10 Legendary BMWs That Changed the Game

BMW has made a lot of great cars over the years, but some of them stand out more than the rest. These are the cars that helped shape what the brand stands for—cars that mixed performance, new ideas, and style in ways people still talk about today. Some were built for the track, some for the street, and a few were just bold experiments. But all of them left a lasting mark. If you want to understand why BMW has such a strong reputation, these ten cars show how it earned its place in car history.

1973 BMW 3.0 CSL

The 3.0 CSL wasn’t just a performance car—it was a rolling statement. Designed to meet racing homologation rules, this lightweight coupe featured aluminum panels, aggressive spoilers, and a stripped-down interior. It dominated the European Touring Car Championship and became known as the “Batmobile” for its wild aero.

1973 BMW 3.0 CSL

But it also helped launch BMW Motorsport GmbH—what we now know as BMW M. The 3.0 CSL proved that BMW could blend precision engineering with bold performance, laying the foundation for decades of M cars. It’s not just a classic—it’s the origin story of BMW’s performance legacy.

1986 BMW M3 (E30)

The original M3 turned a humble 3 Series into a motorsport legend. With its flared fenders, high-revving S14 engine, and razor-sharp handling, it won races and hearts alike. Built to compete in Group A touring car racing, it became one of the most successful race cars of all time. But it also worked on the street—practical enough to daily, yet thrilling enough for the track.

1986 BMW M3 (E30)

The E30 M3 wasn’t about straight-line speed; it was about connection. Decades later, it remains the gold standard for pure, driver-focused engineering—and arguably the most iconic BMW ever made. THe E30 has exploded in value over the past couple of years.

1972 BMW 5 Series (E12)

The E12 was the first official 5 Series—and it redefined the midsize luxury car. Combining sports car dynamics with sedan comfort, it set the tone for every 5 Series to follow. Designed by Paul Bracq, its clean lines and balanced proportions gave it instant road presence.

1972 BMW 5 Series (E12)

Underneath, it featured powerful inline-six engines, rear-wheel drive, and precision handling that became BMW’s trademark. The E12 was more than just a car—it was a blueprint. It proved that luxury didn’t have to be soft and that practicality could still be exciting. It launched a class of its own.

1999 BMW M5 (E39)

Often called the greatest sport sedan ever built, the E39 M5 blended V8 power with German precision. Its 4.9L engine made 400 horsepower and was paired with a six-speed manual only—no automatics, no compromises. It looked understated but could embarrass sports cars.

1999 BMW M5 (E39)

The chassis was tight, the interior was refined, and the balance was near-perfect. BMW had made M cars before, but the E39 M5 took things to another level. It showed that one car could be a luxury cruiser, daily driver, and track monster all in one. It wasn’t just great—it was everything at once.

2000 BMW Z8

Built as a tribute to the classic 507, the Z8 was a rare moment where BMW let style lead the way. Designed by Henrik Fisker, the Z8 featured a retro-modern shape, a center-mounted gauge cluster, and a V8 from the M5. It was smooth, powerful, and gorgeous from every angle.

2000 BMW Z8

Though it wasn’t built for the track, the Z8 delivered driving joy and turned heads wherever it went. James Bond drove one, collectors chased them, and BMW made fewer than 6,000 units. It was more sculpture than sports car—but it earned its place in BMW history.

1987 BMW 750iL (E32)

The 750iL was a turning point—it marked BMW’s entry into true flagship luxury. As the first post-war BMW with a V12 engine, it took on Mercedes head-to-head. It was powerful, smooth, and packed with groundbreaking tech like electronic dampers, traction control, and xenon headlights.

1987 BMW 750iL (E32)

The long-wheelbase version added limousine levels of rear-seat space. For BMW, the 750iL wasn’t just a big sedan—it was a statement. It told the world that BMW could do comfort and class as well as it did corner carving. This car helped shape the modern luxury sedan as we know it.

1998 BMW M Coupe (“Clown Shoe”)

With its shooting-brake design and aggressive personality, the M Coupe was unlike anything else on the road. Based on the Z3, it crammed in the M3’s engine, suspension, and attitude, creating one of the most entertaining (and odd-looking) cars BMW ever built.

