9. Pontiac GTO
The last generation of the Pontiac GTO was one of the biggest examples of a misunderstood car. The Holden-built, LS-powered GTO was a proper muscle car with a powerful engine. It also had a sleek design, a modern suspension and delivered a brutal performance. All that came in an affordable package with a long list of desirable options. Unfortunately, it never reached the sales numbers Pontiac hoped for despite the 350 and 400 HP engines that provided such great performance.
The 2004 to 2006 GTO could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than five seconds and reach 175 mph which is fast for a muscle car. In the short time it spent on the market, Pontiac built over 40,000 examples. This means used GTOs are plentiful and affordable, too.
If you can get over the fact you’re driving the last GTO and a U.S. model they built in Australia, go for it. With a powerful engine and a sorted chassis, the GTO is a blast to drive. It is also a great alternative to those more modern, costlier muscle cars.