Classic Car Generations That Sold in Record Numbers
Not all generations of our beloved classic cars were equally well-received when they debuted. While some became instant icons and sold in massive numbers due to their design, performance or just perfect timing… others faded into obscurity.
Today, we'll have a look at the classic car generations that shattered sales records and cemented a place in automotive history. From the raw muscle of '60s Mustangs to the elegant lines of '50s Bel Airs, these cars not only defined an era, but also dominated the market like no other. So, let’s get started.
Ford Mustang (First Gen, 1964½–1973) – 2,981,259
Model Years: 1964½–present
The Ford Mustang defined the pony car segment with its design, affordability, and performance when it was launched in April 1964. Its compact size, lightweight frame, and variety of engine choices, including a 289 cu-in V8 producing 210 hp, made it an instant favorite. Over time, the Mustang grew larger, introducing big-block engines and more aggressive styling, especially with the 1969 redesign.
Ford expected to sell less than 100,000 Mustangs in the first year, but demand shattered expectations, and Ford ended up selling one million units in just 18 months. By the end of the first generation (1964½–1973), 2,981,259 Mustangs had been sold in the US alone.
Chevrolet Bel Air (Second Gen, 1955–1957) – 2,200,000
Model Years: 1950–1981
The second-gen Chevy Bel Air (1955–1957) featured bold styling with a Ferrari-inspired grille, chrome accents, and sleek tail fins that defined 50s automotive design. Buyers could choose from an inline-six or 265 cu in (4.3L) V8, later expanded to 283 cu in (4.6L) with fuel injection, producing up to 283 horsepower.
The 1955 Bel Air was extremely well received, with over 770,000 units sold in the US alone. The 1956 and 1957 models followed with strong numbers. The 1957 Bel Air, in particular, was "an icon of its age… right alongside Elvis, Marilyn Monroe", and remains one of the most recognizable American cars of all time.
Dodge Charger (Second Gen, 1968–1970) – 231,875
Model Years: 1966–1978, 1982–1987, 2006–present
The second-gen Charger (1968–1970) featured Coke-bottle styling, hidden headlights, and a fastback-free "flying buttress" rear design. This generation also added a new high-performance R/T (Road/Track) package that came standard with the 440 Magnum V8, with the legendary 426 HEMI as optional. Other special versions included the Charger 500 and the Charger Daytona, which featured an 18-inch nose cone and a towering 23-inch rear wing for NASCAR dominance.
Dodge sold a total of 96,100 Chargers in 1968, thanks in part to its role in Steve McQueen's 'Bullitt’. The 1969 model – featured in The Dukes of Hazzard – followed with 89,199 units.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo (Second Gen, 1973–1977) – 1,564,310
Model Years: 1970–1988, 1995–2007
Blending European styling with American muscle, the second-gen Monte Carlo (1973–1977) dominated personal luxury segment. Its bold "Colonnade" design introduced rear side opera windows, a wraparound cockpit-style dashboard, and a plush interior aimed at comfort. It also debuted improved safety features like a double-shell roof and impact-absorbing bumpers.
Under the hood, buyers had several V8 options, ranging from a 305 cu in (5.0L) V8 to the massive 454 cu in (7.4L) big-block V8. The Monte Carlo had coil spring suspension, swivel bucket seats and a fuel economy gauge. Despite the oil crisis, its sales thrived, exceeding 1.56 million units for the generation.
Ford Capri (Mk I, 1969–1974) – 1,159,990
Model Years: 1969–1986
The Capri Mk I (1969–1974) was Ford's attempt to replicate the Mustang’s success in Europe. It was a stylish yet affordable fastback coupe designed to appeal to a younger audience, so much so that it had fake rear air vents for sporty styling cues. The car was an instant hit and sold 400,000 units in just two years.
Under the hood, buyers had plenty of choices, from the basic 1.6L Pinto engine to the powerful 3.0L Essex V6. The RS3100, produced in limited numbers for homologation, became the fastest first-gen Capri, boasting a 3.1L V6, 148 horsepower, and a 0-60 mph time of just 7.3 seconds.
