The 1960s and ’70s changed the world of automobiles forever. After the birth of muscle cars, big names such as Chevy and Ford soon became synonymous with some of the famous American muscle cars to date. Here they are…

20. 1968 Dodge Charger Hemi R/T

Original Price: $4,110
Current Value: $150,000
Recognize our next car? There’s good reason. Not only was the 1968 model a revamp of the beloved Dodge Charger, but it, too, found its way onto our screens. Back in 1968, Steve McQueen was just as impressed as we were about the car, his film Bullitt used it for one of its scenes.

The sleek sports car came stacked with over 425 horsepower, a shiny new look, and refined tail. Whether it was being taken out for a joy ride or driven around by Hollywood movies stars, it’s no surprise the sporty car was the talk of the town – and still is.

19. 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Ram Air IV

Original Price: $4,906
Current Value: $150,000-$200,000
One quick glance at that snap, and perhaps it’s no surprise it was originally used as a show car. From the distinct stripe on its hood to its smooth, sleek finish, the sporty coupe certainly knew how to turn heads. But the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am Ram Air IV’s interior was just as impressive.

Instead of a typical V6 engine, the innovative vehicle came boasting a 400 cubic inch V8, making it as dependable as it was desirable. In fact, the model was so special, Pontiac produced only 88 of them. Perhaps that’s why it’ll cost ya a pretty penny to get behind the wheel of one today.

18. 1969 Ford Boss 429 Mustang

Original Price: $4,798
Current Value: $180,000
Most of us are already well familiar with the word “mustang.” From the minute Ford debuted the classic model back in 1964, it was instantly a hit. But just a few years later, it was back and better than ever: the 1969 Boss 429 offered the same specs Ford buyers knew and loved – but with a twist.

Advertised with 375 HP, the upgraded model was designed to compete with Chrysler’s 426 Hemi. And that’s exactly what it did. Featuring a rear sway bar, the first Mustang to ever do so, Ford pulled out all the stops to make it as reliable as possible. And with less than 1,000 of them ever made? Consider this one a treasure.

17. 1970 Buick GSX

Original Price: $4,880
Current Value: $185,000
Our next car was simply unmatched. No, really. For over 3 decades, the 1970 Buick GSX boasted the highest torque output thanks to its 500 lbs-ft ranking. And while Dodge’s Viper stole that title in 2003, trust us when we say this model is still worth every penny.

Available in 2 unique color options, Saturn Yellow and Apollo White, the high-performing vehicle came with an array of optional upgrades. Safe to say, from its distinct body design to its dependable performance, the muscle car was and will continue to be adored by car collectors everywhere.

16. 1970 Plymouth Superbird Hemi

Original Price: $4,298
Current Value: $150,000-$200,000
Ever wonder what a car named “superbird” would look like? It’s safe to say Plymouth nailed that one on the head. With a rear stabilizing wing, the flashy sports car was as over-the-top as it came. And that’s exactly why people couldn’t get enough of it.

Inspired by Dodge’s Daytona, the rare model came with a 426 Hemi V8 that generated a 425 HP and almost 500 lbs of torque. Not your everyday car, huh? That’s because it was originally intended to dominate NASCAR as a race car. And while Plymouth managed to accomplish exactly that, that also makes it double as a coveted collectible.

15. 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt

Original Price: $3,900
Current average value: $197,400
While some of the great muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s were meant for commercial purposes, others were meant to shine on the race track. And the 1964 Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt was a perfect example of a sleek build that was designed for NHRA drag racing events.

Only 100 of these cars were ever produced, making it one of Ford’s rarest models. However, even more rare were the 49 models that were crafted with four-speed manual transmission. With such a rare status, it’s no surprise that these cars can go for upwards of $200 K.

14. 1970 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda

Original Price: $4,348
Current Value: $200,000
With a name like “Baracuda,” Plymouth’s 1970 highly sought-after muscle car is truly a force to be reckoned with. With upgrades to its grills and headlights, the model’s sleek design made for an even more coveted vehicle than its Plymouth predecessors. But don’t quote us on that one.

