2. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454
Few cars epitomize the term “muscle” like the Chevelle SS 454. Chevrolet dropped its newly developed 454-ci LS5 and LS6 Big Block V8s into the Chevelle’s long engine bay, instantly elevating it to monster status. The LS6 variant produced a factory-rated 450 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, thanks to high-flow heads, a forged crankshaft, and 11.0:1 compression.
GM’s engineers ported the LS6 exhausts straight through the dual exhaust system for minimal backpressure. Back-to-back tests showed the Chevelle SS 454 LS6 could eclipse 140 mph and achieve 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds—numbers normally reserved for exotic imports of the era.