29. Pontiac GTO
The Pontiac GTO was not the first muscle car or American performance model. However, it was the first affordable, mid-size, V8 powered, and aggressively marketed car. It set the template for all other models, regardless of their model year, body style, or drivetrain. It is safe to say that the GTO created muscle cars as a segment and a cultural phenomenon.
Pontiac produced the GTO between 1964 and 1974 and briefly from 2004 to 2006. It was always a great performance buy and a recognizable sight on the streets. With its signature styling details, aggressive stance, and sleek silhouette, the GTO was among the finest-looking cars of the era. Despite the fact that Pontiac as a brand is dead, the GTO nameplate will live on forever.