Most Powerful Muscle Cars

In the catalog, the Dodge Challenger (2008–2023) leads with 764 kW (1,039 PS · 1,025 hp) (SAE net). Among classic cars rated SAE gross, the Chevrolet Chevelle (1968–1972) leads with 336 kW (457 PS · 451 hp). The two ratings are measured differently and are not directly comparable.

Until the 1971 model year American makers advertised SAE gross power, measured on an engine without accessories, air cleaner or full exhaust. From 1972 they switched to SAE net, measured as installed in the car. The same engine reads clearly lower in net, so 1960s and modern figures are not directly comparable — 1CARS ranks them separately.

Insurance companies put surcharges on high-powered cars, emission rules and the switch to unleaded fuel forced lower compression, and the 1973 oil crisis made big V8s expensive to run. By the mid-1970s most performance models were gone or had become appearance packages.