10. 1980 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo
The second-generation F-Body Firebird was introduced in 1970, and by the late ’70s, it was one of the dominant cars in the segment. Unfortunately, the days of big cube motors and high horsepower ratings were gone, so Pontiac decided to invest in new technology to generate power. That new technology was turbocharging, so in late 1979, the company introduced the Trans Am Turbo.
The engine in question was the 301 V8, with a Garrett turbocharger bolted onto it. The power output was relatively modest at 200 to 210 HP, but the torque number was high at 340 lb-ft, which resulted in a hint of performance.