"Muscle car" is a key phrase that ultimately stands for high-performance, American-based coupe cars. That's a mouth full, but these cars have thrived in the automotive industry for decades and have stolen the hearts of car owners across the globe since the beginning of their time.

RELATED: 10 Affordable Sports Cars We'd Buy Over Any Muscle Car 

Sports cars and muscle cars have had an underlying competition between car lovers. While sports cars can handle more versatile driving conditions, such as curvy roads, muscle cars are hard to beat as far as torque and speed. To top it off, who can complain about a cheaper car?

Let's take a look at some affordable muscle cars we would much rather buy over any sports car.

10 American Motors AMX

1969 AMC AMX
Mecum Auctions

This two-seat GT-style sports car was unique for its time due to the shorter wheelbase. With a base price in the 20s, this muscle car is actually affordable given its capabilities and classic reputation.

Via Mecum Auctions

As the "best-engineered car of the year" in 1969 and 1970, who wouldn't want to have this treasure in their garage. Producing up to 420 horsepower and reaching 60 mph in just six seconds, the AMX is nothing short of extraordinary.

9 2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Via Reddit

While newer models of the Chevy Camaro can easily surpass $30K, early 5th generation SS models can now be found for less than $20,000. Under the hood is a Tremec TR-6060 transmission and a 6.2-liter V8 engine, capable of producing 426 horsepower.

Via Forgestar

The look of the Chevy Camaro SS is top-notch, giving off a very powerful and strong demeanor. Who wouldn't choose this muscle car over any sports car?

8 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

Via FavCars.com

The price tag on this muscle car can range anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the year, mods, and style. As the "top of the line" Firebird model, it is obvious why this classic beast would be chosen over a sports car.

Via Pinterest

Equipped with a V8 engine and the ability to produce 345 horsepower before serious modifications, this Pontiac would be a blessing to any car lover. Not to mention it's hard not to fall in love with the stylistic qualities of this ride.

7 1968 Ford Mustang

Via Mecum Auctions

While some recent models can resemble car genres outside of the muscle car category, the 60s were known for the production of Ford Mustangs that were pure muscle. 1968 was one of the best years for the Mustang, and surprisingly, you can find these models being sold for less than $20,000.

Via Mecum Auctions

Home to a 6.4-liter, naturally aspirated, V8 engine, this car outputs up to 335 horsepower without any modifications. This 60s Ford holds a special place in our hearts.

6 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber

Via state of speed

Equipped with a 3-speed manual transmission, this Ford is a classic muscle car with a very affordable price tag. Car lovers can grab one of these rides for around $10K. Now that is a price we like to see on a treasure like this car.

RELATED: These Affordable 2020 Cars Will Keep Up With Most Sports Cars 

Via state of speed

Its engine pushes out 145 lb-ft of torque. The body of this car is certainly from the 70s, with its long front end and short rear. But, that's what makes it so special. Who wouldn't want to snatch one of these rides up with that price?

5 1990 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

Via GM Authority

This Chevy is a true, cost-effective, Camaro with a price ranging between $4,500 and $10,000. With a very unique appearance, it is hard not to appreciate the qualities this car upholds.

Via Barrett-Jackson

A naturally aspirated, fuel-injected V8 engine is found under the hood, producing up to 170 horsepower, and a top speed of 137 mph. Sorry modern sports cars, but the classics still have our hearts when it comes to price and power.

4 1971 Ford Torino GT

Via WSupercars

With its classic, beastly appearance, the Ford Torino GT has an affordable price between $11,000 and $15,000. Reaching 0 mph to 60 mph in just above eight seconds, this muscle car's performance is great for its age.

Via WSupercars

The engine can produce up to 210 horsepower. Remember the saying "respect your elders?" Well, car lovers might want to when it comes to choosing between classic versus modern, or even muscle vs sports car.

3 1973 Mercury Cougar

1973 mercury cougar
Via Mecum Auctions

While this classic may be hard to find today, there is no ignoring that affordable price tag. An average cost for a model in good condition is around $14,500.

Via Mecum Auctions

For a muscle car that looks as sleek as this ride, and has a better power-weight ratio than a Mustang, that price is incredible. As for performance, this ride holds a V8 engine, producing around 168 horsepower depending on the generation.

2 2019 Genesis G70 3.0T

Via MotorTrend

While this car is a luxury car, and an oddball on this list, it makes the cut due to its muscle car attributes. For a modern, 2019 car, the G70 has a base price tag of around $35,000. This is the most expensive car on this list, but it is still more affordable than most modern muscle cars. As for performance, the car can produce up to 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque.

RELATED: These Classic Coupes Are Actually Really Affordable 

Via Car and Driver

While it may not be home to a V8 engine like the majority of the muscle class, it holds a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that is perfectly capable compared to its competitors. While it may not be a fully classified muscle car, we can't complain about the performance and appearance qualities.

1 2015 Hyundai Genesis Coupe R-Spec

Via Stance Nation

This modern-day muscle car is often overlooked, but the MSRP on this Hyundai is affordable compared to its leading competitors. With a suggested retail price of $29,500, this muscle car is on the more price-friendly side of the spectrum.

Via Pinterest

Although it may not resemble the stereotypical appearance of a muscle car, the performance qualities do. Producing 348 horsepower, this vehicle holds a 3.8-liter V6 engine.

NEXT: These Affordable Cars Have The Most Glorious Exhaust Sounds