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Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value

📖 2,807 words🗓️ Published Aug 26, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best muscle cars 1973 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1

The Super Duty 455 is the best overall 1973 muscle car because it delivered genuine performance when every rival had gone soft. Officially rated at 290 net horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, Car and Driver ran it through the quarter-mile in roughly 13.8 seconds at over 103 mph. Only about 252 Trans Ams received the SD-455 in 1973, with a base price near $4,725 including the $521 engine option.

This car is for the serious collector who wants the era's true blue-chip investment and the last real factory muscle car. It trades away affordability and everyday usability for rarity, documented provenance, and unmatched historical significance. Compared to the Chevelle SS 454 ranked below, the SD-455 is dramatically faster and far more valuable, but it demands a six-figure budget and meticulous authentication.

2. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2

The Chevelle SS 454 ranks second because it represents the final factory big-block Chevelle, carrying genuine end-of-era significance with the legendary 454 emblem. The LS4 454 was rated at 245 net horsepower with a tall stack of torque, though the heavier Colonnade body and emissions tuning slowed quarter-mile times to around 15.7 seconds. The SS option cost about $249.50 and the 454 added roughly $397 more, bringing the total near $3,200.

This car is for the big-block traditionalist who wants GM thunder in a fresh body without paying six-figure prices. It trades away stoplight terror for a muscular, torque-rich cruising experience that is more comfortable than the lighter Pontiac above. Compared to the SD-455 Trans Am, the Chevelle is far more affordable and easier to find, but it is noticeably slower and less collectible.

3. Plymouth Road Runner 440

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3

The Road Runner 440 is the best value 1973 muscle car because it delivered the most cubic inches per dollar of any rival. The big 440-cube V8 carried a 280 net horsepower rating with stout torque, and the no-frills Road Runner shunned luxury to maximize engine for the money. With a base price of just $3,115 and the 440 costing only about $153 more, no other car matched its displacement for the outlay.

This car is for the budget hot-rodder who wants maximum big-block muscle without the premium of the Chevelle above. It trades away a refined cabin and upscale styling for honest, no-nonsense character with the famous beep-beep horn. Compared to the Chevelle SS 454, the Road Runner offers similar straight-line performance for significantly less money, though it lacks the Chevelle's brand cachet.

4. Dodge Charger Rallye 440

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4

The Charger Rallye 440 ranks fourth because it paired a muscular 440 Magnum with arguably the best-styled intermediate body of 1973. The 440 produced 280 net horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, giving the heavy coupe genuine highway authority despite its weight. The restyled body blended muscle-car menace with personal-luxury polish, making it the most handsome car in this segment.

This car is for the buyer who wants big-block punch wrapped in a comfortable, daily-drivable coupe that looks great doing it. It trades away outright dragstrip performance for a long-legged grand touring character that is easier to live with than the Road Runner below. Compared to the Plymouth, the Charger is heavier and slower in a straight line, but its superior styling and pop-culture fame make it more desirable.

5. Ford Mustang Mach 1 351

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5

The Mustang Mach 1 351 ranks fifth as the most affordable performance car on this list, with a base price of just $3,088. The 351 Cobra Jet was rated at 259 net horsepower and 292 lb-ft of torque, decent figures for a year of strangled engines. As the final year of the big-body first-generation Mustang before the downsized Mustang II arrived, it holds special historical significance.

This car is for the Blue Oval loyalist who wants an accessible, end-of-line collectible without spending big money. It trades away the brute force of the Charger above for lower cost and a lighter, more nimble feel that is easier to enjoy. Compared to the Charger Rallye 440, the Mach 1 is down on power and torque, but its lower entry price and iconic Mustang heritage make it a practical choice.

6. Buick GS 455 Stage 1

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6

The Buick GS 455 Stage 1 ranks sixth because it offered refined, underrated big-block performance that made it a genuine sleeper. The Stage 1 was rated at 270 net horsepower, comfortably above the standard 455, with the smooth, torque-rich Buick character that made these cars deceptively quick. Quarter-mile times hovered around 15.3 seconds, respectable for the year.

This car is for the connoisseur who wants a gentleman's muscle car with upscale refinement and genuine rarity. It trades away the aggressive image of the Mustang above for a more understated, sophisticated presence that rewards patient collectors. Compared to the Mach 1, the GS Stage 1 is faster and rarer, but it lacks the Mustang's name recognition and broad appeal.

7. Oldsmobile 442

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7

The Oldsmobile 442 ranks seventh because it paired a 455 Rocket V8 with Oldsmobile's reputation for solid build quality and a comfortable ride. Rated at 270 net horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, it offered respectable thrust with smooth, refined power delivery. The new Colonnade body was clean and well-proportioned, giving the 442 a handsome, understated appearance that has aged gracefully.

