Pink may not be the traditional choice for muscle cars, often associated with femininity in a segment defined by raw power and aggression. However, automotive history reveals a surprising penchant for pink hues among manufacturers like Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors.
Chrysler’s iconic Panther Pink / Moulin Rouge made a memorable appearance in 1970, adorning models like the Charger, Challenger, and Super Bee. Meanwhile, Ford introduced pink shades like Playmate Pink and Passionate Pink to the Mustang lineup, albeit as special-order options.
General Motors also embraced pink in the 1950s, with Cadillac’s pink offerings gaining legendary status, epitomized by the pink Cadillacs famously owned by Elvis Presley. Despite the initial popularity, GM phased out pink from its regular palette in 1964, only reintroducing it with Cadillac’s Mary Kay Pink in 1991, albeit with limited exceptions during the golden age of muscle cars.
Notably, Chevrolet made a bold move in 1972 by offering pink as a special color for fleet vehicles, including the C/K pickup trucks. Additionally, Pontiac briefly featured the unique Pink Mist hue in its 1968 Firebird lineup, albeit with modest success.
While pink may have been an unconventional choice at the time, certain models like the Pontiac Nomad have since become highly coveted classics. Despite the initial lukewarm reception, restored Nomads now command impressive prices at auctions, a testament to the enduring appeal of these once-overlooked vehicles.
