© Hennessey Performance
Modern American Muscle
Power and speed — two glorious aspects of the automobile that many Americans still care about when considering a new vehicle. Sure, the tech wizardry of advanced safety systems and self-driving cars attract the most attention, but for those who count themselves among true car enthusiasts, it’s still the enticing roar of a big V8 that puts a stomp in the right foot and a smile across the face. Today’s choices for modern American muscle are better than ever, with a plethora of high-performance rides available from U.S. companies and brands that feature turbocharged, supercharged and even electrified powerplants (no V8 roar, but plenty of muscle). These powerful vehicles aren’t always affordable, and they’re not always cars. Take a look at modern American muscle: cars, trucks and SUVs available today — listed in order by price — all born in the USA.
© General Motors
2022 Chevrolet Camaro SS
Base MSRP: $37,500
A classic muscle car that returned after an eight-year hiatus, Camaro rejoined the U.S. market about 10 years ago with styling cues heavily influenced by the 1969 Camaro but as a thoroughly modern performance car. Camaro has undergone several updates during the intervening 10 years; in 2019 this American classic received new front-end styling that features signature lighting as well as an extractor-style hood and an open bowtie emblem in the grille, referred to as the “flowtie.” The SS is available as a coupe or convertible and — unlike the original Camaro — this one comes with the latest high-tech safety and convenience features.
© General Motors
2022 Chevrolet Camaro SS
The SS may not be the most powerful Camaro available (see the ZL1 later in this list), but it is one of the best values on the market when it comes to power for the dollar. Under the hood lurks a 6.2-liter V8 engine that generates 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. The standard gearbox is a TREMEC 6-speed manual with Active Rev Matching; those who prefer sticking with two pedals can opt for a 10-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the powerful V8, the Camaro SS comes with a limited-slip rear differential, Brembo performance brakes, performance suspension, dual exhaust and 20-inch aluminum wheels.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford Mustang GT
Base MSRP: $37,545
The Mustang is one of the most iconic members of the American muscle family, available without pause since its introduction in 1965. The current rendition of the Mustang sports a low hood, wide grille and big rear fenders for a positively mean stance. As a sign of the times, Ford recently moved to offering a high-performance EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in the Mustang, but for props as a proper modern American muscle machine, a powerful V8 engine is the way to go. Luckily Ford still offers a 5.0-liter V8 in the Mustang GT in both fastback coupe and convertible form.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford Mustang GT
The standard engine in the Mustang GT is a 5.0-liter direct-injection V8 unit producing 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Power gets sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox — the way it should be for a proper muscle car. Five selectable drive modes are available that include Track and Dragstrip, and drivers can measure acceleration and braking via Track Apps. The Mustang GT can also be equipped the latest SYNC infotainment system as well as advance driver-assistance features.
© Stellantis North America
2022 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack
Base MSRP: $47,780
This modern-day 4-door muscle car has a full range of powertrain options, but one of the best performance values is the Charger Scat Pack. Although it’s not as powerful as the vaunted Hellcat, the Scat Pack is considerably less expensive. And with its aggressive stance featuring a big hood scoop, a performance grille, a rear spoiler, performance side sills, a 392 HEMI badge and 20-inch black wheels, the Charger Scat Pack certainly looks the part of muscle car. Dodge also offers the Charger Scat Pack with a variety of exciting colors such as Hellraisin, Sinamon Stick, White Knuckle and Go Mango.
