And So Ends the Muscle Car Renaissance

From the New York Times

I dont think many people realize it, but for the past several years we have experienced a rebirth of the muscle car. Nearly all the classic muscle cars were slain by increasing emissions regulations and rising fuel costs 35 years ago. We spent the next decades in the dark ages, with only an occasional offering that could reasonably be called a muscle car (Buick Grand National, Pontiac Trans Am, etc). As cars were downsized and lightened, RWD V-8s gave way to FWD fours and sixes, very few of which were even available with a true stick shift.

Flash forward to the early 2000s. GM decides the time is right to time to give back to the US market what the Aussies never lost: a true real wheel drive V-8 mated to a 6 speed manual, badged as the Pontiac GTO. Chrysler wasnt far behind with their enourmously successful 300/Charger/Magnum series. Ford's new Mustang with 60s styling cues was a home run as well. To be released within the next year are modern renditions of both the Challenger and the Camaro.

With increased gas prices and new CAFE standards requiring more efficient cars, these brutes simply arent going to be viable in the future. I predict that we are seeing the last of the muscle car, for a few decades of soulless, gas-sipping cars. At least we know in another 30 years, we will get back to our roots once again. Remember: There is no replacement for displacement!