Pontiac Firebird (Second Gen, 1970–1981) – 1,179,416
Model Years: 1967–2002
Redesigned in 1970, the second-gen Firebird (1970–1981) featured a sleeker and more aerodynamic ('swoopy') body style compared to its predecessor’s ‘Coke bottle’ styling. Pontiac offered multiple trims – from the base Firebird to the luxury Esprit, to the performance-oriented Formula, to the legendary Trans Am – but dropped the convertible option, making this generation available only as a coupe.
Thankfully, performance remained strong with high-output engines like the 455 Super Duty and Turbo Trans Am despite tightening emissions regulations. As for the production, Pontiac made more than a million Firebirds over its 12-year generation run, with sales peaking at 211,453 in 1979.
Chevrolet Corvette (Third Gen, 1968–1982) – 542,861
Model Years: 1953–1982, 1984–present
The C3 (1968–1982) was one of the longest-running and most popular versions of the Chevy Corvette. Inspired by the Mako Shark II concept, this generation introduced a dramatic new design with T-top removable roof panels and saw the car’s transformation into a luxury grand tourer.
Under the hood, the C3 initially carried over engines from the previous generation before shifting to a 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 as the standard engine in 1969. The 69 Corvette also offered a special racing engine – the legendary 427 cu in (7.0L) ZL-1 big-block – that unofficially produced up to 560 hp. The C3 remains Corvette’s best-selling generation, with annual production peaking at 53,807 in 1979.
Ford Galaxie (Second Gen, 1960–1964) – 2,326,671
Model Years: 1959–1974
The second-gen Galaxie (1960–1964) brought sleeker styling, powerful V8 options, and improved aerodynamics. This generation introduced the Starliner (a hardtop coupe with a striking fastback roofline) and the 500XL (a top-tier trim emphasizing both luxury and performance).
Under the hood, Ford offered a range of engines, from the 223 cu-in Mileage Maker I6 to the high-performance 427 cu-in V8. By 1963, the fastback design also helped Ford gain an edge in NASCAR. Ford made more than 2.3 million units of second-gen Galaxie, with annual sales peaking at 648,010 in 1963.
Porsche 911 (G-Series, 1973–1989) – 198,496
Model Years: 1964–present
The second-gen 911 (1973–1989), aka the G-Series, marked a major shift in both design and technology, with updates that would sustain till 1989. The most noticeable changes included bellows-style bumpers, a red rear light strip with the Porsche logo, and a more spacious interior with improved safety features.
Under the hood, the G-Series introduced a 2.7-liter flat-six engine in 1973, delivering between 150 PS and 210 PS depending on the variant. Porsche later added the 911 Turbo (930) in 1974, which became a performance benchmark with its 260 PS output from a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine. Even though the G-Series designation only applies to 1974 911s, it stuck as a reference to the second generation that lasted for an impressive 16 years.
Nissan Z-series (First Gen, 1969–1978) – 520,000
Model Years: 1969–2000, 2002–2021, 2022–present
Blending Japanese engineering with sleek European-inspired styling, the Nissan Z-series (aka the Z-cars) redefined the affordable sports car market when it debuted in 1969. These cars were branded as the Nissan Fairlady Z in Japan and as the Datsun 240Z in other markets.
Under the hood, the 240Z featured a 2.4L inline-six producing 151 hp, while the Japanese Fairlady Z had a smaller 2.0L engine. Later models, like the 260Z and 280Z, increased displacement to 2.6L and 2.8L, with the 280Z introducing Bosch fuel injection for better performance. The Z-series had a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout… and was known for its agile handling and super-engaging driving experience.
Plymouth Barracuda (Third Gen, 1970–1974) – 105,000
Model Years: 1964–1974
The third-gen Barracuda (1970–1974) is one of the most sought-after muscle cars. Built on Chrysler's E-body platform, which it shared with the Dodge Challenger, this generation departed from its compact roots to become a true performance car. Wider and more aggressive, it was offered in three trims: the base Barracuda, the luxury-oriented Gran Coupe, and the high-performance ’Cuda.
This generation was all about performance, with a range of V8 engines available, from the 383 producing 335 hp to the 426 Hemi pushing over 400 hp. The models with 426 Hemi or 440 Six-Pack engines are highly valuable on the collector’s market. Despite its now-iconic status, the Barracuda wasn’t a top seller in its time, with just 105,000 units selling in its most popular generation.
