With this performance, the Mustang could complete a quarter-mile run in 13.9 seconds and reach a 103-mph top speed. Back in the day, that would have been impressive. However, modern mustangs can produce more power even without the need for superchargers. A good example is the $36,285 Mustang GT Fastback with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 450 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque.
6 1970 Chevelle SS454
Besides the Plymouth Hemi Cuda, the SS454 was another vehicle that checked off all muscle car requirements in the early 70s. This beast was a lethal threat with its powerplant, capable of 450 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. Its performance helped translate most of the raw energy into remarkable road performance.
The Chevelle’s 453 cubic inch engine managed a 0 to 60 sprint of 6.1 seconds, a laudable achievement in the 70s. It also managed a 13.7-second quarter-mile sprint and a top speed of 142 mph. Even though most modern muscles don’t have the same charisma, they can easily outperform the Chevelle.
5 1963 Dodge Ram Charger
The Ram Charger had an understated look that made it the best candidate for a V8 engine, capable of producing 415 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. These impressive figures helped get the Charger to a 126-mph top speed and a 13.8 seconds quarter mile time.
Nowadays, the Charger is a four-door sedan capable of thrashing most classic muscle cars. One of the fastest mass-produced offerings is the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody. At its core is a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque.
4 1966 Chevrolet Corvette 427
The 1965 Corvette featured a 427 cubic inch engine capable of producing 425 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. This was an upgrade from the previous 396 cubic inch engine in the 1964 models. The new engine was lighter and allowed the Corvette to manage a 13.4 seconds quarter-mile run.
The Corvette had a 105-mph top speed, slightly slower than most modern cars. Compared with modern Corvettes, this 1966 model wouldn’t manage to keep up. The modern iterations pump out 495 hp from a thumping LT2 V8. This helps rocket the car to an 11.2-second quarter-mile run.
3 1962 Shelby Cobra 427
The Cobra defined a performance era and is amongst the most loved muscle cars today. In its time, it had outstanding performance, managing 4.1 seconds 0 to 60 mph time and 12.2 seconds quarter mile time. It had a top speed of 160 mph, allowing it to keep up with some modern vehicles.
Besides its power, the Cobra has beautiful classic looks and is recognizable just about anywhere. Its timeless proportions make it a great investment and a thrill to drive. However, it lacks the dedication and innovations of modern performance cars that are more powerful and dynamic.
2 1967 Chevrolet L88 Corvette Stingray Convertible
Classic Corvette values have been appreciating, with one L88 Stingray Convertible selling at $3.2 million at Mecum auction. For the price, you would get a capable V8 producing 430 hp that can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
The Stingray was also capable of 11.2 seconds quarter-mile time and a 151-mph top speed. All that is good performance for a classic muscle car. However, for the same amount of money, the Stingray would be defeated by modern performance cars like the Ferrari Daytona SP3 with its naturally aspirated V12 engine producing 828 hp, capable of accelerating it from 0 to 62 mph in 2.85 seconds.
1 1965 Plymouth Belvedere
The Belvedere became famous for its performance as a police car. Therefore, it needed to be fast, strong and durable. It had a V8 engine generating 415 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. This made it one of the fastest classic muscle cars with a 12.69 second quarter mile time.
However, despite its impressive performance, the Belvedere can’t keep up with the current performance muscle cars. For example, the Shelby Mustang Super Snake features a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 producing 825 hp. This translates to a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.5 seconds.
