Modern Muscle Cars Still Get You Running

Since Ford introduced the first classic "muscle car" in 1964 in the form of the Mustang, America has been in love.

Almost everyone has a favorite classic muscle car. Yours might be the 1963 Dodge Dart 426 Max Wedge 426 Hemi, 1974 Ford Torino Talladega, 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS or the Australian 1970 XW Falcon GT.

With the on demand power that these cars offered, the Ford Mustang became the top selling car for many of the years during its "performance era." Times are very different, though, and there are many factors that would seem to decrease the muscle car's popularity. High fuel prices and strict Federal regulations would seem to be likely culprits in putting a real damper on all that horsepower. But these horses can't be corralled and the muscle car is still a hot item, especially to the new generation. And for them, there is a new generation of muscle cars hitting the dealer lots.

Cadillac CTS-V

This high performance Cadillac tosses its hat into the muscle car ring. While the Cadillac name may not exactly be synonymous with performance, the CTS-V delivers with power, top notch handling and a spacious cabin. Sporting surprising 400 horses of power with a 6.0 liter V8, this ride sits you in a stylish car with a lower price tag and significant performance.

Pontiac GTO

GM after too many years brought back the "Goat", much to the delight of muscle car enthusiasts. One of the original muscle cars, the GTO was introduced in 1964 and ran through the 1974 production year. GM wanted to keep the awesome performance of the GTO without making you own your own bank. With a 6.0 liter LS2 V8 offering 400 horses, the new breed of GTO ran from 2004 to 2006. But, this is one car that can't be held down and just has to emerge again in the future.

Infiniti G35

One of the new breed of muscle cars, the Infinity G35 offers high end performance, great handling and a great look. Sporting a powerful 3.5 liter V6, 306 horses strong, you will be driving the old school muscle car style combined with the newer, technological plusses of the 21st century. With this car, performance is its strong suit. It offers great handling and a superior, "sporty meets luxury" look and feel.

Lexus IS 350

Another high end sleek addition, the Lexus IS 350 offers a powerful V6 with 306 horsepower. Its inventive safety designs give it an edge over some of the other high performance cars at the dealers. While you equate the Lexus name with luxury, the IS 350 puts out top performance as well.

Ford Mustang

You can't say muscle car without at least mentioning the Ford Mustang. The classic muscle car, this pony has seen some major design changes over the past thirty years. The latest Mustang, though, still delivers with a wicked performance V8 version with 300 horses galloping under the hood in the GT version. The retro styling will take the old timers back and recruit new enthusiasts just discovering this classic to a new love.

There are many other muscle cars that could fit on this list and make a good showing against their high performance cousins. Take some time to explore the new breed of muscle cars and find the performance package that makes your pulse pound. Performance, styling and handling make a muscle car, but only time will make it a legend.