Chevrolet Nova (Third Gen, 1968–1974) – 2,072,686
Model Years: 1962–1979, 1985–1988
The third-gen Nova (1968–1974) offered a sportier, more muscular look with its longer wheelbase and redesigned chassis, which placed it just below mid-size cars like the Chevelle. This generation saw the end of the Chevy II name in 1969, establishing the Nova as a standalone model.
The Nova became a popular choice for those seeking affordability, practicality, and performance, particularly with the Super Sport trim. Engine choices ranged from inline-six options to small- and big-block V8s, including the powerful 396 cu in (6.5L) engine. The 1974 Nova was the nameplate's best-selling model ever, with 390,537 units sold.
Mazda RX-7 (First Gen, 1978–1985) – 474,565
Model Years: 1978–2002
The first-gen RX-7 (1978–1985) was a game-changer. It brought rotary power to the masses in a lightweight and affordable sports package. The car's sleek, wedge-shaped design set it apart, and its front-mid engine layout provided near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, making it a sheer joy to drive.
Under the hood, the RX-7 offered several twin-rotor engine options, including the 1,146cc 12A, a turbocharged variant, and the later 1,308cc 13B-RESI. Transmission choices ranged from four- and five-speed manuals to three- and four-speed automatics. A total of 474,565 units were produced for the first generation, with the US accounting for 377,878 of those
Plymouth Road Runner (First Gen, 1968–1970) – 172,423
Model Years: 1968–1980
The first-gen Road Runner (1968–1970) stood out for its aggressive styling, powerful engines, and connection to the famous Warner Bros. cartoon character (as well as its iconic "beep, beep" horn). Unlike the more upscale GTX, it was designed as a no-frills performance car, delivering raw power without expensive add-ons. It prioritized speed and affordability, making it highly appealing to muscle car enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the base engine was a 383 cu in (6.3L) V8 producing 335 hp, but the real stars were the 440 Six Barrel (390 hp) and the legendary 426 Hemi (425 hp). Plymouth also introduced an aerodynamically enhanced NASCAR version, the legendary Superbird, in 1970.
Pontiac GTO (First Gen, 1964–1967) – 286,460
Model Years: 1964–1974, 2003–2006
Widely credited as the first muscle car, the GTO was initially an option for the Pontiac Tempest, and became a standalone model in 1966. The first-gen (1964–1967) set a precedent for performance, offering a 389 cu in (6.4L) V8 under the hood, which later upgraded to a 400 cu in (6.6L) V8 in 1967. Transmission options included three-speed and four-speed manuals, along with automatic choices.
The GTO's aggressive styling, potent engine options, and strong marketing made it a youth favorite, earning it the nickname "The Goat." It also inspired a whole generation of vehicles, including the Chevrolet Malibu SS, Oldsmobile 442, and Buick Skylark Gran Sport.
Chevrolet Camaro (First Gen, 1967–1969) – 699,138
Model Years: 1967–2002, 2010–2024
The first-gen Camaro (1967–1969) was Chevy's answer to the wildly successful Ford Mustang. Built on the GM F-body platform, it featured a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and was available as a hardtop coupe or convertible. Buyers could choose from a 230 cu in (3.8L) inline-six or several V8 options, including the high-performance 396 cu in (6.5L) big-block.
Then there were a number of performance-focused trims, including the SS, RS, Z/28, and the mighty COPO 427. Chevrolet sold 220,906 units in 1967, with sales only growing from there. Camaro’s aggressive styling, strong performance, and racing pedigree made it a muscle car icon.
Jaguar E-Type (Series 1, 1961–1968) – 38,419
Model Years: 1961–1974
One of the most celebrated sports cars in history, famously described by Enzo Ferrari as "the most beautiful car ever made," the Jaguar E-Type was produced from 1961 to 1974 in three distinct generations. The first generation (1961–1968), aka the Series 1, is often considered the purest and most desirable iteration, with its covered headlights, elegant proportions, and minimalist yet luxurious interior.
