My cousin had a Chrysler Conquest TSI back in the late 80s, and that turbocharged beast was a rocket… I’ll never forget the thrill of riding in it. These cars truly deserve more recognition for what they brought to the automotive world.
@@lol-o4g yes....Man, three of them? That’s awesome! But I gotta say, while those were cool, the Conquest TSI’s turbocharged power was ahead of its time. It wasn’t pure muscle, but it packed performance and precision that gave even some V8s a run for their money. and i knew that feeling...lol
Chrysler Conquest TSI was cool, but let's keep it real-it's no muscle car. Muscle cars are raw, V8-powered American beasts built for straight-line domination. While the Conquest delivered turbo thrills, it’s more sports coupe than muscle legend. Respect for what it brought, but let’s not confuse it with the classics like the Challenger or GTO
@@AilaniMadden classic muscle cars are V8 icons, but let’s not dismiss the Conquest TSI. Turbocharged, rear-wheel drive, and with performance that embarrassed some V8s of its time, it’s got its place in automotive history. Maybe not a muscle car by definition, but it sure brought the heat to the late-80s performance scene
@@KeithGreene-k1v Conquest TSI? Sure, it was quick for its time, but calling it a muscle car is like calling a pony a stallion. Muscle cars roar with V8s, not buzz with turbos.
Here are some other great turbos of the 80's. Pontiac Sunbird GT Turbo. Pontiac Turbo Trans Am. GMC Syclone. Mazda 323 GTX Turbo. The Saab 900 Turbo. Audi Quattro Turbo. Porch 944 Turbo.
@aokirk1781 Thanks for adding to the list The '80s really brought some turbocharged legends to the scene. The Pontiac Sunbird GT Turbo and the Turbo Trans Am definitely hold their own, showing that American muscle knows how to handle turbo power. The GMC Syclone? A beast of a pickup with that turbo punch. As for the imports like the Mazda 323 GTX and the Saab 900 Turbo-they brought their unique flavor, but nothing quite matches the raw power and attitude of classic American muscle turbo builds. What’s your favorite turbocharged ride of the ’80s? Let’s get a full-blown debate going in the comments! Drop your thoughts, like this video if you’re into turbos, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more outrageous rides, epic stories, and high-octane action. Thanks for watching, and have a turbocharged day
@TheDougJohnson Wow, you're absolutely right The Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and Merkur XR4Ti are absolute gems of the 80s turbocharged era, and we can’t argue with your choice! The Thunderbird Turbo Coupe combined luxury and performance with that high-tech 2.3L turbocharged engine-truly ahead of its time. As for the Merkur XR4Ti, it's a rare beast with European flair and American ingenuity, powered by the same turbo 2.3L engine that enthusiasts still rave about today. Your '88 XR4Ti is an incredible car, and we bet it turns heads everywhere you go Thanks for bringing up these legends! Everyone watching, let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite turbocharged car from the 80s? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more turbocharged nostalgia and muscle car history. Keep the love for American Muscle alive! Wishing you a fantastic day
@TheDougJohnson That T-bird TC was a real screamer. My future brother-in-law had one, and it was scary once the turbo spooled up. I lived behind a Ford dealership. I had my first job at the Ford dealership washing cars. I was able to "drive" everything in the lineup. When I say drive, I mean pull it around back, lol 😆 I honestly do not believe the XR4TI got a fair shake by Ford. It was not marketed correctly or to the right demo. I'm not sure if it would still be in production today, but I think if it had been better known, it would have been more popular. I think choosing to make it its own brand under a Merkur badge to market it as an upscale import sports car was a mistake without any stand-alone brand history. I think the XR4TI was awesome.
Thanks for bringing up the 1987-88 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe-what a gem You're spot on: this car was a fantastic blend of performance and comfort. The 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine packed an impressive punch, delivering 190 horsepower with a manual transmission, making it a true driver’s car. Add in its advanced suspension system, with adjustable shocks and independent rear suspension, and you had a machine that could handle corners like a pro while keeping you comfortable on long drives. It’s also worth mentioning the Turbo Coupe’s sleek aerodynamic design-it was ahead of its time! This was Ford proving that American ingenuity could deliver a sports coupe that held its own with global competition. What are your thoughts on this unsung hero of the '80s? Let us know in the comments.... Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Keep the pedal down, and have a great day
True drivers’ car? Sure, the Turbo Coupe had comfort and decent tech, but let’s be real-it’s no muscle car. A 2.3L 4-cylinder? Muscle is about V8 power, raw torque, and that unmistakable rumble. The Thunderbird SC or even earlier V8 T-Birds align better with true muscle.
I Daily Drive the 1987s Motor Trend car of the year the Ford Thunderbird Turbocoupe, what a blast to drive. Having owned ecoboosts automatics and now having manual 80s turbo is night and day. The turbo engages only under enthusiastic driving. Otherwise, the torque rich 4 cylinder has enough power to cruise around providing astounding fuel economy. I miss the two door coupe era.
@Cchild30 That’s incredible Driving the 1987 Motor Trend Car of the Year Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe daily? Talk about living the dream! That 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder is a marvel, blending solid torque with turbo thrills. You're absolutely right-manual 80s turbos hit differently compared to modern automatics, especially when you’ve got that perfect turbo lag-turned-boost rush. And let’s not forget the iconic styling of those two-door coupes-a true nod to an era of bold design and innovation. The Thunderbird Turbo Coupe deserves a standing ovation for its ability to balance sporty driving with fuel economy. Props to you for keeping that 80s muscle legacy alive on the road Muscle car fans, what’s your favorite turbocharged icon of the 80s? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this with fellow enthusiasts, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic content Wishing you a fantastic day and happy driving
You're absolutely right-the SVO Mustang is a true hidden gem Ford's decision to pack a turbocharged four-cylinder into a Mustang during the 1980s was a bold move, and it delivered incredible performance with impressive handling. The 2.3L turbo engine proved that muscle doesn't always have to come from a big V8, and the SVO set itself apart with its unique styling, improved suspension, and braking system. What do you think made the SVO so special? Let us know in the comments Don’t forget to share your thoughts, like this video, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car stories. Have an amazing day and Merry Christmas
If they had made the SVO WITH a turbocharged 3.0litre engine it would have been more attractive to the buyers. Plus probably been 350hp.on paper. We ve tuned my SVO computer to reach 290 hp without adding anything to it just with my laptop.
@@JohnPaul-pb4eu thank you for your feedback, the SVO Mustang is truly a standout in muscle car history! Ford's innovative spirit in the 1980s was on full display with the turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder, proving that muscle doesn't always have to roar from a V8. Your tuning work to hit 290 hp without adding parts is impressive-it’s a testament to the potential of that powertrain! Imagine if Ford had gone the extra mile with a turbocharged 3.0L, pushing it to 350 hp right out of the factory. That could have reshaped the muscle car scene entirely! The SVO’s improved suspension, braking system, and sleek styling made it more than just a straight-line beast-it was a car for true enthusiasts. What do you all think? Should Ford have taken the SVO to the next level with a bigger turbocharged engine? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more legendary American Muscle Car content. Have a fantastic day, and Happy New Year
Buick GN is cool, but I'd take a '70 Chevelle SS 454 over it any day. The GN's turbo is impressive for the 80s, but there's no replacement for big-block power and raw muscle. Plus, the Chevelle's iconic style screams classic American muscle like nothing else. What do you think about the SS?
@ the 1970s Chevelle SS is one of the great big block muscle cars in the 70s but if I was to pick any car from the 70s, it would be either the the boss Mustang 429 the Buick GS 455 or the Pontiac judge 455 but in the 80s there was no other car on this list that could beat the grand national not Ferrari not the Corvette but today standards my Cadillac CTS 2.0T could beat all these cars on this list from the 80s
Wow, what an amazing lineup of dream cars you’ve got there The 1986/87 Buick Grand National truly deserves its legendary status. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 was an absolute game-changer, proving that muscle isn’t all about V8s. And you’re spot on about the 1970 Chevelle SS-it’s a classic big-block beast that still turns heads today. The Boss 429 Mustang, Buick GS 455, and Pontiac GTO Judge 455 are icons of raw American horsepower, each with their unique charm and unmistakable roar. It’s incredible how technology has evolved-your Cadillac CTS 2.0T shows just how far performance and efficiency have come! But there’s something about the character and history of those classic muscle cars that keeps us all hooked. have a nice weekend...hope to see you next time.
@@tonyboggas9949 The Grand National’s turbo V6 was cool, but give me the Fox Body Mustang 5.0 any day lightweight, raw, and easily modded to outrun most cars of its time. And your CTS 2.0T? Fast, but it lacks the soul these classics roar with
Hey there, friend Thanks for the comment. We get it-pronunciations can sometimes throw us a curveball, but let’s shift gears back to the real star of the road: American Muscle Cars From the roar of a Chevy 454 to the iconic Mustang GT500, there’s nothing like the rumble of raw horsepower and the sleek design of Detroit’s finest. have a great weekend...
@@4BillC for me.... Those engines, like the 427 big blocks, are raw power with soul. It's about more than just numbers-it’s that rumble, the roar that gets you every time.
You’re absolutely right The Dodge Daytona was a sleeper hit and doesn’t get nearly enough credit. That turbocharged 2.2L engine was ahead of its time, delivering serious performance in a lightweight package. With the Turbo Z and later models, Dodge showed how innovation could redefine the muscle car experience, even in a smaller, more compact form. Its aerodynamic design wasn’t just for looks; it was built for speed and agility, making it a true underdog on the streets and tracks alike. What do you all think? Was the Daytona a turbocharged legend or an overlooked gem? Wishing you a fantastic weekend and a Merry Christmas filled with horsepower and good vibes...
@@schuylerambrose7720 That's amazing to hear you owned one! The Dodge Daytona truly packed a punch for its size-a turbocharged 2.2L powerhouse that left bigger cars eating its dust. Dodge's innovation with the Turbo Z and later models redefined what a muscle car could be, combining raw speed with an aerodynamic design that was way ahead of its time. It wasn't just fast-it was a statement. Hearing your experience brings that legacy to life Remember to like, share, and subscribe for more American muscle stories. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a revved-up New Year...
My dad's Dodge Lancer Turbo had a 2.2-liter engine that was surprisingly quick for the time. The turbo boost always felt exhilarating, especially when it kicked in, it made every drive unforgettable. Turbo cars of the 80s really had a unique charm…
@AdelynDodson Wow, your dad's Dodge Lancer Turbo sounds like a true hidden gem of the '80s! That 2.2-liter turbocharged engine was an engineering marvel of its time, proving that even smaller engines could pack a serious punch. The turbo boost, with that sudden surge of power, must’ve made every drive feel like a thrilling adventure. It’s amazing how Dodge managed to capture both performance and practicality in one package, creating cars that enthusiasts still admire today. Turbo cars of the ‘80s, like the Lancer, were pioneers in combining innovation with excitement, and they hold a special place in automotive history. What are your favorite turbocharged muscle machines from that era? Let us know
Turbo cars like the Lancer were cool for the time, but let’s be real-nothing beats the raw power and sound of a classic American V8. A naturally aspirated 426 HEMI or a 454 big block doesn’t need a turbo to thrill you. It’s the muscle car essence: pure displacement and untamed horsepower
Wow, youve owned quite the collection of turbocharged legends… The Starion and Conquest were definitely standout cars of the 80s, and they remain fan favorites to this day.
Yes...The Starion and Conquest are absolute gems of the 80s, blending performance and style in a way that still inspires fans today. Did you know that these cars competed directly with muscle legends of the time, like the Camaro IROC-Z and Mustang SVO? Both shared the spirit of speed and innovation that defined the era. What’s your take on how they compare? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more American Muscle Car history, and share the love with other enthusiasts. Have a great day and Merry Christmas
@ HA! You’ve got some strong opinions there, but that’s what makes this community awesome-different takes keep the fire burning! The Starion and Conquest are indeed hidden gems of the 80s. While they weren’t your traditional V8 muscle, they brought turbocharged power and sleek, aggressive styling to the fight. Cars like the Camaro IROC-Z and Mustang SVO had their roots in raw American muscle, but they also embraced the era’s push for innovation and balance. It’s wild how these cars competed with entirely different approaches but still earned their place in automotive history.
Great list, but I was hoping to see the 1989 Ford Probe GT included. That 2.2l turbo engine paired with a manual transmission was a gem. My family owned one, and it left such a lasting impression with its power and handling. Definitely a forgotten treasure….
yes, the memories…the 80s were such an incredible era for cars. i was always in awe of the grand national's power and dreamed of owning an svo, but i ended up cruising in a dodge daytona turbo. this video brought back so many nostalgic moments…
@AilaniMadden Thank you for sharing such a great memory.... The 1989 Ford Probe GT is indeed an underrated gem, and while it’s not a traditional American muscle car with a V8 rumble, that 2.2L turbocharged engine with a manual transmission made it a standout of its time. It brought impressive power and handling to the table, showcasing how Ford could innovate beyond the muscle car norm. The Probe GT’s agility and turbocharged punch left a lasting impression on enthusiasts like your family-and it’s a car that truly deserves more recognition What about everyone else? Do you have a soft spot for forgotten treasures like the Probe GT? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to share this video with fellow car enthusiasts, subscribe to the channel, and keep exploring the incredible world of American Muscle Cars with us. Have a fantastic day
Most of the cars listed are not forgotten cars. For me, the 1985 Isuzu Impulse Turbo was truly ahead of its time. One of the first turbo intercooled Japanese cars introduced with an outrageous futuristic interior.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts the 1985 Isuzu Impulse Turbo was a groundbreaking car, especially with its turbocharged and intercooled engine paired with that futuristic interior design. It stood out in its time and remains a gem in the history of automotive innovation. That said, when it comes to American muscle cars, there’s a special charm. Cars like the 1985 Buick Grand National also brought turbocharged power to the streets, proving that muscle cars could embrace modern engineering while delivering the raw performance and style enthusiasts love. What’s your favorite turbocharged classic from the muscle car world? Let us know in the comments! Also, don’t forget to explore our channel for more American muscle car history, trivia, and legends. Like, share, and subscribe to keep the passion alive for these iconic machines. have a nice weekend.
@@richardbrown1553 wish the turbo had carried over into the Geo Storm. The storm was a good looking car but unfortunately GM killed it with cheap materials to cut cost. My cousin got a brand new one for graduation and man it was a sharp little car but a few years on everything in it rattles and squeaked, all the AC vents were falling apart, the dash started to crack and warp, it looked absolutely horrid by the end
@KeithGreene-k1v I don't think most people even know that existed. Jay Leno has a great example of that car, and I believe he has a bottle of the rocket fluid. Somehow, he's also in possession of a fully functioning and beautiful Chrysler Turbine. They were so supposed to have been destroyed. I can't recall the exact number, but I believe there are less than 10 examples, and Chrysler owns most of them on display.
@richardbrown1553 I know my high school friend had an Impulse. I'm not super knowledgeable about that model, but I think his had Lotus designed suspension. I had a Púp pickup. It was a tight little truck for a high school kid to take to the drive in.
Absolutely....Carroll Shelby's contributions to Chrysler in the ‘80s are a testament to his genius and passion for performance. The GLHS (Goes Like Hell S’more) was a pocket rocket that redefined compact car performance, and the Shelby Lancer combined practicality with Shelby-tuned power. Shelby’s influence wasn’t just about raw speed; it was about injecting innovation and attitude into every vehicle he touched. The turbocharged engines, improved suspensions, and unique styling made these cars icons in their own right. Shelby’s partnership with Chrysler proved that American ingenuity could thrive even during challenging times. What’s your favorite Shelby-Chrysler creation? Let us know in the comments And hey, if you love American muscle as much as we do, don’t forget to comment, share, and subscribe to our channel for more legendary stories, cars, and history. Keep the muscle car spirit alive Have a great day, and Merry Christmas
@joshthemediocre7824 That's awesome, Josh! The turbocharged cars of the '80s definitely had their own unique vibe, showcasing innovative technology and a bold new direction in performance. While muscle cars are my passion, I’ve got to give credit to those turbo legends for changing the game and paving the way for some pretty wild rides. Speaking of the '80s, American muscle cars like the Buick Grand National and the SVO Mustang carried the torch with a blend of classic muscle and modern turbo tech. Did any of those catch your eye back in the day? We’d love to hear more about your experiences with turbo cars! What made you fall in love with them? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to explore more on American Muscle Cars. Have an amazing day, and Happy New Year
@ Turbo Magazine was such a game-changer for enthusiasts back in the '80s, capturing the excitement of turbocharged innovation. While classic muscle cars are the heart of American performance, I’ve got to tip my hat to those turbo legends that pushed boundaries and redefined speed. Cars like the Buick Grand National and the Mustang SVO fused the soul of muscle with cutting-edge turbo tech, proving that American power could evolve and dominate in new ways. Did you have a favorite turbo car from that era? Maybe a specific model or moment that made you a fan? We'd love to hear your stories about how turbocharged machines influenced your passion for performance.
I've had the pleasure of owning an 86 GN , 1980 Mercury 2.3 turbo ran right with the camaros and Trans am . Drove one of the Thunderbird turbo coupes. Starion turbos and either a 280 or 300 Z turbo cars .All were great fun to drive.
@kennethroot6890 Wow, you've got an incredible history with turbocharged rides! Owning an '86 Buick Grand National alone puts you in legendary territory-arguably one of the most iconic cars of the '80s. The Mercury 2.3 Turbo holding its own against Camaros and Trans Ams is proof that sometimes underdogs pack the meanest punch. And the Thunderbird Turbo Coupe? A true mix of style and power. Don’t even get me started on the Starion and the Z-cars-they’re turbocharged legends in their own right We’d love to hear more stories about these cars-how they drove, any memorable moments, or which was your favorite! Turbocharged cars brought a unique mix of innovation and fun to the 80s, and your lineup proves it. Keep sharing your experiences in the comments, and everyone, join the conversation! Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share for more American Muscle Car goodness. Wishing you an awesome day ahead
Wow, an ’88 Conquest SHP-what a rare gem That car truly stands out, blending sharp 80s design with impressive turbocharged performance. It’s no surprise it grabs attention every time you take it out; it’s a true piece of automotive history. The Starion-based Conquest SHP is a fantastic ride, especially with its widebody look, rear-wheel drive, and that punchy 2.6L turbo engine. It's the perfect mix of style and fun on the road! Have you done any mods to it, or are you keeping it original? We’d love to hear about your experiences with it. Fellow muscle car fans, let us know what classic or modern rides you enjoy cruising in Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more awesome content celebrating the American car scene. Wishing you great rides and an amazing day ahead-keep the wheels turning
@@MuscleCarMasters68 yes I have done the mods as in getting rid of all the known problems as in swapping out the jet valve head and put in arp bolts top to bottom and upgraded the fuel and turbo and piping... Zero problems still using tbi just really big injectors fuel pump...350 whp reliably 390 ibs.... Most people are putting mpi set up.... Im happy with how she runs... I have 3.... Shp stands for sports handling package... Wider wheels and adjustable suspension.... Very rare.
Wow, hats off to you Your ’88 Conquest SHP sounds like an absolute beast-350 whp and 390 lb-ft with those mods? That’s incredible! Swapping out the jet valve head, upgrading to ARP bolts, and sticking with TBI but supercharging it with big injectors and a fuel pump shows your dedication. The SHP package with wider wheels and adjustable suspension really sets it apart; it’s rare to see one in such fine shape, let alone with all those upgrades. Keeping it reliable while preserving its turbocharged soul is a true enthusiast’s move! For those MPI setups out there-sure, they’re popular, but your ride proves you don’t need to follow the crowd to get amazing results. Muscle car and turbo fans, chime in-what’s your favorite build or rare gem? Let’s hear it....
86 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z still in your garage? That’s beyond incredible-talk about a true gem from the turbocharged era of the '80s! This car defined American innovation with its 2.2L turbo engine, sleek aero styling, and unmistakable muscle car flair, proving that performance wasn’t just for V8s. Fans like you keep the spirit alive! What’s your favorite memory driving it? Let’s hear it in the comments! Don’t forget to share your stories, subscribe to Muscle Car Masters, and bring the nostalgia back for all enthusiasts. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas Keep cruising
I had an '89 Saab 9000 Turbo auto, it was 100% stock, I put a boost gauge in it and manipulated the wastegate to make 12 psi, I never lost 1 race in that car, it was unreal
@Smokey-88 That '89 Saab 9000 Turbo sounds like a real sleeper Cranking it up to 12 psi and dominating every race-now that's what we call taking performance into your own hands. It’s always exciting to hear stories about cars that punch above their weight, especially when the competition doesn’t see it coming But hey, while we’re on the subject of speed and power, American muscle cars are built for that raw, untamed experience. Cars like the '69 Dodge Charger R/T or the '70 Chevelle SS 454 were all about dominating the streets with their massive V8 engines and iconic designs. What do you think? How do these muscle beasts stack up to the thrills you got from your Saab? Drop your thoughts below, and let's get this conversation rolling! Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe to explore more muscle car legends. Hope to see you next time...
My dad had a 1987 four-door Mazda 626 GT turbo. Had a trunk rack on the back but was faster than the Camaro I-ROC Z from that era 0-60 time. Such a fun car and a lot of memories in it.
@northamptongiants That’s an awesome memory-those 80s turbo cars sure knew how to surprise us, didn’t they? The 1987 Mazda 626 GT Turbo was a real sleeper! With that turbocharged 2.0L engine and lightweight build, it was quick off the line and definitely a match for some muscle cars of the day, including the Camaro IROC-Z. It’s wild to think how import tuners from Japan brought heat to the American streets during that era. Those cars gave us competition and made muscle cars step up their game Cherish those memories with your dad and that 626-it’s not just about speed, it’s about the connection and stories behind the wheel. To everyone else out there, what are your favorite turbocharged 80s rides? Drop a comment, share your stories, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button for more classic car content Have a great day and keep the throttle open
@fks-pv8il Wow, a Red '86 Conquest TSI? That’s an absolute classic! With its turbocharged power and bold styling, it’s no wonder you still think about it. These cars were ahead of their time, combining aggressive performance with a unique, unforgettable look. Selling it in '91 must’ve been tough, but hey, you’re part of an elite group who truly understands the magic of this turbocharged icon. For all our fans out there, have you owned or driven a turbocharged beast from the ‘80s? Drop your stories in the comments below-we’d love to hear about your rides and regrets. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged legends, V8 powerhouses, and all things American muscle. Your support keeps the horsepower alive Thanks for sharing your story, and wishing you a fantastic day ahead. Keep the pedal to the metal
the 1989 ford probe gt is an excellent mention. that 2.2l intercooled turbo engine was ahead of its time, and its amazing to hear your personal connection to it. your story of inheriting it adds such a nostalgic touch.