1998 BMW M Coupe (“Clown Shoe”)

The M Coupe was rigid, fast, and surprisingly practical. Critics loved it, but buyers didn’t know what to make of it—until it became a cult classic. Today, it’s one of the most collectible BMWs of its era. The “Clown Shoe” might’ve looked strange, but it drove like a dream and refused to be forgotten.

1983 BMW 325i (E30)

The 325i helped the 3 Series explode in popularity—especially in the U.S. With its smooth inline-six, manual gearbox, and balanced handling, it offered affordable performance and everyday comfort. It wasn’t flashy, but it nailed every part of the driving experience.

1983 BMW 325i (E30)

The E30 325i built BMW’s reputation among enthusiasts and young professionals alike. It was the car that convinced many first-time buyers to become lifelong fans. It’s also why the 3 Series became BMW’s bread and butter. Simple, elegant, and endlessly fun, the 325i made “driving enjoyment” something you didn’t have to be rich to afford.

2011 BMW 1M Coupe

Short-lived but unforgettable, the 1M Coupe brought raw driving fun back to the M brand. It was compact, rear-wheel drive, manual-only, and full of attitude. Using a turbocharged inline-six and parts from the M3, it was quicker than its size suggested. It had wide fenders, aggressive styling, and a focused chassis that made it a joy to throw into corners.

2011 BMW 1M Coupe

BMW only built it for one year, making it an instant collector’s item. In an era of growing cars and fading manuals, the 1M reminded drivers what made M cars great in the first place. The BMW 1-Series was a rather unique car although it never caught on with consumers.

2007 BMW Hydrogen 7

While not a performance hero, the Hydrogen 7 was bold in a different way. Built on the 760Li platform, it ran on both gasoline and liquid hydrogen—making it one of the first true dual-fuel luxury cars. It wasn’t fast or light, but it was smooth, quiet, and showed BMW’s commitment to clean tech before electric cars took over.

2007 BMW Hydrogen 7

It wasn’t a sales success and had major infrastructure hurdles, but it gave a glimpse into BMW’s future-thinking mindset. The Hydrogen 7 wasn’t built to thrill—it was built to explore, experiment, and push boundaries in sustainability.

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Since the US market was swept by several gray imported cars in the 80s, legislators established the “25-year-old rule”. This means you can import any vehicle that wasn’t homologated for the US market 25 years after its introduction. In 2025, you can import cars that were presented in 2000. So, what will you be bringing to the States? Before you decide, just a reminder that classic vehicles are exempt from the new Trump tariff plan. 

1. Alfa Romeo 147

The Alfa Romeo 147 was one of the brand’s most stylish and spirited hatchbacks, replacing the 145 and 146. Designed by Walter de Silva, it featured sharp Italian styling with a driver-focused interior. Available with engines ranging from a peppy 1.6L Twin Spark to a 3.2L V6 in the GTA version (released later), the 147 offered the charm and handling expected from an Alfa.

While the US never officially received the 147, it’s been a cult favorite overseas. Now that it meets the 25-year rule, fans of unique European compacts can import this car legally, especially those wanting to experience the raw edge of the V6-powered GTA variant.

2. Holden UTE (VU Series)

Think of it as the Australian cousin to the El Camino — the Holden UTE blends the practicality of a pickup with the soul of a muscle car. The VU UTE was built on the same platform as the Commodore and offered V6 and V8 engine options. The most desirable variant? The UTE SS packs a 5.7L LS1 V8 engine under the hood.

With a loyal fan base and its unorthodox style, the Holden UTE is now legal to import and offers a distinctive choice for someone looking for a head-turning utility vehicle that’s just as fun to drive as it is to look at.

3. Noble M12 GTO

The Noble M12 is a British-built mid-engine sports car with serious performance chops. Depending on the version, it utilizes a twin-turbocharged 2.5L or 3.0L Ford Duratec V6 engine. Despite its relatively unknown status in the US, the M12 became an icon for its featherweight chassis, excellent power-to-weight ratio, and track-ready performance.