© Stellantis North America
2022 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack
Of course looks alone don’t make a muscle car, so the Scat Pack has plenty under the hood. Power comes from a 6.4-liter 392-cubic-inch V8 engine producing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. A standard 8-speed automatic transmission directs all that oomph to the rear wheels — the correct axle for a car of Charger caliber. The Charger Scat Pack also comes with high-performance suspension, active exhaust, Brembo 4-piston brakes and configurable drive modes to set up the car for comfort or ultimate performance.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford F-350 / 450 Super Duty
Base MSRP: $53,740 (F-350 w/diesel powertrain)
Ford introduced a refreshed F-Series Super Duty for the 2020 model year, and in addition to its updated styling the big truck received new features as well as more capability. Unlike other vehicles on this list, the Super Duty may not be built for speed, but the truck certainly has big muscle. For those who need maximum towing power, Ford offers the F-450 Super Duty with a 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 engine that pumps out 475 horsepower and a massive 1050 lb-ft of torque at only 1600 rpm. With the right configuration — F-450 Super Duty Regular Cab — this heavy-duty truck can tow up to 37,000 pounds — almost five times its own weight.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Ford F-350 / 450 Super Duty
The Super Duty can do much more than tow massive loads. For those who need to haul gear in the truck bed, there’s the diesel-powered F-350 Super Duty. The F-350 Super Duty Regular Cab 2WD pickup can tote up to 7,850 pounds. For some perspective, this truck could haul a fully loaded F-150 in its bed — if it would fit. And simply because these trucks offer immense capability doesn’t mean they’re for work only — buyers can outfit this big machine with luxurious features such as Highland Tan two-tone premium leather, high-end Bang & Olufsen audio systems and the latest advanced safety equipment.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Ford Mustang Mach 1
MSRP: $56,270
In 1969 the Mach 1 began its reign as one of the most well-known performance Mustangs, offering impressive performance until the mid to late 1970s, with the name appearing again for a short time in the early 2000s. A Mach 1 badge had not adorned a Mustang in 17 years, although last year this label finally returned, appearing on a track-ready Mustang sporting a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. The Mustang Mach 1 eclipses the rest of the Mustang lineup with a unique front fascia and grille that mimic the original Mach 1, as well as improved cooling for the big V8 that offers superior performance. The hood and bodyside stripes — as well as the larger rear spoiler — also pay homage to the original.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Ford Mustang Mach 1
The Mustang Mach 1 gets a specially tuned version of Ford’s 5.0-liter V8 engine to produce 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, teamed with the Tremec 6-speed manual gearbox found in the Shelby GT350. Other standout features include the latest MagneRide calibration; a stiffer steering I-shaft; stiffer sway bars and front springs; a brake booster from the Mustang GT Performance Pack Level 2; and a rear subframe with stiffer bushings, as well as a rear toe-link from the Shelby GT500. A special interior treatment further differentiates the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 as something unique from the rest of the Mustang line. The dashboard gets trimmed in a Dark Spindrift with aluminum accents, and an exclusive Mach 1 badge placed in front of the passenger displays the vehicle’s chassis number.
© General Motors
2022 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
Base MSRP: $63,000
Auto enthusiasts rejoice when carmakers try to best each other by adding more power to production cars. The Camaro ZL1 is a perfect example of this practice. The ZL1 sports a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that generates an incredible 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine gets teamed with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Performance stats are impressive — a sprint to 60 mph takes a mere 3.5 seconds and the quarter mile gets eclipsed in 11.4 seconds.
© General Motors
2022 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
It’s easy to recognize this dominant Camaro when you see it. The ZL1 stands apart from common Camaros with a larger lower grille opening, a carbon fiber composite hood air extractor, a larger front splitter, wider fenders, a wing-style rear spoiler and 20-inch forged aluminum wheels fitted with Goodyear Eagle F1 high-performance tires. Available as a coupe or convertible, the ZL1 is at home on the street as well as the track — proven when it completed a lap of Germany’s legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7:29.6, which is 12 seconds faster than the previous-generation ZL1.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Base MSRP: $64,200
After years of rumors about a mid-engine Corvette, Chevrolet introduced the eighth generation of this legendary sports car in 2019 —the first-ever mid-engine Corvette. This revolutionary design for America’s sports car offers more performance, technology and luxury than any previous generation. Although certain similarities to the C7 ‘Vette exist, the new Stingray takes advantage of its mid-engine configuration with a sloping hood, narrow projector headlights and streamlined grille. The electronic door latches of the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray are hidden from view to maintain the body’s clean lines. Deeply sculpted doors have the beginnings of large air intakes integrated into their trailing edges, aiding aerodynamics and cooling the big V8 powerplant.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The C8 Corvette comes with an LT2 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. No manual transmission is offered — instead, the engine gets teamed with a quick-shifting dual-clutch 8-speed automatic gearbox. This combination allows the Stingray to jump to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds — the fastest time ever for an entry-level Corvette. With a strong, stiff yet lightweight structure as well as ride and handling upgrades, the C8 is a big step forward for Chevrolet’s flagship sports car. Corvette is offered as a coupe or convertible.
© Stellantis North America
2022 Dodge Durango SRT 392
Base MSRP: $68,960
The Dodge Durango has been around since the late 1990s, offering impressive performance as one of the only midsize SUVs to offer V8 power. For 2022 the Durango gets a redesigned front end with a new fascia, slimmer LED headlights, a sculpted hood, a rear spoiler and a range of new wheel options. The interiors have more of a performance-oriented cockpit, as well as Uconnect 5 availability with a 10.1-inch display. Offering more than typical SUV utility, Dodge vaunts the Durango SRT 392, which adds considerable muscle to this family-size SUV.