Thank you for mentioning the 1989 Ford Probe GT That 2.2L intercooled turbo engine was indeed a powerhouse for its time, blending cutting-edge performance with sleek design. It’s awesome that you have a personal connection to such an iconic car-it’s stories like yours that keep the spirit of American automotive history alive. The Probe GT may not be a classic muscle car, but its innovation helped pave the way for future performance vehicles. Muscle car fans, share your thoughts and stories in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars. Have a great day, and Merry Christmas
@ChadThunderstroke Thanks for the love, brother! McLaren definitely brought the heat back in the day with their turbocharged beasts. While they’re best known for dominating the track and turning heads, it’s incredible how they combined next-level engineering with that unmistakable performance vibe. But let’s not forget - when it comes to raw power, American muscle cars like the Buick Grand National GNX and the Turbo Trans Am from the 80s showed everyone how it’s done. We’d love to hear what your all-time favorite turbocharged ride is - whether it’s American muscle or another classic! Let’s keep the convo rolling. To everyone watching, smash that like button, share this with your crew, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more heart-pounding horsepower content. Stay tuned for more turbocharged nostalgia and good ol’ American muscle Have an awesome day, and keep that engine roaring
Great point…The 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am with the GNX motor is an absolute beast. It’s crazy to think how it rivaled the Corvette straight from the factory. A definite Corvette killer
Absolutely The 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am is a masterpiece of American engineering, no doubt about it. Packing that legendary Buick GNX turbocharged V6 under the hood, it was a true game-changer. The fact that it could go head-to-head with the Corvette straight from the factory is a testament to Pontiac’s bold vision. It wasn’t just a “Corvette killer” - it was a statement that muscle cars could dominate with innovation and performance, not just brute force. The blend of power, style, and turbocharged glory makes this Trans Am a true icon. What do you all think? Is the Turbo Trans Am one of the most underrated muscle cars of all time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to explore more legendary American muscle cars with us. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas Keep that muscle car spirit alive
@derrickmcdaniel6105 Great question While the Saab 900 Turbo is legendary for its unique engineering and European charm, our list focused on showcasing turbocharged cars with outrageous designs, power, and presence-qualities American Muscle fans know and love! While Saab brought sophistication, our focus leaned more toward wild beasts like the Buick Grand National. What do you think? Should we expand our list next time? Let us know your thoughts! And to everyone watching, don’t forget to comment your favorites, share the video with fellow enthusiasts, and subscribe for more muscle car content. Have a great day and Merry Christmas
Absolutely The Ford EXP Turbo is a fantastic callout-such a unique piece of American automotive history. It’s a reminder of how innovative designs have kept these cars alive in the hearts of enthusiasts like us. Muscle car fans are all about celebrating these underappreciated gems, and that’s what makes this community so special! Let’s keep the conversation going-what’s your favorite hidden gem in muscle car history? Drop it in the comments, share your thoughts, and spread the love for American Muscle Cars. Don’t forget to subscribe and share our channel Have a great weekend, and Merry Christmas to all
@luiscolon7124 Wow, the 1989 Chrysler Conquest! That's a beast right there-Mitsubishi engineering wrapped in bold American styling. Those cars were ahead of their time, packing turbocharged power and handling that could hold its own against anything on the road back then. Doing 360s in the rain? That just shows the raw, unfiltered power of the Conquest-it didn’t hold back, and neither did its drivers We love hearing stories like this, and it’s awesome to see fans of these unsung heroes from the muscle car era! For everyone reading this, drop your favorite muscle car memories in the comments-let’s keep the conversation going. And hey, if you love American muscle and the cars that made history, make sure to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars. Let’s keep the passion alive Have an amazing day, Luis, and keep the muscle car spirit alive
Hey @michaelm.walker-rodriguez4559, we really appreciate your support and kind words The '80s were a wild ride for turbocharged beasts, and showcasing these outrageous machines is what we live for. Turbochargers gave these cars the power and edge that left everyone in awe, proving that muscle cars can dominate any decade We’re all about celebrating the bold and unique spirit of American Muscle here, so if you enjoyed this video, be sure to check out our other content - there’s plenty more horsepower, torque, and jaw-dropping rides coming your way. And don’t forget, your likes, shares, and comments help us keep the muscle alive and roaring Calling all gearheads to hit that subscribe button, share with fellow fans, and let us know your favorite turbocharged legend in the comments. Stay tuned, stay loud, and have a fantastic day
While the Probe GT is a cool piece of 80s nostalgia, let’s not forget it wasn’t true muscle-more a sporty compact. Real muscle in the 80s? Buick GNX. Turbocharged V6 that left even V8s in the dust.
@@CookeZachery Horsepower to weight ratio is what really matters and the Ford Probe GT turbo's HP to weight ratio was 0.05 while the Buick GNX was 0.06. Not a lot of difference.
@@lelandcarlson1668 Yes....HP to weight isn’t the whole story. The GNX’s torque 355 lb-ft at just 3000 RPM made it a beast off the line, shredding 0-60 in 4.7 sec. The Probe GT? Cool, but at 190 lb-ft, it wasn’t breaking any records. GNX had that raw muscle spirit-power, presence, and performance to own the streets
Great pick with the Ford Probe GT While not a traditional muscle car, the 80s Probe GT stands out as a bold attempt by Ford to blend futuristic design with performance. Its turbocharged 2.2L engine brought solid power, and it captured attention with its sleek, aerodynamic styling. Did you know it was originally considered as a Mustang replacement? Imagine the alternate timeline! What are your thoughts on its legacy? Let us know in the comments below Don’t forget to explore more muscle car gems on our channel, and hit like, share, and subscribe. Wishing you a great weekend and Merry Christmas
@ridesharetrixter5206 Wow, owning and racing Dodges your whole life? That’s the kind of passion we love hearing about in the muscle car world! The ‘87 Buick GNX is an absolute beast - a turbocharged icon that proved V6 power could take on the V8s of its time. With only 547 ever made, it’s a rare gem that stands tall in the history of American performance cars. That sinister blacked-out look and the way it dominated the streets made it a true legend of the '80s. What’s your favorite memory from racing? Or did you ever get to line up against a GNX? We'd love to hear more! To everyone reading this, drop a comment about your favorite turbocharged car, smash that like button, share with your gearhead friends, and make sure to subscribe to American Muscle Cars Have a fantastic day, and keep those engines roaring
@Power5 - Right on! Those box fenders and pop-up headlights are pure 80s gold! The Chrysler Conquest (and its twin, the Mitsubishi Starion) had a turbocharged soul that stood out in its era. With rear-wheel drive, aggressive styling, and that turbo boost kick, it was a dream car for anyone who lived for speed and flair. It’s no wonder you still want one-they’re rare gems today, and spotting one on the road feels like stepping into a time machine of turbocharged glory. To all our American Muscle Car fans, what’s your take on the Conquest? Is it a sleeper classic or a misunderstood legend? Drop your thoughts in the comments, hit that share button to keep the love for turbocharged icons alive, and don’t forget to subscribe to keep cruising with us Have an awesome day, @Power5, and keep chasing those automotive dreams
You forgot about the 89 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am! This car gets forget about and gets no love like the Buick Grand Nationals, even tho they pretty much share the same engine. I see Pontiac tried to catch lightning in a bolt twice by making the Turbo Trans Am and hooking up with McClaren to make a Turbo Grand Prix in 89. I think these cars weren't advertised enough or properly, cause I didn't know anything about these cars until decades later. 🤔 apparently Pontiac was messing around with turbos in late 80s and early 90s, cause there also was a turbo Sunbird and turbo Grand Am. Is it just me or is the Dodge Daytona, just a front wheel drive version of a Chrysler Conquest? Watching the video and seeing the cars almost back to back, to me looks like the Daytona is just a more round off and modern version of the Conquest. I think all of these cars suffered from poor marketing except for the Buick GN and the GNx. They had legitimate street credit to boost sales. But the othe cars had a lot of potential.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, @crw3673 the '89 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am often flies under the radar, even though it shares DNA with the legendary Buick Grand National. Pontiac’s collaboration with McLaren on the Turbo Grand Prix and their experiments with turbocharged engines like the Turbo Sunbird and Grand Am prove they were pushing boundaries in the late '80s and early '90s. Unfortunately, as you mentioned, poor marketing and timing seemed to hold these innovative cars back from gaining the recognition they deserved. As for the Dodge Daytona and Chrysler Conquest comparison, you’re spot on! The Daytona does share a resemblance but aimed to appeal with its sleek, modernized design and front-wheel-drive platform-a reflection of the shifting trends of the era. What’s your favorite hidden gem from this era? Let us know in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Have a great day and Happy New Year
@@crw3673 Thank you for your amazing comment, @crw3673 The Ford Thunderbird SC (Super Coupe) is an absolute gem, and you’re absolutely right-it shares a lot with the Mustang SVO, including the legendary 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine! However, the Thunderbird SC took a different route, pairing that power with a supercharger instead, producing an impressive 210 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque at launch. Add in its advanced suspension and sleek aerodynamics, and you’ve got a car that offered luxury and performance in one stunning package The Thunderbird SC truly stood out in the ’80s and early ’90s as Ford’s effort to push boundaries in blending muscle with comfort. What are your thoughts-do you think it deserves more love among American classics? Let us know in the comments Don’t forget to share this with fellow enthusiasts and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Wishing you a great day and a very Happy New Year
My big brother was selling forge throughout the 80s. The SVO mustang beat everything. And if you lost a race to him he would switch cars with you and beat you again.
Respect for the SVO, but let's not forget it was about agility, not raw muscle. The 5.0 GTs and even Buick’s GNX were out there holding it down for torque and straight-line power. The SVO? Lightweight and turbo-tuned, sure-but a different beast entirely from classic muscle vibes
@@KeithGreene-k1v I hear ya on the GNX and IROC, but the SVO deserves a nod for keeping muscle alive in a different way. While the GNX had torque for days, the SVO brought handling to the table, showing that muscle wasn’t just about straight-line power. A turbocharged 2.3? That was Ford experimenting with the future.
That’s an awesome story The Mustang SVO was a real game-changer in the '80s with its turbocharged 2.3L engine-lighter, agile, and still packing a punch! Your brother must’ve had a blast showing everyone that performance isn’t just about displacement but precision engineering too. Switching cars and winning again? That’s the kind of confidence that defines true American muscle enthusiasts. What about everyone else? Any stories of taking down the competition in style? Share them below Don’t forget to comment, like, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more epic muscle car tales. Wishing you all a fantastic day
I own an 1989 Shelby Daytona with t-tops Has the turbocharged 4 cylinder 5 speed manual Runs and drives great I bought it fixed it up a real pain to find parts for it but very fun to drive glad I still have it I’m the 2nd owner of the car 😊
Wow, owning a 1989 Shelby Daytona with T-tops is truly something special That turbocharged 4-cylinder paired with a 5-speed manual must make for an exhilarating driving experience. It’s awesome that you took the time and effort to fix it up despite the challenge of finding parts-true dedication to keeping a piece of automotive history alive! Being the second owner adds a layer of connection to its legacy. Shelby’s touch on these cars gave them a unique place in the performance scene of the late '80s, and it’s fantastic to hear yours still runs and drives great. To all our fans: What’s your favorite underrated performance car from the '80s and '90s? Drop your thoughts below Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more amazing American Muscle Car content.
@ it’s definitely an experience draws a lot of attention too from older guys who remember having one and Gen Zs trying to figure out what it is lol I found it in a small town on a trailer hadn’t moved in 8 years Got it for 1000$ took a weekend to get it running was a battery fuel pump and tires fired right up like it ran yesterday just been chasing other things that have gone out new rack hub bearings front drive axles But I gotta say that turbo blow off is what really sounds awesome very nice whistle it’ll definitely get up and go! And it’s factory red too just like from the old adds on tv and has 84k original miles still need to find more parts for it mostly interior parts
@@bullets1x99 Wow, what a story! Finding an ’89 Shelby Daytona with T-tops in a small town and breathing life back into it after 8 years is pure dedication and passion! That turbo blow-off sound is legendary-it’s like music for car enthusiasts, right? Factory red, only 84k miles, and still roaring down the road? That’s a piece of performance history you’ve saved, my friend! The work you’ve put in-rack, bearings, axles-proves true enthusiasts don’t just own cars; they revive them. Shelby’s touch made these turbocharged Daytonas an icon, and it's amazing to hear yours still holds its ground. To all our fans: What’s a car you brought back to life, or which one would you love to rescue? Let us know below! Remember to like, share, and subscribe to dive deeper into the world of American Muscle Cars Wishing you a great day and a Happy New Year
Volvo 242 Turbo? Solid for its time, sure, but let’s be real, nothing matches the raw power and soul of a '70 Chevelle SS 454 or a HEMI 'Cuda. Reliable miles are cool, but American muscle cars deliver unforgettable drives. Turbo's neat, but where’s the rumble, the thrill, the American roar...lol...
@ You’re right but i’m dutch and we Here in Europe can’t understand hoe you’re american have such big engines without any power, a 5.0 ltr v8 in the mustang from the 80’s with 120 hirselower??? That makes a 244 glt without the turbo. That engine a 2.3 ltr in that car had 140 horsepower how is it possible that Ford only makes 120 hp out of 5.0 ltr displacement , the topic was cars with great turbo engines of the 80’s and you have in America 395 242 turbo’s evolution we in Europa don’t have that and I wish a can by such a car. They are made in there colors bleu metallic, silver metallic and black……..
Thank you for sharing your thoughts The Volvo 242 Turbo is indeed a classic, and its reliability and performance made it a standout in the 1980s. As for the 5.0L V8 in the Mustang of that era, you’re absolutely right-it wasn’t about raw horsepower alone. American manufacturers prioritized torque and a smooth, relaxed driving experience over high-revving performance, which was more common in European cars like the Volvo 2.3L engines. However, the 5.0L engine laid the groundwork for what became legendary V8 performance in the decades to come. By the late 80s and early 90s, Mustangs with turbocharged or improved V8 engines, like the Cobra models, started redefining power standards. For turbo enthusiasts like you, it’s incredible to think about the modern resurgence of turbocharged American cars, blending power and efficiency. What do you think about that evolution? Let us know in the comments, share this video, and don’t forget to subscribe for more American muscle car history. Have a fantastic day
@@MuscleCarMasters68 It is not that I don’t like the v8 engines, the torgue is better but not more than the turbo from Volvo and that is what I don’t understand. Oké you’re right that the torgue cones at a higher rpm but its a volvo and volvo was the same as Ford not a high reving engine, but the engines of today are’nt very good , it’s is egaal what mark, from Alfa Romeo til Volvo to much horse power from a small engine and they you know it’s going bad…..
Hey, no doubt the Volvo 242 Turbo’s got its charm for the 80s crowd, but let’s be real-nothing beats the rumble of American muscle. Cars like the ’80 Trans Am or Mustang GT had soul and power. Reliable? Sure
A Conquest tech, what an awesome role to have back then. It’s true, those cars were quite advanced for the time and a challenge to work on. But they had so much character and performance that made it all worth it.
Those Conquest techs had one of the coolest gigs back in the day-working on cars that were way ahead of their time in both tech and style. Sure, they could be a challenge to work on, but that was part of the adventure, right? The character, raw performance, and bold design of those machines made every moment worth it. What’s your favorite memory or feature of those cars? Let’s keep the passion for these iconic rides alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars. Wishing you an amazing weekend and a Merry Christmas
@housepumpinpc3983 yes...so great... The '87 Conquest was an absolute beast of its time-turbocharged power, bold styling, and a presence that made you feel like a king on the road. It’s crazy to think how close you came to owning one! But hey, sometimes life steps in with a reality check. No job and strict parents can definitely put the brakes on those dreams. What’s wild is that cars like the Conquest paved the way for turbocharged performance to really take off in the late ‘80s and beyond. If you ever get the chance, owning a piece of turbocharged history like that is worth the ride. Wishing you an awesome day ahead
@TygonBC Thanks for sharing, TygonBC! McLaren as a rapper-that's a turbocharged twist we didn’t see coming! While McLaren didn’t drop bars, they sure dropped jaws with their iconic turbocharged engineering, like the legendary F1 and their Formula 1 innovations that influenced car design forever. Speaking of turbocharged icons, the 80s brought us beasts like the Buick GNX, Pontiac Turbo Trans Am, and Dodge Daytona Turbo Z. These rides weren’t just fast-they defined the muscle car spirit of the decade, blending raw power with innovation. Turbocharged cars from that era had a way of leaving their competition in the dust while turning heads everywhere. To all muscle car enthusiasts, what’s your favorite turbocharged legend from the 80s? Drop your picks below, hit that like button, and make sure to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged content. Have a great day, TygonBC, and keep that pedal to the metal
your buddy must have had a blast driving the conquest ts… it’s one of those cars that still turns heads today. totally agree, it’d be amazing to have one now.
Thanks for sharing, the Conquest TSi is a head-turner even today Back in its prime, it brought that unique mix of Japanese engineering (via Mitsubishi) and American muscle car spirit. With its turbocharged engine, rear-wheel drive, and aggressive styling, it could hold its own against some serious contenders of the era. Can you imagine cruising in one now? It’d be like stepping back into a golden age of turbocharged power and pure driving fun. To all our viewers, what are your thoughts on the Conquest TSi? Do you think it holds its place among the American muscle-inspired legends? Drop a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to dive deeper into the world of American Muscle Cars. Wishing you a great weekend and a Merry Christmas filled with horsepower dreams and good vibes
It looks like whoever made this is a Dodge Shelby fan. I'm a huge fan of these cars. I got my first one (an 87 Charger GLHS) in 1989, and then I was hooked. I now own every Dodge Shelby car you showed in here (except for the Shelby pickup), and multiples of some of them. I also have a few of the GLH versions of the Charger's and Omni's. I also own 2 Dodge Spirit RT turbos, a Dodge Neon SRT4, and a Dodge Caliber SRT4. Not Shelby's but still cool turbo Dodges!!
@Iswearthatsnotmine, your collection is absolutely incredible! It’s not every day we meet someone with such a deep passion for turbocharged Dodges, especially those legendary Shelby models. That 1987 Charger GLHS is a beast-talk about turbocharged nostalgia! Owning every Dodge Shelby you showed here (except the pickup) and multiples of some? That’s next-level dedication. And let’s not forget your Spirit R/Ts, Neon SRT-4, and Caliber SRT-4-those are underrated turbo gems that still pack a punch. Your garage sounds like a dream for any Dodge fan Everyone watching, let’s hear from you-what’s your favorite turbocharged Dodge or Shelby model? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the muscle car conversation alive. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American muscle car history, passion, and turbocharged thrills Have a fantastic day, and wishing you and everyone here a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and excitement
Callaway twin-turbo ZR1? Sure, it’s a beast, but let’s be real-factory-tuned American muscle like the ZL1 Camaro or Hellcat Challenger brings raw, unfiltered power straight off the lot. Callaway’s great, but I’d argue it steps outside ‘true muscle.’ Let’s celebrate what Detroit designed to dominate from day one.
The Callaway Twin Turbo ZR1 Corvette is a true legend in American muscle car history Dubbed the "Sledgehammer," this beast took the already impressive ZR1 Corvette and transformed it into a 250+ mph road warrior. Callaway's engineering magic added twin turbos to the iconic LT5 engine, boosting it to a jaw-dropping 750 horsepower-this was in the late 1980s! Can you imagine the thrill of hearing that V8 roar as the turbos spool up? It’s no wonder this masterpiece is still celebrated by enthusiasts today. What’s your favorite part about the ZR1 or the Callaway upgrades? Let us know in the comments! And hey, if you love American Muscle as much as we do, don’t forget to share this passion, subscribe to the channel, and explore more epic cars with us. Keep the love for muscle cars alive Have a fantastic day, everyone
@Ripsaw17 Thanks for sharing your thoughts The Supra is undeniably a legend, but let’s not overlook some of the turbocharged beasts America brought to the game in the '80s. Ever heard of the Buick GNX? It was a street-legal nightmare for Ferraris and Porsches back in the day with its turbocharged V6. And how about the SVO Mustang? Ford blended muscle car heritage with turbocharged precision for a unique experience. Then there’s the Dodge Shelby Charger-a turbocharged pocket rocket that brought Carroll Shelby’s magic to a new generation. Turbocharging wasn’t just for imports; American ingenuity took it to the streets too What’s your favorite turbocharged ride from the '80s? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more iconic car content. Have a fantastic day, and keep the muscle alive
Wow, an '86 Mazda 626 GT Turbo is a unique ride with some serious speed for its time-great choice While Japanese turbocharged cars like yours were pioneers in lightweight power, there's nothing quite like the roar and raw torque of American muscle cars. Whether it’s a classic '68 Charger or a modern Mustang GT, American muscle delivers heart-pounding performance and timeless style. What’s your dream American muscle car? Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more Have a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas, fellow car enthusiast
@@MuscleCarMasters68 I agree but I wouldn't dare try to compare that to American V8 muscle cars. My favorite though maybe not the fastest would be the '63-'64 Chevy Impala big block 409, or '69 Camaro RS Z28 302
@@lestermagee710 Thanks for sharing your favorites! The '63-'64 Chevy Impala big block 409 is a true legend, combining raw power and unmistakable style. And the '69 Camaro RS Z28 with its high-revving 302 small block? Pure muscle car perfection! Both cars represent the golden era of American V8s, where torque and attitude ruled the streets. It’s tough to top that mix of performance and heritage. Have a fantastic day and Merry Christmas
My history at different times of econo sports cars from back in the day goes as following: 88 conquest tsi, 85.5 supra, 87 scirocco gt, 635 csi, 86 x1/9 i wish i still owned them all! Each one of them in my opinion looks much sexier than any car today.
@petrockanroll What a lineup of classic beauties The '88 Conquest TSI with its turbocharged power, the '85.5 Supra's timeless design, the sleek lines of the '87 Scirocco GT, the luxury of the 635 CSI, and the quirky charm of the X1/9-each one has its own unique character and style. You’ve got a true appreciation for the golden era of automotive design and performance! While econo-sports cars were undeniably special, American Muscle Cars of the era-like the ‘87 Buick GNX or the iconic Fox Body Mustangs-combined raw power with bold, aggressive styling that still turns heads today. What about you, everyone? Which classics do you wish you still owned? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more on American Muscle Cars. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year
@Rgf1998 - You're absolutely right The Mitsubishi Conquest and the Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo are rare gems these days, both carrying that ‘80s and ‘90s turbocharged swagger. The Conquest, with its wide stance and unmistakable presence, was a street machine that demanded attention. And the Stealth R/T? A twin-turbo AWD beast that punched above its weight class-basically a performance legend. Both cars are hard to spot now, but when you do, it’s like spotting a unicorn on the road. Let’s hear it from everyone else-what other rare turbocharged legends from back in the day deserve a shoutout? Drop your picks in the comments below! And hey, if you’re as passionate about American Muscle and automotive history as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic content. Thanks for watching, and have an awesome day
I had a Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T. I've owned so many cars, I don't recall the exact year, maybe a 1997? 1995? It was really quick for its time. I smoked a new TransAm in it, and I'm still living off that glory. It's funny to me now that as fast as it was, it's still a full 2 seconds slower 0-60 than my daily driver today. The huge difference is that my current daily was $60k new, and the Mitsubishi was about $20k new.
@OzarkMountainKing That’s a legendary story-beating a Trans Am with a Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T? Hats off to you for that one! Those turbocharged 4G63 engines packed a punch back in the day. It’s crazy how car performance has evolved, though, right? A daily driver today can match or even surpass what was once considered high-performance. The Eclipse was an icon in its time, but let’s be honest-nothing beats the raw power and soul of American muscle. Whether it’s the Trans Am you smoked or today’s modern beasts like the Dodge Challenger Hellcat or Chevy Camaro ZL1, these cars are built to leave an impression. For everyone watching, what’s your best “race story” or favorite car memory? Share it in the comments, and let’s keep this car-loving community growing. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars! Wishing you an awesome day, my friend
Used to be cars were just up and die. I miss those days. The heck with the nostalgia let things just never be remembered. In other words for God. We don’t need you to bring them back. Believe it or not we’re used to things going away.
@sturdivanthouse4614 Hey there, I hear you-times have definitely changed, and cars today are a whole different beast compared to the classics. But here’s the thing about nostalgia: it’s not just about remembering the past; it’s about celebrating what made these machines special. Those turbocharged monsters from the ‘80s were raw, loud, and packed with personality-something we don’t see as often today. Wishing you an awesome day hope to see you next time.
As much as I like all of them, especially the Grand National, if I had just one to choose to bring back for myself, it would be the Callaway Corvette. I have always loved the C4 Corvettes since I was a kid.
@85Sirex Thanks for sharing, and what a pick The Callaway Corvette is an absolute legend, a true testament to what happens when performance meets precision. The twin-turbo C4 Callaway "Sledgehammer" wasn’t just fast-it shattered records, hitting over 254 mph and proving that American engineering could dominate on a global stage. The C4s often don’t get enough credit, but they’re the backbone of Corvette history, ushering in high-tech advancements while keeping that raw muscle car spirit alive. The Grand National is another gem-an 80s icon of turbocharged power. It’s incredible how these cars pushed boundaries and still inspire enthusiasts today. What’s your favorite memory of the C4 Corvettes? Let us know in the comments Keep cruising, and have a great day
I bought a red 1987 Chrysler Conquest TSi brand new at Benson Ingram Park Motors in San Antonio Texas. Then drove straight to Houston Texas to a place called Texas Turbo Engineering Inc. to have a guy named Gene Deputy modify it putting in a Super 16G Turbo and HKS Full Turbo back Exhaust with their PFC F-Con with ECC Computer and it went from 107 HP at the wheels stock to over 255 horses modded on the chassis dyno they had there. I was able to run 13's at over 110 MPH in the 1/4 at 25 PSi. But popped head gaskets like crazy on that G54B engine! Until Cometic came out with their MLS head gaskets and I added ARP head studs that could hold up pretty well to the boost I was hitting, never good floating the head. Sure was fun though! I loved that car and it handled fantastic. My middle brother bought a brand new Dodge Charger GLHS around the same time and we raced a few times, he could never hook up that front drive very well and I'd leave him every time. But I wasn't stock either. Dad always left me off the line in his maroon 87 custom ordered Regal T-Type Grand National(He didn't like the normally black Grand National version) then I'd pass him on the top end, but Dad's Grand National ran high 13's with just a pit bull chip change! Crazy!
