Posts Tagged: power
The 1966 Shelby GT 350 Mustang roars back into the spotlight, ditching trunk-mounted batteries and last year’s traction bars like unwanted karaoke partners. Carroll Shelby’s magic touch transformed 252 ’65 models into a whopping 2,378 units of pure American muscle. With optional Paxton Super-chargers and Selectshift automatics, this beauty is a symphony of power and choice. And, oh, those rear quarter panel windows replacing side vents—because who needs extra ventilation when you can have 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.
Behold, the mighty 1965 Pontiac GTO, strutting in the ultra-rare Iris Mist—because why settle for ordinary when you can drive a unicorn? Under the hood, the 389 Tri-Power roars with a 4-speed manual transmission, proving that this American Muscle Car isn’t just a pretty face. With spit exhaust tips, power steering, and brakes that could stop a freight train, this GOAT’s got more swagger than a peacock in a mirror store. So buckle up, because this ride is as smooth as it is sassy!
The third-gen Chevrolet El Camino, 1968-1972, truly revved up the muscle car game with its Malibu-inspired style and Chevelle platform. In ’68, it flaunted options like posi-traction and a power disk brake for those who wanted to stop as impressively as they could go. The high-performance SS debuted, with engines roaring up to 375 bhp. By 1970, it could house a monstrous LS6 454 engine, racing through the quarter-mile in 13 seconds! Alas, emissions rules in ’71 took a bit of the vroom out of its zoom.
The 2017 Ford Mustang flexes its muscles and continues its reign as America’s most powerful muscle car! Experts are revving about this iconic ride that packs a punch with its legendary power and strength. With some slick updates, this stallion is more thrilling than a rollercoaster ride through the Grand Canyon! Car enthusiasts and industry pros agree: the Mustang is the must-have ride that keeps the adrenaline pumping and the pavement shaking. Saddle up, America, your favorite pony is ready to rumble!
Hop into the driver’s seat of nostalgia with the 1961 Ford Galaxie Sunliner Convertible 390, a classic muscle car that promises a wild ride. Sporting a robust 390 engine and a quirky three on the tree manual transmission, this beauty is all about raw, unadulterated power—minus the conveniences of power steering and brakes. You’ll need Popeye’s forearms to handle this beast, but once you’re cruising, you’ll feel like the king of the road, with looks that could stop traffic and a ride that’s smoother than a greased lightning bolt!
Rory Carroll, the editor of Autoweek, shares his lifelong obsession with cars, from racing a Lahta Signet in the 24 Hrs of Lemonds to driving the Porsche 918 and La Ferrari at the Circuit of the Americas. He credits his journey in automotive journalism to a chance opportunity with the New York Times and now enjoys a dream job at Autoweek. Rory believes that car enthusiasm is thriving among the younger generation, thanks to social media and accessible resources, and he’s excited about Autoweek’s future.
Rev up your engines and travel back to the 1950s with the Devin Roadster! Crafted by Oklahoma’s own Bill Devon, this kit car legend and SCCA-C-modified class racer wasn’t just about speed. Bill was a trailblazer, becoming the first to use a rubber-toothed belt for overhead camshaft duties. Under the hood, you’ll find a roaring 383 CID V8 engine paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission. Check out the stunning images, courtesy of Gateway Classic Cars, and marvel at this retro beast!