Rev Up Your Engines: 12 Million-Dollar American Muscle Cars Celebrities Are Obsessed With

If you’ve ever felt your heart race at the thrilling sound of a roaring V8 engine or found yourself daydreaming about the glory days of American muscle, then you’re absolutely in the right place. These aren’t just vehicles; they’re bona fide icons of freedom, precision craftsmanship, and unforgettable style, representing a vibrant chapter in automotive history. For a select group of discerning collectors, including some of the world’s most recognizable celebrities, these machines have transformed into prized treasures, fetching staggering sums well into the millions.

What makes these classic American muscle cars soar past the seven-figure mark at auction? It’s a captivating blend of factors: their unrivaled rarity, fascinating provenance (think famous previous owners or cinematic appearances!), impeccable originality with matching numbers and factory parts, and naturally, their pristine condition. These aren’t just cars; they’re mobile investments, where the attraction beautifully lies between classic nostalgia and raw, uncouth street machine performance, becoming treasured historical artifacts that connect generations.

We’re about to take a high-octane spin through 12 of the rarest and most valuable muscle cars ever to ignite the auction block. Each one tells an epic story of power, performance, and passion, capturing the essence of an era when American automakers pushed every limit and dared to dream big. Prepare to be breathless, because each of these beauties comes with a price tag that will absolutely make your jaw drop! Let’s kick things off with some true titans of the road, starting with a legend that started it all.

1. **1962 Shelby Cobra 260 CSX2000**Imagine owning the very first Shelby Cobra ever built – a piece of automotive genesis! This legendary car, known as the 260 CSX2000, didn’t just break ground; it famously launched Carroll Shelby’s entire illustrious legacy. It was a revolutionary blend, featuring a lightweight British AC Ace body combined with the brute force of a Ford V8 engine tucked neatly under the hood, a combination that redefined performance.

This specific prototype carved out its place in history, becoming an icon of American automotive innovation. When it finally went under the hammer in 2016, it set an astonishing record, fetching an incredible $13.75 million. At that moment, it wasn’t just another sale; it officially became the most expensive American car ever sold at auction, a testament to its unparalleled significance.

The 1962 Shelby Cobra 260 CSX2000 isn’t merely a car; it remains a beloved piece of American automotive history, representing the birth of an automotive legend. Its journey from a groundbreaking prototype to a multi-million-dollar collector’s item showcases the profound impact Carroll Shelby had on performance vehicles and the enduring allure of raw, unadulterated speed.

Its enduring value is a reflection of its singular role in starting a dynasty of high-performance vehicles. Owning this car is like owning the original blueprint for speed and style, an absolute must-have for any serious collector who understands the true meaning of automotive provenance. It’s a genuine king of the road, cherished by enthusiasts and celebrated by the racing world.

Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5
Caption: AC Cobra 427
Layout: front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Manufacturer: AC Cars,Shelby American
Production: 1965–1967
Name: MkIII
Aka: AC Shelby Cobra , Shelby AC Cobra
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Assembly: Thames Ditton,Surrey,England
Predecessor: AC Ace
Class: Sports car
Successor: AC MK IV
Related: AC 428,Shelby Daytona
Engine: cvt,V8 engine
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: 1960s cars, AC vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2014
Summary: The AC Cobra, sold in the United States as the Shelby Cobra and AC Shelby Cobra, is a sports car manufactured by British company AC Cars, with a Ford V8 engine. It was produced intermittently in both the United Kingdom and later the United States since 1962.

Get more information about: AC Cobra

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Brand: Shelby Model: Cobra 260 CSX2000
Price: $25,987 Mileage: 57,020 mi.

2. **1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible**Rarity doesn’t get much rarer, or more thrilling, than the 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible. This magnificent machine is often hailed as the Mopar holy grail, and for very good reason: a mere 11 of these iconic convertibles were made in 1971. Adding to its almost mythical status, only two of those were equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, specifically intended for US buyers, making them virtually unobtainable.

With its boldly aggressive lines and that absolutely legendary 426 Hemi V8 engine thumping under the hood, this model is unequivocally a collector’s dream. Its intimidating appearance isn’t just for show; it promises nasty acceleration that makes it an immediate showstopper in any serious collector’s garage. This car doesn’t just arrive; it makes an entrance that commands attention and respect.

