33 Affordable American Muscle Cars You Can Buy Now
Owning a piece of automotive history, especially a classic American muscle car, is a dream for many enthusiasts. However, the world of classic car collecting often seems reserved for those with deep pockets, demanding significant dedication, time, and financial commitment, particularly when tackling a restoration project. Yet, the satisfaction of bringing a vintage powerhouse back to life or cruising in a well-preserved icon is unparalleled – a story worth telling and a machine to be proud of.
While concours-condition classics command premium prices, the good news is that the thrill of American muscle isn’t entirely out of reach. Classic muscle cars are arguably more popular than ever, admired for their timeless designs, raw power, and potential to retain or even increase in value. This surge in popularity means iconic models can fetch six-figure sums, but there are still numerous Affordable American Muscle Cars waiting to be discovered. If you’re looking to start your journey into muscle car ownership without emptying your savings, this list is for you.
UPDATE: 2024/10/31
The Cheapest Muscle Cars Available Today
This list has been updated to reflect current used market estimates and includes additional exciting entries. Please remember that the classic and used car market is dynamic; prices can fluctuate. Always conduct thorough research on specific models and market conditions before making a purchase decision.
Drawing data from reputable sources like Hagerty, classic.com, and CarGurus, we have curated this list of compelling muscle cars that remain relatively affordable. While mint-condition examples will always carry a higher price tag regardless of the model, many of these cars offer excellent value, especially if you’re open to a project vehicle or a car in good, drivable condition.
33 1998 Ford Crown Victoria
Starting Used Price: $2,000
Front three-quarter view of a silver 2003 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor parked outdoors
For a long time, the Ford Crown Victoria flew under the radar of many enthusiasts. This robust American sedan served diligently as the go-to choice for police fleets and taxi services for nearly three decades. When the second generation (1998-2012) began retiring from service, these former fleet vehicles hit the market at bargain prices. Even today, finding a functional Crown Vic in decent shape for minimal investment is possible. Its muscle car credentials come from the venerable 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine nestled under the hood.
Pricing For A Used 1998 Ford Crown Victoria
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $2,000 |
| Good | $4,500 |
| Excellent | $7,500 |
| Mint | $10,000 |
Producing between 200 and 250 horsepower, it wasn’t the most potent iteration of the Modular V8, but this under-stressed engine is known for its reliability and benefits from extensive aftermarket support—it shares its lineage with the engine used in the Ford Mustang GT of the era. While the standard four-speed automatic transmission wasn’t cutting-edge, and the body-on-frame Panther platform prioritized durability over nimble handling, the potential is there. The related Mercury Marauder demonstrated that this platform could be tuned for surprising performance.
32 1993 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $2,700
White 2002 Pontiac Firebird Convertible parked outdoors
The fourth generation of the Pontiac Firebird ran parallel to its sibling, the Chevrolet Camaro. As with previous generations, these models shared the F-Body platform and powertrain options. While the base V6 engines offer the lowest entry price, they lack the punch of their V8 counterparts. The ultimate prize for this generation is the rare and valuable Firebird SLP Firehawk, which boasted a Corvette-derived LS1 V8 churning out up to 350 horsepower.
Pricing For A Used 1993 Pontiac Firebird
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $2,700 |
| Good | $3,800 |
| Excellent | $5,300 |
| Mint | $10,400 |
However, even the standard V8 models deliver respectable performance. From 1997 onwards, the LT1 V8 was succeeded by the more potent LS1 (though the original text incorrectly mentions LT4). When equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 and a six-speed manual transmission, the Firebird could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 5.1 seconds and reach top speeds exceeding 160 mph. These figures remain impressive today, making the fourth-gen Firebird V8s a performance bargain among Affordable American Muscle Cars. The V6 versions are also reliable options, offering up to 205 horsepower.
31 1978 Mercury Zephyr
Starting Used Price: $3,113
Silver 1978 Mercury Zephyr coupe studio shot
One year before the Mustang famously adopted the Fox platform, this versatile architecture underpinned the Ford Fairmont (successor to the Maverick) and its Mercury counterpart, the Zephyr, which replaced the Comet. The Zephyr nameplate, originally gracing Lincoln luxury models in the late 1930s and early 1940s, was revived by Mercury for this model. While generally considered an attractive package, its wide rear quarters gave it a somewhat distinct, occasionally awkward, stance.
