Muscle cars have been the topic of conversation between car enthusiasts since the late 1960s. The era brought about a new generation of high performance and fast vehicles with bright, flashy colors. Collectors typically try to get their hands on the first muscle cars that were put on the market, which some might consider to be “vintage” or “antique.” But if you’re looking for the same sleek design and powerful engine, just with a more modern twist, we’ve curated a list of the top muscle cars of 2022.
What qualifies a car to be a muscle car?
- Makes: Most American muscle cars are born from Chevrolet, Ford, Dodge. Some British and German manufacturers produce fast muscle cars too.
- Specifications: Large American V-shaped eight-cylinder rear-wheel drive (RWD) car. Usually priced relatively low. Has high horsepower ratings and can be either a two or four-door model.
- Torque/Power: A V8 engine usually creates 1.25 lb-ft of torque per cubic inch of displacement. Power also varies between models, but the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon comes in first with a horsepower of 808.
- 0-60: Many factors contribute to the time a muscle car manages to go from 0-60, but the Demon only needs 2.3 seconds. Other muscle cars range from 3 to 7 seconds.
- Quarter Miles: The majority of muscle cars take anywhere from 10 to 15 seconds to travel a quarter-mile.
Top Muscle Cars
Of the muscle cars that exist, there are three main base models that make up this category of cars. These include the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Dodge Challenger. Don’t worry because we explored all the various trims so you don’t have to. Just sit back and relax while you decide which model you’ll be adding to your collection.
Chevrolet Camaro 1LT
This is one of Chevy’s least expensive trims but the price tag doesn’t take away from the power this car brings to the road. The 1LT starts around $25,500 and has a horsepower ranging from 275-335. They come equipped with either a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine or 3.6-liter V6 engine that uses purely gasoline fuel. The 1LT gets anywhere from 22-30 miles per gallon. Its torque ranges from 284 to 295 lb-ft.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost
The 2022 Ford Mustang EcoBoost is a force to reckoned with. It’s MSRP starts at $27,205 and has a horsepower ranging from 310-330. This two-door model fits four passengers inside for a thrilling ride. The EcoBoost gets anywhere from 21 to 32 miles per gallon. Under the hood you’ll find a 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder engine. This model brings to the table 350 lb-ft of torque as well.
Dodge Challenger SXT
The trim on this Challenger is super sleek and more traditional than its competitors. The pricing for this five-seater muscle car starts at $30,825. This model brings a horsepower of 303 and has a fuel efficiency ranging from 19 to 30 miles per gallon. The SXT is built with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and produces a torque of 268 lb-ft.
Ford Mustang GT Fastback
This car is a must-have for fans of the eight-cylinder engine. Under the hood, this model has a 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers some of the best power on the road, ranging from 310-470 hp. The 2022 GT Fastback starts at $36,285. This is another two-door model that comfortably fits four passengers. Whether you’re driving through the city or on the highway, the GT gets anywhere from 15-24 miles per gallon.
Chevrolet Camaro SS
The SuperSport name is ideal for this model as it’s equipped with a rumbling 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 455 hp. The RWD on this car makes it super fun to drive and you can pull off the lot with one starting at $25,000. It has an available 10-speed automatic transmission. The torque of this trim is 455 lb-ft and ranges from 22-30 miles per gallon. Could you picture yourself in the coupe or convertible version of this model?
Let us know in the comments if you plan on adding one of these 2022 top picks to your collection. Additionally, tell us about your experience if you already have a prized muscle car parked in your garage. We want to know what kind and why it’s your favorite.