The early 2000s marked a remarkable resurgence of American muscle cars, blending the unmistakable attitude of classic designs with cutting-edge engineering.
Automakers tapped into nostalgia, reviving legendary nameplates and infusing them with modern performance, reliability, and safety.
This era saw Detroit’s icons return to the streets with bold styling, throaty exhausts, and high-output engines—delighting enthusiasts old and new.
As years pass, a select group of these machines is rapidly gaining collector status.
Let’s explore 15 early 2000s muscle cars that are destined to become tomorrow’s most coveted classics.
When Ford introduced its 1963 full-size models, hardtops featured a Thunderbird-inspired roofline. If you wanted the ultimate in performance, your only choice was the carry-over 406, available in 385- and 405-horse flavors (four-barrel and tri-carb, respectively). However, mid-year 1963, Ford introduced the Sports Hardtop body style, which featured a sleeker look—perfect for NASCAR. At the time, Ford also introduced an upgrade to the 406, now measuring 427ci. With 410 or 425 horsepower (four-barrel or dual-quads), the 427 was the engine that truly created a Ford legend through six model years and plenty of racing wins—most notably Le Mans. Our AutoHunter Spotlight is on this 1963½ Ford Galaxie 500/XL Sports Hardtop that features the “R-code” 427 with four-speed manual, nine-inch rear with limited-slip, aftermarket mags, and more. Finished in red over white vinyl interior, this early muscle car comes from the selling dealer with a clear title.
This car was originally painted in Rose Beige but, along the way, it was repainted red. Exterior features include a driver-side chrome mirror and a set of 15-inch mag wheels with spinners wrapped in staggered-width Michelin radials—225/70 (front) and 255/65 (rear).
The original White and Rose Beige interior has been replaced with White with Black components. Being an XL, bucket seats and console were the name of the game. A Hurst shifter, AM/FM radio (currently inoperable), and clock are several interior features.
The instrument panel includes a 120-mph speedometer and gauges for the temperature and fuel. A column-mounted 8,000-rpm tachometer (currently inoperable) sits right in the line of sight. The odometer shows 30,967 miles, though the mileage is not indicated on the title.
The engine is an authentic dual-quad 427 as evidenced by the code “R” in the VIN. It is backed by a Borg-Warner T-10 four-speed manual transmission.
The undercarriage features a tough nine-inch rear with 3.00 gears plus limited slip, though the originals were 4.11s. Drum brakes are at all four corners. And, of course, for an engine of this caliber, there is a dual exhaust system.
Early Ford muscle cars have a distinction that few can match: as much horsepower as any American brand, and good looks that rival any mainstream vehicle of the period. Add the stylish interior that was part of the XL trim level and this R-code 1963½ Galaxie 500/XL Sports Hardtop stands tall among 1960s American cars. Plus, if you look up what it would look like with the original hue and interior, you’ll realize what a pretty car this is. Curious? Keep tabs on this car by plugging the end date on your smart phone because you don’t want to miss the auction deadline of Friday, June 13, 2025, at 12:45 p.m. (PDT).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
It’s been more than 20 years since Cadillac unveiled the CTS-V, the first model in its high-performance V sub-brand, showing the world that it could produce vehicles beyond cushy sedans for octogenarians to drive slowly to the grocery store. Since then, Cadillac has made V versions of coupes, four-doors, wagons, and even the Escalade. It’s done the same with its electric vehicles, the newest of which is the 2026 Optiq-V.
To differentiate the Optiq-V from its tamer Optiq sibling, Cadillac gave it a different front fascia with V-pattern mesh in the lower grill, a glossy black front splitter, body-color lower trim, and a glossy black rear diffuser. The standard 21-inch wheels have a satin graphite finish and come wrapped in all-season or optional summer performance tires; polished and painted 21s with a dark finish are also available. For a more aggressive look, there’s a carbon fiber package that includes a front splitter, rear diffuser, and rear mid-spoiler made out of the lightweight material.
Two limited-edition exterior colors join the palette of paint choices: Magnus Metal Frost and Deep Ocean Tintcoat. There’s more blue on the rear quarter windows, which feature blue accents inspired by the V-Series badge. If that’s not enough, royal blue brake calipers are an option. No matter which color the Optiq-V wears, it comes with Brembo front calipers and a black roof with a panoramic fixed glass panel. Most importantly, all Optiq-Vs are equipped with an NACS (North American Charging Standard) charging port—a first for a General Motors vehicle.
There are two available interior color schemes: Noir and Noir/Sky Cool Gray, both of which have blue accents. Technically, they’re Santorini Blue, which Cadillac says, “evokes the energy, action, and excitement associated with innovation and high performance.” You can even step things up to Santorini Blue seatback panels and matching seatbelts. If for some reason you don’t feel like driving, you can let the standard Super Cruise system do it for you and watch it take you closer to your destination on the 33-inch LED infotainment display while you enjoy the sound of the 19-speaker AKG Studio Audio System.