One stunning example of this ultra-rare beast sold in 2014 for an eye-watering $3.5 million, effortlessly setting records and turning heads across the automotive world. Even today, the value of these vehicles continues to appreciate dramatically, with experts estimating they would likely sell for well over $3,000,000.

This car embodies the pinnacle of Mopar muscle, blending ferocious power with undeniable style and extreme exclusivity. It’s a testament to an era when performance ruled the roads and the auction block, making it one of the most valuable and sought-after muscle cars of all time. The Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible is truly a motoring masterpiece.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE Calligraphy
Caption: 1970 Hardtop Coupe
Name: Plymouth Barracuda
Manufacturer: Plymouth (automobile)
Production: 1964–1974
Assembly: Fenton, Missouri,Hamtramck, Michigan,Maywood, California,Windsor, Ontario
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Class: Pony car
Categories: 1970s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with dead external links from February 2018, Articles with dead external links from January 2022
Summary: The Plymouth Barracuda is a two-door pony car that was manufactured by Chrysler Corporation from 1964 through 1974 model years. The first-generation Barracuda was based on the Chrysler A-body and was offered from 1964 until 1966. A two-door hardtop (no B-pillar) fastback design, it shared a great majority of parts and bodywork with the Plymouth Valiant, except for the distinctive wraparound rear glass. The second-generation Barracuda, though still Valiant-based, was heavily redesigned. Built from 1967 through 1969, it was available as a two-door in fastback, notchback, and convertible versions. The third generation, offered from 1970 until 1974, was based on the Chrysler E-body, exclusive to it, and the slightly larger Dodge Challenger. A completely new design, the two-door Barracuda was available in hardtop and convertible body styles.

Get more information about: Plymouth Barracuda

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Brand: Plymouth Model: Hemi ‘Cuda Convertible
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

3. **1967 Chevrolet Corvette L88**Today’s Corvettes are undoubtedly brilliant, but for pure, unadulterated muscle, the 1967 L88 was a true heavyweight champion. This beast was constructed solely for competition, boasting a formidable 427 big-block engine. While officially rated at 430 horsepower, those in the know understood it delivered a earth-shattering 570 horsepower, making it an absolute force to be reckoned with on the track.

Its rarity is almost as legendary as its power: only 20 of these incredible machines were ever made in 1967, and a mere 16 are known to still exist, a staggering testament to its exclusivity. Among these, a particular standout was the only red-on-red L88 ever built, a unique jewel that commanded unparalleled attention and desire from collectors worldwide.

This exceptional red-on-red L88 set a new benchmark for Corvette values when it sold for an astonishing $3.85 million in 2014. This sale cemented its status as the most expensive Corvette ever sold at auction, a title that speaks volumes about its historical importance and desirability. It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of racing royalty.

Stripped of extra frills like a heater and a radio, the L88 was strictly business. This singular focus on performance and minimal creature comforts underscores its purpose-built nature as a race machine. Today, these rare L88 Corvettes continue to be among the most coveted collectibles, often selling for well over $3,000,000, solidifying their place in the pantheon of million-dollar muscle.

