Top Cheap Fast Muscle Cars You Can Still Afford
Owning a classic muscle car is a dream for many enthusiasts, but it often involves significant dedication, commitment, and potentially deep pockets, especially for project cars. The satisfaction of restoring or simply cruising in a piece of automotive history is undeniable – a story waiting to be told. While pristine, show-ready classics command high prices, the good news is that the thrill of American muscle isn’t entirely out of reach for the budget-conscious. Thanks to their enduring charm and potential for value appreciation, classic muscle cars remain popular, but this doesn’t mean you need six figures to get behind the wheel. If you’re searching for Cheap Fast Muscle Cars, you’ve come to the right place.
This list dives into affordable muscle cars that offer a gateway into this exciting world without emptying your wallet. Whether you want a turnkey cruiser or a project to make your own, these models deliver performance and style on a budget.
(Editor’s Note: Market prices for used vehicles fluctuate. The prices listed here are estimates based on data from sources like Hagerty, classic.com, and CarGurus as of late 2024. Always conduct thorough research on current market conditions and specific vehicle history before purchasing.)
33. 1998 Ford Crown Victoria
Starting Used Price: $2,000
Front 3/4 view of a silver 2003 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor parked outdoors, an example of cheap fast muscle cars available
For a long time, the Ford Crown Victoria flew under the radar. As the workhorse for police departments and taxi fleets for nearly three decades, these rugged sedans became incredibly affordable once retired from service. The second generation (1998-2012) is particularly noteworthy. Even today, finding a running example in reasonable condition for minimal cash is possible. What gives the Crown Vic its muscle car credentials? The venerable 4.6-liter Modular V-8 engine 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 |
While its 200-250 horsepower output wasn’t the most potent application of this V8, the engine is known for its reliability and benefits from extensive aftermarket support – it’s the same basic engine found in the Mustang GT of the era. The standard four-speed automatic isn’t cutting-edge, and the body-on-frame Panther platform means handling isn’t its strong suit. However, its sibling, the Mercury Marauder, proved that this platform could be tweaked for surprising performance, making the Crown Vic a solid base for a cheap, fast, and durable V8 sedan.
32. 1993 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $2,700
A white 2002 Pontiac Firebird Convertible parked outdoors, representing the fourth generation affordable muscle car
Sharing the F-Body platform and engine options with its Chevrolet Camaro cousin, the fourth-generation Pontiac Firebird offers aggressive styling and potent performance at an accessible price point. While base V6 models are the cheapest, they lack the punch of the V8 variants. The ultimate prize is the rare and expensive SLP Firehawk, boasting a Corvette-derived LS1 V8 with 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 offer serious speed. From 1993 to 1997, the LT1 V8 provided ample thrust, later replaced by the even more capable LS1 V8 (mistakenly referred to as LT4 in the original text, the LT4 was rarer). Equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 and a six-speed manual transmission, these Firebirds could hit 60 mph in the low 5-second range and reach top speeds exceeding 160 mph – impressive figures even by today’s standards, making them excellent candidates for Cheap Fast Muscle Cars. The V6 engines, while less powerful (up to 205 hp), are reliable alternatives for those prioritizing style and affordability over maximum speed.
31. 1978 Mercury Zephyr
Starting Used Price: $3,113
Studio shot of a two-door 1978 Mercury Zephyr, an affordable classic based on the Fox platform
Appearing a year before the iconic Fox Body Mustang, the Ford Fairmont and its Mercury counterpart, the Zephyr, introduced the versatile Fox platform. Replacing the Mercury Comet, the Zephyr revived a nameplate from Lincoln’s pre-war luxury era. While considered an attractive package by some, its wide rear quarters gave it a somewhat awkward stance.
