Muscle Cars, 1961 Chevrolet Impala Super Sport (SS)

In 1961, the Chevrolet Impala SS ( Super Sport) made its debute into the automotive market. The SS badge was to become Chevrolet’s signature of performance on many models, although it has often been an appearance only package. In 1961 the Impala SS was a performance package, beginning with high-performance 348cid V8 engines (available with 305, 340, and 350 horsepower) or the 409cid V8 that was available with up to 360 horsepower, giving this classy Impala SS plenty of muscle. The options included upgraded tires, springs, shocks and sintered metallic brake linings.

In 1962, the Impala SS could be had with any engine available in the Impala, all the way down to the 235cid (135 hp) inline-6. From this point until 1969, the SS was an appearance package only, though the heavy duty parts and big engines could still be ordered. From 1962-on Super Sports were limited to hardtop and convertible coupe only. The exception was the Z24 option package available in conjunction with the standard Z03 Super Sport package.

Muscle Cars 1960-1970s, 1967 Camaro

The Chevrolet Camaro is a “pony car” made by the Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors. In late September 1966 the first generation was introduced as a 1967 model year as a competing model to the Ford Mustang. It shared the platform with the Pontiac Firebird, also introduced in 1967. The Camaro was initially advertised on contemporary AM Radio stations in an attempt to draw the young adult market. A compact (by the standards of the time) pony car, depending on the selected optional equipment, was also classified as a sporty muscle car on a brand new rear wheel drive GM F-body and would be available as a 2-door 2+2 seating coupe or convertible with the option of an inline-6, 350cid or 327cid V8 powerplants

Concerned with the success of the Mustang, Chevrolet realized that the Corvair, would not compete with the Mustang due to its rear engine design. Consequently, the Camaro was advertised the same as the conventional rear-drive, front engine configuration as the Mustang & Chevy II. The first generation Camaro lasted until the 1969 model year and inspired the next generation.