For more than five decades, muscle cars have found a place in the hearts of car lovers and drivers alike. Dodge Charger, Camaro, Chevrolet, and Ford Mustang are among the top best muscle cars on the market.
For many car enthusiasts, the critical question has always been, if muscle cars are evolving or not. Are they capable of matching the latest tech trapping, enhanced ride quality, and improved fuel economy?
Read More »This list reviews the top 10 best of muscle cars in 2019. We have considered factors such as drivability, torque, horsepower, acceleration, design and so much more. Let’s strap in and know more about these incredible machines.
Now you can sit down, relax, and read on to learn more about our favorite muscles of 2019 so that you can finally choose a car you think best fits your needs and budget.
1. Chevrolet Camaro LS
The Chevrolet Camaro LS is a manual transmission muscular V-8 machine that any car enthusiast would die to own. The muscle car comes in two models- a sun-loving convertible and a sporty coupe variant. Although the cabin seems cramped, the styling of the machine is ready for customization. The pony machine is also fun to drive.
Among the most notable features of the Chevy LS is a spunky V-6 and four-cylinder engines. Then there is the 6.2-liter V-8 feature that does not only sound marvelous but also goes like superman. Further, there is a commendable performance package known as 1LE, which converts this machine into a versatile trach machine, this feature is available in all the variants.
Likes
• Incredible advancement from V6 to V8 engines
• Features solid, standard equipment
• The design of the car is sharp and is smooth around turns
Dislikes
• The back seat is tiny
• Some controls are challenging to use
• The truck is small and has a little opening
2. 2019 Ford Mustang
If you are a fan of the Mustang family, then you will be pleased to hear of the new 2019 Ford Mustang. This machine is a perfect masterpiece for those who are looking for a modern retro style. The 480- horsepower version features a 5.0-liter V8 engine, professionally wrapped in green paint.
Some of the key features of the 2019 Ford Mustang a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 310 horsepower, for the EcoBoost model, while the GT variant comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 460 horsepower.
The transmission options are a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual. Some noticeable features include remote keyless entry, backup camera, manual air conditioning, cruise control, and telescoping steering wheel. Other features may consist of Apple CarPlay smartphone and Android Auto connectivity.
Likes
• Low noise levels and advanced ride quality
• Reliable power from the V8 and 4-cylinder engines
• Features a retro style
Dislikes
• Uncomfortable back seat
• Mediocre cabin access and heavy doors
• Riding quality can be bouncy at times
3. Camaro SS
The Camaro SS boasts of new styling cues with lighting treatments and fresh colors. The LS, LT, and SS variants somehow have interest front and rear fascia. Another vivid difference between this model and other Chevy’s line up is that it has unique trim levels.
There is extra safety equipment called Infotainment 3 system, designed to enhance security. Also in the lineup is the new Camaro 2.0L Turbo 1LE model. However, the big update is the optional 10-speed automatic transmission, which features a 6.2- liter V8 engine.
The Camaro SS is not only an attractive sports car but is also a muscle machine. Many Aussie enthusiasts will surely fall in love with this model.
Likes
• Incredible LT1 V8 Engine
• Capable and Economical V6 Engine
• A lot of standard features
• Has better handling
Dislikes
• Controversial design
• The V8 models consume a lot of fuel
• Does not have an AWD system
• It is small in size
4. The 2019 Cadillac CTS-V
This muscle machine is the best example of having the best of both worlds. You can use it as a truck and a practical machine. The CTS-V comes with four doors, a nice-looking interior, and plenty of other features.
The 640 horsepower car is designed with a Corvette-derived supercharged V8 engine. It also well equipped with high-performance breaks and adjustable suspension. With an extra wheel drive, the CTS-V features one trim level.
Other notable features include an electronic limited-slip differential, summer performance tires, a magnetically controlled adaptive suspension, 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, an automatic parking system, as well as keyless ignition and entry.
The car also has rear cross-traffic warning systems blind-spot warning systems and forward collision warning, curb-view parking cameras, lane departure warning, and intervention.
The interior comprises of adjustable power seats with power-adjustable bolsters, and manual thigh extenders. You will also find simulated-suede upholstery, driver-seat memory settings, heated power-adjustable steering wheel, and a headliner.
The CTS-V is also fitted with an 8-inch touchscreen interface, a 12.3-inch digital gauge displayer, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, wireless smartphone charging, a navigation system, three USB ports, and a 13 speaker surround system, equipped with satellite radio.
Likes
• Topnotch handling and ride quality
• Equipped with a powerful V8 engine with high acceleration
• Great support from the sport seats
Dislikes
• The cabin is not as luxurious as the competitor’s
• The trunk is small
• Some people may be comfortable with the ride
5. Ford Mustang Bullitt
The 2019 Mustang Bullitt comes at the number on our list for some good reasons. It is a pony car with some exciting features. The vehicle is fitted with heavy duty front springs, six-piston Brembo brakes up front, stability control systems, a more prominent rear sway bar, and a Torsen limited-slip differential installed in the rear of the car.