It's also the generation with the most production. Under the hood, the Series 1 initially featured a 3.8-liter inline-six engine producing 265 hp, allowing for a top speed of 150 mph. It boasted razor-sharp handling, a 0-60 mph time of just 6.4 seconds, and a number of tech advancements.
Ford Thunderbird (Seventh Gen, 1977–1979) – 955,032
Model Years: 1955–1997, 2002–2005
The seventh-gen Thunderbird (1977–1979) marked a major shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient designs in accordance with the changing automotive landscape of the era. It was built on the Ford Torino/LTD II chassis, and was 900 lbs lighter than its predecessor… but still retained its commanding road presence.
Unlike the massive big-blocks of previous generations, this generation had smaller V8s. The standard engine was a 302 cu in (4.9L) Windsor V8, with optional 351 cu in (5.8L) and 400 cu in (6.6L) V8s. A fixed "B" pillar was introduced for structural rigidity, ending the pillarless hardtop design… but frameless windows were retained.
Dodge Coronet (Fifth Gen, 1965–1970) – 1,159,429
Model Years: 1949–1959, 1965–1976
The fifth-gen Coronet (1965–1970) used Chrysler's B-body platform, offered multiple body styles, and set the foundation for legendary performance trims like the Coronet R/T and Super Bee. The Coronet was Dodge’s best-selling model in 1965, with 209,000 units sold.
Under the hood, this generation featured an impressive range of engines, from the 225 cu in (3.7L) Slant-6 to the 426 cu in (7.0L) Hemi V8 to the monstrous 440 cu in (7.2L) Magnum V8. The redesigned 1968–70 Coronets featured more aggressive styling and were immensely popular among muscle car enthusiasts.
Ford Torino (Third Gen, 1972–1976) – 1,807,518
Model Years: 1968–1976
The third-gen Torino (1972–1976) shifted focus toward comfort and luxury while also maintaining performance. The lineup was simplified into Torino, Gran Torino, and Gran Torino Sport, with the Gran Torino replacing the previous Torino 500. Extremely popular in the 70s, the car was featured in a number of movies and shows.
Under the hood, the engines ranged from a 250 cu in inline-six to a 429 cu in V8. The 351 Cobra Jet V8 stood out with its special intake manifold, high-lift camshaft, and a 750 CFM carburetor. Sales soared, making the Torino the best-selling intermediate car of 1972. With 496,645 units sold that year, it was the first time Ford had ever outsold the Chevrolet Chevelle since it was introduced in 1964.
Mini (Mark I, 1959–1967) – 1,190,000
Model Years: 1959–2000
The Mark I Mini (1959–1967) redefined small-car engineering. Designed as an affordable, fuel-efficient vehicle, it became a cultural icon due to its compact design and incredible handling. The Mark I's transverse engine layout and front-wheel-drive system allowed for a spacious interior despite its small footprint, making it perfect for cities.
Under the hood, the standard Mini featured an 848cc engine producing 34 bhp, while the performance-oriented Cooper models had more powerful 997cc and 1,275cc engines, with the Cooper S reaching 76 bhp. The Mini’s characteristic styling, affordable tag, clever use of space, and stellar fuel efficiency (43.5 mpg) made it a massive sales success.
Chevrolet Chevelle (Second Gen, 1968–1972) – 2,000,000
Model Years: 1964–1977
The second-gen Chevelle (1968–1972) is often considered the pinnacle of the nameplate. With its curvier, fastback-inspired design, it looked aggressive even when standing still. It offered remarkable versatility, and had incredible performance potential. The 1970 Chevelle SS 454, in particular, is an undeniable muscle car icon, with its LS6 big-block V8 churning out 450 hp.
By 1970, the Chevelle lineup had reached its peak in both styling and power, just before emissions regulations started taking shape. But Chevy had already made a lot of Chevelles by then – it sold 384,000 units in 1968, 455,000 in 1969 and a massive 634,000 in 1970.
Ford Fairlane (Fifth Gen, 1966–1967) – 537,962
Model Years: 1955–1970
The fifth-gen Ford Fairlane (1966–1967) moved to a longer wheelbase and adopted styling cues from the larger Galaxie. Appealing as both a practical mid-size car and a muscle car contender, it introduced new performance-focused trims, including the GT and GTA.
