The 1970s, while not as widely regarded as the golden age of muscle cars, produced some remarkable vehicles that captured the spirit of American performance. Despite stricter emissions regulations and rising fuel costs, automakers still found ways to craft cars with impressive power and striking designs. The muscle car era continued strong into the ’70s, with many cars offering exceptional performance at more accessible price points compared to their ’60s predecessors. These ’70s classics still stand out as some of the best options for collectors and enthusiasts looking for an affordable way into the muscle car world.
This article highlights ten incredible muscle cars from the 1970s that are still available at relatively affordable prices, based on Hagerty’s current valuations. These cars, from the stylish 1970 Chevrolet Camaro to the powerful 1971 Buick Riviera GS, continue to offer thrilling performance and a piece of automotive history for a fraction of the cost of their earlier counterparts. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, these vehicles provide the perfect blend of nostalgia, power, and value.
10. 1970 Chevrolet Camaro – $18,200
The 1970 Chevrolet Camaro is a classic example of American muscle, even in its base form. Powered by a 307-cid V8 engine producing 200 hp, the Camaro offers a solid driving experience with its sport-tuned suspension, vinyl interior, and bucket seats. Though the more powerful SS and Z/28 models steal most of the attention, the standard Camaro remains a fantastic muscle car at an average price of $18,200. It’s an affordable entry point into the world of American performance cars.
9. 1979 Pontiac Firebird Formula – $29,300
The 1979 Pontiac Firebird Formula offers great value with its W72 Pontiac 400 V8 engine, producing 220 hp. While it doesn’t quite match the performance of the more famous Trans-Am models, the Formula provides a thrilling driving experience at a much more affordable price point. With a redesign in 1979, the Firebird Formula became more popular, and today it remains an excellent option for muscle car fans, priced at around $29,300 on average.
8. 1971 Ford Torino GT – $26,400
The 1971 Ford Torino GT stands out as one of the most powerful options from the era, with its 7.0-liter 385 Series V8 engine producing 370 hp. Although it lacks a functional hood scoop, the Torino GT still delivers impressive performance and a stylish design. With an average price of $26,400, this muscle car provides a great combination of speed, power, and a classic ’70s look for a reasonable cost.
7. 1971 Buick Riviera GS – $21,300
The 1971 Buick Riviera GS is a luxury muscle car that combines comfort and power. Powered by a 455-cubic inch V8 engine producing 315 hp, the Riviera GS offers an exhilarating driving experience with its enhanced suspension and dual exhaust. For those seeking a muscle car with a touch of luxury, the Riviera GS is an excellent option, available for an average price of $21,300, making it a great value for a performance-oriented cruiser.
6. 1973 Pontiac LeMans GTO – $11,900
The 1973 Pontiac LeMans GTO marked the end of the standalone GTO model but still offered solid performance. Powered by a 400-cubic inch V8 producing 230 hp, the LeMans GTO wasn’t as powerful as earlier models, but it still provided a fun driving experience. With prices averaging around $11,900, it’s an incredibly affordable muscle car that retains the essence of the GTO legend, offering excellent value for collectors.
5. 1973 Buick Century Gran Sport 455 Stage I – $20,200
The 1973 Buick Century Gran Sport 455 Stage I might not look like a traditional muscle car, but it certainly packs a punch under the hood. Powered by a 455-cubic inch V8 engine producing an estimated 270 hp (with some estimates suggesting closer to 360 hp), the Stage I offers impressive performance for the price. At an average price of $20,200, it’s a great option for those looking for a sleeper muscle car with plenty of hidden power.
4. 1970 Mercury Cyclone GT – $19,300
The 1970 Mercury Cyclone GT may not have been the most powerful car of its time, but it was still a solid performer. With a 351-cid V8 engine producing 250 hp, the Cyclone GT strikes a balance between luxury and muscle. It featured a sport-tuned suspension, a three-speed manual transmission, and several high-end features. Today, this underrated muscle car is available for around $19,300, making it a great option for those looking for a more affordable classic.
3. 1971 Chevrolet El Camino SS – $31,900
The 1971 Chevrolet El Camino SS blends utility with performance, offering the best of both worlds. Powered by a 350-cubic inch V8 engine producing 270 hp, the El Camino SS provides strong muscle car performance while also being a versatile pickup truck. Although the 454 model often gets more attention, the El Camino SS 350 is still a great buy, with prices averaging around $31,900. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a muscle car with the practicality of a truck.
2. 1974 Dodge Dart Sport 360 – $9,000
The 1974 Dodge Dart Sport 360 is a fantastic budget-friendly muscle car. Powered by a 5.9-liter V8 engine producing 245 hp, it delivers impressive performance for its size. Despite the decline in popularity of the Dart in the early ’70s, the Sport 360 remains one of the best value-for-money muscle cars. With a price of just $9,000 on average, it’s the most affordable option on the list and a perfect choice for those looking to enter the world of classic cars without breaking the bank.
1. 1973 Plymouth Gold Duster – $14,300
The 1973 Plymouth Gold Duster offers a unique blend of style, handling, and muscle car power. While it wasn’t marketed as a high-performance vehicle, the Gold Duster featured a 340-cid V8 engine producing 275 hp, making it a solid choice for those seeking performance without sacrificing practicality.
With gold trim and distinctive decals, it remains a visually appealing classic. At an average price of $14,300, the Gold Duster represents one of the best-value muscle cars from the ’70s, making it an affordable choice for collectors.