Moreover, the model comes with a higher power than the regular GT, thanks to improvements made on the ECU tune, the 87mm throttle body, and the cold air intake, which makes the machine a real beast on the road.
When it comes to performance, the car has a power output of 459bhp; with a top speed of 163mph. It only takes 4.6 secs from 0 to 62mph; impressive isn’t it?
While there isn’t much in this new model, the Bullitt is a commendable car, and you will have to enjoy it as such. The 5.0-liter V8 engine with spread torque is a feature that is worth mentioning.
Likes
• Plenty of good techs
• Great ride and handling
• Has a Recaro seat
• Pays home to the original movie model
• Has a trance-inducing exhaust note
• Has manual transmission
• No mustang or for badges
Dislikes
• The driver seat has no memory
• Rear seat and luggage have small space
• There is no blind-spot warning
• The 19-inch wheel alloys look very cheap
6. 2019 Dodge Challenger
The 2019 Challenger is a beast boasting of aggressive exterior styling and powerful engine options. If you are an adrenaline junky, then you will appreciate the 305hp V6 engine than this beast offers.
Alternatively, you can check out the SRT Hellcat, which comes with a 707 horsepower V8 engine. Another variant, the R/T Scat Pack trim, features a 485 horsepower V8 engine, and it is cheaper than the SRT Hellcat.
If you are looking for power, then the right place for you is the Challenger Hellcat model. The models come with some serious features, including several retro cues such as cold air intake, a Mopar Shaker, all in a single Shaker Package, as well as many other features.
There are also numerous features and modern technology including Android Auto smartphone connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and forward-collision warning.
However, the handling on the challenger is not as smoother as some of its competitors, but still, it offers a smooth ride, sufficient space, and impeccable interior fit-and-finish.
Likes
• Spacious interior
• Classic exterior design
• Massive power offer by the V8 engine
• Exceptional Uconnect multimedia system
• All-weather usability
Dislikes
• The V8 engines consume a lot of gas
• The V6 model does not have engine roar or car burble
• Feels heavy and does not have steering precision
• The visor hinges compromise the sightlines
7. 2019 Tesla Model S
It is right to claim the Tesla Model S was the pioneer of the high-class electric-vehicle boom. While there were other models before this one, it was the first inspirational luxury model. It is full of modern technology, speedy, and pricier. The Tesla Model S became more than what it was intended to be- a beast.
Although some people find the new updates to the machine is a bit controversial, there is only so much you can appreciate about the car. The manufacturer did away with the smaller battery pack option, and now all the models feature the same 100kWh battery pack.
This means, there isn’t much physical change on the car, but most of the adjustments are on the software to improve the capabilities that the car already possesses.
For instance, the recently launched Long Range trim comes with an additional 85 miles of range, which is more or less a $10,000 upgrade over the standard range variant. On the other hand, the Model S Performance is a great model, but if you wish to have the Ludicrous Mode activated, you will have to part ways with an extra $20,000.
You may have to get used to paying more to get more features and power. But it is yet to be seen if tech-lover buyers will be willing to get into their pockets to purchase the software key to let their car do something that it already is capable of doing.
Although there are numerous competitors for the more affordable model 3, there are very few other models that can manage to compete with Model S yet.
Likes
• It has an impressive electric range
• The car features fast acceleration
• The design of the trunk allows for more cargo space
Dislikes
• It is costly for fewer features
• It does not have the luxury polish that other cars have
• Features a smaller dealer network
• Thus there are fewer service centers
8. 2019 Kia Stinger
The 2019 Kia Stinger is still a powerful muscle car despite the few updates. The entry-level variant comes with a new 18-inch wheel, rear cross-traffic alert, and a blind-spot monitor. Moreover, there is the Sun and Sound Package, LED headlights, a larger touchscreen, and an advanced audio system.
The GT models come with twin-turbo V6 engines. The traction in these models is commendable. Other added features included ventilated front seats and wireless charging, which is available on the GT1 and Premium models.
Lastly, the Stinger GT2 features heated rear seats and a 360-degree camera. The Stinger GTS comes with a tire-abusing drift mode, but this model is expected to come out in 2020.
The entry-level of the Stinger series features a four-cylinder engine, as well as other great features that drivers would appreciate. The Stinger GT on the hand has a 365 horsepower twin-turbo V7 engine and a couple of premium features such as variable-ratio steering, and a 19-inch wheel fitted with high-performance tires.
The GT1 trim comes with an even bigger infotainment system, a 15 speaker audio system, adaptive dampers, and settings for the driver’s seat, and many other features. The version, however, is too pricier. If you wish to have an all-wheel-drive for your stinger, you will have to spend an additional $2200.
Likes
• Has a stylish and sporty look
• Improved interior
• High-level performance
• Good warranty coverage
Dislikes
• The ride quality is not significant compared to other models
• There is insufficient space for rear passengers
• The roofline compromises rear visibility
