Pontiac Firebird
The Pontiac Firebird came out the same time as the Camaro and the two are very similar. Even though the Pontiac shared much with the Chevy under the skin, and the skin itself, small differences attracted people to the Firebird back then. And still do today. Most classic muscle cars in the late sixties used chrome bumpers, but the Firebird integrated the bumper into the nose. It’s a sleeker look that really can’t be confused with any other muscle car.
Keeping the Pontiac Firebird and Chevy Camaro unique may have proved a challenge on the outside as the coke-bottle shape was shared. Both the convertible and coupe had a similar likeness. But under the hood, the two didn’t have as much in common. Both offered a 350 small-block V8, but the Pontiac used a 326 and a 400 small-block V8 (plus two six-cylinder engines too). That’s compared to a 327 and 396 that Chevy offered.
Later generations, starting in 1970, lost the same classic looks. They were quite easy to identify as a Firebird, though, with the massive hood decal.
Dodge Charger
From 1968 to 1970, the Dodge Charger was an on-screen specialist for classic muscle cars. A 1968 Charger was showcased in the movie “Bullitt” and a ’69 Charger was the General Lee on “The Dukes of Hazzard’.” Since then, it’s made box-office appearances countless times, perhaps none more recognizable than in “The Fast and the Furious.”
Why so popular? First, it looks frickin’ awesome. The covered headlights are one thing, the raked-out hood, the body lines and sharp edges. It’s a full meal deal.
It was only offered as a two-door hardtop in ’68 to ’70. You could have it with a 440 six-pack, a 426 Hemi, a 383 V8, or two lesser options. No matter which one you choose, the Dodge Charger will always draw attention from car enthusiasts around you.
Mercury Cougar
If you’re thinking classic muscle cars, only the first generation Mercury Cougar should pop up in your mind. More recent models are atrocities that shouldn’t be equated with the Cougar moniker.
The electric-shaver grille hid the headlights, which is a key component for the early Cougar. It was available in only hardtop design until ’69 when a convertible was added. It was meant to be the model that fit neatly between the Mustang and the Thunderbird. Like a slightly more luxurious and soft version of the Mustang. But the Mercury Cougar became the halo car for Mercury for decades. What’s more, it was also the first car that Ford’s engineers installed a power sunroof into, which created quite the buzz in the industry.
Its muscle came from a varied selection of engines. There were three Windsor options: a 289, 302, and 351c.i. variety. There was also a 351 Cleveland V8, a 390 V8, a 428 and a 427c.i. V8 available. All of these options could burn the tires off.
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