In automotive history, a few of the most radically impressive designs came from the 1970s. As evidenced by the history texts, this era saw the rise of problems related to the oil crisis and emissions control in the automotive industry. Yet, this did not stop many automotive manufacturers from designing and manufacturing legendary classic cars that have managed to maintain their iconic status.  From American muscle to European sports cars, there are likely many 1970s cars you know and love if you are a car enthusiast. Yet, it’s unlikely that you know every iconic 70s sports car to have debuted during this decade. It’s incredibly likely that there are a few lesser-known gems that might have evaded your notice thus far.  We’re going to dive into 20 of the best 70s sports cars of all time. This diverse range of memorable models is likely to have you adding a few more dream cars to your list of vehicles you want to drive before you die.

  1. 1970 Porsche 917K “Porsche 917” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by bjmullan Eduardo Parise / eduparise, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Morio, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons One of the rarest and most memorable 1970s classic sports cars on our list is the 1970 Porsche 917K. According to sources, there were only 12 917K models ever built, and recently one of these rare sports cars was auctioned and fetched an astounding $14,080,000. The model that was sold used to be owned by the late legendary swiss racer Jo Siffert.  The 1970 Porsche 917K is the first sports car designed by Porsche to secure the brand a spectacular outright win at the 24 Hours of Le Man’s in 1970. This had a two-door coupe body style and was believed to have a top speed of 220 mph and to be able to reach 60 mph in approximately three seconds. This was not the norm for vehicles of this decade, and this model can still outpace modern-day sports cars.  Unlike other bulkier classic cars, the 1970 Porsche 917K was incredibly lightweight with an overall weight of 1,763 pounds. Additionally, this 70s sportscar featured Porsche’s first 12 cylinder engine. Early 1970 models had a 4.5-liter engine which was then changed to a 4.9-liter engine and a 5.0-liter engine. Amazingly the 5.0-liter models could produce an incredible horsepower rating of 630 with 434 lb-ft. 
  2. 1975 Triumph TR7 Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Charles01, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Triumph TR7 (1978)” (CC BY 2.0) by SG2012 The 1975 Triumph TR7 is arguably one of the most debated classic cars on our list. Some deem this distinctively designed model to be one of the best British sportscars to appear in the 1970s, while others consider it to be one of the worst. Interestingly, the 1975 Triumph TR7 was code-named the “Bullet” partly because of its radical design, which differed from the more conservative cars that the brand had produced before it.  This vehicle was a two-door coupe that’s wedge design endeared it to many despite the early problems the vehicle experienced. It was equipped with a five-speed manual 3.5-liter V8 engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 133 and 174 lb-ft. Additionally, this sportscar had a top speed of 135 mph and could reach 0 to 50 miles in an estimated 7.7 seconds. 
  3. 1970 Porsche 914-6 AlfvanBeem, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Porsche 914/6 GT 1970” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100 Did you know that the iconic 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a joint development between Porsche and Volkswagen? Because of this collaboration, many refer to this sports car as the “VW Porsche.”  The 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a nifty car that had a few distinctive features. For example, this model had pop-up headlights, chrome-plated bumpers with round auxiliary headlights, and the roof was made of glass fiber reinforced plastic and was wholly removable.  Curiously this model was only available as a Targa-topped two-seat roadster, but it did have two engine options. At the time of its launch, the 1970 Porsche 914-6 could have a 1.7-liter flat-four engine that was sourced from Volkswagen and could produce a horsepower rating of 80. Or this model could have a 2.0-liter flat-six engine that was also found in the Porsche 911 T, and that was capable of a horsepower rating of 110.
  4. 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder Photo by User:Morven., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Conversion 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 “Ferrari 365 GTS/4 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 Three masterminds are behind the design and production of the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, which is also lovingly known by car enthusiasts worldwide as the Daytona Spyder. This model was first introduced at the 1968 Paris Auto Salon, where it instantly gained critical acclaim.  The 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, a two-door grand tourer, was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina, engineered by Ferrari, and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. Interestingly, to this day, Ferrari does not refer to the 365 GTS as the Daytona Spyder, but they do recognize it as the model’s unofficial name.  There were only 1,400 models ever built, and this includes the factory convertibles. Additionally, this model featured in several movies during the 1970s, which is why it is one of the most recognizable Ferrari models.  This sportscar was a front-engined road car equipped with a 4.4-liter four-cam V12 engine capable of producing an impressive horsepower rating of 352. It had a recorded top speed of 170 mph and could reach 60 mph in about five seconds. 
  5. 1973 Datsun 240z dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Flickr The 1973 Datsun 240z was the sportscar that started the Z-car legacy. This model remains an important player in the Nissan lineup. Although the style of this car was reminiscent of the Jaguar E-Type, C3 Corvette, and Toyota 2000 GT, it still managed to carve its own stylistic mark. The Datsun 240z model established a name for itself by winning numerous rally and racing events over the years. Many have noted this car expertly blended incredible handling and reliability, along with impressive speed capabilities. According to sources, there were 231,191 Datsun 240z’s produced in 1973.  This model was a rear-wheel drive with a front-mounted engine. It weighed in at 2,360 pounds and was equipped with a 2.4-liter V6 which produced a horsepower rating of 151 at 5,600 rpm. Additionally, this model could complete the quarter-mile in 17.7 seconds, and it had a top speed of 122 mph. 
  6. 1974 Lamborghini Countach Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Lamborghini Countach – 1974-1990” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by wbaiv Schumi4ever, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Dmitry Eagle Orlov/Shutterstock Arguably the most recognizable supercar to have been released in the 1970s is the legendary 1974 Lamborghini Countach. This mid-engine two-seat coupe model has often been hailed as the European sportscar that popularized the distinctive Italian wedge shape design.  The 1974 Lamborghini Countach was also fondly referred to by the name “Periscopio” because of its unique rearview mirror setup. Another distinctive feature that this vehicle possessed was its futuristic scissor doors. When the Lamborghini Countach was debuted, it completely stole the show as nobody had ever seen anything like it because of its futuristic yet luxurious styling.  These high-performance cars were equipped with powerful 3.9-liter V12 engines that were capable of producing a horsepower rating of 375 with 260 lb-ft. Additionally, the 1974 Lamborghini Countach could reach 60 mph in only 5.9 seconds, and it had an incredibly impressive top speed of 181 mph. 
  7. 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV Craig James, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Rudiecast/Shutterstock The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV was the supercar that started an automotive revolution. Before the Countach was released, the Miura paved the way. The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV debuted much to the delight of supercar fans worldwide.  Yet, did you know that this model was originally planned to be a special order car only? Since the demand for the Miura SV was so great, the brand decided to enter it into regular production.  Although production of the Miura SV came to an end in 1973, this high-performance 70s car helped change the automotive landscape forever. In fact, many believe it was the 1971 Miura SV that played a key role in the development of technological advances in the supercar sector of the automotive industry.  The 1971 Lamborghini Miura was equipped with a 4.0-liter DOHC 48 valve V12 engine. With this powerful engine equipped, it’s no wonder the model could push out a horsepower rating of 385 at 7,800 rpm. Additionally, this model could reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and it had an impressive top speed of 180 mph. 
  8. 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB “1975 Ferrari Gino 308 GT4” (CC BY 2.0) by Gamma Man BrokenSphere, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons photo-denver/Shutterstock If you ever had the pleasure of watching the television show Magnum P.I., it’s likely that you know of the 1975 Ferrari 308. Although this sportscar was not as exotic as the Lamborghini models of the 70s, it was far more obtainable. Its role in the television series quickly allowed it to become a fan favorite.  What sets this Ferrari model apart from later year models is that it was built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti and featured a body that was entirely made out of glass-reinforced plastic. Since it was made out of this material, it was incredibly lightweight and had a curb weight of 2,315 pounds.  The Ferrari 308 GTB model was produced from 1975 until 1985, and it is estimated that approximately 12,000 models were manufactured during this time. The 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB had a 3.0-liter V8 mid-mounted engine capable of a horsepower rating of 140.  When they were first released, these cars cost a whopping $28,780, so although they were more obtainable, they still were not affordable to all. Many have claimed that this 308 GTB model is one of the iconic sports cars that everyone wanted to own in the mid-70s.
  9. 1979 Mazda RX-7 Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1979 Mazda RX-7” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by peterolthof Were you aware that the Mazda RX-7 models were featured on the Car and Driver magazine “10 Best Cars” list five times? Not only did this model feature in this prestigious magazine five times, but it was also the longest-running model in Mazda’s history.   The 1979 Mazda RX-7 was one of the most affordable sports cars to be manufactured during the 1970s. Not only did it feature an unconventional rotary engine, but it was also incredibly modern compared to its competitors.  Unlike other sports cars released in 1979, the Mazda RX-7 wasn’t as powerful, but that didn’t mean it didn’t have an impressive top speed. According to reports, this model had a top speed of 122 mph which is astounding considering it was only equipped with a 1.0-liter 2-rotor Wankel engine. Additionally, this Japanese sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 100 at 6,000 rpm, and could accelerate to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. 
