When it comes to classic cars, some models have earned legendary status for their speed and performance. However, not all quick classics have received the recognition they deserve. Let’s take a closer look at 12 underrated speed machines from the past that might surprise you with their performance credentials.
AMC Javelin AMX
The AMC Javelin AMX was an American muscle car that offered impressive performance at a budget-friendly price. Produced between 1971 and 1974, it was equipped with a powerful V8 engine that could produce up to 330 horsepower. Despite its capabilities, the AMX often gets overshadowed by more popular contemporaries like the Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. Yet, with its sleek design and robust performance, the Javelin AMX was a formidable competitor in its heyday.
Collectors and enthusiasts today appreciate the AMX for its unique styling and performance. The 1971 Javelin AMX with the 401 cubic inch V8 engine stands out as a particularly impressive model, offering both speed and style at a fraction of the cost of its more famous rivals.
Buick Grand National
In the 1980s, the Buick Grand National emerged as a dark horse in the world of performance cars. Known for its all-black exterior and turbocharged V6 engine, the Grand National could outpace many of its V8-powered competitors. Between 1984 and 1987, this car gained a reputation for its speed and stealth, especially the 1987 GNX variant, which delivered an estimated 276 horsepower.
The Grand National’s turbocharged engine provided a new level of performance for Buick, a brand typically associated with luxury rather than speed. Today, it remains a beloved and sought-after model among collectors, proving that sometimes the underdog can pack a powerful punch.
Chevrolet Corvair Monza
The Chevrolet Corvair Monza was a compact car with a unique rear-engine layout, produced from 1960 to 1969. While it initially faced criticism for its handling, the Monza version, especially from the mid-60s, showcased impressive performance thanks to its turbocharged flat-six engine. The Monza Spyder, introduced in 1962, was among the first American cars to feature a turbocharger, producing around 150 horsepower.
Despite its innovative design and performance, the Corvair has often been overlooked in the muscle car narrative. Nevertheless, its engineering and handling improvements over the years have earned it a dedicated following, highlighting its status as an underrated classic.
Chrysler 300 Hurst
The Chrysler 300 Hurst, produced in 1970, was a limited edition performance car that combined luxury with muscle. Equipped with a 440 cubic inch V8 engine and a distinctive white and gold paint scheme, it delivered approximately 375 horsepower. With only 501 units ever made, it was a rare gem that showcased Chrysler’s commitment to performance.
Its unique styling, combined with its powerful engine, makes the 300 Hurst a standout in the classic car world. Though it may not have achieved the same fame as other muscle cars of its era, enthusiasts cherish it for its exclusivity and performance pedigree.
Dodge Dart GTS
The Dodge Dart GTS was a formidable compact muscle car produced from 1967 to 1969. It was available with a range of engines, including the potent 383 cubic inch V8, capable of producing 300 horsepower. The Dart GTS offered a perfect blend of size and power, making it a popular choice among drag racers and performance enthusiasts.
Despite its impressive capabilities, the Dart GTS often flew under the radar compared to other Dodge models like the Charger or Challenger. Today, collectors appreciate the Dart GTS for its straightforward design and powerful performance, securing its place as an underrated classic.
Ford Torino Cobra
The Ford Torino Cobra, produced between 1968 and 1971, was a performance-oriented version of Ford’s midsize Torino. With engine options like the 429 cubic inch Cobra Jet V8, the Torino Cobra was a true speed machine, capable of producing up to 375 horsepower. Its aerodynamic design and powerful engine made it a popular choice for NASCAR drivers of the era.
While the Torino Cobra doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves, it remains a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts. The 1970 model, in particular, is celebrated for its performance and styling, making it a worthy addition to any classic car collection.
Mercury Cyclone Spoiler
The Mercury Cyclone Spoiler, produced from 1969 to 1971, was designed with performance in mind. It featured powerful engine options, including the 429 cubic inch Super Cobra Jet V8, capable of producing 375 horsepower. Its sleek, aerodynamic design and performance credentials made it a force to be reckoned with on the track.
Despite its impressive capabilities, the Cyclone Spoiler often gets overshadowed by more well-known muscle cars. However, its rarity and performance make it a prized possession for collectors today, highlighting its status as an underrated classic.
Oldsmobile Jetfire
The Oldsmobile Jetfire, produced in 1962 and 1963, was a pioneering model in the world of turbocharged engines. As the first American car to feature a factory-installed turbocharger, the Jetfire’s 215 cubic inch V8 engine delivered 215 horsepower, an impressive figure for its time. This innovation gave the Jetfire a significant edge in performance.
Despite its groundbreaking technology, the Jetfire struggled with reliability issues, which limited its popularity. However, its place in automotive history as a turbocharging pioneer cannot be overstated, making it an underrated yet significant classic.
Plymouth GTX
The Plymouth GTX, produced from 1967 to 1971, was known as the “Gentleman’s Muscle Car” for its combination of luxury and performance. With engine options like the 440 cubic inch Super Commando V8 and the legendary 426 Hemi, the GTX could produce up to 425 horsepower, making it a formidable presence on the road.
Though it often played second fiddle to the more famous Plymouth Road Runner, the GTX offered a more refined take on muscle car performance. Its blend of comfort and speed has earned it a dedicated following among classic car enthusiasts.
Pontiac Tempest LeMans GTO
The Pontiac Tempest LeMans GTO, often credited as the first true muscle car, made waves when it debuted in 1964. Initially an option package for the LeMans, the GTO offered a powerful 389 cubic inch V8 engine capable of producing 348 horsepower. Its performance capabilities quickly earned it a reputation as a speed machine.
While the GTO has become a well-known name, the earlier Tempest LeMans versions are often overlooked. Their pioneering role in the muscle car movement and impressive performance make them an underrated classic worth exploring.
Saab 99 Turbo
The Saab 99 Turbo, introduced in 1978, was a trailblazer in the world of turbocharged vehicles. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produced 145 horsepower, a significant figure for its compact size. The 99 Turbo was a testament to Saab’s innovation and engineering prowess, offering an exhilarating driving experience.
While Saab may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of speed, the 99 Turbo changed perceptions with its impressive performance. Today, it is celebrated as a classic that brought turbocharging to the mainstream, earning it a place among the underrated speed machines.
Studebaker Avanti
The Studebaker Avanti, produced from 1962 to 1963, was a forward-thinking model that combined striking design with impressive performance. Equipped with a supercharged 289 cubic inch V8 engine, the Avanti could produce up to 290 horsepower, making it one of the fastest American cars of its time.
Despite its short production run and the eventual demise of Studebaker, the Avanti’s innovative design and performance have earned it a loyal following. Its place as an underrated classic is secured by its unique styling and engineering achievements.
Like Fast Lane Only’s content? Be sure to follow us.
Here’s more from us:
*Created with AI assistance and editor review.
Leave a Reply