Look no further than Hollywood, where some of the biggest stars have been seen cruising around in the flashy model. Though with only a couple hundred ‘Cudas ever manufactured? Kevin Hart, among other proud owners, had to splash out lots of money for the 425 HP-producing collectible.

13. 1971 Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette

Original Price $10,500
Current Value: $230,000
Hundreds – if not thousands – once dreamed of getting their hands on this collectible after its official debut at 1969’s New York City International Auto Show. But that never happened: only 12 models were made during its years of production, making it one of the rarest muscle cars around the globe.

But its limited availability isn’t the only reason the Baldwin-Motion Phase III GT Corvette is still coveted to this day. From its 500+ HP to its luxury design – including its stereo system and storage space for luggage or golf clubs – car engineer Joel Rosen knew exactly what he was doing when he designed the shiny toy.

12. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Original Price: $7,200
Current Value: $500,0000
$7,000+ might sound like a steal for a muscle car today. But back in 1969? It was unheard of. Safe to say, Chevrolet made their flashy Camaro ZL1 worth every penny. From its speed to its power to its sleek design, the coupe – which only saw 69 models – literally had it all.

“When a car has the right options – color, chambered exhaust, and four-speed – and is in exceptional condition with known provenance and factory documentation, a world record result can result,” collector car dealer Colin Comer explained. Sure enough, the ZL1 has set records, holding the title as perhaps the best Camaro ever made.

11. 1969 Dodge Charger Hemi Daytona

Original Price: $5,903
Current Value: $900,000
What do the 1970 Plymouth Superbird Hemi and our 1969 Dodge Charger Hemi Daytona have in common? They were both meant to dominate the race tracks. Safe to say, this 1969 collectible did that – and then some. Hang on while we break down the record-breaking collectible.

Featuring a 23-inch stabilizer wing and a unique “nose cone,” the car practically soared through the tracks. And with only about 500 Hemi Daytonas ever available to the public? The flashy sports car makes for one of the most rare vehicles – and will set one back almost a million, if not more.

10. 1970 AMC AMX/3

Original Price: $14,000
Current Value: $1,000,000
No, we’re not looking at a Lambo or swanky European sports car. But we certainly wouldn’t have known any better, and there’s actually good reason for that. Designed by Italian car engineer, Giotto Bizzarrini, the AMC AMX/3’s body was as luxe as they came.

Powered by an AMC 390 V8, the stylish coupe generated about 340 HP and received a hopeful response from consumers at the Chicago Auto Show. Unfortunately, that didn’t last long. After AMC’s financial struggles, the muscle car was pulled from the market, with only 5 prototypes released. Talk about a rare find.

9. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6

Original Price: $4,000-4,500
Current Value: $1,200,000
It’s no surprise the Chevrolet Chevelle was dubbed the “King of the Streets.” Over the years, the classic car has morphed into perhaps one of the most recognized makes among car enthusiasts. And from its attractive specs and even more attractive price? Well, what’s not to love?

“The future may never see a car like this. It is one of the brutes, and all it needs is a way of staying in contact with terra firma,” Hot Rod Magazine explained at the time. From its famous 454 big block V8 engine to its sleek design, the Chevelle was indeed the ultimate muscle car.

8. 1970 Dodge Challenger Hemi Convertible

Original  Price: $4,900
Current Value: $1,500,000
When Dodge birthed the Challenger Hemi back in 1970, it was like nothing they’d ever done before. So much so, that the model had its own tailored instruments, including a speedometer designed for the fast lane (150 mph/240 kph) and an 8,000 RPM tachometer.

Sure enough, it wasn’t long before it took the public market by storm. In the years that followed, consumers couldn’t get enough of the speedy car. But fast forward to today? And it’s even more coveted. In fact, the rare collectible will set one back well into the millions.

7. Shelby Cobra 427 (AC Cobra)

Original Price: $7,500
Current Value: $1,500,000 to $2,000,000
There’s a good chance one’s heard of our next collectible before. After all, it’s become one of the most iconic sports cars in American history. Whether one’s caught it in Ford vs. Ferrari or speeding along the highway, the luxury coupe is perhaps as powerful as they come.

