"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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.