Good Cheap Muscle Cars You Can Actually Afford
Finding Good Cheap Muscle Cars might seem like a daunting task, especially with the rising popularity of classic vehicles. Collecting these automotive icons often requires significant dedication, and taking on a project car demands even more commitment. However, the satisfaction of restoring or owning a classic muscle car is unparalleled – a source of pride and countless stories to share. While pristine, fully restored examples command high prices, the dream of owning American muscle isn’t out of reach. Thanks to their enduring appeal, classic muscle cars are hotter than ever, but this doesn’t mean you need a six-figure budget.
This list explores numerous affordable muscle cars, perfect for kick-starting your journey without emptying your wallet. Keep in mind that the used car market fluctuates, so current prices may vary. We’ve gathered data from sources like Hagerty, classic.com, and CarGurus to compile this list of budget-friendly options. Whether you’re looking for a turnkey cruiser or a rewarding project, these models offer a gateway into the world of muscle cars.
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
For a long time, the Ford Crown Victoria flew under the radar. This dependable American sedan served dutifully as a police cruiser and taxi for nearly three decades. The second generation (1998-2012) gained popularity as fleet vehicles were retired and sold affordably. Even today, finding a functional Crown Vic in decent condition for a low price is possible. It boasts legitimate muscle car credentials thanks to its 4.6-liter Modular V-8 engine.
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 to 250 horsepower output wasn’t the peak for this engine, the unit is known for reliability and benefits from extensive aftermarket support—it’s the same base engine found in the Ford Mustang GT. The standard four-speed automatic isn’t cutting-edge, and its body-on-frame Panther platform means handling isn’t its strong suit. However, the related Mercury Marauder proved that with some tweaking, this platform could perform surprisingly well, making the Crown Vic a solid base for a budget muscle project.
32. 1993 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $2,700
Silver 2002 Pontiac Firebird Convertible parked outdoors with top down
The fourth-generation Pontiac Firebird shared its F-Body platform and engine options with its Chevrolet Camaro counterpart. While base V6 models are the most affordable, they lack the punch of the V8 versions. The ultimate prize is the rare and costly Firebird SLP Firehawk, which featured a Corvette-derived LS1 V8 producing 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 impressive performance for their price. From 1997 onwards, the LT1 V8 was replaced by the more potent LS1. 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 – figures that remain respectable today, making it one of the Good Cheap Muscle Cars available. The V6 engines, while less powerful (up to 205 hp), are reliable alternatives.
31. 1978 Mercury Zephyr
Starting Used Price: $3,113
Side profile of a light blue 1978 Mercury Zephyr two-door in a studio setting
Introduced a year before the Mustang migrated to the Fox platform, the Mercury Zephyr (and its Ford Fairmont sibling) replaced the Mercury Comet. The Zephyr name, borrowed from 1930s Lincolns, graced a package that was reasonably attractive, although its wide rear quarters gave it a somewhat awkward look. It represented Mercury’s offering on this new, lighter platform.
Pricing For A Used 1978 Mercury Zephyr
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $3,313 |
| Good | $6,800 |
| Excellent | NA |
| Mint | NA |
Mercury offered three engine choices: an 88-hp 2.3-liter inline-four, an 85-hp 3.3-liter inline-six, and a 134-hp 5.0-liter V8. Interestingly, the inline-six produced less horsepower than the four-cylinder but offered more torque (154 lb-ft vs. 118 lb-ft). The V8 provided the most grunt, making it the choice for those seeking muscle car potential. Produced for six years, examples of the Mercury Zephyr are very affordable today, making them an interesting, if unconventional, budget muscle car base.