@turbodpv5908 Wow, what a story That 1987 Chrysler Conquest TSi sounds like an absolute beast after those mods! From 107 HP stock to a roaring 255 horses with a Super 16G Turbo and HKS Exhaust-pure tuner magic! Running 13s at over 110 MPH is no joke, especially with that G54B engine. Sure, head gaskets were a pain, but that's the price of chasing high PSI thrills! And your family lineup? Epic. A Dodge Charger GLHS, your Dad's 1987 Regal T-Type Grand National-true icons of the ‘80s. Sounds like you had some unforgettable races! The Grand National, with its sleeper looks and insane performance with just a chip upgrade, is pure muscle car legend. Thanks for sharing your memories! What do the rest of you think about these ‘80s rides? Let us know your favorite builds or mods in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. Have a great day
Ha, 400 HP being called slow-only in today’s wild world of horsepower wars! Back in the muscle car heyday, anything over 300 HP meant you ruled the streets, and cars like the '70 Chevelle SS or Dodge Charger R/T were absolute monsters. Today, 400 HP is what family SUVs are packing, but let’s not forget: it’s not just about horsepower, it’s about the soul of the car. The rumble of a big-block V8, the smell of burning rubber, and the feel of raw torque-it’s what makes American Muscle Cars legendary. What’s your favorite high-HP beast? Drop your thoughts below! Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters to relive the golden era of muscle and learn more about these iconic machines. Stay tuned for more horsepower-packed content. Have a great day, and Merry Christmas to all you car enthusiasts out there
This made it very clear that Shely had no brand loyalty and was just a money whore. When he put his name on a dodge omni with little more than some stickers and a peel and stick turbo. His true colors showed through to me. Then began a foundation and couldn't resist siphoning money from that as well.
@frankgarcia1435 That's awesome, Frank! The 1988-1992 Mazda MX6 GT is a hidden gem of the turbocharged '80s era. Those 2.2L turbocharged engines packed a punch, and with their lightweight design, they delivered serious fun on the road. Owning two? That’s doubling the turbocharged thrills-respect It’s cool how the '80s brought innovation like turbos to the forefront, even if it wasn’t muscle cars doing it at first. But hey, the spirit of speed, power, and adrenaline connects all car enthusiasts, right? Speaking of which, for the American muscle fans out there, what’s your favorite turbocharged classic from the '80s or beyond? Drop your thoughts in the comments-let’s keep this conversation rolling! And don’t forget to share, subscribe, and help grow the American Muscle Cars community. Keep the throttle down, Frank, and have a great day
@@MuscleCarMasters68 thanks my brother it is a ton of fun one of them I upgraded the turbo since the stock turbo blew, I installed a gtx3067 I just need better tuning at the moment so I can have the car running 100%, plus D2 coil overs for better performance and handling, for exhaust 2.5 inc pipe vibrant resonator and vibrant street power dual tips I would be uploading a video soon that way everyone can hear it. My favorite car on that era would be this one I own, Mitsubishi station being 2nd of the list, but honestly all those turbocharged gems I love every single of them
@mackmanson3543 The Grand National is absolutely legendary! With that turbocharged 3.8L V6 and sinister all-black look, it’s no wonder it still reigns supreme in the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts. The fact that you’ve kept yours in such pristine condition with only 52k original miles-and fully built? That’s the dream! Nothing else captures the mix of raw power and unique style like the GN. For everyone reading, what’s your ultimate muscle car? Is it the Grand National, or do you roll with something like the HEMI ‘Cuda, Boss 429, or a classic Chevelle SS? Let us know in the comments! And hey, if you love American muscle as much as we do, hit that subscribe button for more epic car content, share this with your fellow gearheads, and join the community! Keep the spirit of American muscle alive
Just when these turbo cars were seeing much improvement in technology, the manufacturers pulled the plug in the early 1990s in favor of lower output normally aspirated V6 engines. I read that was due to more strict emission standards and the issue was that turbos would be spacing catalytic converters too far from the exhaust manifolds to be effective. Glad to see there was a work around allowing the comeback of turbos today, but unfortunately not in stylish & affordable small 2 door cars.
@johnmcmullen456 You’re spot on, and it’s a bit of a heartbreaker when you think about it! Back in the early ‘90s, turbos were really hitting their stride, but tighter emissions regulations threw a wrench in the works. Manufacturers had to adapt fast, and you’re right-turbo placement affecting catalytic converter efficiency was a big issue. It’s a shame we lost those stylish, affordable turbocharged 2-doors, but hey, it’s amazing how today’s tech has brought turbos back with better performance and efficiency Imagine if those small turbocharged legends had stuck around-American muscle history might look a lot different! What’s your favorite turbo car from that era? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share, subscribe, and join the conversation here on American Muscle Cars! We’ve got more awesome content coming your way. Stay classic, stay loud, and have a great day, John
A couple of my favorite turbo cars from the past are a 1984 Thunderbird Turbocoupe I special ordered, and my brother's 1990 Shelby Daytona with the rare VNT turbo he bought new. Great performance & gas mileage for their times.
@ John, you’re bringing up two absolute turbocharged legends! The 1984 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and the 1990 Shelby Daytona with that rare VNT turbo? Those cars were ahead of their time, combining performance, style, and even solid gas mileage. It’s wild to think how innovative the ‘80s and ‘90s were for turbo tech-those cars paved the way for the turbocharged beasts we see today. That Shelby Daytona, especially with the Variable Nozzle Turbo, was a game-changer-quicker spool times and a power curve that made it feel like a much bigger engine. And the Turbo Coupe? Pure underrated muscle with luxury flair.
the chrysler conquest and mitsubishi starion were ahead of their time, blending sleek design with turbocharged power. even today, their styling and performance make them standout classics…
Absolutely! The Chrysler Conquest and Mitsubishi Starion were groundbreaking-bringing turbocharged performance and aggressive styling to the forefront in the 80s. These cars were proof that bold design and innovative engineering could create unforgettable rides. Their sharp lines, rear-wheel-drive setups, and turbo power still command respect among enthusiasts today. The Conquest’s American flair blended perfectly with Mitsubishi’s precision, making them a true standout. What are your favorite memories or facts about these legends? Let us know in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more American muscle car classics. Wishing you a fantastic day
The Dodge Conquest (aka Mitsubishi Starion) is indeed a beauty, and what a powerhouse in the turbocharged scene! It was one of the boldest collaborations between American muscle swagger and Japanese precision, bringing us a compact turbo beast that could truly leave a mark. With its wide-body stance, rear-wheel drive, and a turbocharged 2.6L four-cylinder engine, it had the heart of a racer and the spirit of innovation. Dodge didn’t just aim for looks-they wanted performance that turned heads and burned rubber. This car stands as a testament to the 1980s era of turbocharged creativity What do you think about the Conquest’s role in turbo history? Let us know your favorite turbocharged legends in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more nostalgia, speed, and history. Have an amazing day and a Happy New Year, car enthusiasts
Ah, the 1987 Buick GNX A true legend and one of the most iconic muscle cars of its era. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 was a game-changer, producing 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque-numbers that shocked everyone back in the day. Not to mention, with a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds, it left many V8s in the dust! The GNX wasn’t just fast; it was rare, with only 547 ever built, making it a true collector’s dream. Driving one must feel like stepping back into the golden age of muscle. What’s your favorite feature about the GNX? Let us know! And for all American muscle fans out there, don’t forget to comment, share your dream car, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more content that fuels your passion for classic rides Thanks for sharing your dream with us, and have a fantastic weekend...
@@MuscleCarMasters68 we owned a GNX number 396. And let me tell you it was an amazing car. We also had 2 1987 GNs one had a custom chip and it was no slouch either. But the GNX was the best it had more power and the suspension was like no other. These two cars are my favorite 80s turbo cars hands down. LOL next was the 88 Pontiac turbo 3.8 Trans Am.
@@shaneberckman Wow, owning GNX #396-what a piece of automotive history you’ve got there! The GNX truly stood out as an engineering marvel of the '80s muscle car scene. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 wasn’t just powerful; it was revolutionary, proving that V6s could dominate the streets. The suspension, upgraded by McLaren, gave it handling like no other muscle car of its time. It's no surprise it’s your favorite-fast, rare, and undeniably cool. And those 1987 Grand Nationals weren’t far behind either, especially with that custom chip! The 1988 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am is another gem-sharing that same legendary 3.8L turbo engine, it kept the legacy alive. Out of curiosity, how did the driving experience of the GNX compare to the Turbo Trans Am? To all muscle car fans, share your favorite turbocharged rides in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe to Muscle Car Masters, and Happy New Year to you and your family!
@josephrizzo4321 The 1981 Renault Turbo Fuego? That’s a unique ride, Joseph Those turbocharged beauties were ahead of their time with sharp styling and impressive performance for a European car. But you know what else was stealing the streets back then? American muscle like the Pontiac Trans Am or the Mustang GT...Both had that raw power and rumble we all crave. What do you think-how would your Fuego stack up against one of those legends? Let us know in the comments! And hey, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more muscle car content. Wishing you a great day
The Buick GNX T-Type Regal-what a legendary machine You're absolutely right; it doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to turbocharged muscle. With its stealthy all-black look and that monstrous turbocharged 3.8L V6, the GNX wasn’t just fast-it was a force to be reckoned with. It hit 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds back in the late '80s, putting many V8-powered rivals to shame. The GNX became a true icon for muscle car fans who love raw power and unrelenting performance wrapped in a sleeper package. Did you know it was often called "the Grand National on steroids"? We love hearing from fans like you who appreciate the unsung heroes of the muscle car world. What other turbocharged legends are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car history. Have a fantastic day and Happy New Year
The more research I do and the more l learn, the more convinced I become that the Buick GNX is the greatest American performance car ever, relative to its era. The car has it all. Bad ass beautiful while distinctly American in appearance. Plus, super car beating performance, with everyday practicality and luxury. Shoot, I'm starting to sound like a commercial.
@AndrewGraziani-k7d Wow, Andrew You nailed it-your passion for the Buick GNX is contagious! The GNX truly is an icon of its time, combining bold, unmistakably American styling with performance that left even some European supercars shaking in their boots. With its turbocharged 3.8L V6, it proved that raw power and practicality could coexist, and it dominated the streets as both a luxury cruiser and a performance beast. The GNX wasn't just a car-it was a statement of American engineering at its peak. And hey, you're not just sounding like a commercial; you're preaching the truth! The GNX still has a cult following for a reason. What do you all think? Does the Buick GNX deserve the title of the greatest American performance car of its era? Drop your thoughts below, share the video with your car-enthusiast friends, and don't forget to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more amazing content Have a great day
@darvhernandez1 You’re absolutely right-the Mitsubishi Starion was a beast of its time! Its sharp, aerodynamic lines and turbocharged power made it a standout in the ’80s. While it’s not a traditional American muscle car, it did pack some serious performance that earned respect across the board. It’s always great to see enthusiasts keeping the appreciation alive for unique rides like the Starion. For those muscle car fans out there, what’s your take on the Starion? Does it deserve a spot alongside the big names, or is it in a league of its own? Let’s hear it in the comments! And while you’re here, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, give us a thumbs-up, and share the love for all things American Muscle Cars with your fellow gearheads. Thanks for the awesome comment, and keep cruising! Wishing you a great day
@damedoe Haha, no doubt The Conquest TSI was an absolute beast back in the day-those turbocharged rides knew how to turn heads and burn rubber. But yeah, that rear-wheel drive on a rainy day? It was like taking a bull to a skating rink! 😂 Still, that car had attitude for days, and not everyone could handle its raw power. True drivers know what it means to tame a turbo icon like that We’d love to hear more about your experiences with the TSI-did you ever mod it? Or was it all about keeping it stock and letting the turbo do the talking? Drop your stories below, and let’s keep the 80s turbo vibes alive Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged throwbacks and muscle car madness. Have a great day, and keep it fast and loud
While it’s a cool turbocharged ride, it doesn’t quite fit the American muscle car mold like Mustangs or Chargers. We’re talking big-block power and V8 rumble-Merkur was more Euro-inspired.
The Mercury XR4Ti was a unique gem in the 1980s, blending American ingenuity with German engineering. Its 2.3L turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance for its time, and it carried that distinct Merkur badge, standing out in a sea of mundane imports. Though not a traditional muscle car, it captured the spirit of innovation and power that we all love in American performance vehicles. Thanks for bringing this up-it’s always great to spotlight underappreciated cars! What’s your take on the XR4Ti’s role in the evolution of American performance cars? Drop your thoughts below, and let’s get this conversation rolling If you’re as passionate about cars as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the channel for more deep dives into the history and heart of American muscle cars. Wishing you a fantastic day, and keep those engines roaring
@jimski377R Wow, owning an '85 Merkur XR4Ti with that Ford 2.3 turbo makes you part of a rare club That car was ahead of its time, blending European style with American engineering under Ford's global reach. While the 2.3 turbo didn’t win everyone over back then, it laid the groundwork for performance legends like the SVO Mustang and even the EcoBoost engines we see today. That little engine had serious potential when tuned right and still has a cult following among enthusiasts. What do you think about turbocharged engines in muscle cars? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Everyone, let’s keep the conversation rolling-comment below with your favorite rare rides, share this with fellow gearheads, and don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more muscle car history and stories. Stay awesome, and have a fantastic day, Jim
How about this Frankenstein, a 1989 twin turbo mustang 5.0 lx making over 530hp to the wheels, that I build towards the end of my 1993 high school senior year. Most parts came from 1980’s turbo cars that you mentioned in this video. All donor cars were low mileage wrecks. Two turbochargers, and two set of fuel injectors from 89 t-bird 2.3 turbo, two intercoolers from 89 Dodge Daytona Shelby edition 2.2 turbo, rear disk brake assembly and booster pump from 1986 mustang SVO, the rest of the parts were from aftermarket sources: gt40 intake manifold and modified 8.5:1 compression aluminum gt40 cylinder heads, CNC’d to accept custom made o-ringed copper head gasket, oversized throttle body and mass air meter, re-programmed stock mustang 5.0 ECU, one Lincoln tech MiG welder, and 4 months of cutting & welding to build the necessary brackets, exhaust manifolds, down pipes, charge pipes, and other miscellaneous items. Every free time was spent to get it done for the end of high school summer shenanigans. Best summer ever, lots of racing and fixing, learned to swap a T-5 in under 1hr😊. I drove it daily for over 3 years until my aviation law professor advised me, that my driving record is going to be a huge problem finding employment as an airline pilot. It was hard to let it go but the temptation to race was just too great, and I didn’t want my already wrecked driving record to jeopardize my future aviation career. Unfortunately new owner few months after he got it, lost control and wrapped it around a tree.
@po3678 Wow, what a legendary build Your 1989 twin-turbo Mustang 5.0 LX sounds like an absolute beast and a true testament to creativity and dedication. Using donor parts from '80s turbo cars to craft a Frankenstein like that is next-level ingenuity. Those twin T-bird turbos, SVO brakes, and intercoolers from a Daytona Shelby-pure muscle car magic. And the craftsmanship? From the custom CNC’d GT40 heads to the handmade charge pipes and exhaust manifolds, that's the kind of gearhead engineering that keeps the muscle car legacy alive. It's a shame the car's story ended in tragedy, but the memories and lessons it gave you are priceless. We'd love to hear more stories like this-what's your next project? Muscle car fans, drop a comment about your craziest builds, hit that like button, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic rides and stories. Have a great day, @po3678
A seriously overshadowed turbo 80s car is the Turbo Trans Am. Same 3.8L turbo V6 as the Grand National (not the GNX, the GNX got an intercooler.) But, the Turbo T/A was advertized as only 250 hp, wich was very much underrated it was more like 300-315 hp out of the box, which was very good for the time.
Sure, others might dismiss the 1989 Pontiac Turbo GTA Twin Turbo 3.8 V6 as 'not muscle' because it’s a V6, but hear me out: this engine was ahead of its time. With twin turbos and Buick GNX roots, it pushed innovation into the muscle car world. Raw power isn’t just about cylinders; it’s about performance
Hey there! Great question about the 1989 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am GTA with the twin-turbo 3.8L V6-what an engineering marvel! Pontiac teamed up with ASC/McLaren to produce a few experimental twin-turbo versions of the already impressive Buick 3.8L V6. This engine was a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of performance with over 300 horsepower-some say closer to 400! It was meant to show off Pontiac's innovation in muscle car performance, blending power and efficiency, but sadly, it didn’t make it to full production. However, the standard Turbo GTA with the single turbo was already a beast, borrowing the legendary powertrain from the Buick Grand National. What do you think? Would this twin-turbo have changed the game for muscle cars in the late ‘80s? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share for more American Muscle Car history and stories. Have an awesome weekend...
The tech may not have been as good back then, but the unique styling was. Cars just don't have personality today and they're all starting to look alike.
@wiseguy9202 You’re absolutely right Back in the day, the tech may not have been as advanced, but those cars had soul. Every curve, every line-they were a statement of personality and power. Today, cars often feel like clones, but in the '80s, every model fought to stand out, and turbocharging was like strapping a rocket to the wild styling of the era. It’s that bold creativity that makes these cars legendary. Who can forget beasts like the Buick GNX or the SVO Mustang? They weren’t just fast-they looked like they meant it. That’s what makes the '80s such a golden age for turbocharged rides. What’s your all-time favorite outrageous car of the '80s? Let us know in the comments below! And hey, don't forget to share this with your fellow car enthusiasts, subscribe to American Muscle Cars, and keep the muscle alive Have a great day
My brother did have one of the dodge Shelby turbo cars . Really quick . MY Grand National was my favorite . I do hope they recall the 89 turbo Trans Am .
@kennethroot6890 What a lineup! Your brother’s Dodge Shelby Turbo must’ve been a blast-those cars were light, quick, and packed a serious punch for their time. And the Grand National? Now that’s a legend right there! With its sinister all-black look and that turbo V6, it’s no wonder it’s a fan favorite. As for the ’89 Turbo Trans Am, we couldn’t agree more. That was one of the most underrated turbocharged beasts of the 80s, using the same Buick 3.8L turbo V6 as the GNX but in a lighter and sleeker package. It deserves all the love it can get! Wishing you a turbocharged day, Kenneth hope to see you next time...
The GN is the best 80's car hands down, but when it comes to raw N/A muscle, give me a 69 Camaro Z28 or a 70 Hemi Cuda! Love American muscle, NOTHING LIKE IT!
@mackmanson3543 The GN is an absolute legend of the '80s-no arguments there! That turbocharged V6 made it a true street king. But when you talk raw, naturally aspirated muscle, you're hitting all the right notes with the '69 Camaro Z28 and '70 HEMI 'Cuda. The Z28’s high-revving 302 small block and corner-carving Trans-Am racing roots were pure American ingenuity, while the HEMI ‘Cuda packed that monster 426 engine and enough torque to make the asphalt scream. Two icons, two different vibes-both absolute powerhouses in their own way. American muscle cars aren't just machines-they’re rolling history, pure adrenaline, and the roar of freedom. Let’s keep the conversation alive! Everyone, drop your favorite muscle car in the comments, share the video with fellow gearheads, and smash that subscribe button for more Thanks for being part of the muscle car family. Have an awesome day, my friend
Wow, you’ve got an incredible taste for legendary rides! The Audi Quattro Turbo, Renault Turbo 2, and Ford Sierra Cosworth are all iconic machines that left their mark on the 80s motorsport and performance scene. Those turbocharged beasts brought raw power and excitement to the rally tracks and streets of Europe, much like how American Muscle Cars like the 1987 Buick GNX or the Pontiac Trans Am GTA reigned supreme in their own right. Speaking of performance, have you ever compared the turbo revolution of Europe to the supercharged V8 powerhouses of America? And hey, don’t forget to share this channel with fellow car lovers, subscribe for more muscle car content, and enjoy your day.
@@MuscleCarMasters68 Thank you. I grew up in Europe before internet so we didn't really know much about American cars but what we saw in movies. I've been comparing them all my life ☺ 80s and 90s turbo cars was the way to go.
@@Chrissurfs Thank you for sharing your story-it’s amazing how movies sparked your love for cars and fueled a lifetime of comparisons! Turbo cars from the 80s and 90s, like the Audi Quattro or the Renault 5 Turbo, are legendary for their innovative engineering and rally domination. Meanwhile, on the other side of the pond, American muscle cars were flexing their raw V8 power, with beasts like the Buick GNX or the Pontiac Trans Am GTA delivering unrelenting torque and a roar like no other. It's fascinating to think about how turbocharged precision and supercharged V8 brute force shaped two different car cultures. What’s your take-does turbo finesse match the raw thrill of muscle car power? Let’s hear it in the comments! And remember to share this channel with fellow enthusiasts, hit subscribe, and join us for more American muscle car adventures. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year
At timestamp 4:57 I own a GLHS, number 296! The original owner rebuilt the entire engine from the crankshaft outward and increase the turbo boost from the stock 10-12 lb to a whopping 20 lb! When I first bought that car home, the tires were BREAKING TRACTION IN THIRD GEAR! It's definitely a screamer Aunt with the support of the Shelby Dodge automobile club, it's be ing retained and maintained. I bought it in 2017 with only 80,000 mi on it for $15,000
Wow, what an incredible story Owning a GLHS is a badge of honor in the world of performance cars, and #296 sounds like an absolute monster with that 20 lbs of boost! Breaking traction in third gear? That’s the kind of outrageous power Shelby enthusiasts dream of. Hats off to the original owner for rebuilding it from the crankshaft out-what a labor of love. And the fact that you’ve kept it in top shape with support from the Shelby Dodge Automobile Club shows your dedication to preserving this legend. For only $15,000 and 80K miles, you snagged a gem that most of us can only envy. This is what makes the muscle car community so special-stories like yours keep the passion alive Everyone, share your turbocharged tales or favorite muscle car memories in the comments. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our channel. Have a fantastic day
@josephpetersonjr.8270 the Eagle Talon TSi AWD is a true beast! With its turbocharged 4G63 engine and AWD system, it was a giant slayer of its time. Not only could it hang with some of the big names in performance, but its lightweight design and rally-inspired engineering made it a street legend for anyone who knew how to handle its power. It’s a rare gem among turbocharged classics, and its bold spirit is what made the ‘80s such an iconic time for car enthusiasts. What’s your favorite memory or feature of the Talon? Let’s hear it Keep the pedal to the metal, and have an awesome day
@frederickh4942 That's awesome! The ‘86 Mitsubishi Starion is a legend in the turbocharged world, especially for its bold styling and performance. Those wide fender flares and rear-wheel drive made it a standout, and let’s not forget the turbo - a true beast of the 80s! Too bad about the head gasket, but hey, owning a Starion in high school must’ve been a blast while it lasted. For American muscle fans, it’s cool to see how turbocharged imports like the Starion pushed the envelope back then, inspiring competition across the board. Muscle or tuner, it’s all about the thrill of driving something unique and powerful, right? Everyone, drop a comment on your favorite turbocharged car from the 80s - whether it’s American muscle or an import icon like the Starion. And don’t forget to share and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome rides and stories. Have a great day
2300 Turbo? Cool, but let’s not forget the 2.3L turbo wasn’t just in the Capri! Ford dropped it into the Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and even the Mustang SVO, delivering surprising performance for a 4-banger. Respect to Mercury, but the SVO’s balance of power and handling? Game-changer for its time. Muscle car fans can’t ignore that
Wow, you’re absolutely right to call out the 2300 Turbo in the Mercury Capri It’s one of those hidden gems that often gets overshadowed by the bigger V8 powerhouses, but it absolutely deserves some love. The turbocharged 2.3L inline-4 was a bold move by Mercury, especially during the early '80s when fuel efficiency and performance had to meet. What’s really cool is how the 2300 Turbo laid the groundwork for the later SVO Mustangs and even influenced turbo tech for years to come. Seeing one today must be a real treat-those Capris are becoming a rare sight! Thanks for sharing this slice of history with us. To everyone else, what’s your favorite underrated muscle car or engine? Drop it in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the American Muscle Car spirit alive. Have a great day, and keep cruising
@warrior-kv9qh Grand National-now that’s the spirit The Buick Grand National wasn’t just a car; it was a straight-up street legend that left the competition in its dust. With that turbocharged 3.8L V6 punching way above its weight, this beast showed the world you didn’t need a big V8 to dominate the streets in the '80s. The GNX? That thing was practically a muscle car superhero! It hit 0-60 in under five seconds, embarrassing high-end imports and solidifying its place as one of the most outrageous turbocharged cars of the decade. What’s everyone’s favorite turbocharged beast from the '80s? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, share this video with a fellow gearhead, and don’t forget to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged history and raw horsepower nostalgia. Thanks for watching, and have an awesome day,
Hey there! Thanks for sharing your thoughts-we appreciate every bit of feedback from passionate fans like you. We understand how crucial it is to keep our content engaging and accurate, especially for enthusiasts like us who live and breathe American muscle cars. Your comment has been noted, and we’ll make sure to bring you even more thrilling and well-polished videos in the future. Have a fantastic day, and Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones
I was a Chrysler tech mid 80s to 2008. Got to drive most of turbo cars. My 80s favorite was rx7 turbo. Conquest was fun but front end sagged out too negative camber with no adjustments from the manufacturer at that time.. Diamondstar Laser was deadly and more fun but rx7 had it all on them much better car, and not too forget 626 turbo.