Like the regular Optiq, the V-Series model is equipped with an 85-kilowatt-hour battery pack connected to dual-motor all-wheel drive. Range is down from 302 to 275 miles, but output is way up from 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque to 519 and 650, respectively. The Optiq-V’s Velocity Max mode unleashes the full potential of all that power. Launch Control focuses it on straight-forward acceleration, enabling the Optiq-V to reach 60 mph in only 3.5 seconds—0.4 seconds ahead of the CT4-V Blackwing with the six-speed stick (and only a tenth behind the 682-horsepower CT5-V Blackwing with the same gearbox).
The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V will go into production this fall and carry a starting price of $68,795. When will it be drag-raced against a gas V-Series vehicle? Probably shortly after it hits the streets.
For decades, the sports car world revered the manual transmission—its tactile feel and driver engagement were unmatched.
However, automatic transmissions have evolved dramatically, boasting rapid shifts, advanced technology, and performance that often eclipses their manual counterparts.
Today, some of the most thrilling sports cars offer automatics that deliver not just convenience, but superior speed, precision, and efficiency.
In this article, we explore 15 standout sports cars where the automatic transmission doesn’t just compete—it dominates the driving experience.
The automotive world of the 1980s and 1990s was defined by a dynamic rivalry between American muscle and Japanese precision.
As Detroit’s automakers showcased powerful engines, bold designs, and a proud heritage, Japan’s auto industry responded with innovation, quality engineering, and unparalleled reliability.
These two decades not only witnessed thrilling performance battles on the roads and racetracks but also sparked passionate debates among car enthusiasts across the globe.
In this article, we’ll revisit 15 iconic American cars and their direct Japanese competitors, exploring design, performance, and cultural impact, to decide who truly dominated this unforgettable automotive era.
Car manufacturers have never shied away from pushing boundaries, and their wildest ideas often take shape as special edition cars. Sometimes born from pop culture, sometimes from marketing stunts, these vehicles showcase the industry’s willingness to be bold—and occasionally downright bizarre.
From outlandish paint schemes to collaborations with unexpected brands, these cars are more than just transportation; they’re rolling statements of creativity and sometimes questionable inspiration.
Get ready to explore a list of the most unforgettable—and delightfully weird—special edition cars that truly prove reality is sometimes stranger than fiction.
Small luxury cars spark lively debates among drivers and enthusiasts alike. These vehicles combine premium features—like high-end interiors, advanced tech, and refined styling—with the agility and efficiency of a compact platform.
Yet, not all models deliver the same blend of performance, comfort, or value. While some shine with thrilling engines and plush cabins, others fall short on ride quality or practicality.
This comparison explores 20 leading small luxury cars, uncovering which truly excel—and which leave drivers wanting more.
The electric vehicle market is evolving at lightning speed as we head into 2025. While Tesla has long been the benchmark for innovation, range, and performance, a new wave of competitors is poised to challenge its throne.
Automakers worldwide are unveiling cutting-edge electric cars with enhanced battery technologies, smarter features, and sleek designs. The result? Consumers will have more choices than ever before, with a host of exciting contenders ready to redefine what’s possible on the road.
Chevrolet Camaro is typically synonymous with raw V-8 muscle, snarling exhaust notes, and straight-line intimidation. Yet beneath that angry façade lies a lineage of surprisingly mild‐mannered Camaros—models whose modest powerplants and tame performance remind us that not every Camaro was born to burn rubber.
From six‐cylinder base cars of the late ’60s to whimpering V-6s of the ’80s and ’90s, these “slowest” Camaros tell an equally important story: of changing markets, tightening emissions rules, and Chevrolet’s efforts to offer a Camaro for every budget. Below are ten of the slowest Camaros ever made.
1. 1967 Camaro Base 230-Cu-In Inline-Six
When Chevrolet introduced the Camaro in early 1967, the entry‐level model wore a humble 230-cubic-inch straight-six under its sculpted hood. Producing a mere 140 horsepower and roughly 220 lb-ft of torque, the 230-ci six lugged a 3,200-pound coupe to 60 mph in about 11 seconds—a snail’s pace compared to V-8 peers.
Yet this six-cylinder model was crucial: it made Camaro ownership attainable to buyers who prioritized styling over raw thrust. Its existence ensured the Camaro wasn’t an exclusive pony-car halo but a volume seller across income brackets. By offering an affordable, albeit slow, alternative, Chevrolet seeded the Camaro nameplate among a broader audience, laying the foundation for future performance derivatives.
When choosing a car, many drivers overlook a critical aspect of vehicle performance: the drivetrain configuration. Front-wheel drive (FWD) vehicles, which send power exclusively to the front wheels, deliver practicality, fuel efficiency, and improved traction in challenging weather conditions. Conversely, rear-wheel drive (RWD) cars—driving power to the rear wheels—offer balanced weight distribution, enhanced handling dynamics, and a more engaging driving experience. These fundamental differences not only shape the way a car feels on the road but also influence performance on the track. To illustrate just how much the drivetrain matters, let’s explore 15 memorable FWD vs. RWD battles.