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We have been talking about muscle cars lately on this blog –from the best of all time, the most reliable, to muscle car brands.
But today, we’re doing something a bit different. We recommend the best muscle cars for the money —cars that fulfill your dreams of pure power and functionality yet fit the bill.
The days of the 1964 Pontiac GTO are long gone. With updated technology, upgraded interiors, and many options, today’s muscle cars are better than ever.
And you’re forced to choose between classic and new models. But don’t worry; we have compiled a list of favorite muscle cars among all fans.
Some of the best muscle cars for the money we’ll be talking about are Dodge Challenger R/T, Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger SXT, Chevrolet Camaro SS, Ford Mustang GT, Dodge Challenger SXT, and many more.
Top 10 Best Muscle Cars For The Money
1. Dodge Challenger R/T
The first we have on our list is the Dodge challenger R/T —a beast with a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine that jets about 372 or 375 horsepower depending on whether you opt for the automatic transmission or six-speed manual.
This is a typical example of what a classic muscle car performance is.
Dodge Challenger R/T is a classic muscle car because it was first introduced in 1970 and has sat prevalently as one of the best-selling muscle cars ever since.
Although, it has been redesigned with modern updates to make it even better than ever.
The classic model has upgraded suspension and tires, but it also comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. This makes for a fun driving experience that is both smooth and powerful.
Inside the Dodge Challenger R/T, the seats, doors, and armrests are luxuriously padded for a commuting standard of comfort.
Sound-deadening materials ensure that your engine’s roar is muffled, so you can listen to the music pumping through six speakers without turning up the volume.
Other standard features are:
- The seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity from 2018 models and newer
- Power driver’s seat
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Fog lights and many more
2. Dodge Charger RT Scat Pack
The all-new Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack is a true-performance car built for the thrill of driving.
It’s got all the best of both the past and the future.
The car’s design is based on the Challenger, which was also designed to be an aggressive, powerful vehicle that would turn heads.
It has a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces up to 707 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3 seconds!
The Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack is one of the most popular muscle cars on the market today. It has been in production since 1968 and has won many awards for its speed, handling, and design.
Think you’ve seen it all?
Try the 2017–2021 Dodge Charger instead!
It looks like a sedan—but don’t let that fool you. Just give the accelerator pedal a tap, and it will become clear why this car suits sporting activities well.
Available in shades like Green Go, Yellow Jacket, and Contusion Blue, a new Dodge Charger from 2017–2021 is perfect if you want a spacious back seat but don’t want to sacrifice any power.
3. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is a classic muscle car with a long history of great performance. The original model was introduced in 1964 and has evolved ever since.
The high torque and power of the Mustang help make it an efficient car, even when driven hard. It’s also easy to drive on the road thanks to its smooth acceleration and responsive steering.
And with a strong front bumper and rear fenders, you can safely drive this classic car into any situation—even if you’re going up against heavy traffic on a crowded highway!
But the iconic design is what makes it so recognizable.
Great strides have been made in the development of Mustang engines. The roar that accompanies a V8 engine is only one option among many, ranging from the standard six-cylinder to a turbocharged four-cylinder and everything in between.
Although depending on which powerplant you choose, your mileage could vary wildly.
4. Dodge Charger RT
The Dodge Charger R/T muscle car is one of the most popular vehicles on the market. It’s a powerful, high-performance car that can fit into any budget and will put a smile on your face whenever you get behind the wheel.
The Charger R/T is powered by 5.7L Hemi® V8 that cranks out 370 hp. And with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic transmission eight-speed automatic transmission, the Dodge gives you more control and fun while driving due to its paddle shifters.
In addition, the exterior design of this vehicle is one that everyone will enjoy viewing as it features many attractive features such as chrome accents throughout its bodywork, bright colors, and dual exhaust tips located at each rear wheel arch!
5. Dodge Charger SXT
Torque is king, and the Dodge Charger SXT muscle car is no exception.
The 2017–2021 Dodge Charger’s SXT model boasts many features and options that will appeal to car lovers.
It is a rear-wheel drive vehicle with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which can be equipped with standard or optional all-wheel drive.
Meanwhile, the standard engine is the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine that produces 292 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft of torque.
On the other hand, the optional engines are the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine that produces 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft of torque, or the 6.4L SRT HEMI Hellcat V8 engine that produces 707 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft of torque!
6. Dodge Challenger SXT
The Dodge Challenger SXT muscle car is a unique and powerful machine.
It has a sporty feel with an 8-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and a torque of 375 lb-ft, which is the perfect amount for a sports car.
The base model 2017–2021 Dodge Challenger SXT delivers the goods with a stout 305-hp V6 and a sprightly eight-speed automatic transmission.
The interior is similarly functional and well-designed, with enough room and an adjustable steering wheel.
Additionally, the seats are made of soft, luxurious fabric that hugs you and makes driving more enjoyable.
7. Chevrolet Camaro SS
The Chevrolet Camaro SS is a muscle car that is an iconic symbol of American power.