  10. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Porsche 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 “Porsche 911 RS 2.7 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrerra RS 2.7 Touring first debuted at the 1972 Paris Motor Show. This vehicle is often considered to be one of the very best road cars of all time and quite possibly the best 911 ever produced. In fact, many have gone so far as to say it is one of the top 10 best Porches ever built.  Interestingly, the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was the first production street or race car offered to the public on a large scale by Porsche. The brand specifically built the RS 2.7 Touring on top of the 911S 2.4, which was the fastest standard Porsche at the time. Although it took some time, the US eventually allowed this sports car to be used for purposes other than racing.  It’s undebatable that the Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was an impressive contender at track events partially because of its phenomenal performance capabilities. This model was a five-speed manual-equipped with a 2.6-liter flat-six engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 210 at 6,500 pm. Additionally, the RS 2.7 Touring had a top speed of 150 mph, and it could amazingly reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. 
  11. 1978 BMW M1 Liftarn, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “BMW M1” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by pilot_micha During the 1970s, there was fierce competition between BMW and Porsche in the racing world. BMW wanted to contend with Porsche, so they decided to create the 1978 BMW M1. Initially, the company had partnered with Lamborghini, but BMW took over the reins when their partnership ended when conflicts arose. Upon its completion, this model became the brand’s first mid-engine automobile to be mass-produced. Although it might be hard to believe, the BMW M1 struggled to find an audience when it was first released despite being one of the most innovative vehicles during the late 70s. Yet, in later years many realized how spectacular this sportscar was, and it became a vehicle many wanted to own.  The 1978 BMW M1 was equipped with a 3.5-liter straight-six engine that came from a BMW Motorsport GmbH. With this engine and in racing trim, this sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 470 at an astounding 9,000 rpm and reach almost 200 mph. When not in racing trim, the 1978 BMW M1 could produce a horsepower rating of 277, reaching a respectable top speed of 162 mph. 
  12. 1970 Pontiac Trans Am “Hood Bird, 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans A” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by artistmac Valder137, CC BY 2.0, via Ken Morris/Shutterstock One of the greatest American muscle classic cars of all time is the 1970 Pontiac Trans Am which is adoringly referred to as the “Pontiac Firebird.” This American car was designed as a pony car to compete with the famed Ford Mustang.  The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am two-door coupe differed from previous models because of its new stylistic elements. It no longer had “coke bottle” styling but instead featured a more sophisticated body shape while maintaining more traditional muscle car elements. There were only approximately 3,196 1970 Pontiac Trans Am models built, and curiously all 1970 models had their radio antennae mounted inside the glass of their windshields.  This impressive muscle pony car had two engine options. The standard option was a Ram Air 6.6-liter 400-CID V-8. This engine could produce a horsepower rating of 345. Only 88 of the 1970 models were manufactured with the Ram Air IV 6.6-liter engine, which could produce a horsepower rating of an incredible 370. The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am “Firebird” could reach a top speed of 155 mph with the standard engine equipped. 
  13. 1970 Citroën SM “Citroën SM (1970)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni © Croquant / Wikimedia Commons ignis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1972 Citroën SM” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by harry_nl During the muscle car era, one car that is often overlooked is the 1970 Citroen SM. In 1970 this sports car was the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle. This sports car was a symbol of progressive technology during the 1970s, which is why in 2005, it was placed in 11th position on Automobile Magazine’s prestigious “100 Coolest Cars” list.  The 1970 Citroen SM was exotically powerful because of the companies decision to purchase a controlling interest in Maserati. Since Citroen had this controlling interest in Maserati, they could develop a Maserati developed V6 engine that was much more advanced than its competitors. Why was it more advanced? Well, the engine was actually three-quarters of a supercar motor with all-aluminum quad camshafts. One point of contention surrounding this vehicle was its controversial styling. Despite it being brought into question many times, no one can deny that it is exceptionally aerodynamic. In fact, the 1970 Citroen SM had better aerodynamic ratings than the much-lauded 1983 Ford Siera. This sports car had a horsepower rating of 181 at 6,250 rpm, and it had a tested top speed of 137 mph and could reach 62 mph in 8.9 seconds. 
  14. 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons publicdomainpictures.net The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 is considered to be a rare muscle car not because of its production numbers but because of its four-speed manual transmission. Most Firebirds were equipped with automatic transmissions, which was why the Formula 400 was so revered.  Although this model received less limelight than the Trans Am, it was a favorite amongst those who wanted an American muscle classic car that exhibited quiet strength and incredibly unique styling. For example, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 possibly had one of the coolest hood designs to be thought up by the Pontiac design studio.  In addition to the impressive styling, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 had an engine that couldn’t be scoffed at. This model was equipped with a 400 CID V8 engine that generated a horsepower rating of 330 at 4,800 rpm and a torque rating of 430 pounds per foot at 3,000 rpm. Moreover, this beast of a muscle car could reach 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and impressively could complete the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds. 
  15. 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 “Triumph Spitfire 1500 (1979)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni “1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 Convertible” (CC BY 2.0) by Crown Star Images Gestalt Imagery/Shutterstock Did you know that the 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500’s name is derived from a World War Two fighter plane of the same name? Although the Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a simple design, it still became a memorable British sports car.  This 70s sports car was perhaps one of the easiest to maintain when compared to similar models by other brands. Parts were readily available, and the car itself was easy to repair. The 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a four-cylinder engine that could generate a horsepower rating of 71 at 5,500 rpm and 82 lb-ft. Although this might not seem overly impressive, the 1500 could reach a top speed of 100 mph. Additionally, it could reach 60 mph in 13.4 seconds. 
  16. 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam SG2012, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons DeFacto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Lotus Europa” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100 The 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam was designed to be a high-performance sports car with a low weight. There were only 1,580 twin cam models manufactured before a “big valve” version replaced the engine.  Style-wise this car was a treat to the eyes. It featured a folded and minimalist backbone chassis with a wholly fiberglass molded body. Additionally, some of the most attractive features of this classic car were its responsive and accurate steering, racecar handling, and overall responsiveness.  This model was equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four twin-cam engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 105 at 6,000 rpm. Additionally, it could reach 62 mph in 7.9 seconds, and it had a top speed of 117 mph. 
  17. 1970 Ford Mustang nakhon100, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Rex Gray from Southern California, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Barry Blackburn/Shutterstock Valokuva24d/Shutterstock One of the sportiest Ford Mustangs ever produced was the 1970 model. The 1970 Ford Mustang came in a few different body types that included coupes, convertibles, fastbacks, and sports roofs. Only 190,727 models were produced during its production, and although not many modifications were made from its 1969 version, it was still distinctly its own vehicle.  The 1970 Ford Mustang featured a restyled grille, flat and recessed rear taillights, and high back bucket seats. Interestingly this model had a few different engine options and had different top speeds based on which engine was equipped. 
  18. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1972 Plymouth Cuda 340 Hardtop” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag Art Konovalov/Shutterstock Arguably, one of the most powerful American muscle cars to emerge in the 70s was the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. This pony car was unlike any other at the time and was so large that many car enthusiasts nicknamed it “The Elephant.”  These models are incredibly popular still to this day and are sought after by automotive enthusiasts who are enamored with this model’s automaker. The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda are at the top of the list for many muscle car enthusiasts and usually sell for a few hundred thousand when they go to auction.  Arguably, it is because of the performance capabilities that they are still a collector’s item. The 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda was equipped with a powerful engine that allowed this vehicle to produce a horsepower rating of a whopping 425 at 5,000 rpm with a torque rating of 490 pounds per foot at 4,000 rpm. 
  19. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6 “1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS” (CC BY 2.0) by GPS 56 sv1ambo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1970 Chevelle SS 2” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by kendoman26 In 1970, GM was one of the best automakers, releasing an impressive list of high-performance cars that still make headlines today. Included in this list were the 1970 Chevy Camaro, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30, and, best of all, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6.  Many have said that it is unlikely the world will ever see a sports car like the 1970 Chevelle SS454 LS6 ever again. This model is truly one of the greatest American muscle cars ever built and was often referred to as “the king of the streets.” There were only 4,475 1970 models produced, making them somewhat of a rare find.  Yet, what makes this model special? Well, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6 had impressive drag racing capabilities because of its incredible engine specifications. It was a four-speed manual transmission that was equipped with a 454 CID V8 engine. This engine allowed this model to achieve a horsepower rating of 450 at 5,600 rpm. With this engine, the 1970 Chevrolet SS454 LS6 was able to reach 60 mph in six seconds, and it had a top speed of 162 mph.
  20. 1970 Buick GS 455 “1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag “1970 Buick GSX 455 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Not many people know this, but the 1970 Buick GS 455 was the most powerful domestic engine in terms of torque output for 22 years. It wasn’t until 1992 that it was unseated by the Dodge Viper. The 1970 Buick GS455 was an underestimated American muscle car specially engineered and built for power and strength. This model had a TH400 transmission and an impressive dual exhaust. This strength and power were derived from its 455 cubic inch V8 engine. The engine featured a cast-iron nodular-iron crankshaft that was linked via forged steel connecting rods to cast iron pistons.  This Buick’s engine exhibited 510 lb-ft, and it had a horsepower rating of 360. Additionally, it had a top speed of 135 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. 