Because it was never sold stateside and had to meet strict emissions and safety standards, the M12 wasn’t easy to get here—until now. As of 2025, the earliest versions are import-legal, making this car a prime choice for performance purists looking for something rare and thrilling.

4. Opel Speedster / Vauxhall VX220

Co-developed with Lotus (and based on the same platform as the Lotus Elise), the Opel Speedster (also known as the Vauxhall VX220 in the UK) is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster with a mid-engine layout. It was equipped with a 2.2L naturally aspirated or a 2.0L turbocharged engine, offering a surprising pace to match its agile handling.

It’s essentially a more affordable and slightly more practical Elise — and with its unique badge and European flavor, it now becomes a desirable import for fans of minimalist driving thrills.

5. Ruf RGT

Ruf is more than just a tuner; it’s officially recognized as a car manufacturer. The RGT, launched in 2000, was based on the Porsche 996-generation 911 but featured extensive modifications. It boasted a naturally aspirated 3.6L flat-six, making over 380 horsepower, and had upgraded suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics.

If you love Porsche but want something even more exotic, the Ruf RGT is the answer. Its bespoke craftsmanship and rarity make it one of the more coveted high-performance cars that are now eligible for US import.

6. Suzuki Ignis 

Small, funky, and surprisingly capable, the Suzuki Ignis is a subcompact hatchback with a tall-boy stance and available all-wheel drive. It’s beloved in Japan and Europe for its nimble handling and practicality, especially in urban environments.  

Though later models would see more rally influence (like the Ignis Sport), the original is a charming and affordable JDM quirk. With the 25-year rule in effect, you can now import this Japanese city runabout and enjoy a piece of automotive culture that never made it stateside.

7. Lancia Lybra

The Lancia Lybra was a premium compact sedan and wagon built on a modified Alfa Romeo 156 platform. It offered luxurious interiors, soft ride comfort, and a range of Italian engines, from 1.6L petrols to 2.4L five-cylinder diesels. Though it flew under the radar in Europe, its rarity makes it a standout for collectors.

For fans of obscure, refined European cars, the Lybra is now importable and brings Lancia’s blend of eccentricity and elegance to American roads — a rare treat given the brand’s long absence from the US market.

8. Peugeot 607

The Peugeot 607 was France’s answer to the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. With sleek styling, plush interiors, and a range of inline-4, V6, and diesel engine options, it offered a smooth, refined ride. It wasn’t a sports sedan, but excelled in long-distance cruising comfort and high-speed stability.

Now that it’s legal to import, those wanting to experience French luxury motoring, with all its quirks and charm, can finally bring a 607 stateside and enjoy something truly offbeat yet classy.

9. Ultima GTR

The Ultima GTR is the epitome of a track weapon for the road. Sold as a kit or complete car, it featured a lightweight spaceframe chassis and a mid-mounted Chevrolet V8. Performance figures were staggering — sub-3-second 0-60 times and top speeds over 200 mph, depending on spec.

This is not your average weekend car. The GTR is raw, unfiltered, and extremely fast. As of 2025, the earliest factory-built examples can be imported, making it possible for die-hard track enthusiasts to own one without compromising legally.

10. Ariel Atom (Mk1)

The Ariel Atom burst onto the scene in 2000, blowing minds with its exposed tubular chassis and super-lightweight construction. With no roof, no doors, and often no windshield, the Atom is the purest expression of driving. The original versions came with naturally aspirated Honda VTEC engines and later offered supercharged variants.

The Atom’s performance-to-weight ratio made it a track legend, and it’s now eligible for import in its original Mk1 form. If you’re craving something raw, loud, and connected, the Atom offers a sensational driving experience.

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In the world of stock trading, the term ‘death cross’ often evokes a sense of foreboding among investors. This technical chart pattern occurs when a stock’s short-term moving average crosses below its long-term moving average, typically signaling a potential downturn. Recently, Tesla’s stock experienced this phenomenon, captivating the attention of analysts and traders alike.