Ironically enough, though, it wasn’t smooth sailing when it came to bringing the Cobra to life. Carroll Shelby took lots of time and patience (and rejection) before managing to perfect the speedster – including its famous Windsor 221-cubic inch, 3.6-liter V8, of course.

6. 1965 Shelby GT350R

Original Price: $4,584
Current Value: $500,000 to $850,000
Maybe it was from Ford Vs. Ferrari. Or maybe, its title as the first Mustang to land first place in a major race. Whatever the case may be, there’s a good chance the name “GT350R” already rings a bell for car enthusiasts. But if it doesn’t? Here’s what makes it so legendary.

While the “the object of the GT350 program was to beat the Corvettes in SCCA racing,” as engineer Chuck Cantwell explained, it went on to do so much more: it completely shaped the way Americans viewed cars, Mustangs in specific. At a time where performance was everything, the sporty coupe put Shelby’s name on the map.

5. 1971 Shelby GT500

Original Price: $8,000
Current Value: $1,000,000
Powered by a 428 cubic inch engine, Shelby’s GT500 was even mightier than its predecessors. Not only was it said to pack a 600 horsepower, but the flashy model was also stacked with all the modern amenities. And there’s a good chance it actually looks familiar.

The iconic sports car was so special, it was put on display in the blockbuster film Gone In 60 Seconds, where it earned the nickname “Eleanor.” From its Hollywood debut to its horsepower, the 1971 model had all the ingredients for a fan-favorite. Sure enough, fast forward to today, and it’ll cost ya about $1 million.

4. 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible

Original Price: $4,348
Current Value: $2,000,000 to $3,500,000
Sure, one look at that original price tag, and the ‘Cuda convertible seemed like an affordable option. But today? Make no mistake about it: the 1971 Plymouth Hemi’ Cuda Convertible is one of the most sought-after, rare collectibles – and it has a whopping price tag to match.

During its 2 years of production, only 17 models were made available to the public. With a 426-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 engine and sleek design, the rare collectible was always destined to turn heads. Safe to say, its value has only increased over the years, and it’s bound to start a bidding war at any auction.

3. 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake

Original Price: Not sold to mass market
Current Value: $2,200,000
How does traveling 500 miles at an average speed of 142 miles per hour sound? For most of us, joyriding at dangerously high speeds wouldn’t end well. But when it came to Shelby’s GT500 Super Snake? Things couldn’t have gone smoother. In fact, the speedy car managed to keep 97% of the tread.

After the automobile mastermind wanted to design a sports car faster than its competitors yet also safe on the tracks, the Super Snake was born. And it took the car world by storm. Not only did the legendary muscle car sell for over $2 million back in 2019, but it currently reigns as the most expensive Mustang in the world.

2. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88 Convertible

Original Price: $6,600
Current Value: $2,400,000 to $3,300,000
When engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov was brought on by Chevy to help design their latest models, no one could’ve predicted the impact he’d make. During his time under their wing, the European mastermind blessed consumers with endless must-have vehicles. Which brings us to the Corvette L88 convertible…

From 1967 to 1969, Chevrolet produced only a couple dozen of the sleek sports car. Stacked with a 427-cubic-inch big block engine, the model was destined to dominate the race tracks. But in doing so, it soon morphed into one of the most sought-after collectibles to date. That’s right, the L88 will cost ya as much as $3.3 million.

1. 1962 Shelby Cobra CSX2000

Original Price: Not sold to mass market
Current Value: $13,750,000
What truly makes a collectible a collectible? When it comes to the Shelby Cobra CSX2000, its rich history is everything. The 1962 model marks the first Shelby Cobra had ever made, which also marks a special – if not, priceless – value when it comes to car enthusiasts.

Exactly how much are we talking? The legendary vehicle went up for auction back in 2016, and let’s just say history was made that day. Selling for a whopping $13,750,000, the flashy sports car became the most expensive car ever sold in America. Was it a good deal? We’ll let you guys be the judge of that one…