See more about - The Top 20 Old Cool Cars

In automotive history, a few of the most radically impressive designs came from the 1970s. As evidenced by the history texts, this era saw the rise of problems related to the oil crisis and emissions control in the automotive industry. Yet, this did not stop many automotive manufacturers from designing and manufacturing legendary classic cars that have managed to maintain their iconic status.  From American muscle to European sports cars, there are likely many 1970s cars you know and love if you are a car enthusiast. Yet, it’s unlikely that you know every iconic 70s sports car to have debuted during this decade. It’s incredibly likely that there are a few lesser-known gems that might have evaded your notice thus far.  We’re going to dive into 20 of the best 70s sports cars of all time. This diverse range of memorable models is likely to have you adding a few more dream cars to your list of vehicles you want to drive before you die.

  1. 1970 Porsche 917K “Porsche 917” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by bjmullan Eduardo Parise / eduparise, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Morio, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons One of the rarest and most memorable 1970s classic sports cars on our list is the 1970 Porsche 917K. According to sources, there were only 12 917K models ever built, and recently one of these rare sports cars was auctioned and fetched an astounding $14,080,000. The model that was sold used to be owned by the late legendary swiss racer Jo Siffert.  The 1970 Porsche 917K is the first sports car designed by Porsche to secure the brand a spectacular outright win at the 24 Hours of Le Man’s in 1970. This had a two-door coupe body style and was believed to have a top speed of 220 mph and to be able to reach 60 mph in approximately three seconds. This was not the norm for vehicles of this decade, and this model can still outpace modern-day sports cars.  Unlike other bulkier classic cars, the 1970 Porsche 917K was incredibly lightweight with an overall weight of 1,763 pounds. Additionally, this 70s sportscar featured Porsche’s first 12 cylinder engine. Early 1970 models had a 4.5-liter engine which was then changed to a 4.9-liter engine and a 5.0-liter engine. Amazingly the 5.0-liter models could produce an incredible horsepower rating of 630 with 434 lb-ft. 
  2. 1975 Triumph TR7 Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Charles01, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Triumph TR7 (1978)” (CC BY 2.0) by SG2012 The 1975 Triumph TR7 is arguably one of the most debated classic cars on our list. Some deem this distinctively designed model to be one of the best British sportscars to appear in the 1970s, while others consider it to be one of the worst. Interestingly, the 1975 Triumph TR7 was code-named the “Bullet” partly because of its radical design, which differed from the more conservative cars that the brand had produced before it.  This vehicle was a two-door coupe that’s wedge design endeared it to many despite the early problems the vehicle experienced. It was equipped with a five-speed manual 3.5-liter V8 engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 133 and 174 lb-ft. Additionally, this sportscar had a top speed of 135 mph and could reach 0 to 50 miles in an estimated 7.7 seconds. 
  3. 1970 Porsche 914-6 AlfvanBeem, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Porsche 914/6 GT 1970” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100 Did you know that the iconic 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a joint development between Porsche and Volkswagen? Because of this collaboration, many refer to this sports car as the “VW Porsche.”  The 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a nifty car that had a few distinctive features. For example, this model had pop-up headlights, chrome-plated bumpers with round auxiliary headlights, and the roof was made of glass fiber reinforced plastic and was wholly removable.  Curiously this model was only available as a Targa-topped two-seat roadster, but it did have two engine options. At the time of its launch, the 1970 Porsche 914-6 could have a 1.7-liter flat-four engine that was sourced from Volkswagen and could produce a horsepower rating of 80. Or this model could have a 2.0-liter flat-six engine that was also found in the Porsche 911 T, and that was capable of a horsepower rating of 110.
  4. 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder Photo by User:Morven., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Conversion 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 “Ferrari 365 GTS/4 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 Three masterminds are behind the design and production of the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, which is also lovingly known by car enthusiasts worldwide as the Daytona Spyder. This model was first introduced at the 1968 Paris Auto Salon, where it instantly gained critical acclaim.  The 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, a two-door grand tourer, was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina, engineered by Ferrari, and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. Interestingly, to this day, Ferrari does not refer to the 365 GTS as the Daytona Spyder, but they do recognize it as the model’s unofficial name.  There were only 1,400 models ever built, and this includes the factory convertibles. Additionally, this model featured in several movies during the 1970s, which is why it is one of the most recognizable Ferrari models.  This sportscar was a front-engined road car equipped with a 4.4-liter four-cam V12 engine capable of producing an impressive horsepower rating of 352. It had a recorded top speed of 170 mph and could reach 60 mph in about five seconds. 
  5. 1973 Datsun 240z dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Flickr The 1973 Datsun 240z was the sportscar that started the Z-car legacy. This model remains an important player in the Nissan lineup. Although the style of this car was reminiscent of the Jaguar E-Type, C3 Corvette, and Toyota 2000 GT, it still managed to carve its own stylistic mark. The Datsun 240z model established a name for itself by winning numerous rally and racing events over the years. Many have noted this car expertly blended incredible handling and reliability, along with impressive speed capabilities. According to sources, there were 231,191 Datsun 240z’s produced in 1973.  This model was a rear-wheel drive with a front-mounted engine. It weighed in at 2,360 pounds and was equipped with a 2.4-liter V6 which produced a horsepower rating of 151 at 5,600 rpm. Additionally, this model could complete the quarter-mile in 17.7 seconds, and it had a top speed of 122 mph. 
  6. 1974 Lamborghini Countach Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Lamborghini Countach – 1974-1990” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by wbaiv Schumi4ever, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Dmitry Eagle Orlov/Shutterstock Arguably the most recognizable supercar to have been released in the 1970s is the legendary 1974 Lamborghini Countach. This mid-engine two-seat coupe model has often been hailed as the European sportscar that popularized the distinctive Italian wedge shape design.  The 1974 Lamborghini Countach was also fondly referred to by the name “Periscopio” because of its unique rearview mirror setup. Another distinctive feature that this vehicle possessed was its futuristic scissor doors. When the Lamborghini Countach was debuted, it completely stole the show as nobody had ever seen anything like it because of its futuristic yet luxurious styling.  These high-performance cars were equipped with powerful 3.9-liter V12 engines that were capable of producing a horsepower rating of 375 with 260 lb-ft. Additionally, the 1974 Lamborghini Countach could reach 60 mph in only 5.9 seconds, and it had an incredibly impressive top speed of 181 mph. 
