Latest Posts Under: History
Back in 1977, a 15-year-old Larry F. embarked on his automotive journey with a $400 purchase of a 1970 Pontiac GTO. Despite needing a bit of love, it roared to life and even survived a Cardinal red makeover. Fast forward to a heartbreaking day in a GTO junkyard, where Larry and his son stumbled upon the skeletal remains of his beloved car. Missing its bumpers, engine, and more, it was a sad sight. Larry joked about almost shedding tears, with his son confirming, “I thought you were going to cry too.”
If you’re a car enthusiast, nothing screams nostalgia like a muscle car. These beasts from the ’60s and ’70s were more about roaring power than nimbleness, embodying the glory of the American auto industry. Here’s a countdown from GenCept’s poll of the top 10 muscle cars: kicking off with the 1970 Buick GSX, and climaxing with the legendary 1967 Shelby Mustang GT500. Spoiler alert: these rides aren’t just fast, they’re fast enough to make your grandma’s hair curl!
In 1976, Pontiac celebrated its 50th year with a sleek black and gold Trans Am. By 1977, they added some drama with a slanted nose and square headlights, immortalizing it in “Smokey and the Bandit.” Pontiac’s engineers played a game of horsepower Jenga in 1978, stacking 350 heads on a 400 block for a power boost. The 1979 Firebird strutted in silver for its 10th anniversary, while Kesha later turned heads, not just with her music, but her gold 1978 Trans Am, proving some classics never go out of style.
Chrysler’s Hemi engine, known for its hemispherical combustion chamber design, first roared into life in 1951 as the “FirePower” and hasn’t lost its spark since. Though not unique, the Hemi’s design, resembling an over-enthusiastic bowl, boasts efficient airflow, boosting horsepower but occasionally coughing up unburnt gases like an old man with a cigar. Originally an experimental military marvel, the Hemi keeps revving high with its distinctive wide valve covers and a penchant for high-octane fuel.
Who is the ultimate drag racing legend? NHRA’s list of 50 greatest drivers has sparked debates, with Don Garlits grabbing the top spot. From the fearless Shirley Muldowney at #5 to the dynamic John Force at #2, the rankings are a rollercoaster of speed and skill. Do you feel the need for speed or a need to disagree? Share your thoughts and see if your favorite racer made the cut—or if they left burnout marks in your heart!