Pricing For A Used 1978 Mercury Zephyr
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,313 |
| Good | $6,800 |
| Excellent | NA |
| Mint | NA |
Mercury offered the Zephyr with three engine choices: a modest 88-hp 2.3-liter inline-four, an 85-hp 3.3-liter inline-six, and the crucial option for muscle enthusiasts – a 5.0-liter V8 producing 134 horsepower. While the V8’s output seems low today, the Zephyr’s lightweight nature (relative to larger cars of the era) and the inherent potential of the 5.0 V8 made it a decent performer and a prime candidate for modification. Its shared platform with the Mustang means aftermarket support is plentiful. Examples of the Zephyr, produced for six years, remain very affordable today, offering a unique entry point into V8 ownership.
30. 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Starting Used Price: $3,875
Side profile glamour shot of a silver 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS parked near water
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Monte Carlo is a curious case. Famous for its NASCAR presence, the road-going version suffered from a less-than-enthusiast-friendly front-wheel-drive layout. Having transitioned from a rear-wheel-drive muscle car to a more economical personal luxury coupe, it regained some performance credibility in its later years with the return of V6 and V8 options, particularly in the SS trims.
Pricing For A Used 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,875 |
| Good | $6,500 |
| Excellent | $11,000 |
| Mint | $14,500 |
SS models featured either a robust 3.8-liter supercharged L67 V6 or, more interestingly for V8 fans, a 5.3-liter LS4 V8. While both engines offered proven performance, they were exclusively paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, limiting driver engagement. Still, the V8-powered Monte Carlo SS could achieve a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 6.0 seconds. Common issues reported include electrical system problems and engine cooling vulnerabilities. Due to their relative lack of popularity compared to RWD muscle cars, these front-wheel-drive performers are abundant and cheap on the used market.
29. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $3,950
Red 1988 Pontiac Firebird Formula parked outdoors, showcasing late 80s F-body style
The 1980s were challenging for muscle cars due to emissions regulations and fuel crises, and the Pontiac Firebird wasn’t immune. Engine outputs were generally lower than in previous decades. However, finding a 1988 Firebird with a V8 engine is still possible for under $4,000 in project condition. Even pristine examples often sell for less than $15,000, significantly cheaper than their early ’70s counterparts. The third-generation Firebird’s angular styling is distinctly ’80s and remains appealing, offering a great platform for restoration or modification.
Pricing For A Used 1988 Pontiac Firebird
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,950 |
| Good | $6,400 |
| Excellent | $9,000 |
| Mint | $13,900 |
While base models came with less inspiring engines, the 1988 Firebird still offered V8 options, primarily the 5.0-liter (305ci) and, in some performance trims like the Formula and Trans Am GTA, the 5.7-liter (350ci) L98 V8 borrowed from the Corvette. A 305-equipped Firebird could achieve 0-60 mph in around 6.9 seconds and run the quarter-mile in the low 15-second range – decent performance for the era and a solid foundation for building a faster machine.
28. 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
Starting Used Price: $4,400
Gold 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit parked on display at an auction event
Often overshadowed by the base Firebird and the iconic Trans Am, the Firebird Esprit was positioned as a more luxurious, comfort-oriented model within the lineup. Despite its relative obscurity, this doesn’t translate to higher prices. In fact, Esprit models can be found quite affordably, with prices ranging significantly based on condition and engine. Values start around $4,400 for fair examples, climbing towards $23,500 or more for mint condition cars.
Pricing For a Used 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,400 |
| Good | $7,500 |
| Excellent | $15,700 |
| Mint | $23,500 |
The 1979 Esprit came standard with less potent engines, including V6 options (the original text mentions a 2.8L, but Pontiac V6s like the 3.8L were common). Crucially, a 5.0-liter (302ci, sourced from Oldsmobile) or even the Pontiac 301ci V8 were available options, though significantly detuned compared to earlier years due to emissions regulations. While a V6 Esprit offered style over speed (0-60 mph in a leisurely 14+ seconds), finding one with a factory V8 or swapping one in provides a much more engaging driving experience, blending classic Firebird looks with accessible V8 power.