30. 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
Starting Used Price: $3,875
Side view of a silver 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS parked outdoors
The sixth-generation Chevy Monte Carlo is a curious case. While famous for its NASCAR presence as a Generation 4 race car representative, the road-going version suffered from its front-wheel-drive layout, deviating significantly from its muscle car roots. It had transitioned towards being an economy car, although V6 and V8 engines returned in 1995. The SS variants utilized either a supercharged 3.8-liter L67 V6 or 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 established performers, but linking them exclusively to a four-speed automatic transmission hampered their potential. Still, MotorWeek tested the V8-powered Monte Carlo SS hitting 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, a decent time even now. Common issues include electrical system problems and engine cooling troubles. Due to their relative lack of popularity compared to RWD muscle cars, these Monte Carlos are plentiful and cheap.
29. 1988 Pontiac Firebird
Starting Used Price: $3,950
Red 1988 Pontiac Firebird Formula parked outdoors
An ’88 Pontiac Firebird equipped with a V8 can be acquired for as little as $3,950, making it a very accessible entry into V8 ownership. Even pristine examples typically sell for under $15,000, significantly less than their early ’70s predecessors. While the Firebird’s styling evolved, the late ’80s models have a distinct look that appeals to many, and they offer a solid platform for modification or restoration.
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 weren’t generally favorable for muscle car performance due to emissions regulations. Base engines often included V6s, but the ’88 Firebird still offered V8 options, namely the 305ci (5.0L) and the 350ci (5.7L). A Firebird with the 305 could achieve a quarter-mile time of around 15.2 seconds and a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 6.9 seconds, offering respectable performance for its era and price point.
28. 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit
Starting Used Price: $4,400
Gold 1979 Pontiac Firebird Esprit parked on display indoors
The Firebird Esprit might be less famous than the base Firebird or the legendary Trans Am, but this relative obscurity works in favor of budget-conscious buyers. You can find examples ranging from around $4,400 for a project car to nearly $24,000 for a mint condition model. The Esprit was available with either a V6 or a V8 engine, influencing both performance and price.
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 V6 version of the ’79 Esprit was notably slow, with 0-60 mph times around 14.4 seconds. However, since the chassis readily accepts a V8 (and V8s were optional), swapping in a more powerful engine is a common and relatively straightforward modification. If you prioritize the classic Firebird looks and decent fuel economy over outright speed, the V6 might suffice for cruising. Finding one originally equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 provides a better starting point for performance.
27. 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
Starting Used Price: $4,600
Red 1988 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible parked outdoors with top down
Similar to its Pontiac sibling, the third-generation Chevy Camaro faced performance reductions in the late ’70s and ’80s due to emissions standards. The base engine for the 1988 model was often a V6, though the optional 305ci (5.0L) V8 offered a significant step up. The platform’s versatility makes engine swaps popular, allowing owners to install larger, more powerful engines like the ubiquitous 350ci V8.
Pricing For A Used 1988 Chevrolet Camaro
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,600 |
| Good | $8,300 |
| Excellent | $19,800 |
| Mint | $24,900 |
Keeping the stock 305 V8 (which produced around 190 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque in higher output versions) yields 0-60 mph times near 7.4 seconds and quarter-mile runs around 15.6 seconds, topping out near 149 mph. While not blistering by modern standards, it provides a genuine V8 muscle car experience at an affordable price, making it a candidate for good cheap muscle cars, especially as a project base.
26. 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
Starting Used Price: $5,300
Orange 1975 Dodge Dart Sport parked outdoors
The Dart Sport 360, introduced in 1974, injected performance into the Dart lineup. Powered by a 5.9-liter (360ci) V8 producing 245 horsepower, it was the top performance variant until 1976. These Dart Sport 360 models are rarer and command higher prices, often starting around $20,000. However, the standard Dodge Dart Sport, available with smaller engines including the reliable 5.2-liter (318ci) V8, offers similar styling and can be found much cheaper.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Dodge Dart Sport
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,300 |
| Good | $7,000 |
| Excellent | $9,900 |
| Mint | $13,000 |
While performance figures for the base six-cylinder models are modest, the V8 versions deliver respectable acceleration for their time. A Dart Sport equipped with a V8 could achieve 0-60 mph in the mid-7-second range (around 7.3 seconds for the 360 V8) and run the quarter-mile in the high 15s. These cars offer classic Mopar style and V8 potential on a budget.