Understanding the implications of a death cross is crucial for investors who wish to navigate the volatile waters of the stock market effectively. By delving into market trends and technical analysis, one can better anticipate what might lie ahead for Tesla and similar stocks facing this ominous pattern.

1. Understanding the Death Cross

A death cross is a pivotal moment in stock trading, marked by the 50-day moving average falling below the 200-day moving average. This crossing is often viewed as a bearish signal, suggesting a potential decline in the stock’s price.

For investors, this pattern is significant because it reflects a shift in momentum from bullish to bearish, prompting a more cautious approach. While not a guaranteed predictor of future performance, the death cross serves as a valuable tool for technical analysts to assess market sentiment and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Investors who notice this pattern may choose to reevaluate their positions, considering other indicators and market conditions before making any investment decisions.

2. Historical Context of Death Crosses

Throughout market history, death crosses have occurred across major stocks and indices, often signaling turbulent times ahead. For instance, the S&P 500 experienced this pattern in late 2018, which was followed by a significant market downturn.

Similarly, in 2008 during the financial crisis, a death cross foreshadowed substantial declines in several stocks and indices. These historical examples underscore the potential impact of a death cross on market performance.

For those interested in exploring past stock performance, detailed data can be found through resources like Nasdaq and MarketWatch.

3. Tesla’s Recent Market Performance

Tesla’s stock has been on a rollercoaster ride, with its recent death cross adding to investor apprehension. Leading up to this technical event, Tesla faced various challenges, including production delays and regulatory scrutiny.

Additionally, fluctuations in the broader electric vehicle market and supply chain disruptions have put pressure on its stock price. Despite these hurdles, Tesla continues to innovate, launching new models and expanding globally, which keeps investors optimistic about its long-term potential. Recent news of advancements in their battery technology and autonomous driving capabilities have also created ripples in the market.

4. Investor Reactions to the Death Cross

Investors often view a death cross with caution, potentially leading to shifts in their strategies. For Tesla, this could mean increased volatility as traders reassess their positions.

Financial analysts generally advise against panic selling, suggesting instead to consider the broader market context and Tesla’s fundamentals. Some investors might see this as an opportunity to buy on the dip, banking on Tesla’s innovative edge and market leadership.

According to CNBC, many analysts emphasize the importance of diversifying portfolios to mitigate risks associated with sudden market shifts like a death cross.

5. Comparing Tesla’s Death Cross to Competitors

When comparing Tesla’s death cross to similar events in the automotive and tech sectors, several parallels can be drawn. For instance, Ford and General Motors have faced similar patterns during market downturns, often resulting in temporary stock declines.

However, these companies managed to rebound through strategic innovation and market adaptation. In the tech industry, giants like Apple and Microsoft have also experienced death crosses, only to recover and thrive.

These comparisons suggest that while a death cross can indicate short-term challenges, companies with robust innovation and adaptability, like Tesla, may overcome such hurdles effectively.

6. Market Sentiment and Future Predictions

Current market sentiment surrounding Tesla is a mix of cautious optimism and skepticism. While the death cross has raised eyebrows, many analysts maintain a positive outlook, citing Tesla’s innovation and strong brand presence.

Financial experts from Bloomberg predict that Tesla’s long-term growth prospects remain intact, driven by advancements in electric vehicle technology and global expansion plans. Despite short-term challenges, Tesla’s focus on sustainability and technological leadership continues to attract investor interest.

Consequently, future projections for Tesla’s stock suggest potential recovery and growth, aligning with broader industry trends.

7. Technical Analysis vs. Fundamental Analysis

In stock trading, technical analysis and fundamental analysis offer distinct approaches to evaluating stocks. Technical analysts focus on chart patterns and indicators like the death cross to predict future price movements. They view such events as signals of market sentiment shifts.

On the other hand, fundamental analysts prioritize a company’s financial health, management quality, and growth potential. For them, a death cross might not be as alarming if underlying fundamentals remain strong.

Consequently, while technical analysis highlights short-term trends, fundamental analysis provides a more comprehensive view of a company’s long-term prospects.

8. Potential Buying Opportunities

For some investors, a death cross may represent a buying opportunity, particularly for those with a long-term perspective. Investment strategists argue that such market dips can allow investors to acquire shares at a lower price, especially if they believe in the company’s fundamental strengths.