© Stellantis North America
2022 Dodge Durango SRT 392
Powering the Durango SRT 392 is a 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) HEMI V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Power gets sent to the on-demand 4-wheel drive system, which not only provides traction for off-road adventures and poor weather conditions, it also adds grip to help this big SUV reach 60 mph in a mere 4.7 seconds. Durango can use all that power for more than exciting sprints when the light turns green — it also tows up to 8,700 pounds — more than most midsize SUVs.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody
Base MSRP: $75,900
Dodge has done a miraculous job taking a platform that dates back to the DaimlerChrysler era and keeping it relevant — even sought after — and certainly enjoyable to drive. With aggressive styling, enormous power and a comfortable cabin that easily seats five, the Charger Hellcat Widebody reigns as the ultimate American family muscle car. The Widebody treatment features fender flares integrated into the front and rear fascias that make the body 3.5 inches wider. These larger fenders accommodate 20-inch Carbon Black aluminum wheels shod with massive Pirelli 305/35ZR20 tires. The Widebody treatment not only gives this big Charger a mean look, it also includes unique suspension tuning with Bilstein three-mode adaptive damping, which improves handling and overall performance.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody
At the heart of the Dodge Charger Hellcat is a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine that produces a prodigious 717 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Power gets sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Dodge claims this big sedan will hit 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and can pass a quarter mile in 10.96 seconds and — with a top speed listed at 196 mph — the Hellcat is one of the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedans in the world. It may be best known for its outrageous performance and power, but the Charger also offers a big, comfortable cabin with the latest infotainment system and comfortable seating up front as well as in back.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye
Base MSRP: $76,430
The Challenger Hellcat is a beast of a car, boasting 717 horsepower — more than most folks will ever need. But what if they do need (read want) more power? Dodge now offers what could be best described as Hellcat possessed — the Challenger Hellcat Redeye. The Hellcat’s new dual-snorkel hood gets dropped atop a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine straight out of the now-discontinued Demon that generates a mind-blowing 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough power to move this Challenger to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 203 mph. The Redeye can pass through the quarter mile in an impressive 10.8 seconds at a speed of 131 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye
The Challenger Hellcat Redeye is available in either standard width or a Widebody package. Like the outgoing Demon, the Redeye features 25 major component upgrades including a larger supercharger, strengthened connecting rods and pistons, a high-speed valvetrain and fuel-injection systems, as well as an improved lubrication system. Unlike the Demon, the Challenger won’t be a limited-edition model — gearheads who want to buy a Hellcat Redeye can get one from their local Dodge dealership.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Ram 1500 TRX
Base MSRP: $78,790
Nothing says America like big trucks and big muscle —exactly what the new Ram 1500 TRX is all about. Built for high-performance off-road driving, Ram describes the new TRX as the quickest, fastest and most powerful mass-produced truck in the world. Standing a full 8 inches wider than the Ram 1500, the TRX features large composite wheel flares that help cover Goodyear Wrangler Territory 325/65R18 All-Terrain 35-inch tires. TRX also sports a unique hood, skidplates, steel bumpers and a front grille adorned with a larger RAM badge.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Ram 1500 TRX
Under the bulging hood of the Ram 1500 TRX lurks the Hellcat 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine producing a massive 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. Power gets managed via a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission designed to handle the high grunt of this powerful engine. Usually the specs and stats associated with a truck are all about towing and hauling, and the Ram 1500 TRX is no slouch given its ability to tow up to 8,100 pounds or haul 1,310 pounds of cargo. But this is the Hellcat of pickup trucks, so it hauls in more ways than one. The full-size pickup sprints to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and reaches 100 mph in 10.5 seconds. The 1500 TRX will also run the quarter mile in 12.9 seconds at 108 mph, and it has been designed to handle harsh terrain at speeds exceeding 100 mph.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Base MSRP: $79,420
The Shelby name has been associated with Mustang performance since 1965 when — at the behest of Ford — Carroll Shelby built a competition Mustang and the Shelby GT350 was born. Now Ford Performance creates the most capable production car to bear the Shelby name to date: the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. According to Ford, the Shelby GT500 will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and complete the quarter mile in 10.7 seconds — impressive numbers for a Mustang. Aero and cooling are both important for such a vehicle, so much of the design is functional including a louvered hood as well as an integrated rear spoiler. The double grille opening improves airflow for better cooling and contributes more downforce as well.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