This car is for the buyer who wants big-block muscle with a touch of class and dependable engineering. It trades away the rarity of the Buick above for a more common but still capable package that is easier to find and maintain. Compared to the GS Stage 1, the 442 is slightly less powerful and less exclusive, but its better parts availability and lower cost make it more practical.

8. Plymouth 'Cuda 340

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8

The Plymouth 'Cuda 340 ranks eighth because it offered a balanced, tossable driving experience that the big-block cars could not match. The 340 small-block was rated at 240 net horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, lighter over the nose than the departed 440 and 426 cars. Only about 7,209 'Cuda 340s were built in 1973, making them genuinely rare.

This car is for the driver who values handling and agility over brute force, wanting a pony car that is fun to push through corners. It trades away the straight-line muscle of the Oldsmobile above for a lighter, more engaging chassis and iconic looks. Compared to the 442, the 'Cuda is down on power but offers superior balance and a more beautiful design that commands a premium.

9. Dodge Challenger Rallye 340

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9

The Challenger Rallye 340 ranks ninth as a slightly friendlier-priced alternative to the 'Cuda, offering the same willing small-block character. The 340 produced 240 net horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, giving the lighter E-body a balanced, fun-to-drive nature. The Rallye package added the right visual cues and instrumentation, while the Challenger's longer, more relaxed proportions gave it distinct appeal.

This car is for the buyer who wants 'Cuda character with a touch more value and a slightly different look. It trades away the 'Cuda's more aggressive styling for a more relaxed, comfortable cruiser that is still engaging to drive. Compared to the 'Cuda above, the Challenger is nearly identical mechanically but often commands slightly lower prices, making it a smarter buy for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

10. AMC Javelin AMX 401

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10

The AMC Javelin AMX 401 ranks tenth because it proved a scrappy independent could still deliver real muscle in 1973. The big 401 V8 was rated at 255 net horsepower, giving the bold, swoopy Javelin genuine straight-line credibility. Only about 1,420 Javelin AMX cars were built with the 401 in 1973, making them rare and distinctive. With a base price near $3,300 with the 401, it offered a unique alternative to the Big Three.

This car is for the independent thinker who wants muscle from outside the mainstream and values underdog status. It trades away the brand recognition and parts availability of the Challenger above for a more distinctive, outsider character that is a cult favorite. Compared to the Challenger Rallye 340, the Javelin is slightly more powerful and rarer, but it suffers from lower resale and less aftermarket support.

How we ranked these

We ranked the top 10 muscle cars of 1973 using a weighted scoring system. Straight-line performance (30%) was judged by net horsepower, torque, and quarter-mile times relative to the choked standards of the year. Iconic status and legacy (20%), engine character (15%), value in period (15%), style (10%), and current collectibility (10%) were also factored in. Data came from period road tests, auction records, and valuation tools.

We deliberately ignored modern modifications, aftermarket parts, and restored or upgraded examples, focusing only on factory-stock condition as delivered in 1973. We also excluded cars that were not true performance models, such as luxury coupes or base trims with cosmetic packages. This ensures a fair comparison of what buyers actually got from the factory during the final year of the classic muscle car era.

What to look for

When choosing between these 1973 muscle cars, the real priorities are authenticity, condition, and intended use. For a collector, a numbers-matching SD-455 Trans Am or a documented 440 Mopar demands verification of engine codes, VINs, and build sheets. For a driver, a clean, rust-free example with a solid drivetrain matters more than matching numbers. Budget for rust repair and mechanical sorting, as 1973 bodies are prone to decay.

The biggest mistake buyers make is overvaluing rarity without verifying provenance. Many cars wear fake SS, Rallye, or AMX badges, and clones are common. Paying a premium for a 'matching' car that is actually a re-badged base model is a costly error. Always insist on documentation like PHS records or fender tags, and price the car based on what it truly is, not what it appears to be.

FAQ

Was 1973 really the last year of the muscle car?

Effectively, yes. 1973 was the muscle era's last stand: the 1974 oil embargo, soaring insurance costs, and tightening emissions rules combined to end factory performance as it had been known. The Trans Am SD-455 carried on into 1974 as the lone survivor before it too faded.

Why was the Trans Am SD-455 so special when everything else got slower?

Because Pontiac built it as a genuinely heavy-duty engine with reinforced internals, forged components, and the bones of a race motor. While rivals bled compression, the SD-455 delivered 290 net horsepower that was widely believed to be underrated, humiliating nearly everything else built that year.

What does SAE net horsepower mean?