According to experts from Investopedia, while the death cross signals caution, it doesn’t necessarily spell doom for stocks with strong growth potential, like Tesla. This approach requires careful analysis of Tesla’s market position, innovation trajectory, and financial health to determine if the risk aligns with potential rewards.

9. Risk Management for Investors

Managing risk during a death cross involves strategic planning and informed decision-making. Investors are advised to diversify their portfolios to spread risk across various sectors and asset classes. This can buffer against potential losses from a single stock’s downturn.

Conducting thorough market research and staying updated with financial news can also arm investors with knowledge to make timely decisions. Additionally, setting stop-loss orders can help protect against significant losses, ensuring a balanced investment approach.

These strategies can help investors maintain a steady course, even amid market volatility triggered by technical patterns like a death cross.

10. The Role of External Factors

Tesla’s stock performance is influenced by a myriad of external factors beyond technical patterns like a death cross. Economic conditions, such as interest rates and inflation, can impact consumer purchasing power and investment flows.

Regulatory changes, particularly those related to environmental policies, can either bolster or hinder Tesla’s growth prospects. Technological advancements also play a crucial role, as breakthroughs in battery technology or autonomous driving can significantly enhance Tesla’s market position.

Understanding these external influences is essential for investors to accurately gauge Tesla’s potential and navigate the complexities of its stock performance.

11. Long-Term vs. Short-Term Perspectives

In stock investments, balancing long-term and short-term perspectives is vital, especially when navigating events like Tesla’s death cross. Short-term investors might be swayed by immediate market fluctuations and technical signals, leading to quick buy or sell decisions.

However, long-term investors focus on a company’s fundamental strengths and growth potential, often viewing temporary downtrends as opportunities for strategic entry. In the context of Tesla, a long-term outlook considers its innovation pipeline, market expansion, and sustainability initiatives.

Aligning investment strategies with one’s time horizon can thus help mitigate risks and capitalize on potential growth.

12. Expert Opinions on Tesla’s Future

Financial experts and analysts offer varied opinions on Tesla’s future following the death cross. While some caution about potential short-term volatility, many remain optimistic about Tesla’s long-term prospects.

Analysts from Reuters highlight Tesla’s strong position in the electric vehicle market and its cutting-edge technology as reasons for sustained growth. Others emphasize the importance of monitoring external factors, such as regulatory changes and economic conditions, that could influence Tesla’s trajectory.

Overall, expert consensus suggests that while the death cross warrants attention, Tesla’s innovative drive and market leadership are key to its future success.

13. Lessons from Past Death Crosses

Reflecting on past death crosses in the stock market provides valuable insights for investors. Historical patterns show that while a death cross can signal short-term turbulence, it doesn’t always predict prolonged downturns.

Companies that adapt and innovate often recover, offering renewed growth opportunities for investors. These lessons emphasize the importance of a balanced approach, combining technical analysis with fundamental research.

Investors are encouraged to remain vigilant, diversify portfolios, and stay informed about industry trends. By learning from previous market cycles, investors can better navigate the uncertainties associated with events like Tesla’s recent death cross.

14. Impact on Tesla’s Business Operations

While the death cross primarily affects investor sentiment and stock performance, its influence on Tesla’s business operations may be limited. Tesla’s leadership focuses on long-term strategic goals, leveraging innovation and market expansion to drive growth.

However, the market’s reaction to such technical indicators can impact capital raising efforts and investor relations, prompting Tesla to reinforce communication strategies. The company’s decision-making processes remain guided by its commitment to sustainability and technological advancement, rather than short-term market fluctuations. Thus, while the death cross is notable, its direct impact on Tesla’s core operations is likely minimal.

15. Monitoring Future Developments

Staying informed about future developments in Tesla’s stock and the broader market is essential for investors aiming to make informed decisions. Regularly tracking market trends, regulatory updates, and Tesla’s business announcements can provide valuable insights into potential opportunities and risks.

