6. 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (428 Cobra Jet)
When Carroll Shelby decided to upend the “pony car” formula, he coaxed Ford’s massive 428 Cobra Jet V8 into the Mustang platform. With 7.0 liters of displacement, the hydraulic-cam big block boasted 335 hp and a whopping 440 lb-ft of torque in its base form, while the “Super Cobra Jet” option added mechanical cam timing and a Holley four-barrel to enhance torque response.
Enclosed by Shelby’s trademark louvers, dual scoops, and functional hood bulge, the GT500 snarled at idle and roared to 60 mph in around 6 seconds. Combined with heavy-duty suspension components and unique Shelby badging, the GT500 redefined Mustang performance in its era.