  7. 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV Craig James, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Rudiecast/Shutterstock The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV was the supercar that started an automotive revolution. Before the Countach was released, the Miura paved the way. The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV debuted much to the delight of supercar fans worldwide.  Yet, did you know that this model was originally planned to be a special order car only? Since the demand for the Miura SV was so great, the brand decided to enter it into regular production.  Although production of the Miura SV came to an end in 1973, this high-performance 70s car helped change the automotive landscape forever. In fact, many believe it was the 1971 Miura SV that played a key role in the development of technological advances in the supercar sector of the automotive industry.  The 1971 Lamborghini Miura was equipped with a 4.0-liter DOHC 48 valve V12 engine. With this powerful engine equipped, it’s no wonder the model could push out a horsepower rating of 385 at 7,800 rpm. Additionally, this model could reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and it had an impressive top speed of 180 mph. 
  8. 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB “1975 Ferrari Gino 308 GT4” (CC BY 2.0) by Gamma Man BrokenSphere, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons photo-denver/Shutterstock If you ever had the pleasure of watching the television show Magnum P.I., it’s likely that you know of the 1975 Ferrari 308. Although this sportscar was not as exotic as the Lamborghini models of the 70s, it was far more obtainable. Its role in the television series quickly allowed it to become a fan favorite.  What sets this Ferrari model apart from later year models is that it was built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti and featured a body that was entirely made out of glass-reinforced plastic. Since it was made out of this material, it was incredibly lightweight and had a curb weight of 2,315 pounds.  The Ferrari 308 GTB model was produced from 1975 until 1985, and it is estimated that approximately 12,000 models were manufactured during this time. The 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB had a 3.0-liter V8 mid-mounted engine capable of a horsepower rating of 140.  When they were first released, these cars cost a whopping $28,780, so although they were more obtainable, they still were not affordable to all. Many have claimed that this 308 GTB model is one of the iconic sports cars that everyone wanted to own in the mid-70s.
  9. 1979 Mazda RX-7 Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1979 Mazda RX-7” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by peterolthof Were you aware that the Mazda RX-7 models were featured on the Car and Driver magazine “10 Best Cars” list five times? Not only did this model feature in this prestigious magazine five times, but it was also the longest-running model in Mazda’s history.   The 1979 Mazda RX-7 was one of the most affordable sports cars to be manufactured during the 1970s. Not only did it feature an unconventional rotary engine, but it was also incredibly modern compared to its competitors.  Unlike other sports cars released in 1979, the Mazda RX-7 wasn’t as powerful, but that didn’t mean it didn’t have an impressive top speed. According to reports, this model had a top speed of 122 mph which is astounding considering it was only equipped with a 1.0-liter 2-rotor Wankel engine. Additionally, this Japanese sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 100 at 6,000 rpm, and could accelerate to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. 
  10. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Porsche 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 “Porsche 911 RS 2.7 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02 The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrerra RS 2.7 Touring first debuted at the 1972 Paris Motor Show. This vehicle is often considered to be one of the very best road cars of all time and quite possibly the best 911 ever produced. In fact, many have gone so far as to say it is one of the top 10 best Porches ever built.  Interestingly, the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was the first production street or race car offered to the public on a large scale by Porsche. The brand specifically built the RS 2.7 Touring on top of the 911S 2.4, which was the fastest standard Porsche at the time. Although it took some time, the US eventually allowed this sports car to be used for purposes other than racing.  It’s undebatable that the Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was an impressive contender at track events partially because of its phenomenal performance capabilities. This model was a five-speed manual-equipped with a 2.6-liter flat-six engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 210 at 6,500 pm. Additionally, the RS 2.7 Touring had a top speed of 150 mph, and it could amazingly reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. 
  11. 1978 BMW M1 Liftarn, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “BMW M1” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by pilot_micha During the 1970s, there was fierce competition between BMW and Porsche in the racing world. BMW wanted to contend with Porsche, so they decided to create the 1978 BMW M1. Initially, the company had partnered with Lamborghini, but BMW took over the reins when their partnership ended when conflicts arose. Upon its completion, this model became the brand’s first mid-engine automobile to be mass-produced. Although it might be hard to believe, the BMW M1 struggled to find an audience when it was first released despite being one of the most innovative vehicles during the late 70s. Yet, in later years many realized how spectacular this sportscar was, and it became a vehicle many wanted to own.  The 1978 BMW M1 was equipped with a 3.5-liter straight-six engine that came from a BMW Motorsport GmbH. With this engine and in racing trim, this sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 470 at an astounding 9,000 rpm and reach almost 200 mph. When not in racing trim, the 1978 BMW M1 could produce a horsepower rating of 277, reaching a respectable top speed of 162 mph. 
  12. 1970 Pontiac Trans Am “Hood Bird, 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans A” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by artistmac Valder137, CC BY 2.0, via Ken Morris/Shutterstock One of the greatest American muscle classic cars of all time is the 1970 Pontiac Trans Am which is adoringly referred to as the “Pontiac Firebird.” This American car was designed as a pony car to compete with the famed Ford Mustang.  The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am two-door coupe differed from previous models because of its new stylistic elements. It no longer had “coke bottle” styling but instead featured a more sophisticated body shape while maintaining more traditional muscle car elements. There were only approximately 3,196 1970 Pontiac Trans Am models built, and curiously all 1970 models had their radio antennae mounted inside the glass of their windshields.  This impressive muscle pony car had two engine options. The standard option was a Ram Air 6.6-liter 400-CID V-8. This engine could produce a horsepower rating of 345. Only 88 of the 1970 models were manufactured with the Ram Air IV 6.6-liter engine, which could produce a horsepower rating of an incredible 370. The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am “Firebird” could reach a top speed of 155 mph with the standard engine equipped. 
  13. 1970 Citroën SM “Citroën SM (1970)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni © Croquant / Wikimedia Commons ignis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1972 Citroën SM” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by harry_nl During the muscle car era, one car that is often overlooked is the 1970 Citroen SM. In 1970 this sports car was the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle. This sports car was a symbol of progressive technology during the 1970s, which is why in 2005, it was placed in 11th position on Automobile Magazine’s prestigious “100 Coolest Cars” list.  The 1970 Citroen SM was exotically powerful because of the companies decision to purchase a controlling interest in Maserati. Since Citroen had this controlling interest in Maserati, they could develop a Maserati developed V6 engine that was much more advanced than its competitors. Why was it more advanced? Well, the engine was actually three-quarters of a supercar motor with all-aluminum quad camshafts. One point of contention surrounding this vehicle was its controversial styling. Despite it being brought into question many times, no one can deny that it is exceptionally aerodynamic. In fact, the 1970 Citroen SM had better aerodynamic ratings than the much-lauded 1983 Ford Siera. This sports car had a horsepower rating of 181 at 6,250 rpm, and it had a tested top speed of 137 mph and could reach 62 mph in 8.9 seconds. 
