What is a Muscle Car?

The old fashion hot rod of World War II has developed into the muscle car. For many, the muscle car is a chance to express your inner child in racing. A muscle car is mid-sized to large with speed performance engines to make a car as fast as possible in a straight line. Some muscle cars are classics and have collectible status. These cars have there original parts restored. Most muscle cars are usually Chevrolet or Ford because of the availability of parts.

The models used are usually Chevelle, GT, and Mustang. Body styles and power train options are some of the main factors to start with. Body styles should be streamlined with a two door hardtop, two door fastbacks or two door post coupes. The years of the models used tend to be from the 60’s and 70’s because of the desired engine and style. Muscle cars have manual or automatic transmission. Manuals have either three to four speeds while automatics have two to three speeds. Performance wise the manuals are superior to the automatics. The engines of muscle cars are at least eight cylinders.

The common choices of engines include 327, 350, 396 with power rating of 325bhp, 350bhp and 375bhp. The most adaptable style is the 1969 Camaro with twelve engine varieties. On the other hand, the top performances are 426 Hemi, 427 Chevy and 427 Ford. These engines are expensive and complicated to maintain. Muscle cars must have options which include power windows and door locks, working air, and bucket seats. Trim and colors are all up to you. Muscle cars built tend be an extension of the person and release the drag racer in you.