Muscle cars are simply defined by two things; Power and Speed. To be classified as a “muscle car” cars need to be powered by a V8 engine. Speed was a byproduct of the times as engines became more and more powerful.
Starting in the late 1940’s and in the early 1950’s manufacturers like Hudson and Oldsmobile, responded to the demand for more power and performance out of their family cars. Cars like the Hudson Hornet and the Oldsmobile Rocket 88 dominated racing during the decade.
Muscle cars attracted young customers into showrooms. They bought the standard editions of these mid-size cars. To enhance the “halo” effect of these models, the manufacturers modified some of them into turn-key drag racers.
Although the sales of true muscle cars were relatively modest, they had value in publicity and bragging rights. Competition between manufacturers meant that buyers had the choice of ever-more powerful engines, with some models advertising as much as 450 horsepower. Sales of muscle cars peaked in 1973 with the introduction of fuel efficiency and pollution concerns. Ultimately the Oil embargo of 1973 proved to be final nail in the coffin of muscle cars sales.

1960 Plymouth XNR

Posted on July 27, 2012 by RareCars

The 1960 Plymouth XNR is one of the most unique and driver-centric vehicles ever built. This concept car was produced by Ghia and designed in 1959. The Plymouth XNR was debuted at the 1960 concept car show. Virgil Exner, chief design engineer at Chrysler designed and named the vehicle after himself.

The 1960 Plymouth XNR was able to hold two people but was truly designed to be a a one person vehicle. The body style was a bold departure from other cars produced during the same time frame. Boasting a very asymmetrical design with flared fins running down the driver’s side hood and trunk. The Plymouth XNR had a single curved windshield to protect the driver only. A fold up windshield was available if a second person was in the car. The passenger seat was lower than the driver’s which offered the passenger some protection from the elements while prominently displaying the driver of this beautiful car.

The 1960 Plymouth XNR’s frame was built with a grille design that was unique and consisted of the bumper all in one connected piece. The rear bumper was styled in an “X-motif” design to be visually appealing while reminding others of the car’s name and designer.

The car’s engine has a remarkable 250 horsepower and 208 pound per foot of torque. The XNR is capable of reaching a top speed out at 151 miles per hour, which was a feat of engineering for a car prodcued in this time frame. This solid steel vehicle had a wheelbase of 106 inches with the overhang stretching it to a length of 195 inches and only 43 inches tall at the highest point. Only one red XNR was all that was ever built. The interior was appointed with a luxurious black leather and chrome accented pieces for the instrument panel.

1960 Plymouth XNR Photos:

1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback

Posted on July 19, 2012 by RareCars

One of the most beloved automobiles in American automobile lore is the 1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback. This car symbolizes the epitome of American muscle cars. Automobile visionary Lee Iacocca knew that he wanted to make a car that would be remembered, and teamed up with racing industry success Carroll Shelby. The sleek look, the proven power, and the famed white with blue stripes of the Shelby Cobra made this vehicle a marvel to look at.

The Shelby GT350 was manufactured from 1965 – 1968. This machine can go from 0 – 60 in 6.7 seconds, and reaches top speed at 137 mph. This Shelby has a V8 engine, and sported a 4 speed Borg-Warner transmission with an aluminum case to reduce overall weight.

Ford wanted a car that would be used for racing as well as for enthusiastic drivers. However, with an asking price of just over $4,500.00, there were not too many people who could afford the vehicle upon its introduction in 1965. Fortunate owners were far from disappointed in their pricey purchase.

One of the most noted features of the Shelby GT350 is that it does not have a back seat. This was due to racing regulations in the SCCA not allowing anything over a two-seater. In place of the seat was fiberglass flooring and a spare tire placed under the rear window. The 1965 Shelby GT350 is one of the best known pony cars. Although its initial sales looked dismal, it is a time tested classic that has been re-released.

1965 Shelby GT350 Fastback Photo Gallery:

1967 Chevrolet Nickey Camaro SS

Posted on April 6, 2012 by RareCars

In 1967 Chevrolet released their new Camaro, a baby brother to the already popular Chevy Corvette. As part of the first generation, this vehicle came off the production floor with a standard 3.8 L straight-6 engine, a Saginaw three speed manual transmission, and a GM body. Making their way to dealers across America, Camaros became popular and sold quickly. At the time Nickey Chevrolet of Chicago, owned by Jack and Ed Stephani, was one of the biggest and most successful Chevrolet dealers in the country. With their racing background and extensive knowledge of cars, it was only fitting that they convert the car to what is now known as the 1967 Chevrolet Nickey Camaro SS. Although the Camaro sold with performance upgrades, none was as outstanding as the Camaro created at Nickey Chevrolet.

With their racing experience and passion, Nickey transformed the Camaro and created a 427 big-block conversion through collaboration with the famous racer Bill Thomas from California. There are an estimated 14 1967 Nickey Camaro SSs that were built at the time with one becoming what is best known as the Stage III Nickey Camaro. This particular car received the all aluminum 427 ci L89 Tri-Power engine that was rated at 435 horse power. Also, it was the only Nickey Camaro to be built with the distinct color of Tahoe Turquoise. Featured in many magazines and ads, the 1967 Chevrolet Nickey Camaro SS is a muscle car that will forever live on as a legend in car history.

1967 Chevrolet Nickey Camaro SS Photo Gallery