Under the hood, the Fairlane offered everything from a 200 cu in inline-six for economy to the 390 cu in V8 for more power. Ford also offered a high-performance 427 cu in (7.0L) V8, producing up to 425 hp, besides special drag racing versions with fiberglass hoods and four-speed manual transmissions.
Plymouth Fury (Fifth Gen, 1969–1973) – 1,515,903
Model Years: 1959–1978
Offering a blend of power, luxury, and Chrysler's distinctive "Fuselage Look" styling, the fifth-gen Fury (1969–1973) was a bold expression of American muscle. The 1972 facelift gave Fury a sleeker grille and hidden headlamps, while 1973 models featured reinforced bumpers to meet new safety regulations.
Under the hood, the Fury offered engines ranging from a 225 cu in (3.7L) inline-six to the monstrous 440 cu in (7.2L) V8, with an optional "Six-Barrel" carburetor setup producing 390 hp and 490 lb-ft of torque. The Fury also boasted an optional electric sunroof and an innovative stereo tape recorder with a microphone to record off the radio or take dictation.
Alfa Romeo Spider (Series 2, 1970–1982) – 51,811
Model Years: 1966–1994
The Series 2 Spider (1970–1982) introduced a more practical Kamm tail, which not only improved aerodynamics but also enhanced trunk space. It also featured a raked windscreen, a revised grille, and a number of interior refinements.
Under the hood, the Spider evolved with several twin-cam inline-four engines, ranging from 1.3L to 2.0L, delivering up to 132 hp in the 2000 Spider Veloce. The fuel-injected U.S. version (2000 Spider Veloce Iniezione) complied with emissions regulations while maintaining sporty performance. Alfa also made a Targa-style variant with limited numbers in 1974 and a special edition to honor legendary F1 driver Niki Lauda.
Chevrolet Malibu (Fourth Gen, 1978–1983) – 1,525,131
Model Years: 1964–1983, 1997–2025
Embracing a downsized and more efficient platform, the fourth-gen Malibu replaced the Chevelle name. This generation (1978–1983) shed up to 1,000 pounds from its predecessor, and offered improved fuel economy without sacrificing interior space.
Engine choices ranged from a modest 200 cu in (3.3L) V6 producing 95 hp to a 350 cu in (5.7L) V8 delivering 170 hp. The Malibu four-door sedans were extensively used in law enforcement as police cars. A special batch of 25,500 Malibus was even produced for Iraq in 1981, though only 13,000 made it there.
Oldsmobile Cutlass (Fourth Gen, 1973–1977) – 2,238,598
Model Years: 1961–1999
Redesigned on GM's Colonnade A-body platform, the fourth-gen Cutlass (1973–1977) introduced a sleeker look and improved safety features. The trims included the base Cutlass, Cutlass "S," Cutlass Supreme, Cutlass Salon, Vista Cruiser, and the performance-oriented 4-4-2 package. By 1976, the Cutlass became America’s best-selling car, a title it would hold well into the 1980s.
This generation offered a variety of engines, from the 250 cu-in inline-six to the 455 cu-in Rocket V8. Buyers were also offered premium options like swivel bucket seats, upgraded suspension, and a fuel economy gauge. Sales numbers for this generation were record-breaking, with Oldsmobile producing 632,742 Cutlasses in 1977 alone.
Lotus Esprit (Series 3, 1982–1988) – 3,041
Model Years: 1976–2004
The Lotus Esprit Series 3 (1982–1988) retained the lightweight, mid-engine layout but introduced a more spacious interior, better aerodynamics, and modernized bumpers. The Turbo Esprit continued as the high-performance version, showcasing bold "Turbo Esprit" decals and an aggressive body kit.
Under the hood, a 2.2L Type 912 inline-four powered the standard S3, while the Turbo Esprit featured a 2.2L turbocharged engine. By 1986, higher compression HC models boosted output to 170 hp in the naturally aspirated version and 215 hp with 220 lb-ft of torque in the Turbo. A total of 3,041 units of the S3 and Turbo Esprit were produced.
