10. IKA Torino
The IKA Torino is a prime example of a South American muscle car. It is also a rare model that gained international fame and recognition. They established the IKA factory in 1955 as Kaiser subsidiary in Argentina to build American models. However, in 1964 IKA, became a part of the American Motors Company. They knew they needed a modern-looking, powerful car to compete in the Argentinean market.
AMC provided IKA with the 1965 Rambler American platform, including some body panels and drivetrain. Then IKA designed and produced the front and rear end, as well as the unique interior. They named the car the Torino, introducing it in 1966. The Torino was advanced by Argentinean standards of the day. The base engine was a 3.0-liter straight six with 120 HP.
But the Torino had an interesting construction feature. They used convertible frame rails for the four-door sedan and coupe models. This gave the Torino more torsion rigidity and a stiffer chassis, transforming it into a stronger car for the rough roads of Argentina. However, IKA realized the Torino had more potential than just being a road car.
So, they upgraded the engine, producing some sporty variants by 1969 with the Torino 380W model. This version included a 3.8-liter engine with 176 HP and special exterior trim. This was the premium Argentinean muscle car since it was an attractive coupe with luxury appointments and great driving dynamics.
The company produced powerful versions like the Torino TSX, Torino GS and Torino ZX, too. They used the same 3.8-liter engine, but ranging from 200 to 215 HP. The top Torino was the Interceptor with 248 HP from a highly-tuned 4.0-liter straight-six engine. Production lasted until 1981, so Torinos were common racing cars.
They scored many wins in Argentina and its neighboring countries, too. However, in 1969 the IKA Torino finished fourth in the gruesome 84 Hours of Nurburgring race. This made it popular in Europe, despite the fact customers couldn’t buy it there.
These hot Brazilian and Argentinean muscle cars are still leaving other cars in the dust at stoplights. It goes to show that quality, high-performing cars can come from anywhere, not just Detroit.