Engaging with reputable financial news sources and expert analyses allows investors to remain agile and responsive to market changes. As the market evolves, understanding both technical indicators and fundamental shifts will be crucial for strategic investment planning. By maintaining a proactive approach, investors can better navigate the complexities of the stock market and harness potential growth.

Wrap-up

In summary, the death cross serves as a pivotal signal in the realm of stock trading, highlighting potential short-term downturns. For Tesla, this technical pattern underscores the importance of balancing immediate market reactions with long-term strategic growth.

By understanding historical contexts, investor reactions, and the role of external factors, investors can better navigate the complexities of the market. Emphasizing both technical and fundamental analyses, alongside robust risk management strategies, is key to informed decision-making.

As markets evolve, staying informed and proactive will empower investors to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate risks effectively.

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Carroll Shelby once famously said: “Horsepower sells cars; torque wins races.” We agree that torque is often a more important metric of a car’s potential and power. This is especially true for classic muscle cars with big V8 engines and massive torque figures. Today, we will look closer at the 10 most powerful cars from that period. Not horsepower but lb-ft of torque! 

1. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 – 500 lb-ft

The Chevelle SS was among the most popular muscle cars of the era, mainly due to its affordable price but excellent choice of engines and equipment. The 1970 model looked great, too. However, the SS454 LS6 was not only the most potent model in the lineup but also one of the quickest cars ever produced by GM. 

For just a couple of hundred dollars more over the standard 360 hp Chevelle SS 454, buyers could get the LS6 version with hotter components, a unique intake, and heads and have a 450 hp monster delivered to their dealer. However, those who got it were impressed by the performance. The Chevelle SS 454 LS6 could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and cover a quarter mile in just 13.2 seconds at 108 mph.

2. 1971 Buick GSX Stage 1 – 510 lb-ft

Not many people know, but Buick was a considerable force in the upper echelon of the muscle car segment. Buicks were always fast and well-equipped cars, but the quickest was the limited-production Buick GSX introduced in 1970. The GSX was a luxury muscle car with impressive firepower under the hood. The standard 455 V8 was equipped with a special intake, improved internals, and high-compression heads to deliver 360 hp. 

Of course, the factory significantly underrated the engine. However, with a massive 510 lb-ft of torque, the GSX was crowned the most powerful American car of the era. The torque was responsible for a 6.1-second 0 to 60 mph time but, even more importantly, for a 13.38-second quarter-mile time at 108 mph trap speed. 

3. 1970 Plymouth Hemi’ Cuda – 490 lb-ft

The legendary 426 Hemi engine is the most sought-after V8 of the classic muscle car scene. Everything with this monster under the hood was swift and respectable on the street, but in 1971, Hemi Cuda was on the top of the Mopar food chain. However, those who could afford 426 Hemi got an astonishing performer, a high-revving V8 with stunning good looks. 

Rated at 425 hp, realistically around 500 hp, the 1971 Hemi Cuda sprinted to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat when equipped with a close-ratio 4-speed manual. But the quarter-mile time of 13.2 seconds at 107 mph is even more impressive. If you had a Hemi Cuda in 1971, you were probably the fastest guy or girl in your area. 

4. 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T 440 Six Pack – 490 lb-ft

The Dodge Challenger R/T was a close relative of the Plymouth Hemi Cuda. However, it was without an expensive and sometimes tricky-to-maintain Hemi V8 engine. Under the hood, it had a 440 Magnum V8 with a famous Six-Pack intake (three two-barrel carburetors), which allowed this massive engine to deliver a healthy 390 hp. 

The 1970 Challenger R/T could be equipped either with an automatic or a 4-speed manual, but regardless of the transmission choice, when you hit the right pedal hard enough, you could see 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. The quarter-mile was 13.62 seconds at 104 mph, which was enough to put this Dodge amongst the fastest cars of the era and a true classic of the muscle car genre.  

5. 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 HEMI – 490 lb-ft

As one of the craziest muscle cars ever produced, the Plymouth Superbird was made only in 1970. Plymouth built just under 2000 road-going Superbirds to homologate the car for NASCAR racing and sold them all over America.

