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Micah Dean Pilkey

What are the Defining Features of American Classic Muscle Car?

Updated: Mar 12, 2022

The American Classic Muscle Car is an automobile that is characterized by a powerful engine, rear-wheel drive, and a sporty design,


When people think of American autos, the classic American muscle car is usually the first thing that comes to mind. By definition, a classic American muscle car is an automobile characterized by a powerful engine, rear-wheel drive and a sporty design that stands the test of time.



It was one of the most popular cars in America from the 1960s to 1990s due to its affordability and high performance.


Muscle cars were some of the most popular models offered by American manufacturers from the 1960s through the 1990s due to their combination of affordability and high performance.


Today, however, the term refers to any large American V-8 RWD car with a relatively low sticker price. Muscle cars typically have performance engines with high horsepower ratings - and can either be a two or four-door model today (like the modern-day Dodge Charger).


The first muscle car was made in 1950 by Oldsmobile, but it was not until 1964 that the term was widely used. Chrysler then came out with their new line of Dodge and Plymouth and named them “muscle cars” since they were more powerful than previous models.


The very first muscle car was made in 1950 by Oldsmobile, but it wasn’t until 1964 that the term became more widely applied. Chrysler made muscle cars a staple of popular culture with the release of their Dodge and Plymouth lines - which were known for being much more powerful than previous vehicles released by the brand.


Larger Sized Classic High-Performance Vehicles


The actual term “muscle car” originates from American drag racing culture, but today, it’s mostly used to refer to larger-sized, high performance vehicles that aren’t SUVs.



Every few years, it seems as if the Auto industry remembers why Americans love muscle cars so much and attempts to capitalize on this passion with new models and higher levels of performance. This has been happening since the 1960s, when Ford introduced the first Mustang and Chevrolet released the classic Camaro


In addition to power and performance, what makes muscle cars so popular are their breathtaking and timeless designs. Here are just a few of the most sought-after muscle cars you can find.


Some of the Most Sought After Classic Muscle Cars


  • Dodge Charger Daytona.

  • Plymouth Superbird.

  • Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

  • Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

  • Plymouth Hemi Cuda.

  • Shelby Cobra.

  • Dodge Charger R/T.

  • Dodge Challenger R/T.


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