Cadillac Eldorado (Tenth Gen, 1979–1985) – 454,305
Model Years: 1952–2002
Despite being downsized from its predecessor, the tenth-generation Eldorado (1979–1985) retained its elegance. Its bold notchback roofline, frameless door glass, and the exclusive Eldorado Biarritz trim with a stainless-steel roof cap still set it apart. This generation also marked the return of the highly sought-after Eldorado convertible in 1984.
Under the hood, buyers had a range of engines, including the 4.1L HT-4100 V8, a 5.7L diesel, and Cadillac's experimental V8-6-4 variable displacement engine. Cadillac sold a total of 454,305 Eldorados during the tenth generation, with annual sales peaking at 77,806.
Mercury Cougar (Fourth Gen, 1977–1979) – 580,245
Model Years: 1967–1997, 1999–2002
The fourth-gen Cougar (1977–1979) expanded into multiple body styles, including two-door coupes, four-door sedans, and station wagons. This versatility led to record-breaking sales of 580,245 (second to the not-so-classic sixth generation Cougar's sales figure of 679,759).
Under the hood, the fourth-gen Cougar offered a range of V8 engines, from the 302 cu in (4.9L) with 134 hp to the 400 cu in (6.6L) with 173 hp, paired with three-speed automatic transmissions. The Cougar’s styling was updated with sharper lines, a larger grille, and rectangular headlights. The XR-7 with its vinyl roof and wood-tone interior was now flagship trim.
Plymouth Satellite (Third Gen, 1971–1974) – 601,708
Model Years: 1965–1974
The third-gen Satellite (1971–1974) adopted Chrysler's bold "fuselage" styling, which gave it a sleek and modern appearance. It was available in coupe, sedan, and station wagon forms, and offered a mix of practicality and performance. While earlier Satellites shared bodywork across different styles, this generation featured distinct designs for two-door and four-door models.
Under the hood, the Satellite came with a variety of engine options, from the reliable 225 cubic-inch Slant-6 to powerful V8s, including the legendary 426 HEMI (for 1971 only, though). The GTX and Road Runner trims, in particular, were quite remarkable, as they made the Satellite a serious muscle car contender.
Dodge Monaco (Third Gen, 1974–1977) – 361,369
Model Years: 1965–1978, 1990–1992
The third-gen Monaco's (1974–1977) debut coincided with the 1973 oil crisis, but it continued to remain Dodge's flagship full-size model. By 1977, the Monaco lineup split, with the Royal Monaco carrying on as the brand’s last true full-size offering.
Under the hood, the third-gen Monaco offered a range of V8 engines, from a 318 cubic-inch (5.2L) base unit to the powerful 440 cubic-inch (7.2L) option. Transmission choices included three- and four-speed manuals or a three-speed automatic. By 1977, a 3-speed automatic was the only option. The 1975 Royal Monaco Brougham coupe featured a rare Diplomat package with a landau roof and opera windows.
Mercedes-Benz SL (R107, 1971–1989) – 231,287
Model Years: 1954–2020, 2022–present
The third-gen Mercedes-Benz SL (1971–1989), aka the R107, is one of the most successful luxury roadsters of all time. It's the longest-running SL generation with 231,287 units produced over an 18-year production run.
The R107 set new benchmarks in safety and performance. It featured crumple zones, reinforced A-pillars, and deformable switches for advanced crash protection. Under the hood, it introduced V8 engines to the SL-Class for the first time. The 350 SL debuted with 200 hp, followed by the 450 SL with 225 hp and later, the 500 SL with 240 hp. The top-spec 560 SL was tuned to meet emissions standards, so was less potent.
Buick Riviera (Second Gen, 1966–1970) – 227,669
Model Years: 1963–1993, 1995–1999
The second-gen Riviera (1966–1970) was known for its sleek body, hidden headlights, and spacious interior. Retaining its rear-wheel-drive layout while sharing its platform with the front-wheel-drive Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado, it transitioned from a four-seat configuration to a full six-passenger cabin. The Riviera's elegant and aggressive styling, combined with its performance, made it a standout in the personal luxury car market.
Under the hood, the second generation offered a range of powerful V8 engines, starting with a 425 cu in unit before upgrading to the 430 cu in and finally the 455 cu in V8, that churned out up to 370 horses and 500 lb-ft of torque.
