Everyone talks about Mustangs, Camaros, and Chargers. But there are plenty of muscle cars people forget about—cars that still offer big engines and bold looks. Right now, these hidden gems are affordable and easy to find.
As more collectors catch on, the value of these cars is likely to jump. If you want a classic muscle car that could be worth a lot more soon, these 10 forgotten models are smart picks to buy now.
1971 AMC Javelin AMX – The Underdog Muscle Car
The 1971 AMC Javelin AMX doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It came with a strong 401 V8 engine and bold, aggressive styling. While most people focus on the big brands, this AMC is rare and powerful. Prices are still low, but they won’t stay that way forever.
1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 – The Luxury Muscle Sleeper
The 1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 looks like a classy cruiser, but it hides real muscle. Its big 455 V8 engine made it one of the fastest cars of its time. Many people overlook it, but collectors are starting to notice. Prices are climbing fast on this one.
1969 Mercury Cyclone Spoiler II – Built for NASCAR Glory
The 1969 Mercury Cyclone Spoiler II was made to win on the NASCAR track. It had a special aerodynamic design and came with strong 429 V8 power. Most people forget about it, but it’s rare and built for speed. Today, it’s one of the best muscle car deals out there.
1974 Pontiac GTO – The Last of the Line
The 1974 Pontiac GTO was the final year for the classic GTO before it faded out. It still offered a strong 400 V8 engine and bold looks, but many overlook it. Because it’s the last of its kind, prices are low now—but that won’t last forever.
1978 Chevrolet Nova SS – The Forgotten SS
The 1978 Chevrolet Nova SS doesn’t get much attention, but it’s a solid muscle car. It came with a strong V8 engine and SS styling, but most buyers focus on Camaros or Chevelles. Because of that, prices are still low—making it a smart choice before values rise.
1969 Dodge Super Bee 383 – The Budget Muscle Icon
The 1969 Dodge Super Bee 383 was built to offer big power at a lower price. Its 383 V8 engine delivered plenty of muscle without the cost of a HEMI. It’s often overlooked, but values are starting to climb fast. This is one Mopar deal worth grabbing now.
1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 – Overlooked Mid-’70s Muscle
The 1973 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 had bold looks and a strong 455 V8 option, but many people skip over it because of the year. It’s not as famous as earlier models, which keeps prices low. But collectors are starting to notice, and values are quietly rising.
1980 Ford Mustang Cobra Turbo – Pre-Fox Body Goldmine
The 1980 Ford Mustang Cobra Turbo came right before the Fox Body craze. It featured a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, offering something different from the usual V8 muscle cars. Most people forget about it, but early ’80s Mustangs like this are getting rare—and values are starting to climb.
1972 Plymouth Satellite Sebring Plus – The Road Runner’s Cousin
The 1972 Plymouth Satellite Sebring Plus shares much of its style with the famous Road Runner but flies under the radar. It came with solid V8 options and classic Mopar looks. Because it’s less well-known, prices stay low—making it a smart buy before more people catch on.
1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454 – Muscle Wrapped in Luxury
The 1970 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 454 looks like a luxury car but hides real muscle. Under the hood is a big 454 V8 engine, giving it serious power. Many overlook it for Chevelles, but prices are climbing fast as collectors realize how special this car really is.