The muscle car era began in the 1950s and peaked in the 1960s before seeing a downturn in the ‘70s due to new environmental standards, a fuel crisis, and other factors.
However, these high-powered sports cars saw a resurgence in the 1980s, with many of the top American automakers introducing new models or modern takes on the classics of the ‘60s and ‘70s. The resurrection of the muscle car began with the introduction of high-output V8 engines in models by Ford, Chevrolet, and Pontiac.
While they may not have been as powerful as their 1960s counterparts, a handful of muscle cars from the ‘80s are still worth pursuing on the classic car market. Here are some of the best muscle cars from the revival era of the ‘80s.
1. 1980 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo
Pontiac kicked off the new muscle car era when it introduced the Pontiac Trans Am Turbo in 1980. This model was only produced in 1980 and 1981 but remains a hot item among car collectors today.
The Turbo was a direct response to the automotive limitations put in place during the 1970s. Automakers were unable to rely on pure engine power to achieve impressive specs, but Pontiac responded by using a turbo-charged 301 engine for a power boost. The 1980 Trans Am came with about 210 horsepower. While this pales in comparison to the top muscle cars of the ‘70s, it was impressive given the limitations of the time.
While it may not be the most powerful Pontiac, the Turbo Trans Am is still sought after by Pontiac enthusiasts for its iconic design. The characteristic raised headlights and ornamental hood design make it one of the most eye-catching models of the ‘80s.
2. 1984 Dodge Conquest DSI
Sold in North America as the Dodge Conquest DSI, this car was actually produced by Mitsubishi. The Conquest was the first model produced as part of a partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi known as Diamond Star Motors. In Japan, the Conquest DSI was known as the Mitsubishi Starion.
Like the Turbo Trans Am, the Conquest relied on a turbocharger for its power, along with electronic fuel injection. The 2.6-liter G54B engine came equipped with a TD05-12A MHI turbocharger, delivering 145 horsepower. While not powerful compared to those that came before it, it was impressive for the ‘80s. The sleek exterior of the Conquest still makes it a popular choice for classic car enthusiasts.
3. 1984 Ford Mustang SVO
Ford was another automaker that followed the turbocharger trend started by Pontiac at the beginning of the decade; in 1984 it introduced the Mustang SVO. The SVO was far more than an imitator of the Trans Am Turbo, however, and it remains a classic in the storied history of the Mustang.
Powered by a turbocharged 2.3-liter Lima four-cylinder engine, the SVO also relied on fuel injection and an EEC-IV engine computer to achieve its impressive balance of power and efficiency. This combination yielded 14 pounds of boost and 175 horsepower at 4400 rpm, making it one of the more powerful models of the 1980s.
4. 1986 Dodge Charger Shelby GLH-S
Automakers Shelby and Dodge partnered to produce a handful of great cars in the 1980s, including the impressive Dodge Charger Shelby GLH-S. This sporty compact vehicle was only produced in 1986 and 1987.
The Shelby GLH-S was yet another example of the turbocharged engine trend. Its intercooled Turbo II engine was capable of reaching up to 175 horsepower. The performance was impressive for its time. The GLH-S could go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds and cover a quarter mile in 14.8 seconds. The top speed was about 135 mph.
5. 1987 Buick Regal Grand National (GNX)
The Buick Regal Grand National (also known as the GNX) is undoubtedly one of the most popular classic cars from the 1980s. Before being introduced to a national audience in 1987, the Buick Regal began as a NASCAR vehicle and helped Darrell Waltrip win back-to-back Winston Cups in ‘81 and ‘82. The GNX was created with the spirit of the NASCAR Regal Grand National.
It was a rare model, with only 215 Grand Nationals built in the first year. The GNX was introduced to the public in 1987 and remained rare; only 547 Grand Nationals were produced with the interior trim package. The GNX quickly wowed the automotive world with its world-beating specs for the era.
The turbocharged 231 CI V6 engine reached a whopping 276 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 360 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm—specs that blew other ‘80s muscle cars out of the water. This power profile allowed the GNX to go from 0 to 60 in under five seconds and deliver a 13-second quarter-mile time.