@raylamp4505 That's an awesome journey you’ve had as a Chrysler tech-what an era to experience those turbo beasts firsthand! The RX-7 turbo was indeed a game-changer with its rotary power and handling finesse, but we have to give a shoutout to the Conquest and those wild Diamond Star machines too. You're right about the Conquest's front-end challenges, but those cars still hold a special place in car culture. The 626 Turbo was another underrated gem-Mazda was really ahead of its time in the turbocharged game. It’s cool to hear perspectives like yours, especially from someone who worked on these classics. What was your most memorable drive in that lineup? To everyone reading, let’s keep this gearhead convo alive! Comment your turbo favorites, share this channel with your crew, and subscribe for more American muscle content. Keep the pedal down, and have a great day
Ah, the Buick GNX-a true legend of the '80s That turbocharged beast redefined what muscle could be in a time when the odds were stacked against performance cars. With its 3.8L turbocharged V6, delivering up to 276 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque, it smoked V8 rivals on the strip. Respect deserved! What's your favorite GNX moment or fact? Let us know! And for all muscle car fans out there, don’t forget to comment, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Master for more epic rides and stories. Wishing you a great day and a Merry Christmas...
Absolutely, @matbesik724 The Corvette Callaway truly was a masterpiece of engineering and performance It’s one of the finest examples of how American innovation brought muscle and style together on the road. With its twin-turbocharged heart roaring under the hood, the Callaway Corvette proved it could take on the best in the world and leave them in the dust. Let’s not forget the legendary "Sledgehammer" version, which shattered speed records and became an icon for car enthusiasts everywhere. Do you have a favorite Callaway model or memory? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our passion for American muscle cars with your friends. Keep cruising, and have a fantastic day
@freedomfighter69 The Shelby Daytona Z indeed started making waves in 1986, and it’s incredible how you caught that detail-thank you for pointing it out! Shelby's work in the '80s with the Daytona Z was a unique chapter, blending that turbocharged Mopar power with Carroll Shelby’s racing pedigree. This car packed a punch with its turbo 2.2L engine, showing that Shelby’s magic wasn’t just reserved for the V8 monsters of the '60s. Wishing you an amazing day and a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and memories
@@freedomfighter69 Wow, what an awesome memory-gold on black, fully loaded, that’s the stuff dreams are made of! Cars like that were pure style and performance, showing off the bold spirit of the muscle car era. It’s amazing how cars like these not only turned heads back in the day but also created lifelong memories that we still hold onto today. Thank you so much for watching the video all the way through-we truly appreciate your support and passion for these classics. hope to see you on newest videos... have a great day....
@dougbrown9048 Haha, looks like autocorrect might’ve steered you into the wrong lane! McLaren’s got speed, but when it comes to raw power, classic design, and that heart-pounding roar of a V8, nothing beats American Muscle! 💪🚗 Whether it’s a roaring Dodge Charger, a mean Mustang, or the timeless Chevy Camaro, these machines were made to dominate the streets and ignite passion in car lovers everywhere. Stay fast, stay loud, and have an awesome day
The Grand National/T-Type/Turbo-T/GNX were the quickest of the 9 turbo cars listed. The 84-87 Regal G-Body turbo cars should be number 1 on this list. I do not care what numbers the 1987 Callaway Turbo Turbo C4 Corvette, when pitted against the GNX in the quarter mile it still lost. Sure the Callaway Twin Turbo C4 Corvette would eventually catch and pass the GNX, but launching the GNX down the 1320 and getting thrown in back in your seat is so much more fun than having to start slower and then your vehicle be all top end. I will mention it one more time the G-Body Turbo Regal did not have massive resources thrown at it. The funding for development pulled together from other departments within Buick that had gotten slightly more funds budgeted to them they needed and fortunately they gave Turbo Buick Team the funds to start development of the powertrain. To boot from 1983 to 1984 The Turbo Team had to switch over from carburetor to sequential fuel injection, along with a slew of other electronics, such as the MAF, MAP, IAC, IAT, ECT, TPS, Wastegate Solenoid, Narrow Band O2, etc. The develop team consisted of 5 to 7 engineers and with the limited resources, Buick still managed to get the GN and T-Type out for production for 1984 Model Year. Still with no budget allocated the engineers moonlighted and made a couple of minor changes for 85 and then the biggest changes came in 86, with the addition of the Intercooler and more efficient turbocharger from Garrett. The 86 model year hit the showroom floors in either October or November or 85. I have an 86 and date of sale from the paperwork was November 15th, 1985. Finally the 87 MY was set to come out, with an all black grill and for the model year of 87 only the GN came standard with a rear POSI. I am not sure if the other 87 model year G-Body Turbo Regals, designated with just T instead of the T-Type, came standard with a POSI. In 1987 consumers could purchase a base Regal with LC2 powertrain, a limited Regal with the LC2 powertrain and a mix and match of options. Some of the rarest G-Body Turbo Regals were produced in 1987. Of course the 547 GNXs that were produced with the help of the ASC-McLeran. All the GNXs came with the exact same options, a fully optioned Grand National. The GNXs could not, however, get the Astor-Roof or T-Tops. My 86 Grand National came with Power Electric Windows, AC (standard on all GNs), their run of the mill radio and that's about it. My 86 did not come with a Posi, an aftermarket one was added a few years after the car was purchased. My 86 GN is a bit on the bulky side, coming at 3810 lbs with driver and half tank of gas. When Car and Driver had an 86 GN test drive, it just so happened to be during the winter and it was really cold. Csere Csaba, from C&D, was doing the testing and data collection. With an ice cold temperature of 8 degree F outside, Csaba was able to consistently run a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds. I am fairly certain, a GNX could have probably hit a 4.2 - 4.4 second 0-60 had it been tested in 8 degree temps. Just goes to show what happens with ice cold feeding in the intake and then going through the intercooler. Thus far my 86 GN has ran a best time of 11.70 at 115 mph in the 1/4 mile at Milan Dragway. This occurred way back in 2009. I have not had it to the track since then and I am hopeful I will get it put back together and tuned with an aftermarket Engine Control Module, ECM, which is made by Turbo Tweak and is plug and play. Since that 09 ran, my engine has been rebuilt with a forged rotating assembly, hydraulic roller cam and rockers. An much larger aftermarket intercooler, along with a flex fuel sensor so I can accurately measure the ethanol content and have a safe tune for it. I have an older GEN I Precision 6265 turbo, with the compressor wheel machined from solid. I may have to upgrade my turbo though, I dropped my 6265 without the turbine housing on it and I may not be able to get the turbo repaired for a halfway decent price. If that is the case and the funds are available I am going to get an HPT 6466 Turbo. I can either use an internal or external wastegate. HPT designed their turbochargers such that a modified or different downpipe isn't necessary. So I may have an electronic external wastegate. I should get my sled down the 1320 in the low 10 second range. Just have to have a very good tune and some fail safes if a sensor or actuator goes bad. Run redundant temperate sensors and so forth. There are so many small DIY microcontrollers that don't cost and arm and leg, I can do my own custom stuff to my GN.
@charleslowe522 Thanks for the incredible deep dive into the turbocharged legends of the ‘80s! You're absolutely right-the 84-87 Turbo Regals, especially the GNX, were beasts of innovation and performance. With limited resources, Buick’s team created something that still commands respect decades later. The G-Body Turbo Regals truly embody the underdog spirit of American muscle, proving that heart and ingenuity can rival big-budget projects. The GNX, in particular, is a masterpiece. Its ability to dominate the quarter-mile with sheer torque and that unforgettable launch is something no car enthusiast can overlook. While the Callaway Twin Turbo C4 Corvette brought incredible top-end speed, the GNX owned the drag strip. That feeling of being thrown back in your seat as the GNX rockets down the 1320 is pure adrenaline, the kind every muscle car fan dreams of. Your detailed breakdown of the engineering evolution-from carbureted setups to advanced fuel injection and the introduction of the intercooler in ‘86-is a testament to the dedication behind these cars. And your own ‘86 GN sounds like a monster in the making! A low-10-second pass? That’s insane. We can’t wait to hear how it performs with the upgraded turbo, ECM, and your custom fail-safe tech. To everyone reading this, what do YOU think about the GNX versus the Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette? Which turbocharged beast of the ‘80s deserves the crown? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep this debate alive! Also, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome discussions like this one. Charles, best of luck getting that GN dialed in! Thanks for sharing your passion and expertise-it’s what makes this community so great. Wishing you (and your GN) many victorious passes ahead. Have a fantastic day
@colinvictor6557 Great point, Colin That one car company that stood tall and didn’t take a government bailout during tough times? It was Ford Motor Company. They stayed strong, made bold moves, and kept their legacy alive without leaning on taxpayer dollars-a true testament to American resilience and determination. Ford’s choice to go solo speaks volumes about their commitment to their craft and their customers. They kept the American muscle spirit roaring, just like those turbocharged beasts of the '80s we all love
Had a 88 shelby daytona wasnt bad when i got it. Got a mopar super 60 kit big cam innercooler and 2.2 turbo 2 was pushing over 300 hp was smoking stock vettes 5.0 and any honda on the streets in the early 90s only issues was i was always breaking motor mounts and the getrag trans blew a few times on me.
@erniecoshow Wow, an '88 Shelby Daytona with a Mopar Super 60 kit and a 2.2 Turbo II pushing over 300 HP? That’s pure street warrior energy! It must’ve been a blast leaving those stock Vettes, 5.0s, and Hondas in the dust back in the early ‘90s. 💨 The Shelby Daytona was ahead of its time, proving that turbocharged Mopar performance could pack a serious punch. The Super 60 kit and big cam gave it that extra edge-true to the Shelby legacy of turning heads and dominating streets. Motor mounts and the Getrag transmission giving out must’ve been a headache, but hey, that’s the cost of harnessing such power. It’s all part of the muscle car journey, right? What do you think, everyone? Got stories of your turbocharged beasts or legendary street battles? Drop them in the comments! Don’t forget to share and subscribe to Muscle Car Master for more epic content. Have a great day
@waynemurphy4411 That’s an awesome suggestion, Wayne! The early 90s Eagle Talon TSi was definitely a turbocharged legend-a real standout from the Diamond Star Motors partnership. With its AWD, turbocharged 4G63 engine, and lightweight body, it was a beast both on the street and track. A true underdog that could hang with some of the best imports and American machines of the time What do you all think? Should we include the Eagle Talon in a future episode? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more turbocharged greatness. Have a great day, Wayne, and thanks for the idea
@kencain4807 The Buick GNX didn’t just dominate the streets in the late '80s-it redefined what a muscle car with forced induction could be. With its turbocharged 3.8L V6 producing 276 hp (though we all know it made more than that), this beast could sprint from 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, leaving even some sports cars in its dust. It was truly the Darth Vader of the American muscle scene, stealthy and downright menacing To all our muscle car fans, what are your thoughts on the GNX? Do you think it’s the greatest turbocharged car of its time, or do you have another contender in mind? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this video with your fellow gearheads and subscribe to explore more American muscle car legends. Have a great day, and keep the passion alive
@kongvang2390 Thanks for sharing your take, Kong The Conquest TSi might not have been everyone’s favorite back in the day, but it sure had its quirks that made it stand out in the turbocharged crowd of the ‘80s. You’re right, many enthusiasts swapped those engines for the legendary 4G63T because of its insane tuning potential-but let’s not forget, the Conquest was part of an era when automakers were experimenting with forced induction in ways we’d never seen before. Love it or hate it, cars like the TSi paved the way for what turbo tech has become today What do the rest of you think? Drop a comment below, smash that like button, and don’t forget to subscribe for more epic American Muscle Car content. Let’s keep the car culture alive and thriving Wishing you all a horsepower-packed day
I had a conquest and a stairin gt and I also had the Daytona with the lotus turbo power plant under the hood If I knew what I knew now I would have kept all 3 for sure
@williamdeel377 That’s an incredible lineup you had The Conquest, the Starion (aka “Stairin GT”), and the Daytona with the legendary Lotus turbo setup? That’s a trifecta of ‘80s turbocharged greatness right there! Each of those cars had its own unique character-raw, bold, and ahead of its time. The Conquest and Starion were true pioneers of the turbocharged era, and that Daytona with the Lotus power plant? An underrated gem in turbo history. If only we could go back in time and hold onto these icons, right? For all the American Muscle Car fans here, what turbocharged car from the '80s do you wish you had kept (or wish you owned now)? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share your passion for American Muscle by subscribing and spreading the word about the channel. Keep that turbo spirit alive, William, and have a fantastic day
@HotGritz910, that 1988 Starion sounds like a beast With an 18g turbo, a 3-inch exhaust, and those supporting mods, you must have left plenty of Mustangs in the dust! That car was ahead of its time-an incredible mix of style, performance, and engineering. The Starion’s wide stance and rear-wheel drive made it a serious contender, especially with a driver who knew how to unleash its potential. Do you have any stories of epic races or wrenching sessions from back in the day? We’d love to hear more about what made your Starion so special Muscle car fans, drop a comment below with your favorite memories or mods from the past. Let’s keep the passion alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more amazing content. Wishing you an awesome day, and keep those engines roaring
@BB-pg5kl those turbocharged minivans from the late ‘80s, like the Dodge Caravan Turbo, were absolute sleepers! They were wild machines, packing serious punch under the hood while looking like your average family hauler. They might not fit the traditional "muscle car" image, but they sure earned a place in turbocharged legends We’ll definitely keep those unique turbo beasts in mind for future content-thanks for bringing them up. What do you all think, muscle car fans? Should we dive into more unconventional turbocharged vehicles from back in the day? Let us know in the comments below And hey, if you’re loving the content, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome rides, crazy builds, and retro horsepower stories. Keep those engines revving, and have a great day
Wow, what a lineup of turbocharged legends! The Subaru XT Turbo and Nissan R32 are iconic imports, no doubt. But let’s not forget the Ford Mustang SVO-a turbocharged marvel that showcased American innovation in the '80s, blending muscle car power with precision handling. And the Mustang M81? Talk about a rarity! Only 10 made, a collector’s dream, proving Ford could do wild and limited-edition turbo magic. American muscle fans, what are your thoughts? Which turbocharged car stands out the most for you? Let us know in the comments below! While you're here, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters-where we celebrate the best of American muscle, rare gems, and more Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year Here’s to more horsepower, more memories, and more fun in 2024!
@michaelhardesty3344 Awesome picks The GNX Grand National is pure turbocharged legend-Buick’s blacked-out sleeper that dominated the streets in the '80s. The Callaway Corvette and the Sledgehammer? Absolute beasts! Callaway’s twin-turbo tech made the Vette a rocket, and the Sledgehammer-breaking 254 MPH? That’s the stuff of muscle car dreams. Turbocharged muscle wasn’t just about power; it was about rewriting what American cars could do on a global stage. These icons proved that American engineering could take on anyone, anywhere, and come out on top. To all muscle car fans out there, what are YOUR favorite turbocharged monsters from the '80s? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this video with your fellow gearheads! If you’re not subscribed yet, hit that button and join the American Muscle Cars family today. Keep that passion alive Wishing you a turbocharged day
@adamshafeeq8685 Great ear, Adam the song at 0:11 is indeed Danger Zone, but it’s a cover version, not the iconic Kenny Loggins original. Many content creators use high-energy cover tracks to evoke that classic vibe while avoiding copyright restrictions, and this version still captures the adrenaline-pumping spirit of turbocharged muscle cars roaring down the track! 🎵💨 Speaking of turbocharged beasts, what’s your favorite turbo setup in a muscle car? Whether it’s twin turbos on a modern Hellcat or a vintage supercharger setup, let us know in the comments! Muscle cars are all about power, passion, and performance-just like the music that fuels our love for them. Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share the channel to keep the American Muscle spirit alive! Let’s keep the roar of these machines echoing. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year, Adam
@stevenlayne8744 how could anyone forget the legendary Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe? That beast was a true gem of the '80s, rocking the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder with an intercooler, spitting out 190 horsepower in its later years. It had the perfect mix of style, tech, and performance that made it a standout in the muscle-turbo scene. And let’s not forget its role in proving that American cars could dominate even with smaller, boosted engines. We love hearing from fans like you who know their stuff! Got more turbocharged legends you think should’ve been on the list? Drop a comment and let us know-we might just feature them in a future video! Don’t forget to like, share, and hit that subscribe button to keep the American Muscle Car spirit alive. Have a fantastic day, Steven
@stephenweiss2591 You’re absolutely right-the Merkur XR4TI is one wild ride that deserves its moment in the spotlight! With its European-inspired design and that turbocharged 2.3L inline-four engine, it was a unique fusion of speed and style. Ford truly gave us something unexpected with the Merkur, blending American turbocharged muscle with Euro flair. Thanks for bringing it up-your comment just gave us an idea for future content For everyone watching, let us know what other forgotten turbocharged beasts from the '80s you'd love to see featured. Your input fuels this channel! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged nostalgia and muscle car madness. Let’s keep the throttle down and the good vibes rolling in the comments below. Wishing you a horsepower-packed day Keep those engines revving and stay legendary
The conquest would have sold better with a turbocharged V8 or at bare minimum a turbo inline 6. My car of choice during that time was the Grand National GNX and the Callaway Corvette.
@P-J-W-777 Wow, you’ve got great taste The Conquest would’ve been a beast with a turbocharged V8 or even a turbo inline-6. That combo would’ve brought the power and performance to rival its competitors of the time. Speaking of turbo legends, your picks-the Grand National GNX and Callaway Corvette-are absolute icons. The GNX was a true street king with its turbo V6 that packed a punch far beyond what most expected. And the Callaway Corvette? A masterpiece of engineering that showed what turbocharging could do for America’s sports car. We’d love to hear what others think-what would your dream setup be for the Conquest? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to explore more about these classic machines on our channel. Share with fellow fans and subscribe for more muscle car content. Have a great day, and Happy New Year
You’re absolutely right-the Conquest, also known as the Mitsubishi Starion, was a fascinating crossover between American muscle branding and Japanese engineering It’s amazing how Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge put their own spin on this turbocharged sports car in the 1980s. While it wasn’t a classic V8 beast like a Charger or Challenger, the Conquest had its own charm with rear-wheel drive, sharp handling, and a punchy turbo engine that turned heads. It showed how versatile the American car scene could be, even borrowing a little from the global market. What’s your favorite version of the Conquest or Starion? Let’s hear it in the comments! And while you’re here, don’t forget to explore more amazing American muscle cars on our channel. Share your passion, like this video, and subscribe for more iconic car stories. Keep those engines roaring, and have a fantastic day, gearheads....
@captaincanuck5400, the 1980s Mazda 626 Turbo is definitely a unique mention-props for thinking outside the box! While it’s not American muscle, its turbocharged tech and lightweight build made it a standout for enthusiasts of the era. But let’s be real-nothing beats the roar of a V8 under the hood of a classic American muscle car. The 80s also gave us some underrated muscle icons, like the third-gen Camaro IROC-Z or the Fox-Body Mustang GT-both flexing raw power and a rebellious vibe that defined the muscle car scene. If you’re into muscle cars or curious how they stack up against imports like the 626, hit up the comments and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars-we’re here to fuel your passion for horsepower, torque, and tire-shredding action. Keep the pedal to the metal, and have an awesome day
My cousin had a Chrysler Conquest TSI back in the late 80s, and that turbocharged beast was a rocket… I’ll never forget the thrill of riding in it. These cars truly deserve more recognition for what they brought to the automotive world.
I owned 3 of them when i was a teen in early 2000s, had some fun in that car lol
@@lol-o4g yes....Man, three of them? That’s awesome! But I gotta say, while those were cool, the Conquest TSI’s turbocharged power was ahead of its time. It wasn’t pure muscle, but it packed performance and precision that gave even some V8s a run for their money.
and i knew that feeling...lol
Chrysler Conquest TSI was cool, but let's keep it real-it's no muscle car. Muscle cars are raw, V8-powered American beasts built for straight-line domination. While the Conquest delivered turbo thrills, it’s more sports coupe than muscle legend. Respect for what it brought, but let’s not confuse it with the classics like the Challenger or GTO
@@AilaniMadden classic muscle cars are V8 icons, but let’s not dismiss the Conquest TSI. Turbocharged, rear-wheel drive, and with performance that embarrassed some V8s of its time, it’s got its place in automotive history. Maybe not a muscle car by definition, but it sure brought the heat to the late-80s performance scene
@@KeithGreene-k1v Conquest TSI? Sure, it was quick for its time, but calling it a muscle car is like calling a pony a stallion. Muscle cars roar with V8s, not buzz with turbos.
Here are some other great turbos of the 80's. Pontiac Sunbird GT Turbo. Pontiac Turbo Trans Am. GMC Syclone. Mazda 323 GTX Turbo. The Saab 900 Turbo. Audi Quattro Turbo. Porch 944 Turbo.
@aokirk1781 Thanks for adding to the list
The '80s really brought some turbocharged legends to the scene. The Pontiac Sunbird GT Turbo and the Turbo Trans Am definitely hold their own, showing that American muscle knows how to handle turbo power. The GMC Syclone? A beast of a pickup with that turbo punch. As for the imports like the Mazda 323 GTX and the Saab 900 Turbo-they brought their unique flavor, but nothing quite matches the raw power and attitude of classic American muscle turbo builds.
What’s your favorite turbocharged ride of the ’80s? Let’s get a full-blown debate going in the comments! Drop your thoughts, like this video if you’re into turbos, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more outrageous rides, epic stories, and high-octane action.
Thanks for watching, and have a turbocharged day
You left out the best. The Ford Thunderbird turbo coupe and Merkur XR4Ti. I have an 88 XR4Ti and it is an awesome 80s turbo car!
@TheDougJohnson Wow, you're absolutely right
The Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and Merkur XR4Ti are absolute gems of the 80s turbocharged era, and we can’t argue with your choice! The Thunderbird Turbo Coupe combined luxury and performance with that high-tech 2.3L turbocharged engine-truly ahead of its time. As for the Merkur XR4Ti, it's a rare beast with European flair and American ingenuity, powered by the same turbo 2.3L engine that enthusiasts still rave about today. Your '88 XR4Ti is an incredible car, and we bet it turns heads everywhere you go
Thanks for bringing up these legends! Everyone watching, let us know in the comments: What’s your favorite turbocharged car from the 80s? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more turbocharged nostalgia and muscle car history. Keep the love for American Muscle alive! Wishing you a fantastic day
I rode in a 86 xr4ti and witnessed it smoking 3 other V8’s of that same time. Wicked
@TheDougJohnson That T-bird TC was a real screamer. My future brother-in-law had one, and it was scary once the turbo spooled up. I lived behind a Ford dealership. I had my first job at the Ford dealership washing cars. I was able to "drive" everything in the lineup. When I say drive, I mean pull it around back, lol 😆 I honestly do not believe the XR4TI got a fair shake by Ford. It was not marketed correctly or to the right demo. I'm not sure if it would still be in production today, but I think if it had been better known, it would have been more popular. I think choosing to make it its own brand under a Merkur badge to market it as an upscale import sports car was a mistake without any stand-alone brand history. I think the XR4TI was awesome.
How about the 1987-88 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe which I feel was a true drivers carmnwith comfort, suspension. 2.3 L 4 cylinder engine.