25. 1986 Ford Mustang 5.0L
Starting Used Price: $5,500
White 1986 Ford Mustang 5.0L hatchback parked outdoors
Fox Body Mustangs (1979-1993) have sometimes received unfair criticism. While lacking the massive big-blocks of earlier eras, the lightweight chassis combined with the potent 5.0-liter (302ci) V8 offered excellent performance for its time and became legendary in its own right. The distinctive rumble from its exhaust system is instantly recognizable. While special editions like the SVO are expensive, the standard 5.0L GT or LX models provide 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 |
The 1986 Mustang 5.0L, particularly the High Output (H.O.) version, delivered strong performance. With around 200 horsepower in fuel-injected form, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in the low 6-second range and cover the quarter-mile in approximately 14.7 seconds, with a top speed around 125 mph. Its huge aftermarket support makes it easy and relatively inexpensive to modify, cementing its place among good cheap muscle cars.
24. 2008 Pontiac G8
Starting Used Price: $5,500
Red 2008 Pontiac G8 GT sedan parked outdoors
A product of Australian-American collaboration, the Pontiac G8 was essentially a rebadged Holden Commodore built on GM’s rear-wheel-drive Zeta platform. Produced for only a short period (2007-2009), it succeeded the front-wheel-drive G6 and represented Pontiac’s last hurrah. While a base V6 was offered, the real performers were the GT model with its 6.0-liter L76 V8 (around 361 hp) and the GXP with its 6.2-liter LS3 V8 (around 415 hp). A six-speed manual was available on the GXP, alongside automatics.
Pricing For A Used 2008 Pontiac G8
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,500 |
| Good | $8,000 |
| Excellent | $15,000 |
| Mint | $22,000 |
Despite plans for a Ute version (G8 ST) that never materialized due to market conditions, the G8 sedan offered potent performance in a practical four-door package. It utilized proven GM V8 technology, offering strong acceleration and handling characteristics reminiscent of classic muscle cars, but with modern refinement. Surprisingly affordable given its capabilities, the G8 lets you own a piece of Pontiac history and enjoy thrilling performance.
23. 1969 Mercury Marauder
Starting Used Price: $6,100
Green 1969 Mercury Marauder X-100 parked on grass
While the Mercury Cyclone often steals the spotlight among Mercury muscle cars, the Marauder offers similar full-size muscle presence at a more attainable price. A 1969 Marauder can be found starting around $6,100 for a project, with nicer examples reaching upwards of $15,000. Based on the Mercury Marquis, the Marauder was positioned as a personal luxury/performance car.
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 muscle cars of the era, the ’69 Marauder came standard with V8 power. Engine options ranged from the 390ci V8 up to the powerful 429ci V8. The top-tier 429, especially the Cobra Jet version available in the Marauder X-100, could produce 360 horsepower. Even standard 429s offered strong performance, capable of pushing the large car to 60 mph in around 7 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in the low 15-second range. Its relative obscurity makes it a great value classic.
22. 1983 Buick Regal
Starting Used Price: $6,400
Blue 1976 Buick Regal Hardtop Coupe parked in front of garage doors
The Buick Regal began as a luxury trim for the Century but became its own model line in 1978, based on GM’s G-body platform (shared with the Monte Carlo, Cutlass Supreme, and Grand Prix). While the oil crisis impacted early performance, V8 options, like the 5.0-liter (302ci, sourced from Oldsmobile or Chevrolet depending on the year), were available alongside the standard V6 engines, giving it some muscle car credentials.
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 focused on personal luxury with features like plush interiors and optional sound systems. However, its real claim to fame came later in the ’80s when it served as the foundation for the legendary turbocharged Buick Grand National and the ultra-rare GNX. While those models command astronomical prices, the standard V8 Regal offers classic G-body styling and V8 potential at a fraction of the cost, making it a popular choice for budget builds.