Car Model Information: 2019 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
Name: Chevrolet Corvette
Caption: 2021 Chevrolet Corvette C8
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1953–present
ModelYears: bulleted list
Assembly: bulleted list
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars
Summary: The Chevrolet Corvette is a line of American two-door, two-seater sports cars manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Chevrolet marque since 1953. Throughout eight generations, indicated sequentially as C1 to C8, the Corvette is noted for its performance, distinctive styling, lightweight fiberglass or composite bodywork, and competitive pricing. The Corvette has had domestic mass-produced two-seater competitors fielded by American Motors, Ford, and Chrysler; it is the only one continuously produced by a United States auto manufacturer. It serves as Chevrolet’s halo car. In 1953, GM executives accepted a suggestion by Myron Scott, then the assistant director of the Public Relations department, to name the company’s new sports car after the corvette, a small, maneuverable warship. Initially, a relatively modest, lightweight 6‑cylinder convertible, subsequent introductions of V8 engines, competitive chassis innovations, and rear mid-engined layout have gradually moved the Corvette upmarket into the supercar class. In 1963, the second generation was introduced in coupe and convertible styles. The first three Corvette generations (1953–1982) employed body-on-frame construction, and since the C4 generation, introduced in 1983 as an early 1984 model, Corvettes have used GM’s unibody Y‑body platform. All Corvettes used front mid-engine configuration for seven generations, through 2019, and transitioned to a rear mid-engined layout with the C8 generation. Initially manufactured in Flint, Michigan, and St. Louis, Missouri, the Corvette has been produced in Bowling Green, Kentucky, since 1981, which is also the location of the National Corvette Museum. The Corvette has become widely known as “America’s Sports Car.” Automotive News wrote that after being featured in the early 1960s television show Route 66, “the Corvette became synonymous with freedom and adventure,” ultimately becoming both “the most successful concept car in history and the most popular sports car in history.”

Get more information about: Chevrolet Corvette

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Chevrolet Model: Corvette
Price: $47,990 Mileage: 20,872 mi.

4. **1969 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake**The name truly says it all: the Super Snake is a beast among legends, a one-of-a-kind Shelby Cobra 427 that pushes the boundaries of performance and exclusivity. This car isn’t just powerful; it’s an apex predator of the asphalt, outfitted with not one, but *dual* Paxton superchargers, transforming its already potent 427-cubic-inch V8 into an engine of pure, unadulterated fury.

Built specifically for speed and to deliver an almost unimaginable rush of adrenaline, this car is a testament to Carroll Shelby’s audacious vision. It embodies the spirit of raw power and bespoke engineering, making it a true marvel of American automotive ingenuity. The Super Snake isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s for those who crave the ultimate thrill.

Its journey through the auction world is as exciting as its performance. This iconic car has changed hands not once, but twice in recent years, first for an astounding $5.5 million, and then again for a still breathtaking $5.1 million. These figures underscore its incredible value and the unwavering demand for such a unique and historically significant vehicle.

Every time it appears, its legend just keeps growing, solidifying its status as one of the most expensive vintage cars in existence. The 1969 Shelby Cobra 427 Super Snake is more than a car; it’s a rolling monument to horsepower, a dream machine that continues to captivate enthusiasts and command stratospheric prices, proving some legends truly are priceless.

5. **1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T Convertible**Prepare to be captivated by the sheer audacity of the 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T Convertible – a pure, unadulterated expression of Mopar muscle in its finest, most aggressive form. These stunning convertibles are exceptionally rare; only nine of them were ever made, making them an exclusive treasure in the world of high-performance classics. Each one packs a brutal 426 Hemi V8 engine under its sculpted hood, delivering formidable power that thrills.

This particular model, with its aggressive looks and the brutal 426 Hemi, truly captures the essence of a powerful icon. Its scarcity contributes enormously to its desirability, transforming it into a highly coveted piece of automotive history. Owners of these cars aren’t just driving; they’re preserving a slice of high-octane Americana that continues to thrill and impress.

The ongoing demand for Mopar power wrapped in such classic styling is vividly demonstrated by its auction results. While many Hemi Challenger R/T hardtops and convertibles easily sell for more than $500,000, it’s the convertibles that really break the bank. One of these nine precious cars recently sold for an astonishing $1.65 million, proving that some Hemi Challengers are definitively selling for well over a million dollars.

This particular sale showcases the intense passion and significant investment potential that these ultra-rare Hemi Challengers command. They are not merely cars but celebrated artifacts, embodying an era where raw power and distinctive design reigned supreme on American roads. The Hemi Challenger R/T Convertible is a true collector’s gem, continuing to appreciate in value and legend.

