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.

Why Classic Car Transport Is Different To Normal Auto Transport
Nick Telford II

When a car is a classic, it's not just a car anymore; it'sa thing of beauty. When a classic car needs transporting,the discerning owner is going to be looking for more than aquick way from point a to point b. Some things to considerbefore beginning the classic car transport are the state ofthe vehicle, where it is going, how much is it going tocost and what are best benefits.

Since many collectors purchase classic cars in varyingstates of repair, it's worth noting whether the car youwant to transport has been in storage for a long time. Ifyou can't start it or drive it, some transporters won'ttouch it.

Many transporters require the vehicle to be driven up rampsto be loaded and do not have a way to tow it into place.If it's possible have a mechanic check fluids, refill thegas tank and charge the battery, a car that runs, evenslowly will have more options in transporters.

The choice of whether to transport your classic car shouldalso include the method of transport. A car that is inpremium condition with no dents, dings or scratches, mayrequire enclosed transport. Not only does enclosedtransport protect the vehicle from road debris, weather andexhaust, but it also provides more security as the drivermay overnight in some locations.

If your classic is one you've purchased to refurbish oralready has nicks and scratches, then the alternativetransport in the open air will run to less cost for you.

Some transporters will not travel well away from mainbusiness centers to pick up cars, so it may be necessary todrop the car off at a depot. Some transporters employ localcontractors to pick up the vehicles from these locationsand take them to the depots as needed. Be sure to ask aboutthat service if you will require it.

Also verify what the insurance coverage of the transporterapplies to. Whenever a transporter takes possession of avehicle there will be an Origin Inspection Reportgenerated. This is your testament to the condition of thecar when it was turned over for transportation. Be sure toinspect it closely upon arrival at the destination point.

In many cases, transporters only require a couple weeksnotice that you are looking for shipment of you car.Depending on the grade of service you want for yourclassic, the transporter can then make arrangements.

It is normal for transporters to give shipment windowsrather than exact dates for pick up or arrival, however, ifone does give you exact dates make sure that you have it inwriting.

Always review the transporters records, offers and whatguarantees they offer. If something seems unclear or uneasyabout their business practices, then definitely don'tentrust them with your vehicle.

Make sure to go over your transportation contractcarefully, especially if you are shipping a classic car inpristine condition. There are any numbers of larger andsmaller transportation companies that specialize intransportation of these beauties.

Ultimately, everyone wants to get from his or her origin tothe destination point. With a little judicious review andgood questioning, you can find the transporter for yourclassic car that matches your needs, your wants and yourbudget.

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