The third-generation Chevy Nova, introduced in 1968, was a makeover marvel with a longer wheelbase and a facelift that officially dropped the Chevy II name. It offered 15 powertrain options, including a 350-cubic-inch V8 for the SS model, which could turn heads and tires. By 1969, Chevy slipped in a Torque-drive for clutchless thrills, and by 1970, the Nova was all about subtle changes, like larger side marker lights. Meanwhile, the four-cylinder engine quietly exited, much like a party guest who realizes they’re at the wrong event.
Posts Tagged: GM
Step back into the late 60s when the Pontiac Firebird 1967 was the epitome of cool—think James Dean with a V8 engine. Built on the GM F-body platform, this pony car was all about style and power. The ’67 model flaunts slit tail lights reminiscent of its cousin, the GTO, and offers a choice between a convertible or hard-top. Whether you opt for the base model’s OHC inline 6 or go full throttle with the 400 CID V8, one thing’s for sure, this car screams “I’m faster than your dad’s station wagon!”
Unveiling the 1932 Ford restomod roadster, where vintage charm meets modern muscle! Under the hood lies a GM 355CID engine, paired with not one, but two Edelbrock carburetors—because why settle for one when you can double the fun? This beast is backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission, ensuring you glide down the street with the grace of a gazelle on wheels. Inside, genuine leather seats and Dolphin gauges add a touch of luxury, while ceramic-coated headers and side pipes provide the symphony every muscle car deserves.
Named for its four-barrel, four-speed, and dual exhausts, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 was the muscle car equivalent of a bodybuilder in a tuxedo. With a 455-cubic inch V8 engine cranking out 365 hp, it was the automotive version of a caffeine-fueled sprint. The W30 variant added extra oomph with 370 hp and a hood with more scoops than an ice cream shop. Even James Garner raced one, proving that this car could handle the NORRA Mexico 1000 and still look good doing it.
The Chevrolet Bel-Air G2 (1955-57), dubbed “The Hot One,” stirred the pot with its slick style and a V8 that guzzled oil like a thirsty cowboy. While Motor Trend praised its handling, the horn ring’s speedometer peekaboo was a conundrum. The 265 V8 was a first for Chevy since 1917, evolving into a 283 beast by ’57. With chrome galore, optional A/C, and “idiot lights,” it was a head-turner. Who knew evaluating gauges was so 1954? Enthusiasts still drool over these TriFives, the crowning jewel being the ’57 model.
I’ve managed to ruin quite a few cars, each in its own unique, disastrous way. From overzealous engine mods that left me stranded, to paint jobs that looked more like abstract art gone wrong, my automotive adventures have been a series of unfortunate events. Take my Dodge, which went from roaring beast to a sputtering mess after a DIY turbo install. Or the time I tried to give my old Civic a lowrider look, only to end up with a suspension that had more bounce than a trampoline. Ah, the memories!
The 3rd generation Chevrolet Impala (1961-1964) is like a fine wine—it only gets better with age! Launched with a sleek, new body on the GM “B” platform, it introduced a two-door sedan in ’61 that’s now a collector’s dream. The ’62 model year boasted a snazzy “C” pillar and a new 409 V8 engine, which even got the Beach Boys singing. By ’64, the Impala was smoother with muscle car fans rejoicing the return of the 409 engine, this time with two four-barrel carburetors for a whopping 425 hp.
The 1984 Chevy Corvette, a cornerstone of American muscle, was a highly anticipated release following the Corvette’s third era. While enthusiasts dreamed of mid-engine designs or rotary engines, they got a unique classic powered by a small block Chevy V-8. With no 1983 model made, the 1984 release had to impress—resulting in a 375-hp ZR-1 that turned heads. The lone surviving 1983 ‘Vette sits in a museum, proving that even legends sometimes take a year off for a makeover!
In the quirky world of automotive history, Sylvester Roper was steaming ahead with vehicles in 1859. Fast forward to 1900, and the Dodge brothers were revving up Detroit with their quality car parts. Meanwhile, Rudolf Diesel was busy creating engines that could ignite without a spark—now that’s a hot idea! By 1921, the roads were jam-packed, prompting the government to get its highway groove on. And in 2014, Panasonic and Tesla teamed up to build a battery gigafactory, electrifying the future of cars!
American muscle cars have had a wild ride since the 1930s, captivating drivers with their power and style. However, the 1970s threw a wrench in the gears with regulations and soaring gas prices, leaving muscle cars in the dust. But like a phoenix on wheels, they roared back in the 1980s, thanks to Ford’s Mustang G2 and GM’s Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. Despite their ups and downs, these iconic cars continue to rev our hearts, proving they’re not just a flash in the tailpipe.
The Buick Riviera 1963, a personal luxury car that cruised the roads from 1963 to 1999, is a classic beauty with over 1.1 million units produced. Riding on a typical Buick cruciform frame, it’s shorter and lighter than its sibling, the LeSabre, making it the sports car of the family reunion. Powered by a choice of the 401 or 427 cu in engines, it’s a beast in disguise—kind of like a gym buff who also bakes cookies. A special thanks to Gateway Classic Cars for the images that let us drool over this vintage masterpiece!