Thanks for bringing up the 1987-88 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe-what a gem
You're spot on: this car was a fantastic blend of performance and comfort. The 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine packed an impressive punch, delivering 190 horsepower with a manual transmission, making it a true driver’s car. Add in its advanced suspension system, with adjustable shocks and independent rear suspension, and you had a machine that could handle corners like a pro while keeping you comfortable on long drives.
It’s also worth mentioning the Turbo Coupe’s sleek aerodynamic design-it was ahead of its time! This was Ford proving that American ingenuity could deliver a sports coupe that held its own with global competition.
What are your thoughts on this unsung hero of the '80s? Let us know in the comments.... Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Keep the pedal down, and have a great day
True drivers’ car? Sure, the Turbo Coupe had comfort and decent tech, but let’s be real-it’s no muscle car. A 2.3L 4-cylinder? Muscle is about V8 power, raw torque, and that unmistakable rumble. The Thunderbird SC or even earlier V8 T-Birds align better with true muscle.
I Daily Drive the 1987s Motor Trend car of the year the Ford Thunderbird Turbocoupe, what a blast to drive. Having owned ecoboosts automatics and now having manual 80s turbo is night and day. The turbo engages only under enthusiastic driving. Otherwise, the torque rich 4 cylinder has enough power to cruise around providing astounding fuel economy. I miss the two door coupe era.
@Cchild30 That’s incredible
Driving the 1987 Motor Trend Car of the Year Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe daily? Talk about living the dream! That 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder is a marvel, blending solid torque with turbo thrills. You're absolutely right-manual 80s turbos hit differently compared to modern automatics, especially when you’ve got that perfect turbo lag-turned-boost rush. And let’s not forget the iconic styling of those two-door coupes-a true nod to an era of bold design and innovation.
The Thunderbird Turbo Coupe deserves a standing ovation for its ability to balance sporty driving with fuel economy. Props to you for keeping that 80s muscle legacy alive on the road
Muscle car fans, what’s your favorite turbocharged icon of the 80s? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share this with fellow enthusiasts, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic content
Wishing you a fantastic day and happy driving
the svo mustang is such a gem…its incredible how ford managed to pack so much performance into a turbocharged four-cylinder.
You're absolutely right-the SVO Mustang is a true hidden gem
Ford's decision to pack a turbocharged four-cylinder into a Mustang during the 1980s was a bold move, and it delivered incredible performance with impressive handling. The 2.3L turbo engine proved that muscle doesn't always have to come from a big V8, and the SVO set itself apart with its unique styling, improved suspension, and braking system. What do you think made the SVO so special? Let us know in the comments
Don’t forget to share your thoughts, like this video, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car stories.
Have an amazing day and Merry Christmas
If they had made the SVO WITH a turbocharged 3.0litre engine it would have been more attractive to the buyers. Plus probably been 350hp.on paper. We ve tuned my SVO computer to reach 290 hp without adding anything to it just with my laptop.
@@JohnPaul-pb4eu thank you for your feedback,
the SVO Mustang is truly a standout in muscle car history! Ford's innovative spirit in the 1980s was on full display with the turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder, proving that muscle doesn't always have to roar from a V8. Your tuning work to hit 290 hp without adding parts is impressive-it’s a testament to the potential of that powertrain! Imagine if Ford had gone the extra mile with a turbocharged 3.0L, pushing it to 350 hp right out of the factory. That could have reshaped the muscle car scene entirely! The SVO’s improved suspension, braking system, and sleek styling made it more than just a straight-line beast-it was a car for true enthusiasts.
What do you all think? Should Ford have taken the SVO to the next level with a bigger turbocharged engine? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more legendary American Muscle Car content.
Have a fantastic day, and Happy New Year
1986/87 Buick turbo grand national is my Dream car
Buick GN is cool, but I'd take a '70 Chevelle SS 454 over it any day. The GN's turbo is impressive for the 80s, but there's no replacement for big-block power and raw muscle. Plus, the Chevelle's iconic style screams classic American muscle like nothing else. What do you think about the SS?
@ the 1970s Chevelle SS is one of the great big block muscle cars in the 70s but if I was to pick any car from the 70s, it would be either the the boss Mustang 429 the Buick GS 455 or the Pontiac judge 455 but in the 80s there was no other car on this list that could beat the grand national not Ferrari not the Corvette but today standards my Cadillac CTS 2.0T could beat all these cars on this list from the 80s
Wow, what an amazing lineup of dream cars you’ve got there
The 1986/87 Buick Grand National truly deserves its legendary status. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 was an absolute game-changer, proving that muscle isn’t all about V8s. And you’re spot on about the 1970 Chevelle SS-it’s a classic big-block beast that still turns heads today. The Boss 429 Mustang, Buick GS 455, and Pontiac GTO Judge 455 are icons of raw American horsepower, each with their unique charm and unmistakable roar.
It’s incredible how technology has evolved-your Cadillac CTS 2.0T shows just how far performance and efficiency have come! But there’s something about the character and history of those classic muscle cars that keeps us all hooked.
have a nice weekend...hope to see you next time.
@@tonyboggas9949 The Grand National’s turbo V6 was cool, but give me the Fox Body Mustang 5.0 any day lightweight, raw, and easily modded to outrun most cars of its time. And your CTS 2.0T? Fast, but it lacks the soul these classics roar with
GUYS…”M C Larren”? Just type “Mick-Lairin” into the voice engine. Find-replace.
the performance, history, and culture. that is my point...
Hey there, friend
Thanks for the comment. We get it-pronunciations can sometimes throw us a curveball, but let’s shift gears back to the real star of the road: American Muscle Cars
From the roar of a Chevy 454 to the iconic Mustang GT500, there’s nothing like the rumble of raw horsepower and the sleek design of Detroit’s finest. have a great weekend...
Or stop using computers to talk for you.
@@4BillC for me.... Those engines, like the 427 big blocks, are raw power with soul. It's about more than just numbers-it’s that rumble, the roar that gets you every time.
M-C Claren could've gotten a record deal, but chose to stay independent. I caught him at a Showtime Pizza back in the day. M-C Claren went hard, yo!
the dodge daytona was such an underrated turbo performer. that little turbocharged engine packed a punch for its time.
You’re absolutely right
The Dodge Daytona was a sleeper hit and doesn’t get nearly enough credit. That turbocharged 2.2L engine was ahead of its time, delivering serious performance in a lightweight package. With the Turbo Z and later models, Dodge showed how innovation could redefine the muscle car experience, even in a smaller, more compact form. Its aerodynamic design wasn’t just for looks; it was built for speed and agility, making it a true underdog on the streets and tracks alike.
What do you all think? Was the Daytona a turbocharged legend or an overlooked gem?
Wishing you a fantastic weekend and a Merry Christmas filled with horsepower and good vibes...
@MuscleCarMasters68 I actually owned one of those, myself. That car was fast as phuck!! Absolutely loved it!!
@@schuylerambrose7720
That's amazing to hear you owned one! The Dodge Daytona truly packed a punch for its size-a turbocharged 2.2L powerhouse that left bigger cars eating its dust. Dodge's innovation with the Turbo Z and later models redefined what a muscle car could be, combining raw speed with an aerodynamic design that was way ahead of its time. It wasn't just fast-it was a statement. Hearing your experience brings that legacy to life
Remember to like, share, and subscribe for more American muscle stories. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a revved-up New Year...
My dad's Dodge Lancer Turbo had a 2.2-liter engine that was surprisingly quick for the time. The turbo boost always felt exhilarating, especially when it kicked in, it made every drive unforgettable. Turbo cars of the 80s really had a unique charm…
@AdelynDodson Wow, your dad's Dodge Lancer Turbo sounds like a true hidden gem of the '80s! That 2.2-liter turbocharged engine was an engineering marvel of its time, proving that even smaller engines could pack a serious punch. The turbo boost, with that sudden surge of power, must’ve made every drive feel like a thrilling adventure. It’s amazing how Dodge managed to capture both performance and practicality in one package, creating cars that enthusiasts still admire today.
Turbo cars of the ‘80s, like the Lancer, were pioneers in combining innovation with excitement, and they hold a special place in automotive history. What are your favorite turbocharged muscle machines from that era? Let us know
Turbo cars like the Lancer were cool for the time, but let’s be real-nothing beats the raw power and sound of a classic American V8. A naturally aspirated 426 HEMI or a 454 big block doesn’t need a turbo to thrill you. It’s the muscle car essence: pure displacement and untamed horsepower
Wow, youve owned quite the collection of turbocharged legends… The Starion and Conquest were definitely standout cars of the 80s, and they remain fan favorites to this day.
Yes...The Starion and Conquest are absolute gems of the 80s, blending performance and style in a way that still inspires fans today. Did you know that these cars competed directly with muscle legends of the time, like the Camaro IROC-Z and Mustang SVO? Both shared the spirit of speed and innovation that defined the era. What’s your take on how they compare? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe for more American Muscle Car history, and share the love with other enthusiasts.
Have a great day and Merry Christmas
HA! Most of these are pure shite!
@ HA! You’ve got some strong opinions there, but that’s what makes this community awesome-different takes keep the fire burning! The Starion and Conquest are indeed hidden gems of the 80s. While they weren’t your traditional V8 muscle, they brought turbocharged power and sleek, aggressive styling to the fight. Cars like the Camaro IROC-Z and Mustang SVO had their roots in raw American muscle, but they also embraced the era’s push for innovation and balance. It’s wild how these cars competed with entirely different approaches but still earned their place in automotive history.
Great list, but I was hoping to see the 1989 Ford Probe GT included. That 2.2l turbo engine paired with a manual transmission was a gem. My family owned one, and it left such a lasting impression with its power and handling. Definitely a forgotten treasure….
yes, the memories…the 80s were such an incredible era for cars. i was always in awe of the grand national's power and dreamed of owning an svo, but i ended up cruising in a dodge daytona turbo. this video brought back so many nostalgic moments…
@AilaniMadden
Thank you for sharing such a great memory.... The 1989 Ford Probe GT is indeed an underrated gem, and while it’s not a traditional American muscle car with a V8 rumble, that 2.2L turbocharged engine with a manual transmission made it a standout of its time. It brought impressive power and handling to the table, showcasing how Ford could innovate beyond the muscle car norm. The Probe GT’s agility and turbocharged punch left a lasting impression on enthusiasts like your family-and it’s a car that truly deserves more recognition
What about everyone else? Do you have a soft spot for forgotten treasures like the Probe GT? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to share this video with fellow car enthusiasts, subscribe to the channel, and keep exploring the incredible world of American Muscle Cars with us. Have a fantastic day
Most of the cars listed are not forgotten cars. For me, the 1985 Isuzu Impulse Turbo was truly ahead of its time. One of the first turbo intercooled Japanese cars introduced with an outrageous futuristic interior.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts
the 1985 Isuzu Impulse Turbo was a groundbreaking car, especially with its turbocharged and intercooled engine paired with that futuristic interior design. It stood out in its time and remains a gem in the history of automotive innovation.
That said, when it comes to American muscle cars, there’s a special charm. Cars like the 1985 Buick Grand National also brought turbocharged power to the streets, proving that muscle cars could embrace modern engineering while delivering the raw performance and style enthusiasts love.
What’s your favorite turbocharged classic from the muscle car world? Let us know in the comments! Also, don’t forget to explore our channel for more American muscle car history, trivia, and legends.
Like, share, and subscribe to keep the passion alive for these iconic machines.
have a nice weekend.
how about the 1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire? It was the first turbocharged production car in the U.S., paired with that Turbo Rocket Fluid system.
@@richardbrown1553 wish the turbo had carried over into the Geo Storm. The storm was a good looking car but unfortunately GM killed it with cheap materials to cut cost. My cousin got a brand new one for graduation and man it was a sharp little car but a few years on everything in it rattles and squeaked, all the AC vents were falling apart, the dash started to crack and warp, it looked absolutely horrid by the end
@KeithGreene-k1v I don't think most people even know that existed. Jay Leno has a great example of that car, and I believe he has a bottle of the rocket fluid. Somehow, he's also in possession of a fully functioning and beautiful Chrysler Turbine. They were so supposed to have been destroyed. I can't recall the exact number, but I believe there are less than 10 examples, and Chrysler owns most of them on display.
@richardbrown1553 I know my high school friend had an Impulse. I'm not super knowledgeable about that model, but I think his had Lotus designed suspension. I had a Púp pickup. It was a tight little truck for a high school kid to take to the drive in.
It’s fascinating how much Carroll Shelby contributed to Chrysler in the ‘80s. From the GLHS to the Shelby Lancer, his influence was everywhere.
Absolutely....Carroll Shelby's contributions to Chrysler in the ‘80s are a testament to his genius and passion for performance. The GLHS (Goes Like Hell S’more) was a pocket rocket that redefined compact car performance, and the Shelby Lancer combined practicality with Shelby-tuned power. Shelby’s influence wasn’t just about raw speed; it was about injecting innovation and attitude into every vehicle he touched. The turbocharged engines, improved suspensions, and unique styling made these cars icons in their own right.
Shelby’s partnership with Chrysler proved that American ingenuity could thrive even during challenging times. What’s your favorite Shelby-Chrysler creation? Let us know in the comments
And hey, if you love American muscle as much as we do, don’t forget to comment, share, and subscribe to our channel for more legendary stories, cars, and history. Keep the muscle car spirit alive
Have a great day, and Merry Christmas
I was into 80's turbo cars in the 80's.
@joshthemediocre7824
That's awesome, Josh! The turbocharged cars of the '80s definitely had their own unique vibe, showcasing innovative technology and a bold new direction in performance. While muscle cars are my passion, I’ve got to give credit to those turbo legends for changing the game and paving the way for some pretty wild rides.
Speaking of the '80s, American muscle cars like the Buick Grand National and the SVO Mustang carried the torch with a blend of classic muscle and modern turbo tech. Did any of those catch your eye back in the day?
We’d love to hear more about your experiences with turbo cars! What made you fall in love with them? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to explore more on American Muscle Cars.
Have an amazing day, and Happy New Year
Turbo magazine came out in the 80's for us enthusiasts.
@ Turbo Magazine was such a game-changer for enthusiasts back in the '80s, capturing the excitement of turbocharged innovation. While classic muscle cars are the heart of American performance, I’ve got to tip my hat to those turbo legends that pushed boundaries and redefined speed. Cars like the Buick Grand National and the Mustang SVO fused the soul of muscle with cutting-edge turbo tech, proving that American power could evolve and dominate in new ways.
Did you have a favorite turbo car from that era? Maybe a specific model or moment that made you a fan? We'd love to hear your stories about how turbocharged machines influenced your passion for performance.
I've had the pleasure of owning an 86 GN , 1980 Mercury 2.3 turbo ran right with the camaros and Trans am . Drove one of the Thunderbird turbo coupes. Starion turbos and either a 280 or 300 Z turbo cars .All were great fun to drive.
@kennethroot6890
Wow, you've got an incredible history with turbocharged rides! Owning an '86 Buick Grand National alone puts you in legendary territory-arguably one of the most iconic cars of the '80s. The Mercury 2.3 Turbo holding its own against Camaros and Trans Ams is proof that sometimes underdogs pack the meanest punch. And the Thunderbird Turbo Coupe? A true mix of style and power. Don’t even get me started on the Starion and the Z-cars-they’re turbocharged legends in their own right
We’d love to hear more stories about these cars-how they drove, any memorable moments, or which was your favorite! Turbocharged cars brought a unique mix of innovation and fun to the 80s, and your lineup proves it.
Keep sharing your experiences in the comments, and everyone, join the conversation! Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share for more American Muscle Car goodness.
Wishing you an awesome day ahead
I put a 80 turbo on a rebuilt 2.3 in my 79 Mercury bobcat (pinto). Was fun back in 88-91.
I have a 88 conquest shp.... Whenever I take it out for a joyride I get a lot of attention every time... Very fun car to drive as well ...
Wow, an ’88 Conquest SHP-what a rare gem
That car truly stands out, blending sharp 80s design with impressive turbocharged performance. It’s no surprise it grabs attention every time you take it out; it’s a true piece of automotive history. The Starion-based Conquest SHP is a fantastic ride, especially with its widebody look, rear-wheel drive, and that punchy 2.6L turbo engine. It's the perfect mix of style and fun on the road!
Have you done any mods to it, or are you keeping it original? We’d love to hear about your experiences with it. Fellow muscle car fans, let us know what classic or modern rides you enjoy cruising in
Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more awesome content celebrating the American car scene. Wishing you great rides and an amazing day ahead-keep the wheels turning
@@MuscleCarMasters68 yes I have done the mods as in getting rid of all the known problems as in swapping out the jet valve head and put in arp bolts top to bottom and upgraded the fuel and turbo and piping... Zero problems still using tbi just really big injectors fuel pump...350 whp reliably 390 ibs.... Most people are putting mpi set up.... Im happy with how she runs... I have 3.... Shp stands for sports handling package... Wider wheels and adjustable suspension.... Very rare.
Wow, hats off to you
Your ’88 Conquest SHP sounds like an absolute beast-350 whp and 390 lb-ft with those mods? That’s incredible! Swapping out the jet valve head, upgrading to ARP bolts, and sticking with TBI but supercharging it with big injectors and a fuel pump shows your dedication. The SHP package with wider wheels and adjustable suspension really sets it apart; it’s rare to see one in such fine shape, let alone with all those upgrades. Keeping it reliable while preserving its turbocharged soul is a true enthusiast’s move!
For those MPI setups out there-sure, they’re popular, but your ride proves you don’t need to follow the crowd to get amazing results. Muscle car and turbo fans, chime in-what’s your favorite build or rare gem?
Let’s hear it....
an ‘86 dodge daytona turbo z still in your garage? that’s incredible… love it..
86 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z still in your garage? That’s beyond incredible-talk about a true gem from the turbocharged era of the '80s! This car defined American innovation with its 2.2L turbo engine, sleek aero styling, and unmistakable muscle car flair, proving that performance wasn’t just for V8s. Fans like you keep the spirit alive! What’s your favorite memory driving it? Let’s hear it in the comments! Don’t forget to share your stories, subscribe to Muscle Car Masters, and bring the nostalgia back for all enthusiasts.
Wishing you a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas
Keep cruising
I had an '89 Saab 9000 Turbo auto, it was 100% stock, I put a boost gauge in it and manipulated the wastegate to make 12 psi, I never lost 1 race in that car, it was unreal
@Smokey-88 That '89 Saab 9000 Turbo sounds like a real sleeper
Cranking it up to 12 psi and dominating every race-now that's what we call taking performance into your own hands. It’s always exciting to hear stories about cars that punch above their weight, especially when the competition doesn’t see it coming
But hey, while we’re on the subject of speed and power, American muscle cars are built for that raw, untamed experience. Cars like the '69 Dodge Charger R/T or the '70 Chevelle SS 454 were all about dominating the streets with their massive V8 engines and iconic designs.
What do you think? How do these muscle beasts stack up to the thrills you got from your Saab?
Drop your thoughts below, and let's get this conversation rolling! Don't forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe to explore more muscle car legends.
Hope to see you next time...
My dad had a 1987 four-door Mazda 626 GT turbo. Had a trunk rack on the back but was faster than the Camaro I-ROC Z from that era 0-60 time. Such a fun car and a lot of memories in it.
@northamptongiants That’s an awesome memory-those 80s turbo cars sure knew how to surprise us, didn’t they?
The 1987 Mazda 626 GT Turbo was a real sleeper! With that turbocharged 2.0L engine and lightweight build, it was quick off the line and definitely a match for some muscle cars of the day, including the Camaro IROC-Z. It’s wild to think how import tuners from Japan brought heat to the American streets during that era. Those cars gave us competition and made muscle cars step up their game
Cherish those memories with your dad and that 626-it’s not just about speed, it’s about the connection and stories behind the wheel. To everyone else out there, what are your favorite turbocharged 80s rides? Drop a comment, share your stories, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button for more classic car content
Have a great day and keep the throttle open
I had a Red 86 Conquest TSI just like the thumb nail for this video and I regret selling it in 1991. Loved it.
@fks-pv8il Wow, a Red '86 Conquest TSI? That’s an absolute classic! With its turbocharged power and bold styling, it’s no wonder you still think about it. These cars were ahead of their time, combining aggressive performance with a unique, unforgettable look. Selling it in '91 must’ve been tough, but hey, you’re part of an elite group who truly understands the magic of this turbocharged icon.
For all our fans out there, have you owned or driven a turbocharged beast from the ‘80s? Drop your stories in the comments below-we’d love to hear about your rides and regrets. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged legends, V8 powerhouses, and all things American muscle. Your support keeps the horsepower alive
Thanks for sharing your story, and wishing you a fantastic day ahead. Keep the pedal to the metal
the 1989 ford probe gt is an excellent mention. that 2.2l intercooled turbo engine was ahead of its time, and its amazing to hear your personal connection to it. your story of inheriting it adds such a nostalgic touch.
Thank you for mentioning the 1989 Ford Probe GT
That 2.2L intercooled turbo engine was indeed a powerhouse for its time, blending cutting-edge performance with sleek design. It’s awesome that you have a personal connection to such an iconic car-it’s stories like yours that keep the spirit of American automotive history alive. The Probe GT may not be a classic muscle car, but its innovation helped pave the way for future performance vehicles. Muscle car fans, share your thoughts and stories in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars.
Have a great day, and Merry Christmas
Emcee Laren can lay down a super lit rave, bro! He builds cars, too? Talk about multi talented!
@ChadThunderstroke Thanks for the love, brother! McLaren definitely brought the heat back in the day with their turbocharged beasts. While they’re best known for dominating the track and turning heads, it’s incredible how they combined next-level engineering with that unmistakable performance vibe. But let’s not forget - when it comes to raw power, American muscle cars like the Buick Grand National GNX and the Turbo Trans Am from the 80s showed everyone how it’s done.
We’d love to hear what your all-time favorite turbocharged ride is - whether it’s American muscle or another classic! Let’s keep the convo rolling.
To everyone watching, smash that like button, share this with your crew, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more heart-pounding horsepower content. Stay tuned for more turbocharged nostalgia and good ol’ American muscle
Have an awesome day, and keep that engine roaring
@MuscleCarMasters68 Hey, if you didn't get the joke, that's ok. I guess you had to be there..
Great point…The 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am with the GNX motor is an absolute beast. It’s crazy to think how it rivaled the Corvette straight from the factory. A definite Corvette killer
Absolutely
The 20th Anniversary Turbo Trans Am is a masterpiece of American engineering, no doubt about it. Packing that legendary Buick GNX turbocharged V6 under the hood, it was a true game-changer. The fact that it could go head-to-head with the Corvette straight from the factory is a testament to Pontiac’s bold vision. It wasn’t just a “Corvette killer” - it was a statement that muscle cars could dominate with innovation and performance, not just brute force. The blend of power, style, and turbocharged glory makes this Trans Am a true icon.
What do you all think? Is the Turbo Trans Am one of the most underrated muscle cars of all time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to explore more legendary American muscle cars with us. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas
Keep that muscle car spirit alive
Where are the Saab 900 Turbos 85-89 16v models
@derrickmcdaniel6105 Great question
While the Saab 900 Turbo is legendary for its unique engineering and European charm, our list focused on showcasing turbocharged cars with outrageous designs, power, and presence-qualities American Muscle fans know and love! While Saab brought sophistication, our focus leaned more toward wild beasts like the Buick Grand National. What do you think? Should we expand our list next time?
Let us know your thoughts! And to everyone watching, don’t forget to comment your favorites, share the video with fellow enthusiasts, and subscribe for more muscle car content.
Have a great day and Merry Christmas
you’re right, some of these cars have strong fanbases and arent forgotten by enthusiasts like us. the ford exp turbo is a great callout….