Pricing For A Used 1978 Mercury Zephyr
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,313 |
| Good | $6,800 |
| Excellent | NA |
| Mint | NA |
Mercury provided three engine choices for the Zephyr: a 2.3-liter inline-four generating 88 horsepower, a 3.3-liter inline-six producing 85 horsepower, and a 5.0-liter V8 rated at 134 horsepower. Although the inline-six had slightly less horsepower than the four-cylinder, it offered more torque (154 lb-ft vs. 118 lb-ft). Produced for six years, the Mercury Zephyr is now a very affordable entry point into classic car ownership, especially for those interested in the Fox platform’s potential.
30 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Starting Used Price: $3,875
Side profile of a silver 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS parked near a building
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo presents a curious case in muscle car lineage. While its nameplate carried significant NASCAR clout as a Generation 4 race car representative, the road-going version struggled to capture the same enthusiast appeal, largely due to its front-wheel-drive layout based on the GM W platform. The Monte Carlo had transitioned from its rear-wheel-drive muscle roots to a more mainstream personal luxury coupe. However, V6 and V8 engines made a return. The performance-oriented SS variants featured either a supercharged 3.8-liter L67 V6 or, later, a 5.3-liter LS4 V8.
Pricing For A Used 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,875 |
| Good | $6,500 |
| Excellent | $11,000 |
| Mint | $14,500 |
Both engines were well-established GM powerplants, but their potential was somewhat hampered by being paired exclusively with a four-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Still, performance wasn’t entirely absent; MotorWeek tested a V8-powered Monte Carlo SS achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds, a respectable figure even now. Common reported issues include electrical system problems and engine cooling troubles. Due to their lower popularity compared to traditional RWD muscle cars, these Monte Carlos are plentiful and represent a cheap way into a V8 (or supercharged V6) powered coupe.
29 1988 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $3,950
Red 1988 Pontiac Firebird Formula parked on pavement
Finding an affordable entry into the world of V8-powered American classics is achievable with the third-generation Pontiac Firebird. A 1988 model equipped with a V8 can be acquired for as little as $3,950 in fair condition. Even well-preserved examples often trade for under $15,000, significantly less than their early 1970s predecessors. The angular styling of the third-gen Firebird has its own distinct appeal, and these cars offer a solid platform for either restoration or modification. It’s a great candidate for a project car or an accessible showpiece.
Pricing For A Used 1988 Pontiac Firebird
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,950 |
| Good | $6,400 |
| Excellent | $9,000 |
| Mint | $13,900 |
The 1980s were challenging years for muscle car performance due to emissions regulations, and the Firebird was affected. Base models often featured less powerful V6 engines. However, V8 options remained available in 1988, including the 5.0-liter (305ci) and the more potent 5.7-liter (350ci) Tuned Port Injection (TPI) engines, particularly in Formula and Trans Am trims. A V8-equipped Firebird from this era, like one with the 305 TPI, could achieve quarter-mile times in the low 15-second range and 0-60 mph sprints under 7 seconds, offering a genuine taste of affordable V8 performance.
28 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
Starting Used Price: $4,400
Gold 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit parked on display indoors
While the Trans Am often steals the spotlight, the Pontiac Firebird Esprit offers another avenue into second-generation F-body ownership, often at a more accessible price point. Contrary to what one might expect from a less common trim, the Esprit is generally more affordable than its higher-performance siblings. Prices can range from around $4,400 for a project car to upwards of $20,000+ for excellent examples. The Esprit was positioned as a more luxury-oriented Firebird, but engine options varied, including V6s and V8s (often the smaller displacement V8s like the 301ci Pontiac V8 or occasionally a 305ci Chevy V8).
Pricing For a Used 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,400 |
| Good | $7,500 |
| Excellent | $15,700 |
| Mint | $23,500 |
Performance in V6 form was modest, with 0-60 mph times around 14.4 seconds, prioritizing style and cruising comfort over outright speed. However, the key attraction is the iconic late second-generation Firebird styling at a lower cost of entry. Since V8s were available, swapping in a more potent Pontiac or Chevrolet V8 is a common and relatively straightforward upgrade for those seeking more performance from their affordable american muscle car project.
