There are two cars that strike my memory with lasting impressions. The oldest memory I have of my Corvette (1966 L72 Coupe, M21, 4.11) was banging gears in Rockland County bringing it home. Side pipes, a notable whine to the rear, bias plys chugging along. While not a "muscle car," it is one hell of a beast. It was a thrill to get back into the hobby and I credit that car for bringing us back.
The second memory I have that typifies the definition of a muscle car was when a close friend took me for a ride in his '72 Hemi Road Runner. I know what you're thinking, the Hemi was discontinued after 1971. The car started life as a 340, 4 speed and in 1974 had a dealer exchange Hemi transplant. Its a street car that runs low 11's. Dana 60 4.56 rear, 4 speed, Hoosier drag tires in the rear, T-handle, line-lock, original paint and interior. I'll leave you with this thought. In broad summer day light, Friday afternoon at 4pm (roughly) I was pinned in my seat while my friend was power shifting redlines going down Jericho Turnpike in LI. 2.5 inch exhaust coming from a Hemi with Hooker Supe Comp Headers. Music to my ears. He was making U-turns over double yellow lines to avoid red lights and beat traffic just to push it a little harder. I got out of the car with a smile plastered on my face and laughed the whole afternoon well into the night. I will never forget the feel, the smell, rush, sounds or the beast like nature of that muscle car.
... It left a permanent mark...