Absolutely
The Ford EXP Turbo is a fantastic callout-such a unique piece of American automotive history. It’s a reminder of how innovative designs have kept these cars alive in the hearts of enthusiasts like us. Muscle car fans are all about celebrating these underappreciated gems, and that’s what makes this community so special! Let’s keep the conversation going-what’s your favorite hidden gem in muscle car history? Drop it in the comments, share your thoughts, and spread the love for American Muscle Cars. Don’t forget to subscribe and share our channel
Have a great weekend, and Merry Christmas to all
I had 1989 Chrysler conquest it was one of the best cars super powerful for them days rember doing 360s in rain with it 😅😅😅😅
@luiscolon7124 Wow, the 1989 Chrysler Conquest! That's a beast right there-Mitsubishi engineering wrapped in bold American styling. Those cars were ahead of their time, packing turbocharged power and handling that could hold its own against anything on the road back then. Doing 360s in the rain? That just shows the raw, unfiltered power of the Conquest-it didn’t hold back, and neither did its drivers
We love hearing stories like this, and it’s awesome to see fans of these unsung heroes from the muscle car era! For everyone reading this, drop your favorite muscle car memories in the comments-let’s keep the conversation going. And hey, if you love American muscle and the cars that made history, make sure to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars. Let’s keep the passion alive
Have an amazing day, Luis, and keep the muscle car spirit alive
Deserve more attention !!!!
Hey @michaelm.walker-rodriguez4559, we really appreciate your support and kind words
The '80s were a wild ride for turbocharged beasts, and showcasing these outrageous machines is what we live for. Turbochargers gave these cars the power and edge that left everyone in awe, proving that muscle cars can dominate any decade
We’re all about celebrating the bold and unique spirit of American Muscle here, so if you enjoyed this video, be sure to check out our other content - there’s plenty more horsepower, torque, and jaw-dropping rides coming your way. And don’t forget, your likes, shares, and comments help us keep the muscle alive and roaring
Calling all gearheads to hit that subscribe button, share with fellow fans, and let us know your favorite turbocharged legend in the comments.
Stay tuned, stay loud, and have a fantastic day
One car from the 80s that comes to mind is the Ford Probe GT.
While the Probe GT is a cool piece of 80s nostalgia, let’s not forget it wasn’t true muscle-more a sporty compact. Real muscle in the 80s? Buick GNX. Turbocharged V6 that left even V8s in the dust.
@@CookeZachery Horsepower to weight ratio is what really matters and the Ford Probe GT turbo's HP to weight ratio was 0.05 while the Buick GNX was 0.06. Not a lot of difference.
@@lelandcarlson1668 Yes....HP to weight isn’t the whole story. The GNX’s torque 355 lb-ft at just 3000 RPM made it a beast off the line, shredding 0-60 in 4.7 sec. The Probe GT? Cool, but at 190 lb-ft, it wasn’t breaking any records. GNX had that raw muscle spirit-power, presence, and performance to own the streets
Great pick with the Ford Probe GT
While not a traditional muscle car, the 80s Probe GT stands out as a bold attempt by Ford to blend futuristic design with performance. Its turbocharged 2.2L engine brought solid power, and it captured attention with its sleek, aerodynamic styling. Did you know it was originally considered as a Mustang replacement? Imagine the alternate timeline! What are your thoughts on its legacy? Let us know in the comments below
Don’t forget to explore more muscle car gems on our channel, and hit like, share, and subscribe.
Wishing you a great weekend and Merry Christmas
As a Person who has owned and raced Dodge's my whole life, 87 GNX is my Fave
@ridesharetrixter5206 Wow, owning and racing Dodges your whole life? That’s the kind of passion we love hearing about in the muscle car world! The ‘87 Buick GNX is an absolute beast - a turbocharged icon that proved V6 power could take on the V8s of its time. With only 547 ever made, it’s a rare gem that stands tall in the history of American performance cars. That sinister blacked-out look and the way it dominated the streets made it a true legend of the '80s.
What’s your favorite memory from racing? Or did you ever get to line up against a GNX? We'd love to hear more! To everyone reading this, drop a comment about your favorite turbocharged car, smash that like button, share with your gearhead friends, and make sure to subscribe to American Muscle Cars
Have a fantastic day, and keep those engines roaring
Box fenders and pop up lights, god I still want a conquest.
@Power5 - Right on! Those box fenders and pop-up headlights are pure 80s gold! The Chrysler Conquest (and its twin, the Mitsubishi Starion) had a turbocharged soul that stood out in its era. With rear-wheel drive, aggressive styling, and that turbo boost kick, it was a dream car for anyone who lived for speed and flair. It’s no wonder you still want one-they’re rare gems today, and spotting one on the road feels like stepping into a time machine of turbocharged glory.
To all our American Muscle Car fans, what’s your take on the Conquest? Is it a sleeper classic or a misunderstood legend? Drop your thoughts in the comments, hit that share button to keep the love for turbocharged icons alive, and don’t forget to subscribe to keep cruising with us
Have an awesome day, @Power5, and keep chasing those automotive dreams
You forgot about the 89 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am! This car gets forget about and gets no love like the Buick Grand Nationals, even tho they pretty much share the same engine.
I see Pontiac tried to catch lightning in a bolt twice by making the Turbo Trans Am and hooking up with McClaren to make a Turbo Grand Prix in 89.
I think these cars weren't advertised enough or properly, cause I didn't know anything about these cars until decades later. 🤔 apparently Pontiac was messing around with turbos in late 80s and early 90s, cause there also was a turbo Sunbird and turbo Grand Am.
Is it just me or is the Dodge Daytona, just a front wheel drive version of a Chrysler Conquest? Watching the video and seeing the cars almost back to back, to me looks like the Daytona is just a more round off and modern version of the Conquest.
I think all of these cars suffered from poor marketing except for the Buick GN and the GNx. They had legitimate street credit to boost sales.
But the othe cars had a lot of potential.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, @crw3673
the '89 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am often flies under the radar, even though it shares DNA with the legendary Buick Grand National. Pontiac’s collaboration with McLaren on the Turbo Grand Prix and their experiments with turbocharged engines like the Turbo Sunbird and Grand Am prove they were pushing boundaries in the late '80s and early '90s. Unfortunately, as you mentioned, poor marketing and timing seemed to hold these innovative cars back from gaining the recognition they deserved.
As for the Dodge Daytona and Chrysler Conquest comparison, you’re spot on! The Daytona does share a resemblance but aimed to appeal with its sleek, modernized design and front-wheel-drive platform-a reflection of the shifting trends of the era.
What’s your favorite hidden gem from this era? Let us know in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters.
Have a great day and Happy New Year
@@MuscleCarMasters68what about the Ford Thunderbird SC! I believe it was the same engine as the mustang SVO.
@@crw3673 Thank you for your amazing comment, @crw3673
The Ford Thunderbird SC (Super Coupe) is an absolute gem, and you’re absolutely right-it shares a lot with the Mustang SVO, including the legendary 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 engine! However, the Thunderbird SC took a different route, pairing that power with a supercharger instead, producing an impressive 210 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque at launch. Add in its advanced suspension and sleek aerodynamics, and you’ve got a car that offered luxury and performance in one stunning package
The Thunderbird SC truly stood out in the ’80s and early ’90s as Ford’s effort to push boundaries in blending muscle with comfort. What are your thoughts-do you think it deserves more love among American classics? Let us know in the comments
Don’t forget to share this with fellow enthusiasts and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Wishing you a great day and a very Happy New Year
Conquest was a beautifully designed car.
Even today it's timeless
My big brother was selling forge throughout the 80s. The SVO mustang beat everything. And if you lost a race to him he would switch cars with you and beat you again.
Respect for the SVO, but let's not forget it was about agility, not raw muscle. The 5.0 GTs and even Buick’s GNX were out there holding it down for torque and straight-line power. The SVO? Lightweight and turbo-tuned, sure-but a different beast entirely from classic muscle vibes
The 80s brought tough competition Buick GNX and IROC Z weren’t easy wins. Respect to your brother, though
@@KeithGreene-k1v I hear ya on the GNX and IROC, but the SVO deserves a nod for keeping muscle alive in a different way. While the GNX had torque for days, the SVO brought handling to the table, showing that muscle wasn’t just about straight-line power. A turbocharged 2.3? That was Ford experimenting with the future.
That’s an awesome story
The Mustang SVO was a real game-changer in the '80s with its turbocharged 2.3L engine-lighter, agile, and still packing a punch! Your brother must’ve had a blast showing everyone that performance isn’t just about displacement but precision engineering too. Switching cars and winning again? That’s the kind of confidence that defines true American muscle enthusiasts. What about everyone else? Any stories of taking down the competition in style? Share them below
Don’t forget to comment, like, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more epic muscle car tales.
Wishing you all a fantastic day
I own an 1989 Shelby Daytona with t-tops
Has the turbocharged 4 cylinder
5 speed manual
Runs and drives great I bought it fixed it up a real pain to find parts for it but very fun to drive glad I still have it I’m the 2nd owner of the car 😊
Wow, owning a 1989 Shelby Daytona with T-tops is truly something special
That turbocharged 4-cylinder paired with a 5-speed manual must make for an exhilarating driving experience. It’s awesome that you took the time and effort to fix it up despite the challenge of finding parts-true dedication to keeping a piece of automotive history alive! Being the second owner adds a layer of connection to its legacy. Shelby’s touch on these cars gave them a unique place in the performance scene of the late '80s, and it’s fantastic to hear yours still runs and drives great.
To all our fans: What’s your favorite underrated performance car from the '80s and '90s? Drop your thoughts below
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more amazing American Muscle Car content.
@ it’s definitely an experience draws a lot of attention too from older guys who remember having one and Gen Zs trying to figure out what it is lol I found it in a small town on a trailer hadn’t moved in 8 years
Got it for 1000$ took a weekend to get it running was a battery fuel pump and tires fired right up like it ran yesterday just been chasing other things that have gone out new rack hub bearings front drive axles
But I gotta say that turbo blow off is what really sounds awesome very nice whistle it’ll definitely get up and go! And it’s factory red too just like from the old adds on tv and has 84k original miles still need to find more parts for it mostly interior parts
@@bullets1x99 Wow, what a story! Finding an ’89 Shelby Daytona with T-tops in a small town and breathing life back into it after 8 years is pure dedication and passion! That turbo blow-off sound is legendary-it’s like music for car enthusiasts, right? Factory red, only 84k miles, and still roaring down the road? That’s a piece of performance history you’ve saved, my friend! The work you’ve put in-rack, bearings, axles-proves true enthusiasts don’t just own cars; they revive them. Shelby’s touch made these turbocharged Daytonas an icon, and it's amazing to hear yours still holds its ground.
To all our fans: What’s a car you brought back to life, or which one would you love to rescue? Let us know below! Remember to like, share, and subscribe to dive deeper into the world of American Muscle Cars
Wishing you a great day and a Happy New Year
The Volvo 242 turbo, a very nice car to drive with , for the 80’s , reliable power en very high Miles !
Volvo 242 Turbo? Solid for its time, sure, but let’s be real, nothing matches the raw power and soul of a '70 Chevelle SS 454 or a HEMI 'Cuda. Reliable miles are cool, but American muscle cars deliver unforgettable drives. Turbo's neat, but where’s the rumble, the thrill, the American roar...lol...
@
You’re right but i’m dutch and we Here in Europe can’t understand hoe you’re american have such big engines without any power, a 5.0 ltr v8 in the mustang from the 80’s with 120 hirselower??? That makes a 244 glt without the turbo. That engine a 2.3 ltr in that car had 140 horsepower how is it possible that Ford only makes 120 hp out of 5.0 ltr displacement , the topic was cars with great turbo engines of the 80’s and you have in America 395 242 turbo’s evolution we in Europa don’t have that and I wish a can by such a car. They are made in there colors bleu metallic, silver metallic and black……..
Thank you for sharing your thoughts
The Volvo 242 Turbo is indeed a classic, and its reliability and performance made it a standout in the 1980s. As for the 5.0L V8 in the Mustang of that era, you’re absolutely right-it wasn’t about raw horsepower alone. American manufacturers prioritized torque and a smooth, relaxed driving experience over high-revving performance, which was more common in European cars like the Volvo 2.3L engines. However, the 5.0L engine laid the groundwork for what became legendary V8 performance in the decades to come. By the late 80s and early 90s, Mustangs with turbocharged or improved V8 engines, like the Cobra models, started redefining power standards.
For turbo enthusiasts like you, it’s incredible to think about the modern resurgence of turbocharged American cars, blending power and efficiency. What do you think about that evolution? Let us know in the comments, share this video, and don’t forget to subscribe for more American muscle car history.
Have a fantastic day
@@MuscleCarMasters68
It is not that I don’t like the v8 engines, the torgue is better but not more than the turbo from Volvo and that is what I don’t understand. Oké you’re right that the torgue cones at a higher rpm but its a volvo and volvo was the same as Ford not a high reving engine, but the engines of today are’nt very good , it’s is egaal what mark, from Alfa Romeo til Volvo to much horse power from a small engine and they you know it’s going bad…..
Hey, no doubt the Volvo 242 Turbo’s got its charm for the 80s crowd, but let’s be real-nothing beats the rumble of American muscle. Cars like the ’80 Trans Am or Mustang GT had soul and power. Reliable? Sure
A Conquest tech, what an awesome role to have back then. It’s true, those cars were quite advanced for the time and a challenge to work on. But they had so much character and performance that made it all worth it.
Those Conquest techs had one of the coolest gigs back in the day-working on cars that were way ahead of their time in both tech and style. Sure, they could be a challenge to work on, but that was part of the adventure, right? The character, raw performance, and bold design of those machines made every moment worth it. What’s your favorite memory or feature of those cars? Let’s keep the passion for these iconic rides alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars.
Wishing you an amazing weekend and a Merry Christmas
Was going to buy a 87 Conquest. No money down. They came down to Tuskegee. The fact that my parents would have killed me AND no job stopped me.
@housepumpinpc3983
yes...so great... The '87 Conquest was an absolute beast of its time-turbocharged power, bold styling, and a presence that made you feel like a king on the road. It’s crazy to think how close you came to owning one! But hey, sometimes life steps in with a reality check. No job and strict parents can definitely put the brakes on those dreams.
What’s wild is that cars like the Conquest paved the way for turbocharged performance to really take off in the late ‘80s and beyond. If you ever get the chance, owning a piece of turbocharged history like that is worth the ride.
Wishing you an awesome day ahead
MC Laren has always been one of my favourite rappers.
@TygonBC Thanks for sharing, TygonBC! McLaren as a rapper-that's a turbocharged twist we didn’t see coming! While McLaren didn’t drop bars, they sure dropped jaws with their iconic turbocharged engineering, like the legendary F1 and their Formula 1 innovations that influenced car design forever.
Speaking of turbocharged icons, the 80s brought us beasts like the Buick GNX, Pontiac Turbo Trans Am, and Dodge Daytona Turbo Z. These rides weren’t just fast-they defined the muscle car spirit of the decade, blending raw power with innovation. Turbocharged cars from that era had a way of leaving their competition in the dust while turning heads everywhere.
To all muscle car enthusiasts, what’s your favorite turbocharged legend from the 80s? Drop your picks below, hit that like button, and make sure to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged content. Have a great day, TygonBC, and keep that pedal to the metal
your buddy must have had a blast driving the conquest ts… it’s one of those cars that still turns heads today. totally agree, it’d be amazing to have one now.
Thanks for sharing, the Conquest TSi is a head-turner even today
Back in its prime, it brought that unique mix of Japanese engineering (via Mitsubishi) and American muscle car spirit. With its turbocharged engine, rear-wheel drive, and aggressive styling, it could hold its own against some serious contenders of the era. Can you imagine cruising in one now? It’d be like stepping back into a golden age of turbocharged power and pure driving fun.
To all our viewers, what are your thoughts on the Conquest TSi? Do you think it holds its place among the American muscle-inspired legends? Drop a comment below, and let’s keep the conversation alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to dive deeper into the world of American Muscle Cars.
Wishing you a great weekend and a Merry Christmas filled with horsepower dreams and good vibes
It looks like whoever made this is a Dodge Shelby fan. I'm a huge fan of these cars. I got my first one (an 87 Charger GLHS) in 1989, and then I was hooked. I now own every Dodge Shelby car you showed in here (except for the Shelby pickup), and multiples of some of them. I also have a few of the GLH versions of the Charger's and Omni's. I also own 2 Dodge Spirit RT turbos, a Dodge Neon SRT4, and a Dodge Caliber SRT4. Not Shelby's but still cool turbo Dodges!!
@Iswearthatsnotmine, your collection is absolutely incredible! It’s not every day we meet someone with such a deep passion for turbocharged Dodges, especially those legendary Shelby models. That 1987 Charger GLHS is a beast-talk about turbocharged nostalgia! Owning every Dodge Shelby you showed here (except the pickup) and multiples of some? That’s next-level dedication. And let’s not forget your Spirit R/Ts, Neon SRT-4, and Caliber SRT-4-those are underrated turbo gems that still pack a punch. Your garage sounds like a dream for any Dodge fan
Everyone watching, let’s hear from you-what’s your favorite turbocharged Dodge or Shelby model? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the muscle car conversation alive. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American muscle car history, passion, and turbocharged thrills
Have a fantastic day, and wishing you and everyone here a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and excitement
Callaway twin turbo zr1 corvette
Callaway twin-turbo ZR1? Sure, it’s a beast, but let’s be real-factory-tuned American muscle like the ZL1 Camaro or Hellcat Challenger brings raw, unfiltered power straight off the lot. Callaway’s great, but I’d argue it steps outside ‘true muscle.’ Let’s celebrate what Detroit designed to dominate from day one.
The Callaway Twin Turbo ZR1 Corvette is a true legend in American muscle car history
Dubbed the "Sledgehammer," this beast took the already impressive ZR1 Corvette and transformed it into a 250+ mph road warrior. Callaway's engineering magic added twin turbos to the iconic LT5 engine, boosting it to a jaw-dropping 750 horsepower-this was in the late 1980s! Can you imagine the thrill of hearing that V8 roar as the turbos spool up? It’s no wonder this masterpiece is still celebrated by enthusiasts today.
What’s your favorite part about the ZR1 or the Callaway upgrades? Let us know in the comments! And hey, if you love American Muscle as much as we do, don’t forget to share this passion, subscribe to the channel, and explore more epic cars with us.
Keep the love for muscle cars alive
Have a fantastic day, everyone
Not one turbocharged car from the 80s deserves any recognition other than the Supra
@Ripsaw17 Thanks for sharing your thoughts
The Supra is undeniably a legend, but let’s not overlook some of the turbocharged beasts America brought to the game in the '80s. Ever heard of the Buick GNX? It was a street-legal nightmare for Ferraris and Porsches back in the day with its turbocharged V6. And how about the SVO Mustang? Ford blended muscle car heritage with turbocharged precision for a unique experience. Then there’s the Dodge Shelby Charger-a turbocharged pocket rocket that brought Carroll Shelby’s magic to a new generation.
Turbocharging wasn’t just for imports; American ingenuity took it to the streets too
What’s your favorite turbocharged ride from the '80s? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more iconic car content.
Have a fantastic day, and keep the muscle alive
Not the GNX?? 😅
I owned an '86 Mazda 626GTurbo and it was one of the fastest cars I've ever driven.
Wow, an '86 Mazda 626 GT Turbo is a unique ride with some serious speed for its time-great choice
While Japanese turbocharged cars like yours were pioneers in lightweight power, there's nothing quite like the roar and raw torque of American muscle cars. Whether it’s a classic '68 Charger or a modern Mustang GT, American muscle delivers heart-pounding performance and timeless style. What’s your dream American muscle car? Share your thoughts below, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more
Have a fantastic day and a Merry Christmas, fellow car enthusiast
@@MuscleCarMasters68 I agree but I wouldn't dare try to compare that to American V8 muscle cars. My favorite though maybe not the fastest would be the '63-'64 Chevy Impala big block 409, or '69 Camaro RS Z28 302
@@lestermagee710 Thanks for sharing your favorites! The '63-'64 Chevy Impala big block 409 is a true legend, combining raw power and unmistakable style. And the '69 Camaro RS Z28 with its high-revving 302 small block? Pure muscle car perfection! Both cars represent the golden era of American V8s, where torque and attitude ruled the streets. It’s tough to top that mix of performance and heritage.
Have a fantastic day and Merry Christmas
My history at different times of econo sports cars from back in the day goes as following: 88 conquest tsi, 85.5 supra, 87 scirocco gt, 635 csi, 86 x1/9 i wish i still owned them all! Each one of them in my opinion looks much sexier than any car today.
@petrockanroll What a lineup of classic beauties
The '88 Conquest TSI with its turbocharged power, the '85.5 Supra's timeless design, the sleek lines of the '87 Scirocco GT, the luxury of the 635 CSI, and the quirky charm of the X1/9-each one has its own unique character and style. You’ve got a true appreciation for the golden era of automotive design and performance!
While econo-sports cars were undeniably special, American Muscle Cars of the era-like the ‘87 Buick GNX or the iconic Fox Body Mustangs-combined raw power with bold, aggressive styling that still turns heads today.
What about you, everyone? Which classics do you wish you still owned? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more on American Muscle Cars.
Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year
@MuscleCarMasters68 it's quite bitter sweet😂
Conquest. Used to see them in the 90s. Now, I can't remember the last time I've seen one. Or the Stealth r/t twin turbo. Another rare car.
@Rgf1998 - You're absolutely right
The Mitsubishi Conquest and the Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo are rare gems these days, both carrying that ‘80s and ‘90s turbocharged swagger. The Conquest, with its wide stance and unmistakable presence, was a street machine that demanded attention. And the Stealth R/T? A twin-turbo AWD beast that punched above its weight class-basically a performance legend. Both cars are hard to spot now, but when you do, it’s like spotting a unicorn on the road.
Let’s hear it from everyone else-what other rare turbocharged legends from back in the day deserve a shoutout? Drop your picks in the comments below! And hey, if you’re as passionate about American Muscle and automotive history as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic content.
Thanks for watching, and have an awesome day
I had a Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T. I've owned so many cars, I don't recall the exact year, maybe a 1997? 1995? It was really quick for its time. I smoked a new TransAm in it, and I'm still living off that glory. It's funny to me now that as fast as it was, it's still a full 2 seconds slower 0-60 than my daily driver today. The huge difference is that my current daily was $60k new, and the Mitsubishi was about $20k new.
@OzarkMountainKing That’s a legendary story-beating a Trans Am with a Mitsubishi Eclipse GS-T? Hats off to you for that one! Those turbocharged 4G63 engines packed a punch back in the day. It’s crazy how car performance has evolved, though, right? A daily driver today can match or even surpass what was once considered high-performance.
The Eclipse was an icon in its time, but let’s be honest-nothing beats the raw power and soul of American muscle. Whether it’s the Trans Am you smoked or today’s modern beasts like the Dodge Challenger Hellcat or Chevy Camaro ZL1, these cars are built to leave an impression.
For everyone watching, what’s your best “race story” or favorite car memory? Share it in the comments, and let’s keep this car-loving community growing.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars! Wishing you an awesome day, my friend
Used to be cars were just up and die. I miss those days. The heck with the nostalgia let things just never be remembered. In other words for God. We don’t need you to bring them back. Believe it or not we’re used to things going away.
@sturdivanthouse4614
Hey there, I hear you-times have definitely changed, and cars today are a whole different beast compared to the classics. But here’s the thing about nostalgia: it’s not just about remembering the past; it’s about celebrating what made these machines special. Those turbocharged monsters from the ‘80s were raw, loud, and packed with personality-something we don’t see as often today.
Wishing you an awesome day
hope to see you next time.
As much as I like all of them, especially the Grand National, if I had just one to choose to bring back for myself, it would be the Callaway Corvette. I have always loved the C4 Corvettes since I was a kid.
@85Sirex Thanks for sharing, and what a pick
The Callaway Corvette is an absolute legend, a true testament to what happens when performance meets precision. The twin-turbo C4 Callaway "Sledgehammer" wasn’t just fast-it shattered records, hitting over 254 mph and proving that American engineering could dominate on a global stage. The C4s often don’t get enough credit, but they’re the backbone of Corvette history, ushering in high-tech advancements while keeping that raw muscle car spirit alive.
The Grand National is another gem-an 80s icon of turbocharged power. It’s incredible how these cars pushed boundaries and still inspire enthusiasts today. What’s your favorite memory of the C4 Corvettes? Let us know in the comments
Keep cruising, and have a great day
I bought a red 1987 Chrysler Conquest TSi brand new at Benson Ingram Park Motors in San Antonio Texas. Then drove straight to Houston Texas to a place called Texas Turbo Engineering Inc. to have a guy named Gene Deputy modify it putting in a Super 16G Turbo and HKS Full Turbo back Exhaust with their PFC F-Con with ECC Computer and it went from 107 HP at the wheels stock to over 255 horses modded on the chassis dyno they had there. I was able to run 13's at over 110 MPH in the 1/4 at 25 PSi. But popped head gaskets like crazy on that G54B engine! Until Cometic came out with their MLS head gaskets and I added ARP head studs that could hold up pretty well to the boost I was hitting, never good floating the head. Sure was fun though! I loved that car and it handled fantastic.