Car Model Information: 2020 Dodge Challenger R/T
Name: Dodge Challenger
Production: 1969–1974,1977–1983,2008–2023
ModelYears: 1970–1974,1978–1983,2008–2023
Caption: 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
Manufacturer: Dodge
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Dodge Challenger is the name of three generations of automobiles produced by the American automobile manufacturer Dodge. However, the first use of the Challenger name by Dodge dates back to 1959 for marketing a “value version” of the full-sized Coronet Silver Challenger. From model years 1970 to 1974, the first-generation Dodge Challenger pony car was built using the Chrysler E platform in hardtop and convertible body styles sharing significant components with the Plymouth Barracuda. The second generation, from model years 1978 to 1983, was a rebadged Mitsubishi Galant Lambda / Sapporo, a coupe version of an economical compact car. The third and most recent generation is a full-size muscle car that was introduced in early 2008 initially as a rival to the evolved fifth generation Ford Mustang and the fifth generation Chevrolet Camaro. In November 2021, Stellantis announced that the 2023 model year would be the final model year for both the LD Dodge Charger and LA Dodge Challenger, as the company will focus its plans on electric vehicles rather than fossil fuel-powered vehicles, due to tougher emissions standards required by the Environmental Protection Agency for the 2023 model year. Challenger production ended on December 22, 2023, and the Brampton, Ontario, assembly plant will be re-tooled to assemble an electrified successor.

Get more information about: Dodge Challenger

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Brand: Dodge Model: Challenger
Price: $24,335 Mileage: 70,496 mi.

6. **1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1**For those who live and breathe racing-grade performance, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 represents the absolute ultimate expression of Chevy’s muscle car era. This was no ordinary Camaro; it was a beast built for speed and competition, specifically engineered for the drag strip. Only 69 of these phenomenal machines were ever made, each equipped with an all-aluminum 427 cubic-inch big-block engine, making them incredibly rare and immensely powerful.

Initially, these vehicles faced a unique challenge. They were difficult to market due to their outrageous price point at the time, which made them inaccessible to many enthusiasts. However, fast forward to today, and the story couldn’t be more different. Their legendary status and unparalleled performance have catapulted their value, proving that good things, especially powerful ones, truly stand the test of time.

One of these rare machines recently roared back into the spotlight, selling for just under $1.1 million, solidifying its undeniable place in collector car lore. It’s not uncommon for these ZL1 Camaros to command more than $1,000,000 on the auction circuit nowadays, a testament to their enduring appeal and extreme scarcity. They are the definition of a blue-chip investment for car enthusiasts.

This was the ultimate Camaro factory machine, producing in excess of 500 horsepower under optimal tuning, a figure that still impresses today. Its legacy as a drag-strip dominator and a collector’s dream highlights the fierce competition and innovation of the late 60s muscle car scene. The 1969 Camaro ZL1 remains a breathtaking example of raw power and automotive legend, coveted by anyone who appreciates a truly potent piece of American history.

Ready for more roaring engines and jaw-dropping price tags? We’re diving back into the exclusive world of American muscle cars that command over a million dollars, showcasing the remaining titans whose unique performance specs, super-limited production, and undeniable allure have made them the ultimate collector’s items. These aren’t just vehicles; they’re rolling pieces of history, each with a story that revs the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Let’s get straight into these automotive masterpieces!

Car Model Information: 2018 Chevrolet Camaro 1LS
Name: Chevrolet Camaro
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1966–2002,2009–2023
ModelYears: 1967–2002,2010–2024
Class: Pony car
BodyStyle: coupe,convertible
Platform: GM F platform,GM Zeta platform,GM Alpha platform
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Chevrolet Camaro is a mid-size American automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, classified as a pony car. It first went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. The Camaro shared its platform and major components with the Firebird, produced by General Motors’ Pontiac division that was also introduced for the 1967 model year. Four distinct generations of the Camaro were developed before production ended in 2002. The nameplate was revived on a concept car that evolved into the fifth-generation Camaro; production started on March 16, 2009. Production of the sixth generation of the Camaro ended in December 2023, for the 2024 model year.

Get more information about: Chevrolet Camaro

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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Camaro
Price: $18,785 Mileage: 69,196 mi.

7. **1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6**If you’re looking for a true street king from the muscle car era, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 LS6 absolutely delivered. This car wasn’t just powerful; it was the epitome of brute force and style, boasting a gargantuan 450-horsepower 7.4L V8 engine that made it one of the most formidable machines on the road. It truly earned its reputation for savage speed.

