The vehicle with the best top speed is an obsession in all areas of the car industry, apart from muscle cars. Top speed is one of those bragging rights needed for the rest of the world, but muscle cars have always been their own individual breed. In short, the muscle car template stems from drag racing and the prerequisite of a V8 engine. Thus, it’s only speeds up to a quarter mile that count. After that, a high top-end speed is nice to have but largely irrelevant.
So, this article is largely just peripheral reading. But, if you have the inclination to find out which American vehicle can chew up the track at 200mph, then read on..
1. 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170
Dodge may be moving into the world of electric vehicles, but as a last hurrah, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is a demonstration of the V8’s longevity. The Demon 170 is equipped with a 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat V8 engine producing a staggering 1,025HP and 945 lb. ft. of torque. that power produces a 0-60 time of 1.66 seconds, a quarter mile time of 8.61 seconds and a top speed of 215mph. that’s more oomph than the Telsa Plaid and the Demon is surprisingly lighter in weight, proving that a basic design going back 50 years is still relevant.
2. 2015 Dodge Viper GTS
The Dodge Viper is really a sports car done the muscle car way. If the 2015 Dodge Viper GTS had been made anywhere but in America or Australia, it may have ended up with no more than 3L, fuel injection, and a multitude of turbos. However, the Dodge Viper is American-made and more is more, so it was treated to a naturally aspirated 8.4-liter V10 engine producing 645HP and 600 lb. ft. of torque, good enough to hit 206mph. This also translated to a 0-60 time of 3.4 seconds and a quarter mile time of 11.5 seconds.
3. 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing in the strictest sense is hardly a muscle car, but it does have all the attributes. The 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine produces 668Hp and 659 lb. ft. of torque, with a top speed of 205 mph. The Cadillac is also quite respectable off the line, with a 0-60mph time of 3.6 seconds and a quarter mile time of 11.6 seconds.
Also, being a Cadillac it has quite the opulent luxury inside, making it quite the sleeper car.
4. Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye
The Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye is a fire-breathing monster that epitomizes the American muscle car spirit. Under its hood lies a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine, churning out 797 horsepower. With a top speed of over 200 mph, this vehicle can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. The Hellcat Redeye’s aggressive styling, widebody stance, and exhaust note make it an icon on both the drag strip and the open road.
5. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is a legend reborn. Its supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine generates an astonishing 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque. The GT500’s track-tuned suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, and Brembo brakes ensure it handles corners as well as it accelerates in a straight line. Whether you’re tearing up the track or cruising down the highway, the GT500 commands attention with its unmistakable Shelby styling.
6. Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is a true track warrior. Its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine delivers 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. The ZL1’s magnetic ride control, performance-tuned suspension, and massive Brembo brakes make it a force to be reckoned with on any circuit. From the Nürburgring to Laguna Seca, the Camaro ZL1 leaves a trail of burnt rubber and awe-struck spectators.
Conclusion
Top speed has never been the ultimate focus of American muscle cars. But if you want to go there, they are more than capable.
The only real downside to the American muscle car format is that they are rather thirsty. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if someone came up with an eco-friendly fuel, that was renewable, and easily accessible so we could continue to enjoy the roar of a mighty V8 engine.
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