This powerful Mustang sports a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque. Surprisingly, Ford does not offer the GT500 with a manual gearbox; the big V8 gets teamed with a TREMEC 7-speed dual-clutch transmission capable of shifting gears in less than 100 milliseconds. With extreme power comes extreme acceleration — the GT500 will sprint to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, passing the quarter-mile mark in 10.7 seconds. To manage all that power, the Shelby GT500 is equipped with Ford Performance-spec Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. For 2022 Ford pays homage to the original 1967 Shelby GT500 with a limited run of Mustang Shelby GT500 Heritage Edition fastbacks. These will be finished in classic Brittany Blue exterior paint with two exterior stripe options.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
Base MSRP: $83,995
Almost 20 years ago, Cadillac first bared its performance chops when it introduced the 400-horsepower CTS-V — often referred to as a 4-door Corvette. Now GM’s luxury brand has come up with a proper successor to that powerful Caddy — the CT5-V Blackwing. With more horsepower than ever offered in the CTS-V (and heralding the return of a manual gearbox), the 2022 CT5-V Blackwing is the most powerful and fastest production Cadillac ever, and it easily competes with some of the most powerful offerings from Europe. The CT5-V Blackwing gets differentiated from more common Caddys with full LED lighting, a unique mesh grille design, larger secondary grilles for improved airflow, and a carbon fiber front splitter.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
Powering the 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine producing 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque. Power gets sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox (a 10-speed automatic is available). All that oomph is managed through a chassis and suspension designed for track use, as well as an electronic limited-slip rear differential. Cadillac estimates the CT5-V Blackwing will reach 60 mph in a mere 3.6 seconds on its way to exceeding 200 mph. That’s some big muscle from GM’s luxury brand.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody
MSRP: $84,500
The Challenger Hellcat Redeye fits the bill for those in market for an extremely potent 2-door muscle car, but what about those who like to take the whole clan on high-speed adventures? Billed as the most powerful and fastest mass-produced sedan in the world, the 2021 Charger Hellcat Redeye joins the Challenger Hellcat Redeye with a boost in power to 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. To manage all that power, the Charger Redeye features the Widebody exterior, making room for 20-inch lightweight Carbon Black wheels fitted with high-performance Pirelli 305/35ZR20 tires.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody
Even as one of the most powerful cars on the road, the Charger Redeye can also be an everyday family car. The big sedan has plenty of room both front and back and comes with the Uconnect infotainment system as well as launch control — sure to be a family favorite. Fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg when driving calmly on the highway; however, at full throttle the Redeye would drain the tank in about 11 minutes. This full-size sedan takes about 3.5 seconds to reach 60 mph and will ultimately achieve 203 mph — perfect for that dizzyingly high-performance Sunday drive.
© FCA US
2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock
Base MSRP: $85,430
Dodge shook up the American muscle scene when it introduced the limited-edition Challenger Demon — an 840-horsepower beast ready to dominate the drag strip straight from the showroom. That car was available for only one model year, and in limited numbers. Now the Dodge brand is ready to drag race again with the Challenger SRT Super Stock. The Super Stock gets built on Dodge’s standard Widebody platform to accommodate very sticky 315/40R18 Nitto NT05R drag radials at each corner, mounted on lightweight 18-inch Low Gloss Granite wheels. The uniquely tuned Bilstein adaptive damping suspension helps shift weight to the rear tires for better traction at launch.
© FCA US
2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock
The Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock resides at the top of the SRT horsepower ladder — a tall ladder indeed. Under the hood lurks a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine that powers the Hellcat Redeye — although recalibrated to deliver 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque — making it the most powerful production muscle car from Dodge. The SRT Super Stock can scream to 60 mph in a mere 3.25 seconds and will turn a quarter mile in 10.5 seconds at 131 mph. Unlike the Demon, the Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock is not a limited-edition model — it is available to anyone who wants one.
© General Motors
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Base MSRP: $90,000 (estimated, pricing not yet released)
The most capable Corvette Z06 ever offered, the latest Z06 is powered by a new 5.5-liter LT6 V8 engine with a flat-plane crankshaft design. The unit produces 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, mated with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. This new high-performance ‘Vette sports many specific features unique to the new Z06, including different front and rear fascias; a 3.6-inch wider stance than the Corvette Stingray; a configurable rear spoiler with adjustable wickerbill; 20-inch front and 21-inch rear forged aluminum spider wheels; retuned suspension; and larger brakes with 6-piston front calipers.