While many Chevelle SS 454 LS6 models are prized possessions, one particular example stands out in a league of its own: Ray Allen’s Truppi-Kling race car. This famous version didn’t just turn heads; it made history, selling for an incredible $1.2 million! This sale firmly cemented its place among the elite, multi-million dollar muscle cars, showing just how much provenance and performance can boost value.

These Chevelles were, and still are, revered for their massive Big Block V8s and iconic body shape that stands out in any crowd. The sheer raw power combined with that unmistakable silhouette makes them highly sought after by collectors. If you happen to own an original, numbers-matching LS6, prepare for collectors to be knocking on your door, because these cars are mobile investments that only grow in value.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE Calligraphy
Name: Chevrolet Chevelle
Caption: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Sport Coupe
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1963–1977
ModelYears: 1964–1977
Class: Mid-size
Platform: GM A platform (RWD)
Layout: FR layout
Successor: Chevrolet Malibu
Categories: 1970s cars, All articles needing additional references, All articles that may contain original research, All articles with specifically marked weasel-worded phrases, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-sized automobile that was produced by the Chevrolet division of General Motors (GM) in three generations for the 1964 to 1977 model years. Part of the GM A-body platform, the Chevelle was one of Chevrolet’s most successful nameplates. Body styles included coupes, sedans, convertibles, and station wagons. The “Super Sport” versions were produced through the 1973 model year and Lagunas from 1973 through to 1976. After a four-year absence, the El Camino was reintroduced as part of the new Chevelle lineup in 1964. From 1964 to 1969, GM of Canada sold a modified version of the Chevelle that included a Pontiac-style grille, and a LeMans instrument panel, marketed as the Beaumont. The Malibu was the top-of-the-line model to 1972, and completely replaced the Chevelle nameplate starting with the redesigned, and downsized 1978 model year.

Get more information about: Chevrolet Chevelle

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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Chevelle SS 454 LS6
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

8. **1971 Pontiac GTO Judge Convertible**Prepare to be captivated by a car that didn’t just join the muscle car royalty; it stood out boldly, proudly proclaiming its presence. We’re talking about the 1971 Pontiac GTO Judge Convertible, an automotive icon known for its flamboyant styling and undeniable muscle. Its name, famously inspired by a popular comedy routine, truly reflects its audacious spirit.

What makes this Judge truly extraordinary? Its rarity is almost mythical. In 1971, only a tiny handful of these automatic GTO Judge convertibles were ever built—just seven, to be precise. Adding another layer of exclusivity, only 17 of the convertibles came equipped with the legendary Ram Air IV V8, making them incredibly elusive animals in the collector world.

One of these magnificent machines recently hit the auction block and commanded an astonishing $1.1 million. This impressive sale is a clear testament to the enduring respect and hefty price tag that this bold Pontiac continues to demand. It’s not just a car; it’s a high-water mark of Pontiac performance and a cherished piece of American automotive history.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE Calligraphy
Name: Pontiac GTO
Caption: 2005 Pontiac GTO
Manufacturer: Pontiac (automobile),Holden
Class: Mid-size car,Compact car,Mid-size car
Production: 1963–1974,2003–2006
Predecessor: Pontiac Tempest
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
ModelYears: 1964-1974 2004-2006
Categories: 1970s cars, 2000s cars, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from October 2008
Summary: The Pontiac GTO is a front-engine, rear-drive, two-door, and four-passenger automobile manufactured and marketed by the Pontiac division of General Motors over four generations from 1963 until 1974 in the United States — with a fifth generation made by GM’s Australian subsidiary, Holden, for the 2004 through 2006 model years. The first generation of the GTO is credited with popularizing the muscle car market segment in the 1960s. Some consider the Pontiac GTO to have started the trend with all four domestic automakers offering a variety of competing models. For the 1964 and 1965 model years, the GTO was an optional package on the intermediate-sized Pontiac LeMans. The 1964 GTO vehicle identification number (VIN) started with 22, while the 1965 GTO VIN began with 237. The GTO was designated as a separate Pontiac model from 1966 through 1971 (VIN 242…). It became an optional package again for the 1972 and 1973 intermediate LeMans. For 1974, the GTO was an optional trim package on the compact-sized Ventura. The GTO model was revived for the 2004 through 2006 model years as a captive import for Pontiac, a left-hand drive version of the Holden Monaro, itself a coupé variant of the Holden Commodore.