27 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
Starting Used Price: $4,600
Red 1988 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z Convertible parked on grass
Similar to its Pontiac Firebird cousin, the third-generation Chevrolet Camaro faced the performance constraints of the 1980s. Base models often came with the lackluster 2.8-liter V6. However, stepping up to the optional V8 engines, like the 5.0-liter (305ci) available in various tunes (including Tuned Port Injection – TPI) or the potent 5.7-liter (350ci) TPI found in IROC-Z models, transforms the car’s character. The platform’s inherent ease of modification makes engine swaps a popular route for builders seeking more power. Keeping it original, however, can enhance its collector value down the line.
Pricing For A Used 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,600 |
| Good | $8,300 |
| Excellent | $19,800 |
| Mint | $24,900 |
Even the commonly available 305 TPI V8 offered respectable performance for the era, capable of propelling the Camaro from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.4 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in approximately 15.6 seconds, reaching speeds near 91 mph. While not blistering by today’s standards, it delivered a satisfying V8 rumble and acceleration. With its iconic ’80s styling and affordable entry price, the third-gen Camaro remains a popular choice for budget-conscious muscle car enthusiasts.
26 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
Starting Used Price: $5,300
Orange 1975 Dodge Dart Sport parked on pavement with building in background
The Dodge Dart Sport, particularly the 360 model introduced for 1974, injected renewed performance into the Dart lineup during the mid-70s. Powered by a respectable 5.9-liter (360ci) V8 engine producing up to 245 gross horsepower (horsepower ratings changed during this period), the Dart Sport 360 offered genuine muscle car credentials in a compact package. These 360 models are rarer and command higher prices, often starting around $20,000 for decent examples.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,300 |
| Good | $7,000 |
| Excellent | $9,900 |
| Mint | $13,000 |
However, if the exclusivity and peak performance of the 360 aren’t essential, standard Dodge Dart Sport models equipped with the smaller but still capable 5.2-liter (318ci) V8 or even the reliable Slant Six engines can be found much more affordably. A Dart Sport with the 318 V8 offered decent acceleration for its time, capable of 0-60 mph in the mid-7-second range and quarter-mile times in the high 15s. These A-body Mopars are known for their simplicity, durability, and strong aftermarket support, making them excellent candidates for affordable american muscle car projects.
25 1986 Ford Mustang 5.0L
Starting Used Price: $5,500
White 1986 Ford Mustang GT Convertible parked in front of brick building
The Fox Body Mustang (1979-1993) has sometimes received unfair criticism, but the models equipped with the legendary 5.0-liter V8 (technically 4.9L, but marketed as 5.0) revitalized Ford’s performance image in the 1980s. While lacking the massive big blocks of the ’60s and early ’70s, the lightweight Fox platform combined with the potent, torquey 302ci V8 created a formidable and affordable performance package. The distinctive rumble from the dual exhaust system became synonymous with affordable V8 power. While special editions like the SVO are rare and expensive, the standard 5.0L GT and LX models offer incredible bang for the buck.
Pricing For A Used 1986 Ford Mustang 5.0-Liter
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,500 |
| Good | $11,000 |
| Excellent | $21,500 |
| Mint | $31,200 |
By 1986, the 5.0L V8 featured sequential electronic fuel injection, producing around 200 horsepower and a healthy dose of torque. This was enough to propel the relatively light Mustang from 0 to 60 mph in the low-6-second range and cover the quarter-mile in under 15 seconds. Top speeds approached 140 mph (original text’s 125 mph seems low). Fox Body Mustangs enjoy massive aftermarket support, making them easy and relatively cheap to modify and maintain, solidifying their status as icons among affordable american muscle cars.
24 2008 Pontiac G8
Starting Used Price: $5,500
Red 2008 Pontiac G8 GT parked outdoors showing front three-quarter view
A product of badge engineering between GM’s American and Australian divisions, the Pontiac G8 was essentially a rebadged Holden Commodore, built on the capable rear-wheel-drive GM Zeta platform. Arriving in the US market for the 2008 model year, the G8 succeeded the front-wheel-drive Grand Prix and G6, offering a brief but glorious return to V8-powered RWD performance sedans for Pontiac before the brand’s demise. While a base V6 was offered, the real stars were the G8 GT with its 6.0-liter L76 V8 (361 hp) and the rare G8 GXP packing the 6.2-liter LS3 V8 (415 hp). A six-speed automatic was common, but a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual was available on the GXP.