27. 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
Starting Used Price: $4,600
White 1988 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z Convertible parked outdoors
Similar to its Pontiac sibling, the 1988 Chevrolet Camaro felt the effects of the ’80s performance slump. Base models featured V6 engines, a far cry from the big blocks of the past. However, V8 options remained, primarily the 5.0-liter (305ci) small-block, available in various states of tune (carbureted or fuel-injected TBI/TPI). Higher trims like the IROC-Z could also be optioned with the more potent 5.7-liter (350ci) L98 Tuned Port Injection (TPI) V8.
Pricing For A Used 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,600 |
| Good | $8,300 |
| Excellent | $19,800 |
| Mint | $24,900 |
The accessibility of these third-gen Camaros makes them excellent project cars. Removing the base engine and swapping in a larger, more powerful V8 (like the ubiquitous 350) is a common and relatively straightforward modification. Even in stock form with a TPI 305 (around 190-215 hp depending on spec), the ’88 Camaro offered respectable performance for its time: 0-60 mph could be achieved in the mid-7-second range, with quarter-mile times around 15.6 seconds. Top speeds approached 150 mph for the more powerful versions.
26. 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
Starting Used Price: $5,300
Orange 1975 Dodge Dart Sport parked outside a building
The Dodge Dart Sport, particularly the 360 model introduced in 1974, injected excitement into the Dart lineup during the Malaise Era. Powered by a 5.9-liter (360ci) V8 engine producing a respectable 245 horsepower (gross rating, likely lower net), the Dart Sport 360 offered genuine performance in a compact package. While the 360 variant is rarer and commands higher prices (often starting around $20,000), the broader Dart Sport lineup, including those with the smaller but still capable 5.2-liter (318ci) V8, provides a much more affordable entry point.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,300 |
| Good | $7,000 |
| Excellent | $9,900 |
| Mint | $13,000 |
Even with the more common 318 V8, the lightweight Dart Sport delivered lively performance for its time. A V8-equipped Dart Sport could accelerate to 60 mph in the low 7-second range and cover the quarter-mile in the mid-to-high 15-second range. These A-body Mopars are known for their simple, rugged construction and enjoy good aftermarket support, making them popular choices for budget-minded muscle car builders looking for cheap fast muscle cars with classic Mopar appeal.
25. 1986 Ford Mustang 5.0L
Starting Used Price: $5,500
Silver 1986 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L hatchback parked near trees
Fox Body Mustangs (1979-1993) sometimes get a mixed reputation, but the 5.0-liter V8 models, particularly from the mid-80s onwards, undeniably brought performance back to the Mustang lineup. While lacking the sheer displacement of earlier big blocks, the lightweight chassis combined with the potent High Output (H.O.) 302ci V8 created a genuinely quick car for its era. The distinctive rumble from the dual exhaust system became iconic. While special editions like the SVO are rare and expensive, the standard GT and LX 5.0 models offer fantastic value.
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 |
In 1986, the fuel-injected 5.0L H.O. V8 produced around 200 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with the Mustang’s relatively low curb weight, this resulted in impressive acceleration: 0-60 mph times hovered around the 6-second mark, and the quarter-mile could be dispatched in under 15 seconds. Top speeds were around 125-130 mph. The vast aftermarket support for Fox Body Mustangs makes them incredibly easy and relatively inexpensive to modify, solidifying their status as icons among cheap fast muscle cars.
24. 2008 Pontiac G8
Starting Used Price: $5,500
Red 2008 Pontiac G8 GT sedan parked outdoors, a modern affordable muscle sedan
One of the last cars to wear the Pontiac badge, the G8 was essentially a rebadged Holden Commodore imported from Australia. Built on GM’s global rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform, the G8 offered a compelling blend of performance, handling, and practicality that was rare in American sedans at the time. While a base V6 was available, the real stars were the V8-powered GT (6.0L L76 V8, approx. 361 hp) and the later GXP (6.2L LS3 V8, approx. 415 hp).