Get more information about: Pontiac GTO

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Brand: Pontiac Model: GTO Judge Convertible
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

9. **1968 Ford Mustang GT390 “Bullitt”**Few cars are as instantly recognizable or as deeply embedded in pop culture as the 1968 Ford Mustang GT390, famously known as the “Bullitt” Mustang. This Highland Green icon wasn’t just a car; it was a co-star alongside Steve McQueen in the legendary film, cementing its status as a legendary icon of cinematic and muscle car history. It’s a vehicle that sparks pure movie magic and automotive adrenaline.

For decades, this original “Bullitt” Mustang remained in private ownership, shrouded in mystery, only adding to its allure. When it finally resurfaced and went to auction, the automotive world held its breath. The outcome was nothing short of spectacular, as it sold for an astonishing $3.4 million, instantly becoming the most expensive Mustang ever sold.

Think about that for a second: a car that originally cost around $3,500 transforming into a multi-million dollar treasure! This incredible appreciation underscores the immense value that provenance, especially one tied to Hollywood fame, brings to classic cars. It’s not just about horsepower; it’s about the story, the legacy, and the undeniable cool factor that only a car like the Bullitt can deliver.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE Calligraphy
Name: Ford Mustang (S550)
Alt: Front three-quarters view of a blue coupe
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
ModelCode: S550
Production: August 2014 – April 2023
ModelYears: 2015–2023
Assembly: Flat Rock, Michigan
Designer: Kemal Curić
Class: Pony car,muscle car
BodyStyle: coupe
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Platform: Ford D2C platform
Engine: Unbulleted list
Transmission: Unbulleted list
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Predecessor: Ford Mustang (fifth generation)
Successor: Ford Mustang (seventh generation)
Categories: All articles with vague or ambiguous time, Articles with short description, Cars discontinued in 2023, Cars introduced in 2014, Commons category link is on Wikidata
Summary: The Ford Mustang (S550) is the sixth generation of the Ford Mustang, a pony car produced from 2014 until it was replaced by the seventh generation in 2023. The development of the Mustang began in 2009 under the direction of the chief engineer Dave Pericak and exterior design director Joel Piaskowski. In 2010, design management selected an exterior design theme proposal by Kemal Curić. After four years of development, Ford debuted the Mustang at numerous online media events in December 2013, preceding its public unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2014. Official manufacture of the sixth generation of the Mustang began at the facility in Flat Rock, Michigan, in August 2014. The car was available as both a coupe and a convertible. Introduced for the 2015 model year to replace the fifth generation, the Mustang offered multiple engine configurations, including a 3.7-liter V6 engine, a 2.3-liter inline-four EcoBoost engine, and a 5.0-liter GT V8 engine. The V6 was discontinued in 2017. The sixth generation marked the first Mustang to be marketed globally, introducing factory-produced right-hand-drive models alongside the traditional left-hand-drive versions. This was part of the “One Ford” business strategy, which also encompassed models such as the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion/Mondeo, Escape/Kuga, Edge, Transit Connect, and Transit. Ford released several special editions of the sixth-generation Mustang, including the Shelby GT350 and GT500, the Bullitt edition to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1968 film Bullitt, and a model celebrating the Mustang’s own 50th anniversary. The car is the recipient of numerous accolades, including Esquire’s Car of the Year in 2014, a spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best list in 2015 and 2017, and the EyesOn Design award for Best Production Vehicle in 2014. The sixth generation of the Mustang was discontinued in April 2023, with its successor, the S650, beginning production in May.

Get more information about: Ford Mustang (sixth generation)

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Brand: Ford Model: Mustang GT390
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

10. **1965 Shelby 427 Cobra (Carroll Shelby’s Personal Car)**When the name Carroll Shelby is associated with a car, you know you’re looking at something truly special. And when he decided to keep a car for himself, well, that’s when you know it’s legendary. His personal 1965 Shelby 427 Cobra is one such masterpiece, initially crafted in Carbon Grey before being repainted in a vibrant red that commanded attention.

