Years back, some vehicles dominated both roads and racing circuits. These road racers were dominant and competed against strong muscle cars. Let us see some of the iconic road racers which still have the craze.
7 Iconic Road Racers
Plymouth Superbird
The Plymouth Superbird was a beast on the field. It was in production in 1970 and was launched for NASCAR. The legendary NASCAR driver Richard Petty drove the Superbird in races before it was banned by NASCAR. These were built with aggressive engines like 440 Super Commando V8, 440 Six-Barrel (6-pack) V8, and 426 HEMI. The street-legal editions clocked 150mph, while the NASCAR models crossed the 200mph. The Plymouth Superbird remains an iconic vehicle and one of the fastest vehicles from Plymouth. It was known for its nose cone designs.
Dodge Charger Daytona
The epic Dodge Charger Daytona stunned everyone after its arrival. It was launched in 1969 and only 509 units were in the market. It was designed for NASCAR racing. The Dodge Charger Daytona holds the record of being the very first vehicle to clock 200mph in NASCAR when Buddy Baker did this in 1970. The 440 Magnum V8 and 426 HEMI V8 engines contributed to its performance. It featured aerodynamic designs and Flush rear window designs. The collector value for the Dodge Charger Daytona is more than $500,000.
Studebaker Avanti R2
The Studebaker Avanti R2’s production was just 2 years, but the legacy will remain the same for years to come. It was a top-tier vehicle with advanced technology. The sports car was designed for the public and 4000+ units were sold. It featured a Supercharged system, aerodynamic designs, fiberglass body, and bucket seats. It had a top speed of 150 mph and was declared one of the fastest cars of the early 1960s. The powerful V8 engine and futuristic styling made Studebaker Avanti R2 one of the best vehicles of its time.
Plymouth GTX
The Plymouth GTX, fondly called the ‘Gentleman’s Muscle Car’ was in production for 4 years between 1967 to 1971. It was not only a fast vehicle as the handling was excellent powered by carburetor systems and Heavy-duty suspension. The vehicle featured HEMI V8 and Super Commando V8 engines. With a top speed of 145mph, this was one of the fastest Plymouth cars of the 70s. The other key features were power steering, dual exhaust system, and bucket seats. Plymouth GTX has become a classic car and its value has certainly increased over the years.
AMC Javelin AMX
The AMC Javelin AMX was not a regular muscle car as its top speed was 140mph. These cars were known for their robust V8 engines and aggressive styling. The sports bucket seats, vinyl roof, center console, and Performance carburetors were the key features. It was popular when it secured a win in the Trans-Am Racing Championship not just once, but twice in 1971 and 1972.
Buick GSX
The Buick GSX was known for producing huge torque powered by V8 engines. It had amazing acceleration because of the heavy torque. Only 678 cars were sold and this made it a rare Buick model. Buick GSX featured rally gauges, functional hood scoops, and sports wheels. It was equipped with the Ram Air induction system which provided better airflow to the engine. Buick GSX was an expensive vehicle priced between $4,500 to $4,900.
Pontiac GTO Judge
The Pontiac GTO Judge was not only a road racer as it was an incredible muscle car in the late 60s. It was in production between 1969 to 1971 and sold 11,000 units. Pontiac GTO Judge was an integral part of pop culture. Be it the decals or designs, everything about the vehicle was great. The vehicle borrowed its name from a comedy show named “Here Comes the Judge” and the reach was phenomenal. It was made with Ram Air III V8 and Ram Air IV V8 engines.