Muscle cars, those quintessential symbols of power and speed, are often lauded for their ruggedly handsome looks and raw, intimidating aesthetics. However, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and not every muscle car design has stood the test of time.
This article takes you on a tour of the muscle car world’s black sheep – the models that, while not making the cover of any beauty magazines, have an undeniable charm in their audacious designs and powerful performances. Beneath these unconventional exteriors lie the hearts of true muscle cars, demonstrating that you can’t judge a car by its bodywork alone.
Contents
Ford Mustang II
The second generation of the Mustang, often referred to as the Mustang II, is a prime example of how not to redesign a classic. Ford downsized the Mustang to save on fuel during the oil crisis of the 1970s. Many car enthusiasts dislike its compact size, round headlights, and overall lack of muscle car aesthetics. The Mustang II has a meager output, with the base model having a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with only 88 horsepower.
1980 Chevrolet Corvette
The 1980 Corvette is often criticized for its overly plasticky appearance. The car’s looks were compromised due to the need for weight reduction, leading to heavy use of fiberglass. The 1980 Corvette came with a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing just 190 horsepower due to the emissions regulations of the time, which many felt did not live up to the Corvette legacy.
1973 AMC Gremlin
The AMC Gremlin was a subcompact car that tried to play in the muscle car world with its V8 option. Despite its gutsy 5.0-liter V8 engine, many people found the car’s chopped-off rear end and lengthy front unsightly. The Gremlin’s oddly proportioned bodywork has earned it a place in the annals of the ugliest muscle cars.
1981-83 Chrysler Imperial
Chrysler’s attempt to revive the Imperial brand in the 1980s fell flat. The car’s bizarre rectangular headlights and excessively square body shape didn’t impress many. Under the hood was a fuel-injected 5.2-liter V8 engine that churned out a mere 140 horsepower, adding insult to injury for muscle car enthusiasts.
1970 Mercury Cougar
The second-generation Mercury Cougar didn’t receive as warm a welcome as its predecessor. The car gained weight and size, losing its sporty appeal. Moreover, the recessed square grille and expanded body made it look less like a muscle car and more like a luxury coupe. Its base model came with a 5.8-liter Windsor V8 engine that generated 250 horsepower.
1974 Ford Torino
The Ford Torino was once a revered name in muscle cars, but the 1974 model let many fans down. The oversized, pointy front end and the slab-sided body made it look bloated and unwieldy. Despite a 7.5-liter V8 under the hood, stringent emission controls limited the output, which didn’t help its case.
1971 Plymouth Cricket
The Plymouth Cricket was essentially a re-badged British Hillman Avenger, which itself was not a looker. The car’s narrow, upright stance and elongated headlights made it look awkward. Despite offering a decent engine for its size, it never quite matched up to the muscular aura that its American counterparts exuded.
1978 Ford Pinto
The Ford Pinto had a reputation for safety issues, but its looks didn’t win any fans either. Its small size and strange proportions led to a less-than-muscular appearance. The car’s optional 2.8-liter V6 produced a paltry 103 horsepower, nowhere near true muscle car territory.
1974 Chevrolet Chevelle
The third-generation Chevrolet Chevelle was met with criticism due to its ‘Colonnade’ hardtop styling and awkward proportions. The bulbous wheel arches and lengthy overhangs were far from appealing. The performance also declined due to emissions regulations, with the top-line 7.4-liter V8 engine producing only 235 horsepower.
1975 Plymouth Road Runner
The 1975 model year was not kind to the Plymouth Road Runner. It had an oddly curved front end and boxy body, and the signature graphics of the Road Runner did little to save it from its unattractive design. Its standard 5.9-liter V8 was also strangled down to 165 horsepower because of emission standards.
1981 Pontiac Firebird
The third-generation Pontiac Firebird received a radical restyling with a focus on aerodynamics. However, the slanted front end and bubbled roofline didn’t gel well with muscle car enthusiasts who preferred the classic muscular design. Although it had a V8 engine, its performance was dulled due to emissions regulations.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
More from MyCarMakesNoise
Summer Lovin’: The Best Cars to Take on Your Next Road Trip
From convertible sports cars that let you bask in the summer sun to spacious SUVs and minivans offering room for family, friends, and luggage, we’ve compiled a list that caters to every need and desire. Read More.
Starter Cars that Shine: The Top Used Cars for First-Time Buyers
As a first-time buyer, you want a vehicle that matches your style and comfort and is reliable, easy to handle, and won’t break the bank regarding maintenance and fuel efficiency. Read More.
10 Vehicles People Confessed Were the Absolute Worst Cars to Drive
So we’ve assembled a list of ten cars and trucks that have caused their owners to look back at them in disgust because they were essentially “undrivable.” Read More.