This isn’t just any Shelby Cobra; it’s *the* Shelby Cobra that defined an era for its creator. The 427 Cobra, known for its lightweight frame and powerful 427 V8, became an instant legend, and Carroll Shelby’s personal example carries an even heavier weight of history and prestige. It represents the pinnacle of his audacious vision for speed and performance.

After Carroll Shelby’s passing, this deeply personal vehicle hit the auction block, and the collector world responded with fervor. It brought in a staggering $5.49 million, a price that stands as a fitting tribute to a motorsport legend and the profound impact he had on American automotive engineering. It’s a rolling piece of art that embodies the very soul of a pioneer.

Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai SANTA FE Calligraphy
Caption: AC Cobra 427
Layout: front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Manufacturer: AC Cars,Shelby American
Production: 1965–1967
Name: MkIII
Aka: AC Shelby Cobra , Shelby AC Cobra
BodyStyle: Roadster (automobile)
Assembly: Thames Ditton,Surrey,England
Predecessor: AC Ace
Class: Sports car
Successor: AC MK IV
Related: AC 428,Shelby Daytona
Engine: cvt,V8 engine
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: 1960s cars, AC vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from December 2014
Summary: The AC Cobra, sold in the United States as the Shelby Cobra and AC Shelby Cobra, is a sports car manufactured by British company AC Cars, with a Ford V8 engine. It was produced intermittently in both the United Kingdom and later the United States since 1962.

Get more information about: AC Cobra

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Shelby Model: 427 Cobra
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

11. **1963 Shelby Cobra 260**Stepping back to the origins of a legend, we find the 1963 Shelby Cobra 260 – a true automotive icon meticulously crafted by the legendary Carroll Shelby himself. While the very first Cobra prototype, the CSX2000, captured headlines, the general 1963 Cobra 260 models also hold immense value and represent an early, crucial chapter in the Cobra saga.

This isn’t just a powerful machine; it’s a testament to Shelby’s genius for combining a lightweight body with American V8 muscle. Under its hood, a 260 cubic-inch V8 engine delivered a robust 260 horsepower, giving it performance that captivated enthusiasts and redefined what was possible. It brought European handling together with pure American brawn in a way no one had seen before.

Today, pristine examples of the 1963 Shelby Cobra 260 are among the most sought-after classic cars in existence. They are so revered that they can command prices as high as $1,750,000, cementing their status as one of the most valuable classic cars. Owning one means holding a tangible piece of automotive history, a car that perfectly captures the spirit of innovation and raw power from a golden era.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Shelby Model: Cobra 260
Price: $31,989 Mileage: 21,971 mi.

12. **1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi**Closing out our list of million-dollar muscle machines, we have a car so distinctive, so audacious, that it looks like it flew straight off a race track and onto the street: the 1970 Plymouth Superbird 426 Hemi. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, designed specifically for NASCAR domination with its enormous rear wing and aerodynamic nose making it an unmistakable icon.

Under that iconic hood lay the legendary 426 Hemi engine, a beast that pushed the Superbird to speeds that left competitors literally in the dust. It wasn’t merely about looks; it was about pure, unadulterated performance engineered to conquer the high-speed ovals. This winged wonder truly lived up to its name, captivating audiences both on and off the track.

While 503 units were produced, the Superbirds equipped with the mighty 426 Hemi are particularly rare and coveted. Today, these rare birds are worth well over $500,000, with pristine examples consistently surpassing the $1,000,000 mark at auction. It’s a testament to its legendary status, extreme rarity, and the sheer audacity of its design that continues to thrill collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate automotive history with a serious dose of aero-flamboyance.

And there you have it, a breathtaking tour through the ultimate collection of American muscle cars that aren’t just vehicles, but genuine treasures worth well over a million dollars. From the track-dominating legends to the Hollywood icons and the personal rides of automotive pioneers, each car on this list tells an unforgettable story of power, passion, and unparalleled engineering. These machines are more than investments; they are a vibrant legacy connecting generations, reminding us of an era when American automakers dared to dream big and build even bigger. So, which one of these high-octane beauties would you love to take for a spin? Let us know what revs your engine!”