A Brief History of Top Mopar Muscle Cars

What Does “Mopar” Really Mean?

When you hear “Mopar,” you probably think of powerful muscle cars. But the term actually dates back to the 1930s, when Chrysler introduced “MoPar Antifreeze” — a mashup of “motor” and “parts.” Originally a brand for Chrysler parts, Mopar later grew into a name that represents the entire Chrysler family, including Dodge, Plymouth, Ram, and now even Jeep vehicles.

Today, Mopar is practically a symbol of American muscle car performance. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic Mopar muscle cars ever made.

1955 Chrysler 300: The First Muscle Car?

Before “muscle car” was even a popular term, the 1955 Chrysler 300 was setting the standard. Featuring a Hemi V-8 engine producing 300 horsepower, it could hit 130 mph — an incredible achievement for the 1950s.

Though only around 1,100 were built, the Chrysler 300 helped Chrysler enter the NASCAR scene and secured its place as a Mopar legend.

1969 Dodge Charger Daytona: A NASCAR Icon

The 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona is a favorite among Mopar enthusiasts for good reason. Powered by either a 7.2-liter Magnum or a 7-liter Hemi V-8 engine, this beast could produce up to 425 horsepower.

It became the first car in NASCAR history to break the 200-mph mark, cementing its legacy as one of the greatest muscle cars ever built.

1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda: Raw Power

Before the oil crisis shifted the car market, Plymouth unleashed the 1970 Hemi Cuda. Packing a 7-liter Hemi V-8 with 475 horsepower, it could rocket from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds and easily surpass 155 mph.

Although its time in the spotlight was short, the Hemi Cuda remains one of the most celebrated Mopar muscle cars in history.

1978 Dodge Lil’ Red Express: Muscle Truck

Yes, even a pickup truck earned a place in Mopar muscle history! The 1978 Dodge Lil’ Red Express packed a 5.9-liter V-8 producing 225 horsepower. It could hit 0-60 mph in 7.5 seconds — faster than many cars at the time.

Car and Driver even named it the fastest American-made vehicle from 0-100 mph in 1978, proving muscle isn’t limited to cars.

1996 Dodge Viper GTS: Modern Muscle Legend

The 1996 Dodge Viper GTS brought Mopar muscle into the modern era with an 8-liter V-10 engine pumping out 450 horsepower. It could go from 0-60 mph in just four seconds and reach speeds up to 177 mph.

With only about 1,100 built, the Viper GTS is now a rare and highly sought-after Mopar machine.

2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat & 2015 Dodge Charger Hellcat: Twin Terrors

In 2015, Dodge unleashed two monsters: the Challenger SRT Hellcat and the Charger Hellcat. Both packed a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 producing 707 horsepower.

• Challenger SRT Hellcat: 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, top speed of 199 mph
  
• Charger Hellcat: Top speed of 204 mph, making it the world’s fastest production sedan at the time
  

These two vehicles proved that Mopar’s muscle car spirit was alive and stronger than ever.

Explore Mopar Muscle at Chris Crain CDJRF in Benton, AR

These classic Mopar machines helped define American automotive performance. But the spirit of Mopar muscle continues today in the latest models you’ll find right here at Chris Crain Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Benton, Arkansas.

If you’re ready to experience modern Mopar power, contact us today to set up your showroom visit.
Check out our new inventory or explore financing options to get started on your next muscle car journey!

Feel the thrill of Mopar heritage — only at Chris Crain CDJRF.

Tags: Chris Crain CDJRF, Chris Crain Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, Dodge Charger, Dodge Charger Hellcat, Dodge Vehicle
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