21. 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Red 1972 Ford Maverick Grabber parked at an auction event
The Ford Maverick was initially positioned as an import fighter, but the optional Grabber package added sporty visual cues like hood scoops, stripes, and spoilers, giving it a muscle car look. While base six-cylinder engines were economical but slow, the available 5.0-liter (302ci) V8 provided a much-needed performance boost. In 1975, this V8 produced around 129 horsepower due to emissions tuning.
Pricing For A Used 1975 Ford Maverick Grabber
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $9,300 |
| Excellent | $12,900 |
| Mint | $16,600 |
Although 129 hp sounds low, the Maverick was relatively light, tipping the scales under 3,000 pounds. This favorable power-to-weight ratio allowed V8 Mavericks to achieve respectable performance for the era, with 0-60 mph times under 10 seconds and quarter-mile times in the 15-second range possible. The 302 V8 is the same fundamental engine used in Mustangs of the period, offering good aftermarket support for upgrades.
20. 2000 Ford Mustang GT
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Silver 2000 Ford Mustang GT coupe parked outdoors
Don’t overlook more modern options when searching for good cheap muscle cars. The “New Edge” generation Ford Mustang GT (1999-2004) offers significant performance for the money. A 2000 GT can often be found for under $10,000 in decent, driveable condition. While parts for newer cars might cost more than for classics, they are generally readily available.
Pricing For A 2000 Ford Mustang GT
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $9,600 |
| Excellent | $18,900 |
| Mint | $33,700 |
The 2000 Mustang GT featured the 4.6-liter SOHC Modular V8 engine, producing a healthy 260 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. This propelled the roughly 3,200-pound coupe from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.4 seconds and through the quarter-mile in the mid-to-high 13-second range – impressive numbers straight from the factory that still hold up well today, offering modern muscle car thrills on a tight budget.
19. 1971 Ford Ranchero
Starting Used Price: $6,500
Yellow 1971 Ford Ranchero GT parked outdoors
Based on the intermediate Ford Torino/Fairlane platform, the Ford Ranchero offered a unique blend of car-like comfort and truck utility. While perhaps not as iconic as the Chevrolet El Camino, its relative lack of fame makes it a more affordable entry into the car/truck niche. The 1970-1971 models, with their aggressive Torino-based styling, are particularly desirable and were available with a wide range of engines, from inline-sixes to big-block V8s.
Pricing For A Used 1971 Ford Ranchero
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,500 |
| Good | $14,100 |
| Excellent | $23,000 |
| Mint | $33,500 |
V8-powered Rancheros from this era can be found for less than $10,000, though expect signs of use at that price point. Pristine, low-mileage examples, especially those equipped with desirable engines like the 351 Cleveland or the mighty 429 V8, can fetch over $20,000-$30,000. A Ranchero GT with the 429 Cobra Jet engine offered serious muscle, capable of 0-60 mph in the low 6-second range and quarter-mile times in the mid-14s. Even models with the common 302 or 351 V8s provide enjoyable performance and classic style.
18. 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Red 1996 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 SS coupe parked indoors
The fourth-generation Chevrolet Camaro (often nicknamed “Catfish”) featured bold, aerodynamic styling typical of the 1990s. While it may not have the same classic appeal as earlier generations for some enthusiasts, its performance capabilities, especially in V8 form, are undeniable. This lack of universal adoration keeps prices relatively low. The Z28 SS (Super Sport) package, reintroduced in 1996 through SLP Engineering, offered enhanced performance 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 1996 Z28 SS featured the LT1 5.7-liter V8 engine, upgraded with a functional hood scoop and freer-flowing exhaust to produce 305 horsepower – a 30-hp increase over the regular Z28. This boost resulted in impressive acceleration, with 0-60 mph times around 5.3 seconds and quarter-mile runs in approximately 13.8 seconds at over 100 mph. It represents significant bang-for-your-buck performance.