  14. 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons publicdomainpictures.net The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 is considered to be a rare muscle car not because of its production numbers but because of its four-speed manual transmission. Most Firebirds were equipped with automatic transmissions, which was why the Formula 400 was so revered.  Although this model received less limelight than the Trans Am, it was a favorite amongst those who wanted an American muscle classic car that exhibited quiet strength and incredibly unique styling. For example, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 possibly had one of the coolest hood designs to be thought up by the Pontiac design studio.  In addition to the impressive styling, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 had an engine that couldn’t be scoffed at. This model was equipped with a 400 CID V8 engine that generated a horsepower rating of 330 at 4,800 rpm and a torque rating of 430 pounds per foot at 3,000 rpm. Moreover, this beast of a muscle car could reach 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and impressively could complete the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds. 
  15. 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 “Triumph Spitfire 1500 (1979)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni “1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 Convertible” (CC BY 2.0) by Crown Star Images Gestalt Imagery/Shutterstock Did you know that the 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500’s name is derived from a World War Two fighter plane of the same name? Although the Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a simple design, it still became a memorable British sports car.  This 70s sports car was perhaps one of the easiest to maintain when compared to similar models by other brands. Parts were readily available, and the car itself was easy to repair. The 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a four-cylinder engine that could generate a horsepower rating of 71 at 5,500 rpm and 82 lb-ft. Although this might not seem overly impressive, the 1500 could reach a top speed of 100 mph. Additionally, it could reach 60 mph in 13.4 seconds. 
  16. 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam SG2012, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons DeFacto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons “Lotus Europa” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100 The 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam was designed to be a high-performance sports car with a low weight. There were only 1,580 twin cam models manufactured before a “big valve” version replaced the engine.  Style-wise this car was a treat to the eyes. It featured a folded and minimalist backbone chassis with a wholly fiberglass molded body. Additionally, some of the most attractive features of this classic car were its responsive and accurate steering, racecar handling, and overall responsiveness.  This model was equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four twin-cam engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 105 at 6,000 rpm. Additionally, it could reach 62 mph in 7.9 seconds, and it had a top speed of 117 mph. 
  17. 1970 Ford Mustang nakhon100, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Rex Gray from Southern California, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Barry Blackburn/Shutterstock Valokuva24d/Shutterstock One of the sportiest Ford Mustangs ever produced was the 1970 model. The 1970 Ford Mustang came in a few different body types that included coupes, convertibles, fastbacks, and sports roofs. Only 190,727 models were produced during its production, and although not many modifications were made from its 1969 version, it was still distinctly its own vehicle.  The 1970 Ford Mustang featured a restyled grille, flat and recessed rear taillights, and high back bucket seats. Interestingly this model had a few different engine options and had different top speeds based on which engine was equipped. 
  18. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1972 Plymouth Cuda 340 Hardtop” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag Art Konovalov/Shutterstock Arguably, one of the most powerful American muscle cars to emerge in the 70s was the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. This pony car was unlike any other at the time and was so large that many car enthusiasts nicknamed it “The Elephant.”  These models are incredibly popular still to this day and are sought after by automotive enthusiasts who are enamored with this model’s automaker. The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda are at the top of the list for many muscle car enthusiasts and usually sell for a few hundred thousand when they go to auction.  Arguably, it is because of the performance capabilities that they are still a collector’s item. The 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda was equipped with a powerful engine that allowed this vehicle to produce a horsepower rating of a whopping 425 at 5,000 rpm with a torque rating of 490 pounds per foot at 4,000 rpm. 
  19. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6 “1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS” (CC BY 2.0) by GPS 56 sv1ambo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons “1970 Chevelle SS 2” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by kendoman26 In 1970, GM was one of the best automakers, releasing an impressive list of high-performance cars that still make headlines today. Included in this list were the 1970 Chevy Camaro, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30, and, best of all, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6.  Many have said that it is unlikely the world will ever see a sports car like the 1970 Chevelle SS454 LS6 ever again. This model is truly one of the greatest American muscle cars ever built and was often referred to as “the king of the streets.” There were only 4,475 1970 models produced, making them somewhat of a rare find.  Yet, what makes this model special? Well, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6 had impressive drag racing capabilities because of its incredible engine specifications. It was a four-speed manual transmission that was equipped with a 454 CID V8 engine. This engine allowed this model to achieve a horsepower rating of 450 at 5,600 rpm. With this engine, the 1970 Chevrolet SS454 LS6 was able to reach 60 mph in six seconds, and it had a top speed of 162 mph.
  20. 1970 Buick GS 455 “1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag “1970 Buick GSX 455 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag Sicnag, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Not many people know this, but the 1970 Buick GS 455 was the most powerful domestic engine in terms of torque output for 22 years. It wasn’t until 1992 that it was unseated by the Dodge Viper. The 1970 Buick GS455 was an underestimated American muscle car specially engineered and built for power and strength. This model had a TH400 transmission and an impressive dual exhaust. This strength and power were derived from its 455 cubic inch V8 engine. The engine featured a cast-iron nodular-iron crankshaft that was linked via forged steel connecting rods to cast iron pistons.  This Buick’s engine exhibited 510 lb-ft, and it had a horsepower rating of 360. Additionally, it had a top speed of 135 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. 