Pricing For A Used 2008 Pontiac G8
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,500 |
| Good | $8,000 |
| Excellent | $15,000 |
| Mint | $22,000 |
Even the GT model offered blistering performance, capable of 0-60 mph in the low 5-second range. Unlike many contemporaries, the G8 was available with not only a six-speed automatic but also, in the GXP trim, a desirable Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. Plans for a Ute version (G8 ST) were unfortunately canceled. Relying on proven GM LS-engine technology, the G8 is relatively simple and robust. Its blend of sedan practicality and genuine V8 muscle car performance makes it a surprisingly affordable and desirable modern classic.
23. 1969 Mercury Marauder
Starting Used Price: $6,100
Green 1969 Mercury Marauder X-100 parked on grass display at an event
While models like the Mercury Cyclone often steal the spotlight, the full-size Mercury Marauder offers big-block power in a stylish, often overlooked package. Based on the Mercury Marquis but featuring a unique fastback roofline (on the standard Marauder and X-100), the 1969-1970 Marauders were designed with performance in mind. Because they are less common and sought-after than some Ford or Mopar counterparts, they represent solid value in the classic muscle car market.
Pricing For A Used 1969 Mercury Marauder
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,100 |
| Good | $8,600 |
| Excellent | $12,800 |
| Mint | $15,600 |
These large Mercurys came standard with serious V8 power. Engine options typically started with the 390ci FE V8 and went up to the potent 429ci V8 from Ford’s 385 engine family. Equipped with the 429 (often rated around 360 gross horsepower), the hefty Marauder could still move surprisingly quickly, achieving 0-60 mph times in the low 7-second range and running the quarter-mile in the low 15s. Finding one in fair condition for under $7,000 makes it an appealing entry into big-block muscle.
22. 1983 Buick Regal
Starting Used Price: $6,400
Blue 1976 Buick Regal Hardtop Coupe parked in front of garage doors, representing the model line
The Buick Regal nameplate spanned decades, but the rear-wheel-drive models, particularly the G-body generation (1978-1987), hold significant appeal for muscle car fans. While initially positioned as a personal luxury car, often featuring plush interiors and V6 engines (including the famous turbocharged V6 in later performance models), V8 options were also available. The most desirable iterations are the legendary Grand National and GNX, but standard V8 Regals offer a similar platform and classic style at a fraction of the cost.
Pricing For A Used 1983 Buick Regal
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,400 |
| Good | $10,400 |
| Excellent | $18,900 |
| Mint | $23,700 |
In the early ’80s, like 1983, the available V8 was typically a 5.0-liter (305ci or 307ci) unit, often sourced from Chevrolet or Oldsmobile, with modest horsepower ratings due to emissions controls. However, the G-body platform is robust and readily accepts engine swaps, making these Regals popular project bases. Even with a stock V8, they offer a comfortable cruise with classic American style. Their connection to the Grand National adds a layer of coolness, making them an affordable way to get into the G-body scene.
21. 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Red 1972 Ford Maverick Grabber with black stripes parked outdoors
The Ford Maverick was introduced as a compact, economical import fighter, but the optional Grabber package added sporty visual flair, hinting at performance potential. While standard Mavericks came with thrifty six-cylinder engines, the crucial option was the 302ci (5.0-liter) V8. In 1975, amidst strict emissions regulations, this V8 produced a modest 129 net horsepower.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $9,300 |
| Excellent | $12,900 |
| Mint | $16,600 |
Don’t let the low horsepower figure fool you entirely. The Maverick was significantly lighter than many contemporary muscle cars, tipping the scales under 3,000 pounds. This favorable power-to-weight ratio allowed V8 Mavericks to feel surprisingly peppy. Performance figures suggest 0-60 mph times under 10 seconds and quarter-mile times in the high 15-second range – not blistering, but respectable for the era and easily improvable. The simple mechanics and shared components with Mustangs make the Maverick Grabber an easy and affordable V8 classic to own and modify.