Pricing For A Used 2008 Pontiac G8
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,500 |
| Good | $8,000 |
| Excellent | $15,000 |
| Mint | $22,000 |
Performance was impressive, with the GT hitting 60 mph in the low 5-second range and the GXP dipping into the mid-4s. Plans for a Ute version (G8 ST) were unfortunately canceled. The G8 utilized proven GM LS V8 technology, offering reliability and huge tuning potential. As a practical four-door sedan with serious performance capabilities, the Pontiac G8 represents outstanding value in the modern affordable muscle car market, and it holds the distinction of being one of the last exciting vehicles Pontiac produced.
23 1969 Mercury Marauder
Starting Used Price: $6,100
Green 1969 Mercury Marauder X-100 parked on display indoors
While models like the Mercury Cyclone often capture the muscle car limelight, the full-size Mercury Marauder offers a distinct blend of style, comfort, and V8 power, often at a more affordable price. Based on the Mercury Marquis, the 1969-1970 Marauder featured a unique fastback roofline. While pristine examples, especially the high-performance X-100 models, can command higher prices (often exceeding $15,000-$20,000), driver-quality cars can be found starting around $6,100. Its relative obscurity compared to more mainstream muscle cars makes it a great entry point for classic Mercury enthusiasts.
Pricing For A Used 1969 Mercury Marauder
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,100 |
| Good | $8,600 |
| Excellent | $12,800 |
| Mint | $15,600 |
Like many large cars of the era, the Marauder came standard with V8 power. Engine options typically included Ford’s FE-series big blocks, ranging from the 390ci V8 up to the potent 429ci V8. Even the standard 390 provided ample torque for cruising, while the optional 429 (available in standard and Cobra Jet forms in related models) delivered serious performance, capable of propelling this large coupe to 60 mph in around 7 seconds and covering the quarter-mile in the low 15-second range – impressive for a vehicle of its size and era.
22 1983 Buick Regal
Starting Used Price: $6,400
Blue 1976 Buick Regal Hardtop Coupe parked outdoors in front of garage doors
The Buick Regal began its journey as an upscale trim of the Century model before becoming a standalone nameplate in 1973 (not 1978 as stated in the original). The second generation, built on GM’s G-body platform from 1978 to 1987, coincided with challenging times for performance. While standard engines often included V6s (including Buick’s famous turbocharged V6 in later performance models), a 5.0-liter (305ci) V8 option was available for those seeking traditional muscle car motivation, albeit in a detuned state typical of the era.
Pricing For A Used 1983 Buick Regal
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,400 |
| Good | $10,400 |
| Excellent | $18,900 |
| Mint | $23,700 |
The Regal emphasized personal luxury, featuring comfortable interiors with quality fabrics and available amenities like premium sound systems. While the standard V8 offered modest performance, the G-body platform itself became legendary as the basis for the iconic Buick Grand National and the fearsome GNX. While those turbocharged terrors command high prices, the standard V8 or even V6 Regals offer classic G-body styling and a comfortable ride at a very affordable price point, with plenty of potential for modification thanks to shared platform components.
21 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Red 1972 Ford Maverick Grabber parked outdoors
The Ford Maverick was initially conceived as an economical import fighter, but the optional Grabber package added sporty aesthetics like hood scoops, stripes, and spoilers, giving it a muscle car look. While base six-cylinder engines were focused on economy, the available 5.0-liter (302ci) V8 provided a significant performance boost. In 1975, hampered by emissions controls, the 302 V8 produced around 129 net horsepower. While this figure seems low, the Maverick was relatively lightweight, tipping the scales at under 3,000 pounds.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $9,300 |
| Excellent | $12,900 |
| Mint | $16,600 |
This favorable power-to-weight ratio meant even the modestly powered V8 Maverick Grabber could deliver respectable acceleration for its time. Contemporary tests showed 0-60 mph times under 10 seconds and quarter-mile times in the high 15-second range. The Maverick shares mechanical components with other Ford models like the early Mustang, making parts relatively available. The Maverick Grabber offers distinctive styling and V8 potential in an affordable, lightweight package.
