Muscle cars have long held a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. With iconic names like the Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Chevelle, these vehicles defined an era of American automotive excellence.
Their raw power, bold styling, and thrilling performance continue to resonate even decades after their heyday. But as the baby boomer generation—historically the largest group of collectors—ages out, questions arise about the future value of these vehicles.
While flagship models will likely remain prized, a shift may occur in the valuation of lesser-known muscle cars, making now a pivotal time for collectors and investors alike.
To determine which underrated muscle cars are currently rising in value, a data-focused approach was taken. Using tools like Hagerty’s Price Tool and tracking historical sale trends from Classic.com, the analysis centered on lesser-known vehicles that have often flown under the radar. This method allowed for a clear picture of market momentum and revealed which models are gaining traction among collectors.
Unlike more renowned models like the GTO or Chevelle, this list celebrates lesser-known options now gaining recognition. The cars were ranked from lowest to highest in percentage value increase, offering insight into current trends.
These vehicles, once overlooked, are now attracting attention from a younger demographic of collectors, suggesting that the muscle car market is evolving in interesting and sometimes surprising ways.
1. Plymouth Duster: A Modest Mopar on the Rise
Long overshadowed by Mopar legends like the Hemi ‘Cuda, the 1970 Plymouth Duster is seeing renewed interest. Equipped with a 340-cubic-inch V8 producing 275 horsepower, the Duster once served as an affordable alternative to pricier models. But times have changed.
Hagerty data shows that values have increased by about 5.2% for well-kept versions, with high-end examples nearing $100,000 at auction. In 2021, the average sale price hovered around $33,000; today, it exceeds $50,000.
With such performance and rising collector interest, the Duster proves that even underdog Mopars have muscle car investment potential in today’s evolving market.
2. Ford Mustang Boss 351: The Forgotten Boss
The 1971 Mustang Boss 351 often sits in the shadow of its more famous siblings, the Boss 302 and Boss 429. However, this model, featuring a 351-cubic-inch V8 and 330 horsepower, is gaining respect.
Prices that once dipped below $60,000 have surged back above $80,000. Hagerty reports value gains of about 5.9% for ‘Excellent’ condition cars. A rare, well-optioned example recently fetched over $134,000 at auction.
The Boss 351’s unique position as the final true Boss Mustang, combined with strong performance credentials, is helping it rise from obscurity into the collector spotlight, especially among discerning Ford enthusiasts.
3. AMC AMX: A Rare Breed with Rising Interest
American Motors’ 1969 AMX may not match the raw performance of the big three’s muscle cars, but it’s turning heads for its uniqueness and rarity. Powered by a 290-cubic-inch V8 producing 225 horsepower, the AMX has been underestimated for years.
However, it’s now experiencing value growth of 6% or more, depending on condition and engine option. AMXs with smaller V8s are actually appreciating faster than their more powerful 390 siblings.
Given AMC’s underdog status and the AMX’s distinctive two-seat design, collectors are finally starting to appreciate its charm, especially as rare examples command increasingly competitive prices at auction.
4. Dodge Dart GTS: Quietly Surging in Value
The 1969 Dodge Dart GTS, often overlooked in favor of the Charger or Challenger, is becoming a hot item. This model, powered by a 383-cubic-inch V8 generating 330 horsepower, is gaining in both popularity and value.
Hagerty reports valuation increases up to 15% for ‘Concours’ condition examples, with average sales climbing from under $45,000 in 2020 to over $61,000.
The Dart GTS offers potent performance in a compact package, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its growing desirability is a testament to the shifting tastes in the muscle car community, where hidden gems are now being uncovered.
5. Pontiac Grand Prix J: Luxury Meets Muscle
The 1970 Pontiac Grand Prix J, often seen as more luxury coupe than a muscle car, is earning newfound respect. With a 400-cubic-inch V8 and 350 horsepower under the hood, the Grand Prix J can hold its own on the drag strip. Classic.com shows that average sale prices have risen from under $20,000 in 2022 to nearly $32,000 today.