20. 2000 Ford Mustang GT
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Red 2000 Ford Mustang GT coupe parked at an outdoor event
Entering the modern era, the “New Edge” generation Ford Mustang GT (1999-2004) offers significant performance for remarkably little money on the used market. These cars represent a sweet spot, blending modern features and reliability with classic V8 muscle car character. Finding a drivable example needing some TLC for under $7,000 is entirely feasible. Parts are readily available and often more affordable than those for older classics.
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 Mustang GT is the 4.6-liter SOHC Modular V8, producing a healthy 260 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. Paired typically with a 5-speed manual transmission (an automatic was optional), this powertrain could propel the roughly 3,200-pound coupe from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.0-5.5 seconds and blast through the quarter-mile in the mid-to-low 13-second range. These are serious performance numbers, making the New Edge GT one of the best bang-for-your-buck options for cheap fast muscle cars available today.
19. 1971 Ford Ranchero
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Yellow 1971 Ford Ranchero GT with black stripes and hood scoop parked outdoors
The Ford Ranchero, a car-based pickup truck (or “Ute”), often lives in the shadow of its main rival, the Chevrolet El Camino. This relative obscurity can be an advantage for buyers seeking affordable classic muscle. Based on the intermediate Ford Torino/Fairlane platform during this era, the 1970-1971 Ranchero shared its handsome styling and potent engine options. While pristine examples, especially high-trim GT models with big blocks, can fetch over $20,000, well-used V8 examples can still be found for under $10,000.
Pricing For A Used 1971 Ford Ranchero
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $14,100 |
| Excellent | $23,000 |
| Mint | $33,500 |
Engine choices ranged from economical inline-sixes to a variety of V8s, including the common 302ci and 351ci (Cleveland or Windsor) engines, up to the mighty 429ci Cobra Jet and Super Cobra Jet big blocks in performance trims. A Ranchero equipped with a healthy 351 or the formidable 429 offered serious hauling capability – both cargo and asphalt. A 429-powered Ranchero could hit 60 mph in the low 6-second range and run the quarter-mile in the mid-14s, making this versatile classic a true sleeper muscle machine.
18. 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Red 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS coupe parked at an outdoor show
The fourth-generation Camaro (1993-2002), sometimes nicknamed the “Catfish,” didn’t initially capture hearts like its predecessors. However, its performance potential, especially in V8 trims, is undeniable, and its ’90s styling is gaining appreciation. This lack of universal love keeps prices relatively low, even for special editions like the 1996 Z28 SS (Super Sport). Developed in collaboration with SLP Engineering, the SS package was an upgrade over the standard Z28.
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 key upgrade for the SS was a boost in power from the LT1 5.7-liter V8. Thanks to a cold-air induction system and optional performance exhaust, horsepower climbed from the Z28’s 275-285 hp up to 305 hp (or slightly more with the exhaust). This extra grunt, combined with potential suspension tweaks, sharpened the Camaro’s performance edge. The Z28 SS could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.3 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in approximately 13.8 seconds, making it a genuinely fast car for its time and a sought-after yet still relatively affordable variant today.
17. 1972 Chevrolet Vega
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Orange 1972 Chevrolet Vega GT hatchback parked at an auction
The Chevrolet Vega has a controversial history, plagued by reliability issues with its innovative aluminum-block four-cylinder engine. However, its lightweight construction and conventional front-engine, rear-drive layout made it an incredibly popular platform for V8 engine swaps back in the day, turning these humble economy cars into drag strip terrors. That tradition continues, making the Vega a sought-after project car base. While finding untouched originals is becoming harder, their potential as budget hot rods keeps them relevant.
Pricing For A Used 1972 Chevrolet Vega
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $7,400 |
| Good | $13,300 |
| Excellent | $26,200 |
| Mint | $47,600 |
Stock Vegas offered little in terms of performance. The real appeal lies in modification. Dropping a small-block Chevy V8 (like a 327 or 350) into the lightweight Vega chassis creates a car with an incredible power-to-weight ratio. Because of this V8-swap heritage, market values can vary wildly. While some valuation guides might list low prices for stock examples, well-built V8 Vegas or clean originals ready for a swap command significantly more. Patience is key to finding a Vega project that fits your budget.