See more about - The Top 20 Old Cool Cars

In automotive history, a few of the most radically impressive designs came from the 1970s. As evidenced by the history texts, this era saw the rise of problems related to the oil crisis and emissions control in the automotive industry. Yet, this did not stop many automotive manufacturers from designing and manufacturing legendary classic cars that have managed to maintain their iconic status. 

From American muscle to European sports cars, there are likely many 1970s cars you know and love if you are a car enthusiast. Yet, it’s unlikely that you know every iconic 70s sports car to have debuted during this decade. It’s incredibly likely that there are a few lesser-known gems that might have evaded your notice thus far. 

We’re going to dive into 20 of the best 70s sports cars of all time. This diverse range of memorable models is likely to have you adding a few more dream cars to your list of vehicles you want to drive before you die.

1. 1970 Porsche 917K

“Porsche 917” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by bjmullan

Eduardo Parise / eduparise, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Morio, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One of the rarest and most memorable 1970s classic sports cars on our list is the 1970 Porsche 917K. According to sources, there were only 12 917K models ever built, and recently one of these rare sports cars was auctioned and fetched an astounding $14,080,000. The model that was sold used to be owned by the late legendary swiss racer Jo Siffert. 

The 1970 Porsche 917K is the first sports car designed by Porsche to secure the brand a spectacular outright win at the 24 Hours of Le Man’s in 1970. This had a two-door coupe body style and was believed to have a top speed of 220 mph and to be able to reach 60 mph in approximately three seconds. This was not the norm for vehicles of this decade, and this model can still outpace modern-day sports cars. 

Unlike other bulkier classic cars, the 1970 Porsche 917K was incredibly lightweight with an overall weight of 1,763 pounds. Additionally, this 70s sportscar featured Porsche’s first 12 cylinder engine. Early 1970 models had a 4.5-liter engine which was then changed to a 4.9-liter engine and a 5.0-liter engine. Amazingly the 5.0-liter models could produce an incredible horsepower rating of 630 with 434 lb-ft. 

2. 1975 Triumph TR7

Vauxford, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Charles01, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“Triumph TR7 (1978)” (CC BY 2.0) by SG2012

The 1975 Triumph TR7 is arguably one of the most debated classic cars on our list. Some deem this distinctively designed model to be one of the best British sportscars to appear in the 1970s, while others consider it to be one of the worst. Interestingly, the 1975 Triumph TR7 was code-named the “Bullet” partly because of its radical design, which differed from the more conservative cars that the brand had produced before it. 

This vehicle was a two-door coupe that’s wedge design endeared it to many despite the early problems the vehicle experienced. It was equipped with a five-speed manual 3.5-liter V8 engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 133 and 174 lb-ft. Additionally, this sportscar had a top speed of 135 mph and could reach 0 to 50 miles in an estimated 7.7 seconds. 

3. 1970 Porsche 914-6

AlfvanBeem, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“Porsche 914/6 GT 1970” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100

Did you know that the iconic 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a joint development between Porsche and Volkswagen? Because of this collaboration, many refer to this sports car as the “VW Porsche.” 

The 1970 Porsche 914-6 was a nifty car that had a few distinctive features. For example, this model had pop-up headlights, chrome-plated bumpers with round auxiliary headlights, and the roof was made of glass fiber reinforced plastic and was wholly removable. 

Curiously this model was only available as a Targa-topped two-seat roadster, but it did have two engine options. At the time of its launch, the 1970 Porsche 914-6 could have a 1.7-liter flat-four engine that was sourced from Volkswagen and could produce a horsepower rating of 80. Or this model could have a 2.0-liter flat-six engine that was also found in the Porsche 911 T, and that was capable of a horsepower rating of 110.

4. 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spyder

Photo by User:Morven., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Conversion 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02

“Ferrari 365 GTS/4 1971” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02

Three masterminds are behind the design and production of the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, which is also lovingly known by car enthusiasts worldwide as the Daytona Spyder. This model was first introduced at the 1968 Paris Auto Salon, where it instantly gained critical acclaim. 

The 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS, a two-door grand tourer, was designed by Leonardo Fioravanti at Pininfarina, engineered by Ferrari, and built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti. Interestingly, to this day, Ferrari does not refer to the 365 GTS as the Daytona Spyder, but they do recognize it as the model’s unofficial name. 

There were only 1,400 models ever built, and this includes the factory convertibles. Additionally, this model featured in several movies during the 1970s, which is why it is one of the most recognizable Ferrari models. 

This sportscar was a front-engined road car equipped with a 4.4-liter four-cam V12 engine capable of producing an impressive horsepower rating of 352. It had a recorded top speed of 170 mph and could reach 60 mph in about five seconds. 

5. 1973 Datsun 240z

dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Flickr

The 1973 Datsun 240z was the sportscar that started the Z-car legacy. This model remains an important player in the Nissan lineup. Although the style of this car was reminiscent of the Jaguar E-Type, C3 Corvette, and Toyota 2000 GT, it still managed to carve its own stylistic mark.

The Datsun 240z model established a name for itself by winning numerous rally and racing events over the years. Many have noted this car expertly blended incredible handling and reliability, along with impressive speed capabilities. According to sources, there were 231,191 Datsun 240z’s produced in 1973. 