20 2000 Ford Mustang GT
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Silver 2000 Ford Mustang GT coupe parked on display indoors
Don’t overlook relatively modern models when searching for affordable american muscle cars. The “New Edge” generation Ford Mustang GT (1999-2004) offers a compelling blend of performance, style, and value. A 2000 Mustang GT can be found in drivable condition needing some TLC for around $6,500. While parts for newer cars can sometimes be pricier than for older classics, they are generally readily available, both from Ford and the vast aftermarket.
Pricing For A 2000 Ford Mustang GT
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $9,600 |
| Excellent | $18,900 |
| Mint | $33,700 |
The heart of the 2000 GT was the 4.6-liter SOHC Modular V8 engine, which received performance improvements (PI) heads and intake for 1999, boosting output to 260 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a standard five-speed manual transmission, this powertrain could launch the roughly 3,200-pound Mustang GT from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-5-second range and cover the quarter-mile in around 14 seconds flat (original text’s 5.0/13.5 seems slightly optimistic for a stock 2000 GT but possible). It offers strong performance straight from the factory with enormous potential for upgrades.
19 1971 Ford Ranchero
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Yellow 1971 Ford Ranchero GT parked on grass
Often overshadowed by its Chevrolet El Camino rival, the Ford Ranchero offers a unique blend of car-like comfort and truck-like utility. Based on the intermediate Ford Torino/Fairlane platform for the 1970-1971 model years, the Ranchero shared its attractive styling and engine options. While base models came with six-cylinder engines, numerous V8 options were available, ranging from the economical 302ci small block to potent big blocks like the 351 Cleveland and the mighty 429 Cobra Jet. V8-powered examples from 1971 can often be found for under $10,000 in fair condition, though pristine, big-block examples (especially GT models) command significantly more, sometimes exceeding $30,000.
Pricing For A Used 1971 Ford Ranchero
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $14,100 |
| Excellent | $23,000 |
| Mint | $33,500 |
The unique car/truck “Ute” body style has gained popularity among collectors in recent years, driving values up, but the Ranchero often remains more affordable than comparable Torinos or Mustangs. Performance varied greatly depending on the engine. A Ranchero equipped with the powerful 429 CJ V8 could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in the low 6-second range and run the quarter-mile in the mid-14s, offering serious muscle car performance with added practicality. Even models with the 302 or 351 V8s provide enjoyable cruising power.
18 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Red 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS coupe parked on display indoors
The fourth-generation Chevrolet Camaro (1993-2002), sometimes dubbed the “Catfish Camaro,” marked a departure with its sleek, modern styling. While it may not have achieved the same iconic status as earlier generations for some purists, it delivered serious performance, especially in V8 form. For 1996, Chevrolet partnered with SLP Engineering to revive the legendary “SS” (Super Sport) moniker as an optional performance package on the Z28. This package offered more than just badges; it included tangible upgrades.
Pricing For A Used 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $7,400 |
| Good | $10,400 |
| Excellent | $16,900 |
| Mint | $21,700 |
The Z28 already featured the potent 5.7-liter LT1 V8, rated at 285 horsepower. The SS package added a functional hood scoop feeding a cold-air induction system, a freer-flowing exhaust, and optional suspension upgrades. These modifications boosted the LT1’s output to 305 horsepower. This extra power sharpened the Camaro’s performance, enabling the Z28 SS to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.3 seconds and conquer the quarter-mile in the high 13-second range at over 100 mph. These cars represent a significant performance bargain among affordable american muscle cars from the 1990s.
17 1972 Chevrolet Vega
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Red 1972 Chevrolet Vega GT Hatchback parked on display
The Chevrolet Vega had a troubled reputation when new, primarily due to reliability issues with its innovative but fragile aluminum-block four-cylinder engine. However, its lightweight construction and conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout made it a popular candidate for V8 engine swaps among drag racers and street machine builders throughout the ’80s and ’90s. A V8-powered Vega could be incredibly quick due to its light weight. While finding unmodified Vegas is becoming rarer, they remain an intriguing, if challenging, project car base. Built examples can vary wildly in price, but project-ready cars or rollers can sometimes be found affordably.
