7. IKA Torino
The IKA Torino is the prime example of a South American muscle car that gained international fame and recognition. They established the IKA factory in 1955 as a Kaiser subsidiary in Argentina producing American-designed models for local buyers. However, in 1964, IKA, now a part of the American Motors Company, needed a modern-looking, powerful car to compete on the Argentinean market. So AMC provided IKA with the 1965 Rambler American platform, including some body panels and drivetrains. The car they named the Torino debuted in 1966. It was modern and advanced for the Argentinean standards of the day. The base engine was the 3.0-liter straight-six with 120 HP.
But the Torino had an interesting construction feature, the convertible frame rails they used on the four-door sedan or coupe models. This gave the car more torsion rigidity and a stiffer chassis, making it a stronger car suitable for the rough roads of Argentina. In 1969, IKA started upgrading the engine to produce sporty variants with the Torino 380W model. This version included a 3.8-liter engine with 176 HP and special exterior trim. The company continued to produce more powerful versions like the Torino TSX, Torino GS, and Torino ZX. They used the same 3.8-liter engine, but with power 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 they produced until 1981. Those Torinos scored many race track wins in Argentina and its neighboring countries.