From 2017 to 2021 Camaro SS was the most powerful model, with a rumbling 6.2L V8 engine that delivers 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque.
It can reach a top speed of 163 miles per hour, and it takes only 4.66 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h with the standard six-speed manual transmission.
The car has a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters on the steering wheel, making driving easier in traffic jams or when you need to accelerate quickly out of a tight spot.
The 2018 Camaro SS is available in five colors: Summit White, Black, Red Hot, Blue Velvet Metallic, and Nightfall Gray Metallic.
Aside from that, it also has 20-inch aluminum wheels with black pockets. It also has LED headlights and taillights with signature halo rings around them for improved visibility at night or in bad weather conditions.
8. Ford Mustang GT
Another formidable machine from Ford —the Mustang GT, is one of the most powerful cars in the world, and its popularity continues to grow year after year.
The current iteration of this classic American icon has been tested and retested. It is no surprise that it is one of the most popular cars on the road today.
With its iconic styling and an engine that can easily reach speeds of more than 200 miles per hour, it is easy to see why so many people are attracted to this vehicle.
The 2017–2021 Ford Mustang GT is powered by a jaw-dropping 5.0L V8 and should be on every eight-cylinder fan’s wish list.
Both models get a respectable 435 hp, and the 2018 version—thanks to an engine upgrade from 460hp to 550 horsepower—is simply incredible.
9. Ford Mustang EcoBoost
It’s easy to forget that the Ford Mustang is one of America’s iconic cars that has been around since the dawn of the ’60s. And it’s only grown in popularity since then.
The EcoBoost is a premium version of the Mustang that offers an impressive combination of power, performance, and fuel efficiency.
With its turbocharged four-cylinder/ V8 engine under the hood, this model can hit 60 mph in less than five seconds and get up to an impressive 93 miles per gallon on the highway!
It’s taking the market by storm.
It also has a sleek design that looks ready for anything, and it’s got a safety rating of five out of five stars.
10. Chevrolet Camaro LT
The Chevrolet Camaro LT is a perfect combination of performance and style. It’s a powerful car built for speed, but it also looks flashy.
It is an enhanced version of the popular Chevrolet Camaro and the first to offer a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
The car is available in six colors: Black, Summit White, Red Hot, Silver Ice Metallic, Blue Velvet Metallic, and Nightfall Gray Metallic.
More importantly, it has a specially tuned suspension that provides superior handling and agility on the road. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers up to 275 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque for an exhilarating driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The King Of Muscle Cars?
The king of muscle cars is the classic Dodge Challenger.
It’s not just a great car; it’s a dream come true for any gearhead who loves muscle cars. The Dodge Challenger outperformed even the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.
But it did more than just win competitions: it was also one of the first “muscle cars” to break into the mainstream.
The Dodge Challenger is an incredibly fast car that could go from 0-60 in 5 seconds and hit a top speed of 140 miles per hour. It had all the right ingredients for success: a powerful engine, lightweight body, and comfortable interior layout that made it easy to drive fast.
The most important thing about this car is how much fun it is to drive—there’s nothing like being able to lean into corners and feel like you’re controlling the vehicle instead of its controlling you!
What Is The Coolest Muscle Car?
Muscle cars are cool.
They’re fast and loud and have an aggressiveness that screams, “I’m here to kick some ass.” But if you want the coolest among all, here are our top picks:
- 1964 Pontiac GTO
- 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454
- 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird
- 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28
- 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88
- 1965 Shelby Mustang GT-350
- 1968 Chevrolet Corvette L88
- 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt
What Are The Absolute Worst Muscle Cars Ever Made?
In the world of muscle cars, there are some that you’ll always remember. But some are so bad; you’ll be glad you never had to drive them.
Here are some models that stand out as being truly awful:
- 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass
- 1981 Mercury Capri
- 1975 Chevrolet Camaro
- 1986 Pontiac Grand Prix 2+2
- 1976 Ford Gran Torino
- 1978 Oldsmobile 4-4-2
- 1974 Pontiac GTO
- 1974 Ford Mustang King Cobra
What Is America’s Favorite Muscle Car?
The world has gone bonkers for muscle cars.
Since their introduction in early 1949, they have been a beacon of American ingenuity and ingenuity. They are fast, loud, and sexy and can be had for less than $25,000.
But when it comes to American favorites, We got thousands of responses. But we ultimately narrowed it down to ten models, namely:
- AMC AMX
- Buick GNX
- Oldsmobile 442
- Plymouth Roadrunner
- Pontiac GTO
- Dodge Charger
- Dodge Challenger
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Ford Mustang
Conclusion
So, which muscle cars rank as the best for the money? The ones with horsepower and torque to spare?
Despite a price tag on some models that dips below $30,000, they all have serious performance under the hood. Turn on the ignition, and you could be moving at over 80 mph before you know it.
I’d say the Mustang speaks to you more than the Camaro, or maybe the Corvette is more in line with what you want in a car.
Regardless of your decision, looking at these amazing machines and seeing how many of them you can check off your list as potential buys should be fun.