Pricing For A Used 1972 Chevrolet Vega
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $7,400 |
| Good | $13,300 |
| Excellent | $26,200 |
| Mint | $47,600 |
It’s crucial to note that the pricing data above likely reflects the market for V8-swapped or significantly modified Vegas, as stock examples in excellent condition are less common and potentially less valuable than well-executed performance builds. Hagerty’s lower valuation likely refers to stock, four-cylinder models. If you’re considering a Vega project, be prepared for potential rust issues (a common problem) and the inherent work involved in an engine swap if starting with a stock car. However, the potential for a giant-killing, lightweight V8 machine makes it a perennially tempting, affordable project platform.
16 2008 Chrysler 300 SRT8
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Gray 2008 Chrysler 300C SRT8 parked in a driveway
The first-generation Chrysler 300, particularly in its SRT8 guise, brought aggressive “gangster” styling and serious Hemi V8 power back to the American sedan landscape. Launched for the 2005 model year, the 300C SRT8 was the top-tier performance model, boasting significant upgrades over the standard 300C. These included Brembo brakes, performance-tuned suspension, functional cooling ducts, unique exterior styling elements like a subtle rear spoiler, and large alloy wheels.
Pricing For A Used 2008 Chrysler 300 SRT8
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $7,500 |
| Good | $15,500 |
| Excellent | $22,500 |
| Mint | $33,200 |
Under the hood roared a potent 6.1-liter Hemi V8, eschewing the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) of the 5.7L Hemi for pure, unadulterated power. It produced a stout 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque (original text’s 440 lb-ft is slightly high), channeled through a robust five-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels. This combination could launch the nearly 4,200-pound sedan from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in around 13 seconds flat, with a top speed exceeding 170 mph. Offering bold looks, a luxurious interior for its time, and thunderous Hemi performance, the first-gen 300 SRT8 is a modern classic and an increasingly affordable american muscle sedan.
15 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Black and Silver 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS parked on pavement
As the Ford Ranchero’s long-time rival, the Chevrolet El Camino also offered a unique blend of car and truck attributes. By 1987, the El Camino was in its final model year, based on the GM G-body platform shared with the Monte Carlo. The SS package provided a sportier appearance, often including two-tone paint schemes and graphics similar to the Monte Carlo SS, along with specific wheels and a sportier front fascia.
Pricing For A Used 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $7,500 |
| Good | $12,000 |
| Excellent | $18,800 |
| Mint | $30,200 |
The standard engine for the 1987 El Camino SS was the Chevrolet 5.0-liter (305ci) V8, equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. It produced a modest 150 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Performance was adequate rather than exhilarating, with 0-60 mph times around 9 seconds and quarter-mile times in the mid-16-second range. However, the key advantage of the G-body platform is its interchangeability with other GM components. Swapping in a more potent engine, such as a 350ci V8 or even leveraging aftermarket support for the 305, is a very common upgrade path for El Camino owners seeking more muscle. The unique style and utility make the El Camino SS an affordable and distinctive classic.
14 1972 Mercury Comet
Starting Used Price: $8,100
Light green 1972 Mercury Comet sedan parked on display indoors
Sharing its platform with the Ford Maverick, the Mercury Comet offered similar compact dimensions but often featured slightly different styling and trim details, positioning it a bit more upscale than its Ford sibling. Engine options mirrored the Maverick’s, ranging from economical inline-six engines (like the 170ci or 250ci) up to the optional 5.0-liter (302ci) V8. The Comet, particularly in its V8 guise, provides a great starting point for building a classic muscle car on a budget, benefiting from the strong aftermarket support for the Ford small-block V8 and related chassis components.
Pricing For A Used 1972 Mercury Comet
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,100 |
| Good | $11,700 |
| Excellent | $14,600 |
| Mint | $18,600 |
In 1972, the 302 V8 was rated somewhere between 140-143 net horsepower, a decrease from previous years due to changing rating systems and emissions tuning. While not a powerhouse in stock form, it provided adequate motivation for the lightweight Comet. Performance figures were modest, with 0-60 mph taking around 9-10 seconds and quarter-mile times in the 17-second range. However, the 302 V8 responds very well to traditional performance upgrades (camshaft, intake, carburetor, exhaust), making it easy and relatively inexpensive to extract significantly more power, turning the unassuming Comet into a surprisingly quick and affordable american muscle car.