© General Motors
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
To further improve Corvette’s impressive track capabilities, an available Z07 Performance Package provides 734 pounds of downforce at 186 mph. The package includes a higher carbon fiber rear wing, ground effects modifications, specific chassis tuning, specifically designed Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tires, and Brembo carbon ceramic brakes and optional carbon fiber wheels. Optional for the standard Z06 is a carbon fiber aero package with a larger front splitter, front dive planes, a pedestal-mounted rear wing and underbody aerodynamic strakes. Inside, the Corvette Z06 has an available carbon fiber steering wheel, a new carbon fiber interior trim package and hand-wrapped leather interior options.
© Tesla Motors
2022 Tesla Model S Plaid
Base MSRP: $135,990
When it comes to modern American muscle, folks typically think of a big V8 engine with roaring exhaust, but the future of muscle cars could be something totally different — such as the Tesla Model S Plaid. Electric cars have been improving every year, with better performance and longer ranges between charges, and while there are strong competitors from companies such as Porsche and Jaguar, the Model S stands out as the only high-performance luxury sedan made in America. It may not roar like a Hellcat, but the Model S Plaid can silently leave the big Dodges in its dust.
© Tesla Motors
2022 Tesla Model S Plaid
The top-level Model S offers performance that easily bests some of the most powerful gasoline-fueled sport sedans on the market. With three high-performance electric motors, this AWD luxury sedan will hit 60 mph in a mind-bending 1.99 seconds and has a top speed of 200 mph. Adding to its everyday usability, the Model S can travel almost 350 miles between charges.
© Tesla Motors
2022 Tesla Model X Plaid
Base MSRP: $138,990
The Model X was the first production electric SUV on the market, and this sleek vehicle offers more than simply impressive fuel economy. According to Tesla, the Model X Plaid has a range of around 311 miles on a full charge while still offering seating for up to seven occupants. The Model X stands out when the rear Falcon Wing doors swing open, offering easy access to rear seats even in tight parking spaces. Thanks to its lack of an internal combustion engine, the Model X also offers a large front trunk (sometimes called a frunk) in addition to the rear cargo area.
© Tesla Motors
2022 Tesla Model X Plaid
Like its sedan sibling, the Model X features full-time all-wheel drive with three motors generating 1020 horsepower. Acceleration is extreme — the Model X can sprint to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds and will cover a quarter mile in less than 10 seconds. The Model X also tows up to 5,000 pounds and can be equipped with many high-tech features including a HEPA air filtration system and an enhanced autopilot system.
© Lucid Motors
Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance
Base MSRP: $179,000
In the past few years, several new companies have popped up spouting promises to create powerfully efficient electric vehicles, and most have done nothing more than reveal a few prototypes. The exception to this rule seems to be Lucid Motors. Recently the California-based company took the wraps off its first production model. The Lucid Motors Air has the looks to match its advanced powertrain, with clean styling up front emphasized by slim headlights and a chrome strip that spans from one corner to the other. The hood features sculpting over the wheels to further emphasize power, and the windshield flows as one piece of glass all the way back to the C-pillar.
© Lucid Motors
Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance
The Lucid Motors Air will be available in a number of variants, the most powerful featuring 1050 horsepower in dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration. Acceleration to 60 mph takes just 2.6 seconds. Not only is the Lucid quick, it’s also quite efficient with a range of almost 450 miles between charges. Engineers at Lucid Motors developed the Air’s electric drivetrain in-house, and it boasts some impressive stats. Each ultra-efficient permanent magnet electric motor is integrated with an inverter, transmission and differential to create a 900V-plus drive unit that weighs a mere 161 pounds. According to Lucid, the unit could fit in a standard suitcase.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford GT
Base MSRP: $450,000
To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford’s 1966 victory at Le Mans, Ford introduced the extreme GT ultra-high-performance supercar as a showcase for the company’s application of race technology, use of lightweight materials, aerodynamics and EcoBoost power. The mid-engine 2-seat coupe has the most powerful production EcoBoost engine ever: a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 647 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
© Ford Motor Company
2022 Ford GT
The GT’s sleek body incorporates active aerodynamics such as a deployable rear spoiler, and the GT uses lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum. Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes provide appropriate stopping power. Even before the Ford GT went into production late in 2016, Ford returned to the 24 Hours of Le Mans with a GT race car based on the new Ford GT, winning the LMGTE Pro class 50 years after that first Ford GT win. Due to high demand for this American supercar, Ford accepted applications from interested buyers to determine who would be permitted to purchase this exquisite specimen of modern American muscle.
