Living Legends: These Memorable Muscle Cars Still Last A Lifetime

Vukasin Herbez April 26, 2023

Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

The third-generation Camaro was famous. But after a while, the buyers wanted more performance and power. So Chevrolet delivered that in the legendary IROC-Z version in 1985. The IROC-Z was a tribute to the Chevrolet-sponsored International Race of Champions racing series (via Car Gurus).

However, it was more than an appearance package and a cool name. Under the hood was a 350 V8 with 225 HP and in later versions, 245 HP. Buyers could opt for manual or automatic and tuned suspensions and steering. Chevrolet even offered a cool-looking convertible: the first Camaro ragtop in 18 years. The IROC-Z proved to be a popular and influential muscle car that finally brought some actual performance to buyers.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Shelby GT 500

Even though Mustang had some performance versions like the GT with the 289 HiPo V8 engine or Shelby GT 350 in 1965, the first actual performance Mustang with a big block engine and respectable 0 to 60 mph times was the 1967 Shelby GT 500. Bigger and more powerful than before, the 1967 GT 500 featured a new design, modified front and rear end, and a hefty 427 V8 engine with 335 HP and 420 lb.-ft of torque (via Hagerty).

In those days, Ford was notorious for underrating the power output of their engines, and 335 HP sounded too little for the big 427. The enthusiasts claim that the real power was closer to the 400 hp range, and the performance figures backed that claim. The 0 to 60 mph time was 6.5 seconds which was suitable for the day, and thanks to suspension modifications, the GT 500 could handle the curves well, too.

<< Previous

Living Legends: These Memorable Muscle Cars Still Last A Lifetime

Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

Shelby GT 500

POPULAR