Muscle cars have long held a reputation for raw power and aggressive performance, often competing with or surpassing many high-end vehicles. Their blend of design, engineering, and speed make them contenders not only on the streets but also against some of the fastest supercars.
The following article highlights 10 muscle cars capable of outrunning supercars, demonstrating that performance and affordability can go hand in hand. This list showcases models that combine classic muscle with advanced capabilities, offering a fresh perspective on automotive excellence.
1989 Pontiac Trans Am 20th Anniversary Edition
The 1989 Pontiac Trans Am 20th Anniversary Edition featured a turbocharged and intercooled 3.8-liter V6 engine. It was one of only 1,500 models built with this setup, marking two decades of the Firebird.
This edition could compete closely with many performance cars of its time, delivering strong acceleration and handling. Its 4-speed automatic transmission complemented the turbocharged powertrain for a balanced driving experience.
Chevrolet Corvette Z51
The Chevrolet Corvette Z51 features a 6.2-liter V8 engine with a supercharger, delivering 755 horsepower and 715 lb-ft of torque. This power enables a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 2.8 seconds.
Its top speed reaches 212 mph, making it competitive against many supercars. The Z51 combines performance with strong handling, making it a standout muscle car in this category.
Dodge Charger Hellcat
The Dodge Charger Hellcat features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 706 horsepower. This power allows it to compete with many high-performance supercars in straight-line speed.
It is one of the fastest four-door muscle cars available, offering a blend of power and everyday usability. The Hellcat’s acceleration and top speed make it a strong contender among muscle cars that can outrun supercars.
Shelby Super Snake
The Shelby Super Snake is a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang, built for speed and aggressive handling. It features upgraded engines and enhanced suspension components to deliver impressive acceleration.
The 2024 model is based on the latest S650 Mustang platform, combining modern technology with Shelby’s racing heritage. This muscle car can compete closely with some supercars in straight-line speed and driving dynamics.
Chevrolet ‘Exorcist’ Camaro
The Chevrolet ‘Exorcist’ Camaro is a high-performance variant of the ZL1 model. It features a 1,000 horsepower engine with 966 lb-ft of torque.
This car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 217 mph.
Its powerful supercharger and refined engineering make it capable of competing with some supercars in straight-line speed.
1970 Ford Torino GT
The 1970 Ford Torino GT was a mid-size muscle car notable for its powerful engine options and distinctive design. It featured a bold Coke bottle body style and offered strong performance, especially with the available Cobra Jet V8 engines.
Though not as famous as some muscle cars, the Torino GT earned respect for its combination of raw power and handling. It remains a rare and valued model among collectors and enthusiasts.
1971 Mercury Cyclone GT
The 1971 Mercury Cyclone GT was a notable muscle car designed for both street performance and track capability. It featured powerful engine options, including the rare 429 Cobra Jet V8, prized for its strength and speed.
Its blend of aggressive styling and solid engineering allowed it to compete closely with contemporary supercars. The Cyclone GT remains a respected example of American muscle car craftsmanship from the early 1970s.
1973 Pontiac GTO
The 1973 Pontiac GTO marked the final year of the original GTO line. It featured a V8 engine but was less powerful compared to earlier models due to tightening emissions regulations.
While it lacked the raw speed of earlier muscle cars, the 1973 GTO remained respected for its design and muscle car heritage. It did not compete with modern supercars in outright performance.
1971 Ford Maverick Grabber
The 1971 Ford Maverick Grabber was a sportier version of the Maverick, designed to appeal to muscle car enthusiasts on a budget. It featured aggressive styling elements like bold graphics and a unique front grille.
Under the hood, it often came with a 302 cubic inch V8 engine offering respectable power for its size. The Grabber balanced performance with practicality, making it a notable option among early muscle cars.
1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am featured the Cross-Fire V8 engine, known for its unique fuel injection system. It delivered respectable performance for its era, balancing power with everyday usability.
Some models were equipped with a 350 Chevy engine producing up to 510 horsepower, paired with a Doug Nash 5-speed transmission. This combination gave the Trans Am strong acceleration and solid handling.