© SSC North America
SSC Tuatara
Base MSRP: $1.6 million
One of the few American-made cars on this list to boast more than 1000 horsepower, the Tuatara comes from SSC North America — a small company located in Richland, Washington. The company may not have produced many cars to date, but the Tuatara has some big shoes to fill — its predecessor is the Ultimate Aero, which in September 2007 became the world’s fastest production car at 256.14 mph. Designed to exceed the Ultimate Aero’s performance, the Tuatara makes extensive use of carbon fiber — the body, frame and monocoque are all constructed from this lightweight yet strong material. At the touch of a button, dihedral doors open to reveal a cockpit designed for both comfort and the driving experience.
© SSC North America
SSC Tuatara
The mid-engine Tuatara has a twin-turbo 5.9-liter V8 engine that produces 1750 horsepower and a massive 1280 lb-ft of torque. Power gets sent to the rear wheels via a CIMA 7-speed automatic gearbox capable of shifts in less than 100 milliseconds. In addition to its astounding power, the Tuatara has an extremely low .279 drag coefficient. With active aerodynamics the Tuatara can maintain a 37:63 front to rear balance from 90 mph to beyond 300 mph. Performance stats have not been released, although it’s safe to anticipate that the Tuatara should easily reach 60 mph in less than 3 seconds; the company’s goal with the Tuatara is to attain a top speed in excess of 300 mph.
© Czinger
Czinger 21C
Base MSRP: $1.7 million
An all-new company based in Los Angeles, Czinger introduced its first model and it’s getting plenty of attention — for good reason. The 21C is a hybrid hypercar with standout exterior styling and a unique interior. The 21C has seating or two, although the passenger sits behind the drive so both are in the center of the vehicle — jetfighter style, as the company points out. This not only keeps weight in the center of the car, it also provides the best driving position. Czinger uses an innovative approach to weight savings and production by integrating the cooling, fluid routing and exhaust sound management directly into the chassis structure. The result is a vehicle that weighs less than 2,700 pounds.
© Czinger
Czinger 21C
Powering the Czinger 21C is an in-house 2.88-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that redlines at 11000 rpm, teamed with two high-output electric motors for a total of 1250 horsepower. The electric motors power each front wheel individually, creating an all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring. Power gets sent through an ultralight 7-speed sequential gearbox. Performance figures are astounding: 62 mph in 1.9 seconds, and in 15 seconds the 21C is passing 186 mph. In less than 30 seconds the 21C is at 248 mph. Czinger plans to build 80 copies of this supercar.
© Hennessey Performance
Hennessey Venom F5
Base MSRP: $2.1 million
Texas-based Hennessey Performance continues to build its reputation on speed and commensurate performance, taking fast cars — and trucks — and making them faster. Now the company has created its own extreme performance machine called the Venom F5. Named for the most powerful tornado category — F5 on the Fujita scale — the Venom F5 debuted in concept form about three years ago. With a goal of exceeding 500 kph (311 mph), this rear-wheel-drive hypercar has the specs to do the job. The Hennessey Venom F5 sits low and wide, which is as much about function as it is about styling. Up front, large air intakes sit low at the car’s outer edges, with a carbon fiber splitter connecting to the clamshell hood like a pair of fangs. Bodywork channels air under the flat floor to the rear diffuser. An all-new Hennessey logo front and center heralds the car’s origins.
© Hennessey Performance
2021 Hennessey Venom F5
To become one of the fastest cars in the world, the limited-edition Venom F5 sports car requires some massive motivation. A rear mid-mounted 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged Fury V8 engine powers the F5 and produces 1817 horsepower and 1193 lb-ft of torque, making it the most potent gas-powered sports car in the world. With its impressive power-to-weight ratio, the Hennessey Venom F5 has some equally impressive performance stats. Acceleration to 62 mph (100 kph) takes 2.6 seconds; 124 mph (200 kph) comes up in 4.7 seconds; 186 mph (300 kph) in 8.4 seconds; and 249 mph (400 kph) in less than 16 seconds. That’s some big American muscle.
