Sound good?

An article was recently posted on an automobile blog site naming the top ten cars with 300 horsepower or better that can be purchased for $10,000 US or slightly less. Using data from Kelley Blue Book for a private party sale in excellent condition (unless noted otherwise) and with approximately 80,000 miles on the odometer, the author’s list includes some interesting choices, including the 1996 Nissan 300ZX Turbo at $9795, the 1991 BMW 850i at $9425 (fair condition), the 1996 Corvette at $9975, and the 1999 Ford SVT Lightning at $9190.

I learned about some cars I’ve never even heard of, like the ’91 BMW 850i. A beautiful car! The author includes photos of each car so you can see them as well as read a bit about what makes them desirable, at least in his opinion. Note that using the online Kelley Blue Book restricted the author to cars 1988 and newer. Check out the blog and see what you think. Here’s the direct link: http://audos....r-under.html. From his list, I’d go for the ’02 Camaro SS or the ’96 Vette.

You know I couldn’t help it; I had to see what classic American muscle could fit the 300 horsepower/$10,000 parameter. So here’s my list, thrown together without much in-depth research, and in no particular order:

1. 1969 Pontiac Tempest 2 dr coupe, 4 speed, 350
(330hp) $9349

2. 1967 Ford Falcon, 2 dr, 4 speed, 390 (335 hp)
$5740 (excellent $9240)

3. 1971 AMC Javelin 2 dr, 4 speed, 401 (330 hp)
$9665

4. 1970 Mercury Marauder 2 dr, 428 SCJ (335 hp)
$9730

5. 1971 Chevelle 2 dr, 402 (300 hp) $8033

6. 1969 Ford Thunderbird 390 (320 hp) $9563

7. 1968 Plymouth Belvedere 383 (325 hp) $6890

8. 1968 Dodge Coronet 2 dr, 4 speed, 383 (325 hp)
$8708

9. 1969 Oldsmobile Cutlass S 2 dr, 350 (310 hp)
$8965

10. 1969 Ford Fairlane 2 dr, 4 speed, 428 (335 hp)
$9488

Purposely staying away from the popular muscle cars that are still drawing fairly large bids at the auctions, I used the online NADA Classic Car Guide to find some powerful engines in sleeper body styles. The prices shown are for an “Average Retail” rating which is defined as good overall condition, an older restoration or well-maintained original vehicle with everything working or serviceable.

I’d be happy to put any of the cars from this list in my garage. Were you surprised at the range of great cars available at reasonable prices? Is there a favorite muscle car you would add to the list?

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