The car was based on the Roadrunner, and it came with a 440 V8 as standard and a 426 Hemi as the only engine option. However, Plymouth installed a nose cone, hideaway headlights, and an enormous spoiler on the back to make it as aerodynamically efficient as possible. Also, it transformed the rear glass from the standard concave-shaped one to a regular one, which proved more slippery in wind tunnel testing. 

6. 1969 Plymouth Road Runner 426 HEMI – 490 lb-ft

When it first appeared in 1968, the Plymouth Roadrunner proved to be a very influential and essential muscle car. It introduced the new trend of inexpensive and fun cars and was also a strong seller, affecting the whole segment. The entire idea behind the Roadrunner was simple. 

The most appealing thing about the Roadrunner was that Plymouth used the cartoon character of a roadrunner from the popular Willie E. Coyote cartoon. Chrysler paid $60,000 for the rights to use the name and design, and everybody thought the company was crazy for doing so. The sales results proved everybody wrong, and the Roadrunner was the first muscle car with crazy graphics and the car that started the trend. The Roadrunner had a bench seat, no luxury options, and manual steering, but it came with the powerful 383 V8 as the base engine, and buyers could also opt for the 440 or the mythical Hemi 426.

7. 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 – 490 lb-ft

The mythical Mustang Boss 429 is a proper muscle car legend. Ford conceived it in 1969 as a pure racing engine intended for use in NASCAR championships. The Boss 429 featured a different engine architecture than the rest of Ford’s big blocks. They made the Boss 429 much wider. 

With factory ratings of 375 HP, this unit produced over 500 HP, but it created much more in race trim. Ford decided to put this engine into the Mustang, offering a limited production of Boss 429. However, NASCAR chose not to homologate it since they only accepted intermediate and full-size cars, but the Mustang was a pony car. 

8. 1966 Dodge Coronet Hemi Sedan – 490 lb-ft

The Chrysler Corporation reintroduced its legendary 426 Hemi engine for 1966 as an option on selected Plymouth and Dodge models. The iconic powerplant was also offered as an option on Dodge Coronet, and technically, it could be ordered with any body style. However, buyers associated Hemi power with two-door coupes or convertibles, and most people didn’t realize that they could have Hemi in a sedan or even in wagon form.

That is why only a few people bought the Coronet De Luxe Hemi four-door in 1966, getting the ultimate muscle car sedan. With advertised 425 HP under your right foot, the Coronet Hemi four-door was arguably the fastest production sedan in America and the ultimate muscle car four-door. 

9. 1968 Pontiac GTO Royal Bobcat 428 – 470 lb-ft

All General Motors A-Body intermediate cars got a thorough restyling for the 1968 model year, and Pontiac debuted an all-new, sleeker, semi-fastback GTO with hideaway headlights and a special front bumper. Called the “Endura” bumper, it was GTO’s unique feature. It was basically polyurethane plastic in body color that could endure damage and hits without deforming. It was a predecessor of modern plastic bumpers. 

The 1968 Pontiac GTO Royal Bobcat 428 was a dealer-modified muscle car that pushed performance boundaries. Its 428 cubic-inch V8 engine delivered 470 lb-ft of torque and 390 horsepower. The Royal Bobcat package included performance enhancements such as recalibrated carburetors, advanced ignition timing, and improved airflow. These modifications resulted in quicker acceleration and enhanced throttle response.  

10. 1964 Pontiac GTO Tri-Power – 428 lb-ft

The Tempest GTO, as it was called, was an option on the Tempest intermediate model. For just $295, buyers would get a high-performance 396 V8 with 325 HP in standard or 348 HP in the famous Tri Power form. Manual transmission, unique trim, GTO decals, and dual exhaust were all part of the package. Since the car was light, the Tempest GTO had a pretty convincing performance, and in 1964, it was one of the quickest American cars on the market. 

Pontiac’s sales manager wasn’t particularly fond of the model but thought that the GTO package didn’t lack perspective. His estimate of a maximum of 5000 examples per year was drastically surpassed by official sales figures of over 32,000 copies. The GTO was a hit amongst the younger buyers, and the star was born.

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