17. 1972 Chevrolet Vega
Starting Used Price: $7,400
Orange 1972 Chevrolet Vega GT Kammback wagon parked outdoors
The Chevrolet Vega, a subcompact car from the 1970s, might seem like an unlikely muscle car candidate. However, its lightweight construction and spacious engine bay made it a popular choice for V8 engine swaps, turning these unassuming cars into potent drag strip terrors back in the day. While finding unmodified Vegas is becoming harder, they remain a favorite platform for builders. Prices can vary wildly depending on condition and modifications.
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 came with a notoriously unreliable aluminum-block four-cylinder engine. The real appeal lies in its potential as a project car. Dropping a small-block Chevy V8 into a Vega creates a car with an incredible power-to-weight ratio. While valuation guides might list low prices for stock examples, well-built V8 Vegas can command significant sums. Finding a solid starting point requires patience, but the result can be a uniquely powerful and affordable custom muscle machine. Note: The pricing above reflects the broad market, including modified examples, as stock cars are less common and typically less valuable unless pristine.
16. 2008 Chrysler 300 SRT8
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Gray 2008 Chrysler 300C SRT8 parked on a brick driveway
The first-generation Chrysler 300, especially in SRT8 trim, brought back bold American style and V8 performance in a modern sedan package. Combining luxury appointments with aggressive Hemi power, the 300 SRT8 offered a compelling mix. It featured performance upgrades over standard 300 models, including Brembo brakes, enhanced suspension, specific bodywork with functional ducts, 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 resided the potent 6.1-liter Hemi V8, churning out 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, mated to a robust five-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain could launch the nearly 4,200-pound sedan from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.6 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 13.0 seconds, reaching a top speed of 173 mph. Offering impressive performance, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and menacing looks, the 300 SRT8 is a modern muscle bargain.
15. 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
Starting Used Price: $7,500
Two-tone gray and silver 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS parked outdoors
As the counterpart to the Ford Ranchero, the Chevrolet El Camino blended car handling with truck utility. The final generation (1978-1987) was based on the G-body platform. Opting for the SS package, particularly in its later years like 1987, often included the aerodynamic Monte Carlo SS nose cone and sportier trim. While not as powerful as earlier big-block El Caminos, the late G-body SS models offer unique style and V8 sound.
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 typically the 5.0-liter (305ci) V8, producing around 150 horsepower. While modest, the engine delivered adequate torque and the classic V8 rumble. Performance wasn’t startling, with 0-60 mph times around 9 seconds and the quarter-mile in the mid-16s. However, like other G-body vehicles, the El Camino benefits immensely from engine swaps. Upgrading to a more potent 350 V8 or even a modern LS engine is a popular modification, transforming the stylish car/truck into a true performer.
14. 1972 Mercury Comet
Starting Used Price: $8,100
Green 1972 Mercury Comet GT two-door parked on display indoors
Sharing its platform with the Ford Maverick, the Mercury Comet offered slightly different styling and trim. Like the Maverick, it was available with engines ranging from economical inline-sixes to the 302ci V8. The Comet GT package added sporty elements similar to the Maverick Grabber. These compacts provide a great, affordable starting point for building a classic muscle car, especially given their interchangeability with Mustang parts.
Pricing For A Used 1972 Mercury Comet
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,100 |
| Good | $11,700 |
| Excellent | $14,600 |
| Mint | $18,600 |
The 1972 Comet wasn’t designed purely for performance, but the optional 302 V8 offered respectable power for its size and weight. Output varied depending on the specific configuration, but figures up to around 220 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque were possible in earlier, less emissions-restricted versions. This allowed the Comet V8 to achieve 0-60 mph times in the 9-second range and quarter-mile times around 17 seconds – decent for its class and easily improved with common Ford V8 modifications.
