4 Coolest Classic Muscle Cars From Ford

Powerful motors and masculine good looks have helped muscle cars appeal to car lovers since the 1950s. Throughout its history, Ford has been on the cutting edge, creating muscle cars that perform and look better than many on the market. We take a look back at some of Ford’s most iconic muscle cars. 

1. 1964 Ford Thunderbolt

Ford knew the 427 cubic-inch V-8 engine in its Galaxie was a winner, but its body was too heavy for a competitive drag racer. Enter the Ford Thunderbolt, which combined this mighty motor with the Fairlane’s lighter frame. Acrylic windows further reduced weight, helping the Thunderbolt travel a quarter mile in only 11.76 seconds. This muscle car was technically street legal. However, Hot Rod cautioned it was “not suitable for driving to and from the strip, let alone on the street in everyday use.” Ford built only 111 Thunderbolts, but they represent a key part of the auto maker’s muscle car history. 

2. 1969 Ford Torino Cobra

Ford took its commitment to performance to the next level with its Ford Torino Cobra. A mighty 428-4V Cobra Jet V-8 engine with four-speed manual transmission came standard. This impressive motor helped the Cobra create 335 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque at 3,400 revs per minute. But Ford wasn’t done. The ’69 Ford Torino Cobra also featured competition suspension and tough F70-14 tires. Its blacked-out grille, hood lock pins, and distinctive Cobra emblems gave it an individuality that set it apart from other Torinos. 

3. 1969 Ford Torino Talladega

Ford manufactured its Talladega only for a few weeks in 1969, but that time period was enough to make this muscle car a legend. Named after the Alabama speedway, this muscle car was made for racing. NASCAR rules required Ford to build 500 Talladega cars to qualify for the competition, but it overextended itself and made 736. 

The ’69 Ford Torino Talladega looked much like the Ford Torino Cobra, but its longer, slanted front section made the vehicle more aerodynamic. Ford also streamlined the rocker panels and staggered the rear shock absorbers for better performance. One item that didn’t change was the legendary 428-4V Cobra Jet V-8 engine. A C6 automatic transmission with a column shifter complemented the iconic engine. 

4. 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT

The best Ford muscle cars aren’t all home grown. The 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT showed that Australia knew what it took to impress muscle car fans. Ask Mel Gibson, who drove the iconic Aussie car in the original “Mad Max.” Its standard 351 Cleveland motor offered 300 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This vehicle also looked like the love child of a Ford Torino Cobra and Ford Mustang Fastback. Ford made only 949 Ford Falcon XB GTs between 1973 and 1976. The ones that remain are collectors’ items for car and cinema fans. 

While some muscle cars have faded away, others endure. The classics will always have their place, but consider one of the new breeds when you choose your next vehicle. Visit Town & Country Pell City today to discover the latest Ford muscle cars.