This model was a rear-wheel drive with a front-mounted engine. It weighed in at 2,360 pounds and was equipped with a 2.4-liter V6 which produced a horsepower rating of 151 at 5,600 rpm. Additionally, this model could complete the quarter-mile in 17.7 seconds, and it had a top speed of 122 mph. 

6. 1974 Lamborghini Countach

Ank Kumar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“Lamborghini Countach – 1974-1990” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by wbaiv

Schumi4ever, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dmitry Eagle Orlov/Shutterstock

Arguably the most recognizable supercar to have been released in the 1970s is the legendary 1974 Lamborghini Countach. This mid-engine two-seat coupe model has often been hailed as the European sportscar that popularized the distinctive Italian wedge shape design. 

The 1974 Lamborghini Countach was also fondly referred to by the name “Periscopio” because of its unique rearview mirror setup. Another distinctive feature that this vehicle possessed was its futuristic scissor doors. When the Lamborghini Countach was debuted, it completely stole the show as nobody had ever seen anything like it because of its futuristic yet luxurious styling. 

These high-performance cars were equipped with powerful 3.9-liter V12 engines that were capable of producing a horsepower rating of 375 with 260 lb-ft. Additionally, the 1974 Lamborghini Countach could reach 60 mph in only 5.9 seconds, and it had an incredibly impressive top speed of 181 mph. 

7. 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV

Craig James, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rudiecast/Shutterstock

The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV was the supercar that started an automotive revolution. Before the Countach was released, the Miura paved the way. The 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV debuted much to the delight of supercar fans worldwide. 

Yet, did you know that this model was originally planned to be a special order car only? Since the demand for the Miura SV was so great, the brand decided to enter it into regular production. 

Although production of the Miura SV came to an end in 1973, this high-performance 70s car helped change the automotive landscape forever. In fact, many believe it was the 1971 Miura SV that played a key role in the development of technological advances in the supercar sector of the automotive industry. 

The 1971 Lamborghini Miura was equipped with a 4.0-liter DOHC 48 valve V12 engine. With this powerful engine equipped, it’s no wonder the model could push out a horsepower rating of 385 at 7,800 rpm. Additionally, this model could reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and it had an impressive top speed of 180 mph. 

8. 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB

“1975 Ferrari Gino 308 GT4” (CC BY 2.0) by Gamma Man

BrokenSphere, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

photo-denver/Shutterstock

If you ever had the pleasure of watching the television show Magnum P.I., it’s likely that you know of the 1975 Ferrari 308. Although this sportscar was not as exotic as the Lamborghini models of the 70s, it was far more obtainable. Its role in the television series quickly allowed it to become a fan favorite. 

What sets this Ferrari model apart from later year models is that it was built by Carrozzeria Scaglietti and featured a body that was entirely made out of glass-reinforced plastic. Since it was made out of this material, it was incredibly lightweight and had a curb weight of 2,315 pounds. 

The Ferrari 308 GTB model was produced from 1975 until 1985, and it is estimated that approximately 12,000 models were manufactured during this time. The 1975 Ferrari 308 GTB had a 3.0-liter V8 mid-mounted engine capable of a horsepower rating of 140. 

When they were first released, these cars cost a whopping $28,780, so although they were more obtainable, they still were not affordable to all. Many have claimed that this 308 GTB model is one of the iconic sports cars that everyone wanted to own in the mid-70s.

9. 1979 Mazda RX-7

Riley from Christchurch, New Zealand, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“1979 Mazda RX-7” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by peterolthof

Were you aware that the Mazda RX-7 models were featured on the Car and Driver magazine “10 Best Cars” list five times? Not only did this model feature in this prestigious magazine five times, but it was also the longest-running model in Mazda’s history.  

The 1979 Mazda RX-7 was one of the most affordable sports cars to be manufactured during the 1970s. Not only did it feature an unconventional rotary engine, but it was also incredibly modern compared to its competitors. 

Unlike other sports cars released in 1979, the Mazda RX-7 wasn’t as powerful, but that didn’t mean it didn’t have an impressive top speed. According to reports, this model had a top speed of 122 mph which is astounding considering it was only equipped with a 1.0-liter 2-rotor Wankel engine. Additionally, this Japanese sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 100 at 6,000 rpm, and could accelerate to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds. 

10. 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring

Thesupermat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“Porsche 911 RS 2.7 Lightweight 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02

“Porsche 911 RS 2.7 1973” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by tautaudu02

The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrerra RS 2.7 Touring first debuted at the 1972 Paris Motor Show. This vehicle is often considered to be one of the very best road cars of all time and quite possibly the best 911 ever produced. In fact, many have gone so far as to say it is one of the top 10 best Porches ever built. 

Interestingly, the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was the first production street or race car offered to the public on a large scale by Porsche. The brand specifically built the RS 2.7 Touring on top of the 911S 2.4, which was the fastest standard Porsche at the time. Although it took some time, the US eventually allowed this sports car to be used for purposes other than racing. 

It’s undebatable that the Carrera RS 2.7 Touring was an impressive contender at track events partially because of its phenomenal performance capabilities. This model was a five-speed manual-equipped with a 2.6-liter flat-six engine capable of producing a horsepower rating of 210 at 6,500 pm. Additionally, the RS 2.7 Touring had a top speed of 150 mph, and it could amazingly reach 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. 

11. 1978 BMW M1

Liftarn, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“BMW M1” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by pilot_micha

During the 1970s, there was fierce competition between BMW and Porsche in the racing world. BMW wanted to contend with Porsche, so they decided to create the 1978 BMW M1. Initially, the company had partnered with Lamborghini, but BMW took over the reins when their partnership ended when conflicts arose. Upon its completion, this model became the brand’s first mid-engine automobile to be mass-produced.

Although it might be hard to believe, the BMW M1 struggled to find an audience when it was first released despite being one of the most innovative vehicles during the late 70s. Yet, in later years many realized how spectacular this sportscar was, and it became a vehicle many wanted to own. 

The 1978 BMW M1 was equipped with a 3.5-liter straight-six engine that came from a BMW Motorsport GmbH. With this engine and in racing trim, this sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 470 at an astounding 9,000 rpm and reach almost 200 mph. When not in racing trim, the 1978 BMW M1 could produce a horsepower rating of 277, reaching a respectable top speed of 162 mph. 

12. 1970 Pontiac Trans Am

“Hood Bird, 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans A” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by artistmac

Valder137, CC BY 2.0, via Ken Morris/Shutterstock

One of the greatest American muscle classic cars of all time is the 1970 Pontiac Trans Am which is adoringly referred to as the “Pontiac Firebird.” This American car was designed as a pony car to compete with the famed Ford Mustang. 

The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am two-door coupe differed from previous models because of its new stylistic elements. It no longer had “coke bottle” styling but instead featured a more sophisticated body shape while maintaining more traditional muscle car elements. There were only approximately 3,196 1970 Pontiac Trans Am models built, and curiously all 1970 models had their radio antennae mounted inside the glass of their windshields. 