My middle brother bought a brand new Dodge Charger GLHS around the same time and we raced a few times, he could never hook up that front drive very well and I'd leave him every time. But I wasn't stock either. Dad always left me off the line in his maroon 87 custom ordered Regal T-Type Grand National(He didn't like the normally black Grand National version) then I'd pass him on the top end, but Dad's Grand National ran high 13's with just a pit bull chip change! Crazy!
@turbodpv5908
Wow, what a story
That 1987 Chrysler Conquest TSi sounds like an absolute beast after those mods! From 107 HP stock to a roaring 255 horses with a Super 16G Turbo and HKS Exhaust-pure tuner magic! Running 13s at over 110 MPH is no joke, especially with that G54B engine. Sure, head gaskets were a pain, but that's the price of chasing high PSI thrills!
And your family lineup? Epic. A Dodge Charger GLHS, your Dad's 1987 Regal T-Type Grand National-true icons of the ‘80s. Sounds like you had some unforgettable races! The Grand National, with its sleeper looks and insane performance with just a chip upgrade, is pure muscle car legend.
Thanks for sharing your memories! What do the rest of you think about these ‘80s rides? Let us know your favorite builds or mods in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe.
Have a great day
Fast forward to 2024 a car with 400 hp "Dam bro, your car slow"
Ha, 400 HP being called slow-only in today’s wild world of horsepower wars! Back in the muscle car heyday, anything over 300 HP meant you ruled the streets, and cars like the '70 Chevelle SS or Dodge Charger R/T were absolute monsters. Today, 400 HP is what family SUVs are packing, but let’s not forget: it’s not just about horsepower, it’s about the soul of the car. The rumble of a big-block V8, the smell of burning rubber, and the feel of raw torque-it’s what makes American Muscle Cars legendary.
What’s your favorite high-HP beast? Drop your thoughts below! Remember to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters to relive the golden era of muscle and learn more about these iconic machines.
Stay tuned for more horsepower-packed content. Have a great day, and Merry Christmas to all you car enthusiasts out there
This made it very clear that Shely had no brand loyalty and was just a money whore. When he put his name on a dodge omni with little more than some stickers and a peel and stick turbo. His true colors showed through to me. Then began a foundation and couldn't resist siphoning money from that as well.
1988- 1992 Mazda MX6 GT I own two of this and they are a lot of fun
@frankgarcia1435 That's awesome, Frank! The 1988-1992 Mazda MX6 GT is a hidden gem of the turbocharged '80s era. Those 2.2L turbocharged engines packed a punch, and with their lightweight design, they delivered serious fun on the road. Owning two? That’s doubling the turbocharged thrills-respect
It’s cool how the '80s brought innovation like turbos to the forefront, even if it wasn’t muscle cars doing it at first. But hey, the spirit of speed, power, and adrenaline connects all car enthusiasts, right?
Speaking of which, for the American muscle fans out there, what’s your favorite turbocharged classic from the '80s or beyond? Drop your thoughts in the comments-let’s keep this conversation rolling! And don’t forget to share, subscribe, and help grow the American Muscle Cars community.
Keep the throttle down, Frank, and have a great day
@@MuscleCarMasters68 thanks my brother it is a ton of fun one of them I upgraded the turbo since the stock turbo blew, I installed a gtx3067 I just need better tuning at the moment so I can have the car running 100%, plus D2 coil overs for better performance and handling, for exhaust 2.5 inc pipe vibrant resonator and vibrant street power dual tips I would be uploading a video soon that way everyone can hear it. My favorite car on that era would be this one I own, Mitsubishi station being 2nd of the list, but honestly all those turbocharged gems I love every single of them
The Grand National REIGNS SUPREME overall!! I still have mine with 52k original miles and professionally fully built, nothing like the GN...
@mackmanson3543 The Grand National is absolutely legendary! With that turbocharged 3.8L V6 and sinister all-black look, it’s no wonder it still reigns supreme in the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts. The fact that you’ve kept yours in such pristine condition with only 52k original miles-and fully built? That’s the dream! Nothing else captures the mix of raw power and unique style like the GN.
For everyone reading, what’s your ultimate muscle car? Is it the Grand National, or do you roll with something like the HEMI ‘Cuda, Boss 429, or a classic Chevelle SS? Let us know in the comments!
And hey, if you love American muscle as much as we do, hit that subscribe button for more epic car content, share this with your fellow gearheads, and join the community! Keep the spirit of American muscle alive
@@MuscleCarMasters68 100% will do!
Just when these turbo cars were seeing much improvement in technology, the manufacturers pulled the plug in the early 1990s in favor of lower output normally aspirated V6 engines. I read that was due to more strict emission standards and the issue was that turbos would be spacing catalytic converters too far from the exhaust manifolds to be effective. Glad to see there was a work around allowing the comeback of turbos today, but unfortunately not in stylish & affordable small 2 door cars.
@johnmcmullen456 You’re spot on, and it’s a bit of a heartbreaker when you think about it! Back in the early ‘90s, turbos were really hitting their stride, but tighter emissions regulations threw a wrench in the works. Manufacturers had to adapt fast, and you’re right-turbo placement affecting catalytic converter efficiency was a big issue. It’s a shame we lost those stylish, affordable turbocharged 2-doors, but hey, it’s amazing how today’s tech has brought turbos back with better performance and efficiency
Imagine if those small turbocharged legends had stuck around-American muscle history might look a lot different! What’s your favorite turbo car from that era? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share, subscribe, and join the conversation here on American Muscle Cars! We’ve got more awesome content coming your way.
Stay classic, stay loud, and have a great day, John
A couple of my favorite turbo cars from the past are a 1984 Thunderbird Turbocoupe I special ordered, and my brother's 1990 Shelby Daytona with the rare VNT turbo he bought new. Great performance & gas mileage for their times.
@ John, you’re bringing up two absolute turbocharged legends! The 1984 Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and the 1990 Shelby Daytona with that rare VNT turbo? Those cars were ahead of their time, combining performance, style, and even solid gas mileage. It’s wild to think how innovative the ‘80s and ‘90s were for turbo tech-those cars paved the way for the turbocharged beasts we see today.
That Shelby Daytona, especially with the Variable Nozzle Turbo, was a game-changer-quicker spool times and a power curve that made it feel like a much bigger engine. And the Turbo Coupe? Pure underrated muscle with luxury flair.
the chrysler conquest and mitsubishi starion were ahead of their time, blending sleek design with turbocharged power. even today, their styling and performance make them standout classics…
Absolutely! The Chrysler Conquest and Mitsubishi Starion were groundbreaking-bringing turbocharged performance and aggressive styling to the forefront in the 80s. These cars were proof that bold design and innovative engineering could create unforgettable rides. Their sharp lines, rear-wheel-drive setups, and turbo power still command respect among enthusiasts today. The Conquest’s American flair blended perfectly with Mitsubishi’s precision, making them a true standout. What are your favorite memories or facts about these legends?
Let us know in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more American muscle car classics. Wishing you a fantastic day
I've always loved the Dodge Conquest Mitsubishi Starion. What a beautiful car!
The Dodge Conquest (aka Mitsubishi Starion) is indeed a beauty, and what a powerhouse in the turbocharged scene! It was one of the boldest collaborations between American muscle swagger and Japanese precision, bringing us a compact turbo beast that could truly leave a mark. With its wide-body stance, rear-wheel drive, and a turbocharged 2.6L four-cylinder engine, it had the heart of a racer and the spirit of innovation. Dodge didn’t just aim for looks-they wanted performance that turned heads and burned rubber. This car stands as a testament to the 1980s era of turbocharged creativity
What do you think about the Conquest’s role in turbo history? Let us know your favorite turbocharged legends in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more nostalgia, speed, and history.
Have an amazing day and a Happy New Year, car enthusiasts
I have always wanted to drive a 87 buick gnx. And my dream car
Ah, the 1987 Buick GNX
A true legend and one of the most iconic muscle cars of its era. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 was a game-changer, producing 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque-numbers that shocked everyone back in the day. Not to mention, with a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds, it left many V8s in the dust! The GNX wasn’t just fast; it was rare, with only 547 ever built, making it a true collector’s dream. Driving one must feel like stepping back into the golden age of muscle.
What’s your favorite feature about the GNX? Let us know! And for all American muscle fans out there, don’t forget to comment, share your dream car, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more content that fuels your passion for classic rides
Thanks for sharing your dream with us, and have a fantastic weekend...
87 Buick GNX is cool, no doubt, but as a true muscle car fan
@@MuscleCarMasters68
we owned a GNX number 396. And let me tell you it was an amazing car. We also had 2 1987 GNs one had a custom chip and it was no slouch either. But the GNX was the best it had more power and the suspension was like no other. These two cars are my favorite 80s turbo cars hands down. LOL next was the 88 Pontiac turbo 3.8 Trans Am.
@@shaneberckman Wow, owning GNX #396-what a piece of automotive history you’ve got there! The GNX truly stood out as an engineering marvel of the '80s muscle car scene. That turbocharged 3.8L V6 wasn’t just powerful; it was revolutionary, proving that V6s could dominate the streets. The suspension, upgraded by McLaren, gave it handling like no other muscle car of its time. It's no surprise it’s your favorite-fast, rare, and undeniably cool. And those 1987 Grand Nationals weren’t far behind either, especially with that custom chip!
The 1988 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am is another gem-sharing that same legendary 3.8L turbo engine, it kept the legacy alive. Out of curiosity, how did the driving experience of the GNX compare to the Turbo Trans Am?
To all muscle car fans, share your favorite turbocharged rides in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe to Muscle Car Masters, and Happy New Year to you and your family!
I had a 1981 Renault Turbo Fuego. Loved that car.
@josephrizzo4321 The 1981 Renault Turbo Fuego? That’s a unique ride, Joseph
Those turbocharged beauties were ahead of their time with sharp styling and impressive performance for a European car. But you know what else was stealing the streets back then? American muscle like the Pontiac Trans Am or the Mustang GT...Both had that raw power and rumble we all crave. What do you think-how would your Fuego stack up against one of those legends? Let us know in the comments! And hey, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more muscle car content.
Wishing you a great day
The GNX T Type Regal. Gets no better
The Buick GNX T-Type Regal-what a legendary machine
You're absolutely right; it doesn’t get much better than this when it comes to turbocharged muscle. With its stealthy all-black look and that monstrous turbocharged 3.8L V6, the GNX wasn’t just fast-it was a force to be reckoned with. It hit 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds back in the late '80s, putting many V8-powered rivals to shame. The GNX became a true icon for muscle car fans who love raw power and unrelenting performance wrapped in a sleeper package. Did you know it was often called "the Grand National on steroids"?
We love hearing from fans like you who appreciate the unsung heroes of the muscle car world. What other turbocharged legends are your favorites? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car history.
Have a fantastic day and Happy New Year
The more research I do and the more l learn, the more convinced I become that the Buick GNX is the greatest American performance car ever, relative to its era. The car has it all. Bad ass beautiful while distinctly American in appearance. Plus, super car beating performance, with everyday practicality and luxury. Shoot, I'm starting to sound like a commercial.
@AndrewGraziani-k7d Wow, Andrew
You nailed it-your passion for the Buick GNX is contagious! The GNX truly is an icon of its time, combining bold, unmistakably American styling with performance that left even some European supercars shaking in their boots. With its turbocharged 3.8L V6, it proved that raw power and practicality could coexist, and it dominated the streets as both a luxury cruiser and a performance beast. The GNX wasn't just a car-it was a statement of American engineering at its peak.
And hey, you're not just sounding like a commercial; you're preaching the truth! The GNX still has a cult following for a reason.
What do you all think? Does the Buick GNX deserve the title of the greatest American performance car of its era? Drop your thoughts below, share the video with your car-enthusiast friends, and don't forget to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more amazing content
Have a great day
Mitsubishi starion was awesome and it still looks great today
@darvhernandez1 You’re absolutely right-the Mitsubishi Starion was a beast of its time! Its sharp, aerodynamic lines and turbocharged power made it a standout in the ’80s. While it’s not a traditional American muscle car, it did pack some serious performance that earned respect across the board. It’s always great to see enthusiasts keeping the appreciation alive for unique rides like the Starion.
For those muscle car fans out there, what’s your take on the Starion? Does it deserve a spot alongside the big names, or is it in a league of its own? Let’s hear it in the comments! And while you’re here, don’t forget to hit that subscribe button, give us a thumbs-up, and share the love for all things American Muscle Cars with your fellow gearheads.
Thanks for the awesome comment, and keep cruising! Wishing you a great day
My Conquest TSI was the sh!t until it rained. Lol
@damedoe Haha, no doubt
The Conquest TSI was an absolute beast back in the day-those turbocharged rides knew how to turn heads and burn rubber. But yeah, that rear-wheel drive on a rainy day? It was like taking a bull to a skating rink! 😂 Still, that car had attitude for days, and not everyone could handle its raw power. True drivers know what it means to tame a turbo icon like that
We’d love to hear more about your experiences with the TSI-did you ever mod it? Or was it all about keeping it stock and letting the turbo do the talking? Drop your stories below, and let’s keep the 80s turbo vibes alive
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged throwbacks and muscle car madness. Have a great day, and keep it fast and loud
You left out the murcur xr4 ti
While it’s a cool turbocharged ride, it doesn’t quite fit the American muscle car mold like Mustangs or Chargers. We’re talking big-block power and V8 rumble-Merkur was more Euro-inspired.
The Mercury XR4Ti was a unique gem in the 1980s, blending American ingenuity with German engineering. Its 2.3L turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance for its time, and it carried that distinct Merkur badge, standing out in a sea of mundane imports. Though not a traditional muscle car, it captured the spirit of innovation and power that we all love in American performance vehicles.
Thanks for bringing this up-it’s always great to spotlight underappreciated cars! What’s your take on the XR4Ti’s role in the evolution of American performance cars? Drop your thoughts below, and let’s get this conversation rolling
If you’re as passionate about cars as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to the channel for more deep dives into the history and heart of American muscle cars.
Wishing you a fantastic day, and keep those engines roaring
I had a 85 Merkur Xr4ti that had a Ford 2.3 turbo that car now is like a Unicorn
@jimski377R Wow, owning an '85 Merkur XR4Ti with that Ford 2.3 turbo makes you part of a rare club
That car was ahead of its time, blending European style with American engineering under Ford's global reach. While the 2.3 turbo didn’t win everyone over back then, it laid the groundwork for performance legends like the SVO Mustang and even the EcoBoost engines we see today. That little engine had serious potential when tuned right and still has a cult following among enthusiasts.
What do you think about turbocharged engines in muscle cars? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Everyone, let’s keep the conversation rolling-comment below with your favorite rare rides, share this with fellow gearheads, and don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more muscle car history and stories. Stay awesome, and have a fantastic day, Jim
How about this Frankenstein, a 1989 twin turbo mustang 5.0 lx making over 530hp to the wheels, that I build towards the end of my 1993 high school senior year. Most parts came from 1980’s turbo cars that you mentioned in this video. All donor cars were low mileage wrecks. Two turbochargers, and two set of fuel injectors from 89 t-bird 2.3 turbo, two intercoolers from 89 Dodge Daytona Shelby edition 2.2 turbo, rear disk brake assembly and booster pump from 1986 mustang SVO, the rest of the parts were from aftermarket sources: gt40 intake manifold and modified 8.5:1 compression aluminum gt40 cylinder heads, CNC’d to accept custom made o-ringed copper head gasket, oversized throttle body and mass air meter, re-programmed stock mustang 5.0 ECU, one Lincoln tech MiG welder, and 4 months of cutting & welding to build the necessary brackets, exhaust manifolds, down pipes, charge pipes, and other miscellaneous items. Every free time was spent to get it done for the end of high school summer shenanigans. Best summer ever, lots of racing and fixing, learned to swap a T-5 in under 1hr😊. I drove it daily for over 3 years until my aviation law professor advised me, that my driving record is going to be a huge problem finding employment as an airline pilot. It was hard to let it go but the temptation to race was just too great, and I didn’t want my already wrecked driving record to jeopardize my future aviation career. Unfortunately new owner few months after he got it, lost control and wrapped it around a tree.
@po3678 Wow, what a legendary build
Your 1989 twin-turbo Mustang 5.0 LX sounds like an absolute beast and a true testament to creativity and dedication. Using donor parts from '80s turbo cars to craft a Frankenstein like that is next-level ingenuity. Those twin T-bird turbos, SVO brakes, and intercoolers from a Daytona Shelby-pure muscle car magic. And the craftsmanship? From the custom CNC’d GT40 heads to the handmade charge pipes and exhaust manifolds, that's the kind of gearhead engineering that keeps the muscle car legacy alive.
It's a shame the car's story ended in tragedy, but the memories and lessons it gave you are priceless. We'd love to hear more stories like this-what's your next project?
Muscle car fans, drop a comment about your craziest builds, hit that like button, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more epic rides and stories.
Have a great day, @po3678
A seriously overshadowed turbo 80s car is the Turbo Trans Am. Same 3.8L turbo V6 as the Grand National (not the GNX, the GNX got an intercooler.) But, the Turbo T/A was advertized as only 250 hp, wich was very much underrated it was more like 300-315 hp out of the box, which was very good for the time.
Question ,were the 1989 Pontiac Turbo GTA Twin Turbo 3.8 V6.
Sure, others might dismiss the 1989 Pontiac Turbo GTA Twin Turbo 3.8 V6 as 'not muscle' because it’s a V6, but hear me out: this engine was ahead of its time. With twin turbos and Buick GNX roots, it pushed innovation into the muscle car world. Raw power isn’t just about cylinders; it’s about performance
Hey there! Great question about the 1989 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am GTA with the twin-turbo 3.8L V6-what an engineering marvel! Pontiac teamed up with ASC/McLaren to produce a few experimental twin-turbo versions of the already impressive Buick 3.8L V6. This engine was a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of performance with over 300 horsepower-some say closer to 400! It was meant to show off Pontiac's innovation in muscle car performance, blending power and efficiency, but sadly, it didn’t make it to full production. However, the standard Turbo GTA with the single turbo was already a beast, borrowing the legendary powertrain from the Buick Grand National.
What do you think? Would this twin-turbo have changed the game for muscle cars in the late ‘80s?
Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share for more American Muscle Car history and stories.
Have an awesome weekend...
Had a conquest 1985 and it was fun to drive when you're just turn 21 :)
The tech may not have been as good back then, but the unique styling was. Cars just don't have personality today and they're all starting to look alike.
@wiseguy9202 You’re absolutely right
Back in the day, the tech may not have been as advanced, but those cars had soul. Every curve, every line-they were a statement of personality and power. Today, cars often feel like clones, but in the '80s, every model fought to stand out, and turbocharging was like strapping a rocket to the wild styling of the era.
It’s that bold creativity that makes these cars legendary. Who can forget beasts like the Buick GNX or the SVO Mustang? They weren’t just fast-they looked like they meant it. That’s what makes the '80s such a golden age for turbocharged rides.
What’s your all-time favorite outrageous car of the '80s? Let us know in the comments below! And hey, don't forget to share this with your fellow car enthusiasts, subscribe to American Muscle Cars, and keep the muscle alive
Have a great day
My brother did have one of the dodge Shelby turbo cars . Really quick . MY Grand National was my favorite . I do hope they recall the 89 turbo Trans Am .
@kennethroot6890 What a lineup! Your brother’s Dodge Shelby Turbo must’ve been a blast-those cars were light, quick, and packed a serious punch for their time. And the Grand National? Now that’s a legend right there! With its sinister all-black look and that turbo V6, it’s no wonder it’s a fan favorite. As for the ’89 Turbo Trans Am, we couldn’t agree more. That was one of the most underrated turbocharged beasts of the 80s, using the same Buick 3.8L turbo V6 as the GNX but in a lighter and sleeker package. It deserves all the love it can get!
Wishing you a turbocharged day, Kenneth
hope to see you next time...
The GN is the best 80's car hands down, but when it comes to raw N/A muscle, give me a 69 Camaro Z28 or a 70 Hemi Cuda! Love American muscle, NOTHING LIKE IT!
@mackmanson3543 The GN is an absolute legend of the '80s-no arguments there! That turbocharged V6 made it a true street king. But when you talk raw, naturally aspirated muscle, you're hitting all the right notes with the '69 Camaro Z28 and '70 HEMI 'Cuda. The Z28’s high-revving 302 small block and corner-carving Trans-Am racing roots were pure American ingenuity, while the HEMI ‘Cuda packed that monster 426 engine and enough torque to make the asphalt scream. Two icons, two different vibes-both absolute powerhouses in their own way.
American muscle cars aren't just machines-they’re rolling history, pure adrenaline, and the roar of freedom. Let’s keep the conversation alive! Everyone, drop your favorite muscle car in the comments, share the video with fellow gearheads, and smash that subscribe button for more
Thanks for being part of the muscle car family. Have an awesome day, my friend
Audi Quattro turbo 1984 or the 1980s Renault turbo 2. 1987 Ford Sierra Cosworth .Thats what I was drooling over.
Wow, you’ve got an incredible taste for legendary rides! The Audi Quattro Turbo, Renault Turbo 2, and Ford Sierra Cosworth are all iconic machines that left their mark on the 80s motorsport and performance scene. Those turbocharged beasts brought raw power and excitement to the rally tracks and streets of Europe, much like how American Muscle Cars like the 1987 Buick GNX or the Pontiac Trans Am GTA reigned supreme in their own right.
Speaking of performance, have you ever compared the turbo revolution of Europe to the supercharged V8 powerhouses of America?
And hey, don’t forget to share this channel with fellow car lovers, subscribe for more muscle car content, and enjoy your day.
@@MuscleCarMasters68 Thank you. I grew up in Europe before internet so we didn't really know much about American cars but what we saw in movies. I've been comparing them all my life ☺ 80s and 90s turbo cars was the way to go.
@@Chrissurfs Thank you for sharing your story-it’s amazing how movies sparked your love for cars and fueled a lifetime of comparisons! Turbo cars from the 80s and 90s, like the Audi Quattro or the Renault 5 Turbo, are legendary for their innovative engineering and rally domination. Meanwhile, on the other side of the pond, American muscle cars were flexing their raw V8 power, with beasts like the Buick GNX or the Pontiac Trans Am GTA delivering unrelenting torque and a roar like no other.
It's fascinating to think about how turbocharged precision and supercharged V8 brute force shaped two different car cultures. What’s your take-does turbo finesse match the raw thrill of muscle car power? Let’s hear it in the comments! And remember to share this channel with fellow enthusiasts, hit subscribe, and join us for more American muscle car adventures. Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year
At timestamp 4:57
I own a GLHS, number 296! The original owner rebuilt the entire engine from the crankshaft outward and increase the turbo boost from the stock 10-12 lb to a whopping 20 lb!
When I first bought that car home, the tires were BREAKING TRACTION IN THIRD GEAR! It's definitely a screamer Aunt with the support of the Shelby Dodge automobile club, it's be ing retained and maintained.
I bought it in 2017 with only 80,000 mi on it for $15,000
Wow, what an incredible story
Owning a GLHS is a badge of honor in the world of performance cars, and #296 sounds like an absolute monster with that 20 lbs of boost! Breaking traction in third gear? That’s the kind of outrageous power Shelby enthusiasts dream of. Hats off to the original owner for rebuilding it from the crankshaft out-what a labor of love. And the fact that you’ve kept it in top shape with support from the Shelby Dodge Automobile Club shows your dedication to preserving this legend.
For only $15,000 and 80K miles, you snagged a gem that most of us can only envy. This is what makes the muscle car community so special-stories like yours keep the passion alive
Everyone, share your turbocharged tales or favorite muscle car memories in the comments. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our channel. Have a fantastic day
Eagla Talon Tsi AWD a beast!
@josephpetersonjr.8270
the Eagle Talon TSi AWD is a true beast! With its turbocharged 4G63 engine and AWD system, it was a giant slayer of its time. Not only could it hang with some of the big names in performance, but its lightweight design and rally-inspired engineering made it a street legend for anyone who knew how to handle its power.