16. 2008 Chrysler 300 SRT8
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Gray 2008 Chrysler 300C SRT8 sedan parked on a paved driveway
The Chrysler 300, especially in its first generation (2005-2010), made a bold statement with its Bentley-esque styling and available Hemi V8 power. The ultimate expression of this was the SRT8 variant. Combining luxury appointments with serious performance hardware, the 300 SRT8 was a true American muscle sedan. It featured performance-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, distinctive styling cues, and most importantly, a potent Hemi V8.
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 lurked a 6.1-liter Hemi V8, pumping out 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque (note: original text had 440 lb-ft, 420 is the commonly accepted figure). Mated to a robust five-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels, this engine could launch the nearly 4,200-pound sedan from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Quarter-mile times were around 13 seconds flat, with a top speed exceeding 170 mph. Offering a blend of sophisticated looks, a comfortable interior, and brutal acceleration, the first-gen 300 SRT8 is becoming an incredible performance bargain.
15. 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Black and Silver 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS parked in front of a building
The Chevrolet El Camino blended car-like comfort with truck utility for decades. The final generation (1978-1987), built on the G-body platform shared with the Monte Carlo and Buick Regal, continued this tradition. The SS package, particularly in the later years, often adopted the sporty front-end styling of the Monte Carlo SS, giving it a more aggressive look. While not the powerhouse its predecessors were, the ’87 El Camino SS still offered V8 motivation.
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 V8 in the 1987 El Camino SS was the 5.0-liter (305ci) small-block, typically equipped with a four-barrel carburetor, producing around 150 horsepower. Performance wasn’t earth-shattering, with 0-60 mph times around 9 seconds and quarter-mile times in the mid-16-second range. However, like other G-bodies, the El Camino benefits from huge aftermarket support and the relative ease of engine swaps. Dropping in a more potent 350 V8 or even a modern LS engine is a popular upgrade path, transforming this stylish utility vehicle into a surprisingly quick machine.
14. 1972 Mercury Comet
Starting Used Price: $8,100
Yellow 1972 Mercury Comet GT parked on grass at an event
Sharing its platform with the Ford Maverick, the Mercury Comet offered slightly different styling and trim options but shared the same basic mechanicals. Like the Maverick, it was available with economical inline-six engines or the desirable 302ci (5.0-liter) V8. The GT package added sporty touches, similar to the Maverick Grabber.
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 higher than in the later Maverick example, often quoted around 140-145 net horsepower, though ratings varied. Still relatively lightweight, the V8 Comet offered decent performance for its class. Expect 0-60 mph times around 9 seconds and quarter-mile performance in the high 16 to low 17-second range in stock form. Its straightforward mechanics, shared parts with the Maverick and Mustang, and affordable entry price make the V8 Comet a great, often overlooked, platform for a classic muscle car build or a fun, budget-friendly cruiser.
Conclusion: Finding Your Affordable Speed Demon
The allure of American muscle – the rumble of a V8, the classic lines, the tire-smoking performance – doesn’t always require a movie star budget. As this list demonstrates, numerous cheap fast muscle cars offer thrilling experiences without breaking the bank. From overlooked sedans like the Crown Victoria and Pontiac G8 to classic coupes like the Fox Body Mustang and fourth-gen Camaro, and even unique choices like the Ranchero or Dart Sport, affordable speed is attainable.
Whether you’re looking for a turnkey driver, a solid base for a project, or simply a taste of V8 power, options exist across various eras and styles. Remember that market prices fluctuate, and condition is paramount. Do your homework, inspect potential purchases carefully, and you could soon be cruising in your very own piece of affordable American performance history. Which budget beast from this list catches your eye? The hunt for your cheap fast muscle car starts now!