While lower-condition models show some value dips, ‘Excellent’ examples have increased by 10.9%. This shift highlights a growing interest in muscle-luxury hybrids — cars that blend comfort and performance in a way that’s now attracting younger collectors looking for dual-purpose classics.
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6. AMC Javelin AMX: AMC’s Forgotten Muscle Star
The 1971 AMC Javelin AMX is another often-overlooked gem gaining traction. Sporting a 360-cubic-inch V8 with 285 horsepower, this car stands out for its styling and rarity. Values for ‘Excellent’ examples are up by 9.3%, and those with larger 401 engines are seeing even steeper climbs — up to 26.5% for top-tier cars.
AMC may have been the underdog of the muscle car era, but this model’s aggressive design and solid performance have helped boost its collector appeal. As AMC’s legacy is re-evaluated, the Javelin AMX is increasingly seen as a valuable and unique alternative to more mainstream muscle cars.
7. Ford Torino GT: Mid-Size Muscle Makes Waves
The 1970 Ford Torino GT, especially models equipped with the 429 Cobra Jet V8, is enjoying an 11% value increase. Despite once outselling the Mustang, the Torino was discontinued and remains relatively obscure today. However, the car’s blend of size, power, and performance is gaining appeal.
Classic.com reports average sales have risen from $33,000 in 2020 to $53,000 currently. With high auction prices and growing recognition of its place in Ford’s muscle legacy, the Torino GT is becoming a prime example of a car that’s turning from a forgotten relic into a sought-after collector’s piece.
8. Buick GSX Stage 1: Performance Meets Sophistication
The 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 is a muscle car that combines brute force with refinement. Featuring a massive 455-cubic-inch V8 delivering 510 lb-ft of torque, this beast was built to compete with the best. Yet for years, it flew under the radar compared to flashier rivals.
Now, values are climbing — with ‘Good’ cars up 13.2% and top-condition models appreciating by 15.7%. Auction averages have jumped from $100,000 in 2020 to over $136,000 today. The GSX’s combination of rarity, luxury, and raw power is finally being acknowledged, cementing its status as one of the era’s most underrated muscle cars.
9. Dodge Coronet R/T Convertible: A Mopar Sleeper
The 1970 Dodge Coronet R/T Convertible is a powerful yet underappreciated Mopar model that’s now seeing major value growth. Equipped with a 440 Six-Pack engine producing 390 horsepower, this convertible was built for serious performance.
In recent years, average sale prices have doubled, climbing from $50,000 to $100,000. Hagerty reports a 15.2% increase for ‘Excellent’ condition cars, and a remarkable 30% increase for ‘Concours’ models.
These figures highlight the growing interest in rarer body styles like convertibles, especially when paired with high-output engines. The Coronet R/T Convertible is quickly transitioning from sleeper status to collector’s prize.
10. Pontiac LeMans: The GTO’s Stylish Cousin
With GTO prices skyrocketing, collectors are turning to the 1971 Pontiac LeMans as a more affordable but similarly styled option. It shares many design cues and performance components with the GTO, making it an attractive alternative.
Classic.com reports average prices have jumped from $20,000 in 2020 to over $30,000 today, with auction peaks nearing $90,000. Hagerty lists value increases of over 16% for 400- and 455-cubic-inch V8 models in ‘Excellent’ condition.
The LeMans is becoming a favorite among younger enthusiasts looking for vintage Pontiac flair without the GTO’s price tag — a perfect example of value-driven muscle car collecting.
As the muscle car market continues to evolve, once-overlooked models are stepping into the limelight. While classics like the Chevelle SS and GTO Judge will always command top dollar, a new generation of collectors is discovering the charm and performance of lesser-known alternatives.
With values steadily increasing across a variety of models and manufacturers, it’s clear that the muscle car legacy is far from over.
For savvy enthusiasts and investors alike, now may be the perfect time to explore these rising stars — vehicles that not only honor muscle car heritage but also offer strong future value in an ever-changing market.
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