This impressive muscle pony car had two engine options. The standard option was a Ram Air 6.6-liter 400-CID V-8. This engine could produce a horsepower rating of 345. Only 88 of the 1970 models were manufactured with the Ram Air IV 6.6-liter engine, which could produce a horsepower rating of an incredible 370. The 1970 Pontiac Trans Am “Firebird” could reach a top speed of 155 mph with the standard engine equipped. 

13. 1970 Citroën SM

“Citroën SM (1970)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni

© Croquant / Wikimedia Commons

ignis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

“1972 Citroën SM” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by harry_nl

During the muscle car era, one car that is often overlooked is the 1970 Citroen SM. In 1970 this sports car was the fastest front-wheel-drive vehicle. This sports car was a symbol of progressive technology during the 1970s, which is why in 2005, it was placed in 11th position on Automobile Magazine’s prestigious “100 Coolest Cars” list. 

The 1970 Citroen SM was exotically powerful because of the companies decision to purchase a controlling interest in Maserati. Since Citroen had this controlling interest in Maserati, they could develop a Maserati developed V6 engine that was much more advanced than its competitors. Why was it more advanced? Well, the engine was actually three-quarters of a supercar motor with all-aluminum quad camshafts.

One point of contention surrounding this vehicle was its controversial styling. Despite it being brought into question many times, no one can deny that it is exceptionally aerodynamic. In fact, the 1970 Citroen SM had better aerodynamic ratings than the much-lauded 1983 Ford Siera. This sports car had a horsepower rating of 181 at 6,250 rpm, and it had a tested top speed of 137 mph and could reach 62 mph in 8.9 seconds. 

14. 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400

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The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 is considered to be a rare muscle car not because of its production numbers but because of its four-speed manual transmission. Most Firebirds were equipped with automatic transmissions, which was why the Formula 400 was so revered. 

Although this model received less limelight than the Trans Am, it was a favorite amongst those who wanted an American muscle classic car that exhibited quiet strength and incredibly unique styling. For example, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 possibly had one of the coolest hood designs to be thought up by the Pontiac design studio. 

In addition to the impressive styling, the 1970 Pontiac Firebird Formula 400 had an engine that couldn’t be scoffed at. This model was equipped with a 400 CID V8 engine that generated a horsepower rating of 330 at 4,800 rpm and a torque rating of 430 pounds per foot at 3,000 rpm. Moreover, this beast of a muscle car could reach 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and impressively could complete the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds. 

15. 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500

“Triumph Spitfire 1500 (1979)” (CC BY 2.0) by andreboeni

“1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 Convertible” (CC BY 2.0) by Crown Star Images

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Did you know that the 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500’s name is derived from a World War Two fighter plane of the same name? Although the Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a simple design, it still became a memorable British sports car. 

This 70s sports car was perhaps one of the easiest to maintain when compared to similar models by other brands. Parts were readily available, and the car itself was easy to repair.

The 1979 Triumph Spitfire 1500 had a four-cylinder engine that could generate a horsepower rating of 71 at 5,500 rpm and 82 lb-ft. Although this might not seem overly impressive, the 1500 could reach a top speed of 100 mph. Additionally, it could reach 60 mph in 13.4 seconds. 

16. 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam

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“Lotus Europa” (CC BY 2.0) by nakhon100

The 1972 Lotus Europa Twin Cam was designed to be a high-performance sports car with a low weight. There were only 1,580 twin cam models manufactured before a “big valve” version replaced the engine. 

Style-wise this car was a treat to the eyes. It featured a folded and minimalist backbone chassis with a wholly fiberglass molded body. Additionally, some of the most attractive features of this classic car were its responsive and accurate steering, racecar handling, and overall responsiveness. 

This model was equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four twin-cam engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 105 at 6,000 rpm. Additionally, it could reach 62 mph in 7.9 seconds, and it had a top speed of 117 mph. 

17. 1970 Ford Mustang

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One of the sportiest Ford Mustangs ever produced was the 1970 model. The 1970 Ford Mustang came in a few different body types that included coupes, convertibles, fastbacks, and sports roofs. Only 190,727 models were produced during its production, and although not many modifications were made from its 1969 version, it was still distinctly its own vehicle. 

The 1970 Ford Mustang featured a restyled grille, flat and recessed rear taillights, and high back bucket seats. Interestingly this model had a few different engine options and had different top speeds based on which engine was equipped. 

18. 1970 Plymouth Barracuda

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“1972 Plymouth Cuda 340 Hardtop” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag

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Arguably, one of the most powerful American muscle cars to emerge in the 70s was the 1970 Plymouth Barracuda. This pony car was unlike any other at the time and was so large that many car enthusiasts nicknamed it “The Elephant.” 

These models are incredibly popular still to this day and are sought after by automotive enthusiasts who are enamored with this model’s automaker. The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda are at the top of the list for many muscle car enthusiasts and usually sell for a few hundred thousand when they go to auction. 

Arguably, it is because of the performance capabilities that they are still a collector’s item. The 1970 Plymouth Hemi Cuda was equipped with a powerful engine that allowed this vehicle to produce a horsepower rating of a whopping 425 at 5,000 rpm with a torque rating of 490 pounds per foot at 4,000 rpm. 

19. 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6

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“1970 Chevelle SS 2” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by kendoman26

In 1970, GM was one of the best automakers, releasing an impressive list of high-performance cars that still make headlines today. Included in this list were the 1970 Chevy Camaro, the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 W30, and, best of all, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6. 

Many have said that it is unlikely the world will ever see a sports car like the 1970 Chevelle SS454 LS6 ever again. This model is truly one of the greatest American muscle cars ever built and was often referred to as “the king of the streets.” There were only 4,475 1970 models produced, making them somewhat of a rare find. 

Yet, what makes this model special? Well, the 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS454 LS6 had impressive drag racing capabilities because of its incredible engine specifications. It was a four-speed manual transmission that was equipped with a 454 CID V8 engine. This engine allowed this model to achieve a horsepower rating of 450 at 5,600 rpm. With this engine, the 1970 Chevrolet SS454 LS6 was able to reach 60 mph in six seconds, and it had a top speed of 162 mph.

20. 1970 Buick GS 455

“1970 Buick GS 455 Stage 1 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag

“1970 Buick GSX 455 Coupe” (CC BY 2.0) by Sicnag

Not many people know this, but the 1970 Buick GS 455 was the most powerful domestic engine in terms of torque output for 22 years. It wasn’t until 1992 that it was unseated by the Dodge Viper. The 1970 Buick GS455 was an underestimated American muscle car specially engineered and built for power and strength.

This model had a TH400 transmission and an impressive dual exhaust. This strength and power were derived from its 455 cubic inch V8 engine. The engine featured a cast-iron nodular-iron crankshaft that was linked via forged steel connecting rods to cast iron pistons. 

This Buick’s engine exhibited 510 lb-ft, and it had a horsepower rating of 360. Additionally, it had a top speed of 135 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. 

See more about - The Top 20 Old Cool Cars

See more about - The Top 20 Old Cool Cars