It’s a rare gem among turbocharged classics, and its bold spirit is what made the ‘80s such an iconic time for car enthusiasts. What’s your favorite memory or feature of the Talon? Let’s hear it
Keep the pedal to the metal, and have an awesome day
I owned a 86 Mitsubishi Starion in high school. Fun car till the headgasket blew😮
@frederickh4942 That's awesome! The ‘86 Mitsubishi Starion is a legend in the turbocharged world, especially for its bold styling and performance. Those wide fender flares and rear-wheel drive made it a standout, and let’s not forget the turbo - a true beast of the 80s! Too bad about the head gasket, but hey, owning a Starion in high school must’ve been a blast while it lasted.
For American muscle fans, it’s cool to see how turbocharged imports like the Starion pushed the envelope back then, inspiring competition across the board. Muscle or tuner, it’s all about the thrill of driving something unique and powerful, right?
Everyone, drop a comment on your favorite turbocharged car from the 80s - whether it’s American muscle or an import icon like the Starion. And don’t forget to share and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome rides and stories. Have a great day
I was gonna be pissed if ya didn't bring up the 2300 turbo I'll bet ya didn't even know mercury had one in the capri I'm looking at one right now
2300 Turbo? Cool, but let’s not forget the 2.3L turbo wasn’t just in the Capri! Ford dropped it into the Thunderbird Turbo Coupe and even the Mustang SVO, delivering surprising performance for a 4-banger. Respect to Mercury, but the SVO’s balance of power and handling? Game-changer for its time. Muscle car fans can’t ignore that
@AdelynDodson thank you for corresponding me mines charcoal black with t tops one out of 586 made
Wow, you’re absolutely right to call out the 2300 Turbo in the Mercury Capri
It’s one of those hidden gems that often gets overshadowed by the bigger V8 powerhouses, but it absolutely deserves some love. The turbocharged 2.3L inline-4 was a bold move by Mercury, especially during the early '80s when fuel efficiency and performance had to meet. What’s really cool is how the 2300 Turbo laid the groundwork for the later SVO Mustangs and even influenced turbo tech for years to come. Seeing one today must be a real treat-those Capris are becoming a rare sight!
Thanks for sharing this slice of history with us. To everyone else, what’s your favorite underrated muscle car or engine? Drop it in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the American Muscle Car spirit alive.
Have a great day, and keep cruising
Grand National, nuff said
@warrior-kv9qh Grand National-now that’s the spirit
The Buick Grand National wasn’t just a car; it was a straight-up street legend that left the competition in its dust. With that turbocharged 3.8L V6 punching way above its weight, this beast showed the world you didn’t need a big V8 to dominate the streets in the '80s. The GNX? That thing was practically a muscle car superhero! It hit 0-60 in under five seconds, embarrassing high-end imports and solidifying its place as one of the most outrageous turbocharged cars of the decade.
What’s everyone’s favorite turbocharged beast from the '80s? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, share this video with a fellow gearhead, and don’t forget to subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged history and raw horsepower nostalgia. Thanks for watching, and have an awesome day,
Calling it Em See Laren is giving me cancer.
Hey there! Thanks for sharing your thoughts-we appreciate every bit of feedback from passionate fans like you. We understand how crucial it is to keep our content engaging and accurate, especially for enthusiasts like us who live and breathe American muscle cars. Your comment has been noted, and we’ll make sure to bring you even more thrilling and well-polished videos in the future.
Have a fantastic day, and Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones
I was a Chrysler tech mid 80s to 2008. Got to drive most of turbo cars. My 80s favorite was rx7 turbo. Conquest was fun but front end sagged out too negative camber with no adjustments from the manufacturer at that time.. Diamondstar Laser was deadly and more fun but rx7 had it all on them much better car, and not too forget 626 turbo.
@raylamp4505 That's an awesome journey you’ve had as a Chrysler tech-what an era to experience those turbo beasts firsthand! The RX-7 turbo was indeed a game-changer with its rotary power and handling finesse, but we have to give a shoutout to the Conquest and those wild Diamond Star machines too. You're right about the Conquest's front-end challenges, but those cars still hold a special place in car culture.
The 626 Turbo was another underrated gem-Mazda was really ahead of its time in the turbocharged game. It’s cool to hear perspectives like yours, especially from someone who worked on these classics. What was your most memorable drive in that lineup?
To everyone reading, let’s keep this gearhead convo alive! Comment your turbo favorites, share this channel with your crew, and subscribe for more American muscle content. Keep the pedal down, and have a great day
The gnx is the ONLY ONE I respected
Ah, the Buick GNX-a true legend of the '80s
That turbocharged beast redefined what muscle could be in a time when the odds were stacked against performance cars. With its 3.8L turbocharged V6, delivering up to 276 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque, it smoked V8 rivals on the strip. Respect deserved! What's your favorite GNX moment or fact? Let us know! And for all muscle car fans out there, don’t forget to comment, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Master for more epic rides and stories.
Wishing you a great day and a Merry Christmas...
Corvette Callaway était imbattable 💯
Absolutely, @matbesik724
The Corvette Callaway truly was a masterpiece of engineering and performance
It’s one of the finest examples of how American innovation brought muscle and style together on the road. With its twin-turbocharged heart roaring under the hood, the Callaway Corvette proved it could take on the best in the world and leave them in the dust. Let’s not forget the legendary "Sledgehammer" version, which shattered speed records and became an icon for car enthusiasts everywhere.
Do you have a favorite Callaway model or memory?
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share our passion for American muscle cars with your friends.
Keep cruising, and have a fantastic day
I'm pretty sure the Shelby Daytona Z was introduced in 1986 not 87'.🤔
@freedomfighter69
The Shelby Daytona Z indeed started making waves in 1986, and it’s incredible how you caught that detail-thank you for pointing it out! Shelby's work in the '80s with the Daytona Z was a unique chapter, blending that turbocharged Mopar power with Carroll Shelby’s racing pedigree. This car packed a punch with its turbo 2.2L engine, showing that Shelby’s magic wasn’t just reserved for the V8 monsters of the '60s.
Wishing you an amazing day and a Happy New Year filled with horsepower and memories
@@MuscleCarMasters68 When I was in jr. high a friend of mine bought a new one, gold on black fully loaded. I liked your video, I watched it all. :)
@@freedomfighter69 Wow, what an awesome memory-gold on black, fully loaded, that’s the stuff dreams are made of! Cars like that were pure style and performance, showing off the bold spirit of the muscle car era. It’s amazing how cars like these not only turned heads back in the day but also created lifelong memories that we still hold onto today. Thank you so much for watching the video all the way through-we truly appreciate your support and passion for these classics.
hope to see you on newest videos... have a great day....
MC Laren is my favourite rapper
@dougbrown9048 Haha, looks like autocorrect might’ve steered you into the wrong lane! McLaren’s got speed, but when it comes to raw power, classic design, and that heart-pounding roar of a V8, nothing beats American Muscle! 💪🚗 Whether it’s a roaring Dodge Charger, a mean Mustang, or the timeless Chevy Camaro, these machines were made to dominate the streets and ignite passion in car lovers everywhere.
Stay fast, stay loud, and have an awesome day
@@MuscleCarMasters68 chat gpt
The Grand National/T-Type/Turbo-T/GNX were the quickest of the 9 turbo cars listed. The 84-87 Regal G-Body turbo cars should be number 1 on this list. I do not care what numbers the 1987 Callaway Turbo Turbo C4 Corvette, when pitted against the GNX in the quarter mile it still lost. Sure the Callaway Twin Turbo C4 Corvette would eventually catch and pass the GNX, but launching the GNX down the 1320 and getting thrown in back in your seat is so much more fun than having to start slower and then your vehicle be all top end. I will mention it one more time the G-Body Turbo Regal did not have massive resources thrown at it. The funding for development pulled together from other departments within Buick that had gotten slightly more funds budgeted to them they needed and fortunately they gave Turbo Buick Team the funds to start development of the powertrain. To boot from 1983 to 1984 The Turbo Team had to switch over from carburetor to sequential fuel injection, along with a slew of other electronics, such as the MAF, MAP, IAC, IAT, ECT, TPS, Wastegate Solenoid, Narrow Band O2, etc. The develop team consisted of 5 to 7 engineers and with the limited resources, Buick still managed to get the GN and T-Type out for production for 1984 Model Year. Still with no budget allocated the engineers moonlighted and made a couple of minor changes for 85 and then the biggest changes came in 86, with the addition of the Intercooler and more efficient turbocharger from Garrett. The 86 model year hit the showroom floors in either October or November or 85. I have an 86 and date of sale from the paperwork was November 15th, 1985. Finally the 87 MY was set to come out, with an all black grill and for the model year of 87 only the GN came standard with a rear POSI. I am not sure if the other 87 model year G-Body Turbo Regals, designated with just T instead of the T-Type, came standard with a POSI. In 1987 consumers could purchase a base Regal with LC2 powertrain, a limited Regal with the LC2 powertrain and a mix and match of options. Some of the rarest G-Body Turbo Regals were produced in 1987. Of course the 547 GNXs that were produced with the help of the ASC-McLeran. All the GNXs came with the exact same options, a fully optioned Grand National. The GNXs could not, however, get the Astor-Roof or T-Tops. My 86 Grand National came with Power Electric Windows, AC (standard on all GNs), their run of the mill radio and that's about it. My 86 did not come with a Posi, an aftermarket one was added a few years after the car was purchased. My 86 GN is a bit on the bulky side, coming at 3810 lbs with driver and half tank of gas. When Car and Driver had an 86 GN test drive, it just so happened to be during the winter and it was really cold. Csere Csaba, from C&D, was doing the testing and data collection. With an ice cold temperature of 8 degree F outside, Csaba was able to consistently run a 0-60 time of 4.6 seconds. I am fairly certain, a GNX could have probably hit a 4.2 - 4.4 second 0-60 had it been tested in 8 degree temps. Just goes to show what happens with ice cold feeding in the intake and then going through the intercooler. Thus far my 86 GN has ran a best time of 11.70 at 115 mph in the 1/4 mile at Milan Dragway. This occurred way back in 2009. I have not had it to the track since then and I am hopeful I will get it put back together and tuned with an aftermarket Engine Control Module, ECM, which is made by Turbo Tweak and is plug and play. Since that 09 ran, my engine has been rebuilt with a forged rotating assembly, hydraulic roller cam and rockers. An much larger aftermarket intercooler, along with a flex fuel sensor so I can accurately measure the ethanol content and have a safe tune for it. I have an older GEN I Precision 6265 turbo, with the compressor wheel machined from solid. I may have to upgrade my turbo though, I dropped my 6265 without the turbine housing on it and I may not be able to get the turbo repaired for a halfway decent price. If that is the case and the funds are available I am going to get an HPT 6466 Turbo. I can either use an internal or external wastegate. HPT designed their turbochargers such that a modified or different downpipe isn't necessary. So I may have an electronic external wastegate. I should get my sled down the 1320 in the low 10 second range. Just have to have a very good tune and some fail safes if a sensor or actuator goes bad. Run redundant temperate sensors and so forth. There are so many small DIY microcontrollers that don't cost and arm and leg, I can do my own custom stuff to my GN.
@charleslowe522 Thanks for the incredible deep dive into the turbocharged legends of the ‘80s! You're absolutely right-the 84-87 Turbo Regals, especially the GNX, were beasts of innovation and performance. With limited resources, Buick’s team created something that still commands respect decades later. The G-Body Turbo Regals truly embody the underdog spirit of American muscle, proving that heart and ingenuity can rival big-budget projects.
The GNX, in particular, is a masterpiece. Its ability to dominate the quarter-mile with sheer torque and that unforgettable launch is something no car enthusiast can overlook. While the Callaway Twin Turbo C4 Corvette brought incredible top-end speed, the GNX owned the drag strip. That feeling of being thrown back in your seat as the GNX rockets down the 1320 is pure adrenaline, the kind every muscle car fan dreams of.
Your detailed breakdown of the engineering evolution-from carbureted setups to advanced fuel injection and the introduction of the intercooler in ‘86-is a testament to the dedication behind these cars. And your own ‘86 GN sounds like a monster in the making! A low-10-second pass? That’s insane. We can’t wait to hear how it performs with the upgraded turbo, ECM, and your custom fail-safe tech.
To everyone reading this, what do YOU think about the GNX versus the Callaway Twin Turbo Corvette? Which turbocharged beast of the ‘80s deserves the crown? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep this debate alive! Also, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome discussions like this one.
Charles, best of luck getting that GN dialed in! Thanks for sharing your passion and expertise-it’s what makes this community so great. Wishing you (and your GN) many victorious passes ahead.
Have a fantastic day
Also, name the one car company that didn't take a government bail out?
@colinvictor6557 Great point, Colin
That one car company that stood tall and didn’t take a government bailout during tough times? It was Ford Motor Company. They stayed strong, made bold moves, and kept their legacy alive without leaning on taxpayer dollars-a true testament to American resilience and determination.
Ford’s choice to go solo speaks volumes about their commitment to their craft and their customers. They kept the American muscle spirit roaring, just like those turbocharged beasts of the '80s we all love
Had a 88 shelby daytona wasnt bad when i got it. Got a mopar super 60 kit big cam innercooler and 2.2 turbo 2 was pushing over 300 hp was smoking stock vettes 5.0 and any honda on the streets in the early 90s only issues was i was always breaking motor mounts and the getrag trans blew a few times on me.
@erniecoshow Wow, an '88 Shelby Daytona with a Mopar Super 60 kit and a 2.2 Turbo II pushing over 300 HP? That’s pure street warrior energy! It must’ve been a blast leaving those stock Vettes, 5.0s, and Hondas in the dust back in the early ‘90s. 💨 The Shelby Daytona was ahead of its time, proving that turbocharged Mopar performance could pack a serious punch. The Super 60 kit and big cam gave it that extra edge-true to the Shelby legacy of turning heads and dominating streets.
Motor mounts and the Getrag transmission giving out must’ve been a headache, but hey, that’s the cost of harnessing such power. It’s all part of the muscle car journey, right?
What do you think, everyone? Got stories of your turbocharged beasts or legendary street battles? Drop them in the comments! Don’t forget to share and subscribe to Muscle Car Master for more epic content. Have a great day
I'd love to see some early 90,91, 92 Eagle Talons tsi
@waynemurphy4411 That’s an awesome suggestion, Wayne! The early 90s Eagle Talon TSi was definitely a turbocharged legend-a real standout from the Diamond Star Motors partnership. With its AWD, turbocharged 4G63 engine, and lightweight body, it was a beast both on the street and track. A true underdog that could hang with some of the best imports and American machines of the time
What do you all think? Should we include the Eagle Talon in a future episode? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more turbocharged greatness.
Have a great day, Wayne, and thanks for the idea
GNX baby
@kencain4807
The Buick GNX didn’t just dominate the streets in the late '80s-it redefined what a muscle car with forced induction could be. With its turbocharged 3.8L V6 producing 276 hp (though we all know it made more than that), this beast could sprint from 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, leaving even some sports cars in its dust. It was truly the Darth Vader of the American muscle scene, stealthy and downright menacing
To all our muscle car fans, what are your thoughts on the GNX? Do you think it’s the greatest turbocharged car of its time, or do you have another contender in mind? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this video with your fellow gearheads and subscribe to explore more American muscle car legends.
Have a great day, and keep the passion alive
Conquest tsi is a rebadged it's not better or a good car at all..crap engine and turbocharger I used to junk those engines for the 4g63t 😢😂😢😢
@kongvang2390 Thanks for sharing your take, Kong
The Conquest TSi might not have been everyone’s favorite back in the day, but it sure had its quirks that made it stand out in the turbocharged crowd of the ‘80s. You’re right, many enthusiasts swapped those engines for the legendary 4G63T because of its insane tuning potential-but let’s not forget, the Conquest was part of an era when automakers were experimenting with forced induction in ways we’d never seen before. Love it or hate it, cars like the TSi paved the way for what turbo tech has become today
What do the rest of you think? Drop a comment below, smash that like button, and don’t forget to subscribe for more epic American Muscle Car content. Let’s keep the car culture alive and thriving
Wishing you all a horsepower-packed day
I had a conquest and a stairin gt and I also had the Daytona with the lotus turbo power plant under the hood If I knew what I knew now I would have kept all 3 for sure
@williamdeel377 That’s an incredible lineup you had
The Conquest, the Starion (aka “Stairin GT”), and the Daytona with the legendary Lotus turbo setup? That’s a trifecta of ‘80s turbocharged greatness right there! Each of those cars had its own unique character-raw, bold, and ahead of its time. The Conquest and Starion were true pioneers of the turbocharged era, and that Daytona with the Lotus power plant? An underrated gem in turbo history. If only we could go back in time and hold onto these icons, right?
For all the American Muscle Car fans here, what turbocharged car from the '80s do you wish you had kept (or wish you owned now)? Let us know in the comments! And don’t forget to share your passion for American Muscle by subscribing and spreading the word about the channel.
Keep that turbo spirit alive, William, and have a fantastic day
I miss my 1988 starion... I had a 18g turbo, 3in exhaust and other supporting mods. I beat Mustangs all the time back then....
@HotGritz910, that 1988 Starion sounds like a beast
With an 18g turbo, a 3-inch exhaust, and those supporting mods, you must have left plenty of Mustangs in the dust! That car was ahead of its time-an incredible mix of style, performance, and engineering. The Starion’s wide stance and rear-wheel drive made it a serious contender, especially with a driver who knew how to unleash its potential.
Do you have any stories of epic races or wrenching sessions from back in the day? We’d love to hear more about what made your Starion so special
Muscle car fans, drop a comment below with your favorite memories or mods from the past. Let’s keep the passion alive! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more amazing content.
Wishing you an awesome day, and keep those engines roaring
No Turbo Minivans from the late 80s?
@BB-pg5kl
those turbocharged minivans from the late ‘80s, like the Dodge Caravan Turbo, were absolute sleepers! They were wild machines, packing serious punch under the hood while looking like your average family hauler. They might not fit the traditional "muscle car" image, but they sure earned a place in turbocharged legends
We’ll definitely keep those unique turbo beasts in mind for future content-thanks for bringing them up. What do you all think, muscle car fans? Should we dive into more unconventional turbocharged vehicles from back in the day? Let us know in the comments below
And hey, if you’re loving the content, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more awesome rides, crazy builds, and retro horsepower stories.
Keep those engines revving, and have a great day
subaru xt turbo , nissan r32, ford mustang svo, toyota supra a70 mkIII, mazda rx7 II, mustang m81 (only 10 made)
Wow, what a lineup of turbocharged legends! The Subaru XT Turbo and Nissan R32 are iconic imports, no doubt. But let’s not forget the Ford Mustang SVO-a turbocharged marvel that showcased American innovation in the '80s, blending muscle car power with precision handling. And the Mustang M81? Talk about a rarity! Only 10 made, a collector’s dream, proving Ford could do wild and limited-edition turbo magic.
American muscle fans, what are your thoughts? Which turbocharged car stands out the most for you? Let us know in the comments below! While you're here, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters-where we celebrate the best of American muscle, rare gems, and more
Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year
Here’s to more horsepower, more memories, and more fun in 2024!
Of course the gnx grand national, the Callaway vetted and the sledgehammer 😊
@michaelhardesty3344 Awesome picks
The GNX Grand National is pure turbocharged legend-Buick’s blacked-out sleeper that dominated the streets in the '80s. The Callaway Corvette and the Sledgehammer? Absolute beasts! Callaway’s twin-turbo tech made the Vette a rocket, and the Sledgehammer-breaking 254 MPH? That’s the stuff of muscle car dreams.
Turbocharged muscle wasn’t just about power; it was about rewriting what American cars could do on a global stage. These icons proved that American engineering could take on anyone, anywhere, and come out on top.
To all muscle car fans out there, what are YOUR favorite turbocharged monsters from the '80s? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this video with your fellow gearheads! If you’re not subscribed yet, hit that button and join the American Muscle Cars family today.
Keep that passion alive
Wishing you a turbocharged day
0:11 the song is Danger Zone but It doesn't sounds like Kenny Loggins? Who's the singer?
@adamshafeeq8685 Great ear, Adam
the song at 0:11 is indeed Danger Zone, but it’s a cover version, not the iconic Kenny Loggins original. Many content creators use high-energy cover tracks to evoke that classic vibe while avoiding copyright restrictions, and this version still captures the adrenaline-pumping spirit of turbocharged muscle cars roaring down the track! 🎵💨
Speaking of turbocharged beasts, what’s your favorite turbo setup in a muscle car? Whether it’s twin turbos on a modern Hellcat or a vintage supercharger setup, let us know in the comments! Muscle cars are all about power, passion, and performance-just like the music that fuels our love for them.
Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share the channel to keep the American Muscle spirit alive! Let’s keep the roar of these machines echoing.
Wishing you a fantastic day and a Happy New Year, Adam
They forgot about Ford thunder tube cupe
@stevenlayne8744
how could anyone forget the legendary Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe? That beast was a true gem of the '80s, rocking the 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder with an intercooler, spitting out 190 horsepower in its later years. It had the perfect mix of style, tech, and performance that made it a standout in the muscle-turbo scene. And let’s not forget its role in proving that American cars could dominate even with smaller, boosted engines.
We love hearing from fans like you who know their stuff! Got more turbocharged legends you think should’ve been on the list? Drop a comment and let us know-we might just feature them in a future video! Don’t forget to like, share, and hit that subscribe button to keep the American Muscle Car spirit alive.
Have a fantastic day, Steven
Forgot the Merkur XR4TI
@stephenweiss2591 You’re absolutely right-the Merkur XR4TI is one wild ride that deserves its moment in the spotlight! With its European-inspired design and that turbocharged 2.3L inline-four engine, it was a unique fusion of speed and style. Ford truly gave us something unexpected with the Merkur, blending American turbocharged muscle with Euro flair. Thanks for bringing it up-your comment just gave us an idea for future content
For everyone watching, let us know what other forgotten turbocharged beasts from the '80s you'd love to see featured. Your input fuels this channel! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more turbocharged nostalgia and muscle car madness. Let’s keep the throttle down and the good vibes rolling in the comments below.
Wishing you a horsepower-packed day
Keep those engines revving and stay legendary
The conquest would have sold better with a turbocharged V8 or at bare minimum a turbo inline 6.
My car of choice during that time was the Grand National GNX and the Callaway Corvette.
@P-J-W-777 Wow, you’ve got great taste
The Conquest would’ve been a beast with a turbocharged V8 or even a turbo inline-6. That combo would’ve brought the power and performance to rival its competitors of the time. Speaking of turbo legends, your picks-the Grand National GNX and Callaway Corvette-are absolute icons. The GNX was a true street king with its turbo V6 that packed a punch far beyond what most expected. And the Callaway Corvette? A masterpiece of engineering that showed what turbocharging could do for America’s sports car.
We’d love to hear what others think-what would your dream setup be for the Conquest? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to explore more about these classic machines on our channel. Share with fellow fans and subscribe for more muscle car content.
Have a great day, and Happy New Year
The CONQUEST Sports Car was marketed under the CHRYSLER, PLYMOUTH, and DODGE names…as well as by its original MITSUBISHI name…the STARION.
You’re absolutely right-the Conquest, also known as the Mitsubishi Starion, was a fascinating crossover between American muscle branding and Japanese engineering
It’s amazing how Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge put their own spin on this turbocharged sports car in the 1980s. While it wasn’t a classic V8 beast like a Charger or Challenger, the Conquest had its own charm with rear-wheel drive, sharp handling, and a punchy turbo engine that turned heads. It showed how versatile the American car scene could be, even borrowing a little from the global market.
What’s your favorite version of the Conquest or Starion? Let’s hear it in the comments! And while you’re here, don’t forget to explore more amazing American muscle cars on our channel. Share your passion, like this video, and subscribe for more iconic car stories. Keep those engines roaring, and have a fantastic day, gearheads....
1980's Mazda 626 turbo
@captaincanuck5400, the 1980s Mazda 626 Turbo is definitely a unique mention-props for thinking outside the box! While it’s not American muscle, its turbocharged tech and lightweight build made it a standout for enthusiasts of the era. But let’s be real-nothing beats the roar of a V8 under the hood of a classic American muscle car. The 80s also gave us some underrated muscle icons, like the third-gen Camaro IROC-Z or the Fox-Body Mustang GT-both flexing raw power and a rebellious vibe that defined the muscle car scene.
If you’re into muscle cars or curious how they stack up against imports like the 626, hit up the comments and share your thoughts! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars-we’re here to fuel your passion for horsepower, torque, and tire-shredding action. Keep the pedal to the metal, and have an awesome day