The idea of installing a powerful engine in a post WWII mid-size car was introduced in 1957. The American Motors (AMC) Rebel showcased AMC?s new 327 in³ V8 255 hp with a 4 barrel carburetor (fuel injection was to be optional), thus making it the first American factory hot-rod hardtop sedan. The Rambler Rebel came with a manual or automatic transmission, and dual exhaust. The Rebel was promoted as the fastest four-door car in America from 0-60 mph and ran the quarter mile in 17.0 seconds. It was one of the quickest production automobiles at that time.

The popularity of the muscle car grew in the 1960s. Among these was the Pontiac Tempest. For 1964 and 1965, the GTO was an option package that included Pontiac's 389 in³ (6.5 L) V8 engine, floor-shifted transmission with Hurst shift linkage, and special trim. In 1966, the Pontiac GTO was no longer an option, and became its own model. The project, spearheaded by Pontiac division president John De Lorean, was technically a violation of General Motors policy limiting its smaller cars to 330 in³ (5.4 L) displacement, but it proved far more popular than expected, and inspired a host of imitations, both at GM and its competitors.

This marked a general trend towards factory performance, which reflected the importance of the youth market. A key appeal of the muscle cars was that they offered the burgeoning American car culture an array of relatively affordable vehicles with strong street performance that could also be used for racing. The affordability aspect was quickly compromised by increases in size, optional equipment, and plushness, forcing the addition of more and more powerful engines just to keep pace with performance. A backlash against this cost and weight growth led in 1967 and 1968 to a secondary trend of "budget muscle" in the form of the Plymouth Road Runner, Dodge Super Bee, and other stripped, lower-cost variants.

Although the sales of true muscle cars were relatively modest by total Detroit standards, they had considerable value in publicity and bragging rights, serving to bring young buyers into showrooms. Automakers saw these as halo models and some, such as the AMC Rebel Machine, were factory upgraded to be turn-key drag racers. The 1970 Machine even came with flamboyant and patriotic red, white, and blue reflective body graphics for maximum street and racetrack visibility. The fierce competition led to an escalation in power that peaked in 1970, with some models offering as much as 450 hp (and others likely producing as much actual power, whatever their rating).

The Dodge Charger, known for its appearance as the villan's vehicle in the movie BullittAnother related type of car is the car-based pickup. Examples of these are the Ford Ranchero, GMC Sprint, GMC Caballero, and one of the most famous examples, the Chevrolet El Camino.

Where to find the best auto parts at the lowest prices
Gregg Kell
If you're looking online for an ecommerce store hard to find import car parts, or specialized auto headers, or customized fog lights, look no further than Dreamers Performance.



A growing number of car enthusiasts have found Dreamers Performance, their best source for all after market car parts. This family-owned business has been supplying performance car parts to sport compact cars owners for 2 years.

They also specialize in performance and accessories for every kind of automobile, from import to domestic.

Dreamers Performance has a wide selection of new, genuine, OEM, rebuilt, and quality aftermarket discount car parts, import auto parts, replacement parts, which are in stock and ready for immediate shipment.

Are you looking for customized euro taillights for your BMW? Or maybe auto spoilers or car suspension for your Chevy Malibu?

Dreamers Performance sells it all. In fact, they sell everything from intakes to Xenon body kits, from headlight conversion kits to performance headers. Their prices are very competitive, and their customer service is among the best.

In fact, the number # 1 reason Dreamers Performance is fast becoming the choice for body shops, custom shops, and auto fans all across the nation is customer service.

If the part in not in stock, they will contact their suppliers until they find exactly what you are looking for. Why? Because they understand how important your car is to you. They understand how competitive the market is. And they understand if they provide quality service, at a competitive price, you will buy from then again. So, rest assured that, with every part you order from Dreamers Performance, you will be treated like you are their most important customer. If you're looking for the right part at the right price from people with the right attitude, look no further than Dreamers Performance.

Their online import auto parts accessories catalog is engineered to allow you to search for import or domestic car parts as fast and as simple as possible. Our system is designed for easy check out and shipping. Our secure server assures your privacy is never compromised and your contact information will never be shared with any third party.

Gregg Kell is President of Kell Solutions a website design and search engine optimization firm based in Laguna Niguel, CA. Permission is granted to re-publish this article providing it is published in its entirety without exclusion including this Author's Block and imbedded links. The author may be contacted via email.

About the Author

Gregg Kell, President of Kell Solutions offers Search Engine Optimization, Video eMail and Website Design services in Orange County, CA

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