding more power and performance by upgrading the engine to the 421 H.O. for 376 horsepower. The car also featured a sturdier suspension, bucket seats and a Hurst shifter along with unique badging.
4) Chevy Chevelle
The Chevelle SS first made an appearance in the late 60s. However, by 1970, Chevy opted to beef up the mid-sized car by adding the 454 eight-cylinder engine to create the LS6. The powertrain was said to deliver up to 450 horsepower. But, testing revealed that the real output was closer to 500 horsepower. The engine was larger than what came as standard in the Corvette during the same year.