AMC Javelin (Second Gen, 1971–1974) – 111,488
Model Years: 1968–1974
Embracing the trend of larger, more aggressive pony cars, the second-gen Javelin (1971–1974) had an exotic European-inspired look with a widened stance, sculpted fenders, and a distinctive roofline. It also introduced an integral rear spoiler and reshaped fenders (originally designed for oversized racing tires) for better aerodynamics. The AMX version was now a high-performance trim rather than a separate model.
Under the hood, the Javelin offered a range of inline-six and V8 engines, topping out with a 401 cu in (6.6L) V8 producing 330 horsepower in 1971. AMC dropped Javelin's advertised power as emissions regulations tightened, but real-world performance remained strong as always.
Lincoln Continental (Fifth Gen, 1970–1979) – 614,151
Model Years: 1940–1942, 1946–1948, 1958–1980, 1982–2002, 2017–2020
Sharing a stretched version of the Mercury Marquis chassis, the fifth-gen Continental (1970–1979) was the first Lincoln to return to body-on-frame construction since 1957. By the late 70s, the Continental had become the longest mass-produced car in Ford's history. The 1977–79 models became the largest standard production sedans of the time, as competitors like Cadillac and Chrysler had downsized their full-size models.
Under the hood, the fifth-generation Continental offered a 460 cubic-inch V8 and, later, a 400 cubic-inch V8 (to meet fuel efficiency regulations). It featured a 3-speed C6 automatic transmission, four-wheel coil suspension, and optional four-wheel disc brakes, which was a rarity at the time.
Buick Regal (Second Gen, 1978–1987) – 1,808,072
Model Years: 1973–2004, 2011–2020
Downsized from its predecessor, the second-gen Regal (1978–1987) became a fuel-efficient yet performance-oriented coupe that appealed to a wide range of buyers. With another redesign in 1981, it gained a sleek, aerodynamic profile that made it a NASCAR favorite, winning the manufacturers' title in 1981 and 1982.
Under the hood, this generation offered a variety of potent engines, from the base 196 cu in (3.2L) V6 to the powerful 307 cu in (5.0L) Oldsmobile V8. The second-gen Regal was a massive success, with yearly sales peaking at 273,365 in 1979.
Pontiac Grand Prix (Fifth Gen, 1978–1987) – 1,061,437
Model Years: 1962–2008
The fifth-gen Grand Prix (1978–1987) shed a foot in length and around 600 pounds in weight from its predecessor in a bid for fuel efficiency. It, however, maintained the luxury and performance expected from the Grand Prix. While the 1978 models debuted on the A-body platform, the lineup transitioned to the G-body in 1982.
Under the hood, the Grand Prix offered a wide range of powertrains, from the standard 231 cu in (3.8L) Buick V6 to the 305 cu in (5.0L) Chevrolet V8 and even an Oldsmobile 350 cu in (5.7L) diesel V8.
Mercury Montego (Second Gen, 1972–1976)
Model Years: 1968–1976, 2004–2007
The second-gen Montego (1972–1976) adopted a body-on-frame construction and a split-wheelbase design. It was available in two-door coupes and four-door sedans or wagons to cater to different buyers. Engine options ranged from a standard 250 cubic-inch inline-six to powerful V8s, including a 460 cubic-inch (7.5L) option by 1974. By 1975, the lineup dropped smaller engines, making the 351 V8 standard.
The Montego experienced an initial surge in popularity, but the 1973 oil crisis took a toll on its sales. It also faced in-house competition from the restyled 1974 Cougar and the more efficient Monarch introduced in 1975.
Chevrolet Impala (Fourth Gen, 1965–1970) – 4,500,000
Model Years: 1958–1985, 1994–1996, 2000–2020
The fourth-gen Impala (1965–1970) was known for its sleek styling and powerful engine options. The 1965 redesign introduced a full-width perimeter frame, frameless side glass, and a more modern look. Buyers could choose from a range of engines, from the 250 cu in inline-six to the massive 454 cu in V8, paired with manual or automatic transmissions. The Impala also featured upscale trims, including the Super Sport and the luxurious Caprice package.
This generation of Impala was a massive sales success, with the 1965 model selling over one million units, setting an all-time industry record. The 1966 model again sold more than a million units.
