2005 Chrysler 300C SRT8-Modern Muscle Cars

Rear wheel drive Chrysler was back in after a long absence. So, too, the legendary Hemi V-8. There were two of them, both entirely new: the 345, to 340 hp, 300C Magnum RT and Charger RT, and a deep-throated 425-370 bhp for the limited-edition SRT8 version developed by Chrysler's Street and Racing Performance Group technology. The Hemi move to lower fuel economy with a multi-displacement system that shut down four cylinders in light conditions, such as smooth throttle cruise. But leadfoots found it difficult to be confirmed with a gentle forward Hemi, and who could blame them?

2005 Chrysler 300C SRT 8 RA-Front View

Despite the automatic transmission and two tons of weight, the work could make 340 hp 0-60s in the mid-5s and quarter-mile in low 14s at just over 100 mph. SRT8s were predictably even faster, doing lunges 00-60 in 5 seconds or less, under-14 quarter miles, and 000 to 100 and back to 0 in just over 17 seconds. Perhaps even more remarkable, these models were the main line, with relatively mainstream $ 30,000 - $ 40,000 price, as it influences the Mercedes engines and all-American big car room and comfort.

A few enthusiasts opposed to the revival of the Charger as a sedan, but two big doors were ancient history. The LXS were instant hits, especially the 300, and although most of the showrooms left with a gentle V-6, strong sales surprised even Chrysler Hemi.

2005 Chrysler 300C SRT 8 RA-Interior View

Speaking of surprises, Cadillac was the last one expected to find a machine of muscle, but the CTS-V 2004 was just that. Based on years of division sedan, midsize, which packed a 400 bhp version of the latest Chevrolet Corvette 350 V-8, which led the rear wheels via a manual transmission required, the first round do-it-yourself Caddy in more than 50 years. Firm suspension, large brakes and boots, and a tasteful exterior buffed suggested abilities of superheroes, and the CTS-V does not disappoint. Road & Track clocked 0-60 mph in a quick 5 seconds flat. Versions race finished 1-2 in class at the famous 12 Hours of Sebring, the road race against formidable enemies, including Corvettes.

Cadillac has been reinventing itself for a new century and a new audience, so the CTS-V was not by chance. Proving that point was the 2006 STS-V, a slightly larger rear-drive sedan packing a supercharged version of V-8 Cadillac own world class "Northstar." The 469 bhp delivered massive 0-60 in under 5 seconds, easily a match for Stormers Europeans, like the BMW M5 and Mercedes CLS 55, which cost much more than the $ 75,000 Caddy.

But the action is not limited to high-priced spread, not by a long shot. It was a very long time coming, but the redesigned 2005 Mustang was undoubtedly the best pony car Ford ever made, and the 60-style muscle accessible again.

2005 Chrysler 300C SRT 8 RA-Rear View

For starters, this was the first Mustang with its own structure. Even the original superstar of 1964 shared a good number of bones with the humble compact Falcon. In addition, the '05 was a real head-turner, an artistic tribute to the Mustangs 60 years, but fresh and modern, too. Baby boomers think that "boss", while younger enthusiasts considered it "legally." If ever a car off a bridge over the gap between generations old, that was it. No wonder that year after year Mustang sales more than doubled to the highest total in more than a decade.

The redesign increased overall size, but added some weight, and that was more than offset by the extra energy standard. The base V-6 was now a torquey 245-cid 210 hp work with, but enthusiasts gravitated to the ever popular GT, which claimed 300 horsepower from a muscled-up 281-cid V-8. Combined with the new rigid platform and a completely redesigned chassis, the GT was a dream car - and a compelling performance in buying about $ 25,000 for the fastback coupe and some $ 4,800 more for the convertible, which arrived in 2006.

With the standard 5-speed manual and pedal go-metal, a GT could romp 00-60 in just over 5 seconds and finished the quarter mile in less than 14 seconds to about 103 mph. Think about it. Right out of the box, a new GT would drag out all but the most exotic yet classic Mustangs a much lower cost in relative terms and fuel efficiency and security features offered unimaginable during the golden age of muscle.

But wait. There was more. After a long separation, Carroll Shelby has renewed his association with the Dearborn to oversee a high-power replacement for the Mustang Cobra. Debuting in 2007, the new Shelby GT500 coupe and convertible boasted a whopping 500 horsepower from a supercharged version of the 330-cid twincam "mod" V8, and a heavy six-speed manual transmission, more aggressive style and many special touches for everywhere. Performance was astounding: 00-60 bursts of 4 seconds, quarter mile going from 12.5 to 116 mph. Top speed? The 160 mph on fire - with a ruler!

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