SAE net horsepower is a measurement standard that includes all accessories, exhaust, and emissions equipment, giving a more realistic figure than the older gross ratings. In 1972, automakers switched to net ratings, which made horsepower numbers drop dramatically even when engines were unchanged.

How much is a 1973 Trans Am SD-455 worth today?

Clean, documented SD-455 Trans Ams now trade well into six figures, with top sales reaching $200,000 to $260,000. This blue-chip status reflects the car's rarity (only about 252 built), its performance legacy, and its status as the last real muscle car of the era.

What is a clone car, and why should I avoid it?

A clone is a base model dressed up to look like a high-performance version, such as adding SS badges or a hood scoop. While a clone can be a good driver, it should be priced as such. Paying a premium for a fake 'matching' car is a common and costly mistake.

What are the common rust areas on 1973 muscle cars?

The usual 1970s rust traps are lower fenders, quarter panels, trunk floors, and frame rails. These bodies were not built for longevity, so thorough inspection is critical. Rust repair can be expensive, so a clean, solid example is worth paying more for.

Is numbers-matching important on all 1973 muscle cars?

Numbers-matching matters most on headline cars like the SD-455 Trans Am or 440 Mopars, where it commands a strong premium. On more affordable entry cars like a Road Runner or Mach 1, a clean, honest, well-sorted example often beats a rough 'matching' car. Buy the car, not just the fender tag.

What was the cheapest muscle car of 1973?

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 351 had the lowest base price on this list at $3,088, while the Dodge Challenger Rallye 340 started around $3,011. The Plymouth Road Runner 440 was also a bargain at $3,115, offering the best performance per dollar.

Why are 1973 Mopar E-bodies so collectible?

The 1973 'Cuda and Challenger were the last of the original E-body designs, and their timeless styling is universally adored. With big-blocks gone, the 340 small-block offered balanced handling, and low production numbers (like 7,209 'Cudas) have made them strong collectibles.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall"] S --> N0["1. Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455"] N0 --> N1["2. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454"] N1 --> N2["3. Plymouth Road Runner 440"] N2 --> N3["4. Dodge Charger Rallye 440"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall"] C --> H0["9. Dodge Challenger Rallye 340"] C --> H1["10. AMC Javelin AMX 401"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[More muscle cars 1973 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best muscle cars 1973 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0114-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall"]
  S --> N0["1. Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Plymouth Road Runner 440"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Dodge Charger Rallye 440"]
```



The Super Duty 455 is the best overall 1973 muscle car because it delivered genuine performance when every rival had gone soft. Officially rated at 290 net horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, Car and Driver ran it through the quarter-mile in roughly 13.8 seconds at over 103 mph. Only about 252 Trans Ams received the SD-455 in 1973, with a base price near $4,725 including the $521 engine option.

This car is for the serious collector who wants the era's true blue-chip investment and the last real factory muscle car. It trades away affordability and everyday usability for rarity, documented provenance, and unmatched historical significance. Compared to the Chevelle SS 454 ranked below, the SD-455 is dramatically faster and far more valuable, but it demands a six-figure budget and meticulous authentication.

## 2. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0114-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall"]
  C --> H0["9. Dodge Challenger Rallye 340"]
  C --> H1["10. AMC Javelin AMX 401"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```



The Chevelle SS 454 ranks second because it represents the final factory big-block Chevelle, carrying genuine end-of-era significance with the legendary 454 emblem. The LS4 454 was rated at 245 net horsepower with a tall stack of torque, though the heavier Colonnade body and emissions tuning slowed quarter-mile times to around 15.7 seconds. The SS option cost about $249.50 and the 454 added roughly $397 more, bringing the total near $3,200.

This car is for the big-block traditionalist who wants GM thunder in a fresh body without paying six-figure prices. It trades away stoplight terror for a muscular, torque-rich cruising experience that is more comfortable than the lighter Pontiac above. Compared to the SD-455 Trans Am, the Chevelle is far more affordable and easier to find, but it is noticeably slower and less collectible.

## 3. Plymouth Road Runner 440

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0114-b3.jpg)



The Road Runner 440 is the best value 1973 muscle car because it delivered the most cubic inches per dollar of any rival. The big 440-cube V8 carried a 280 net horsepower rating with stout torque, and the no-frills Road Runner shunned luxury to maximize engine for the money. With a base price of just $3,115 and the 440 costing only about $153 more, no other car matched its displacement for the outlay.

This car is for the budget hot-rodder who wants maximum big-block muscle without the premium of the Chevelle above. It trades away a refined cabin and upscale styling for honest, no-nonsense character with the famous beep-beep horn. Compared to the Chevelle SS 454, the Road Runner offers similar straight-line performance for significantly less money, though it lacks the Chevelle's brand cachet.

## 4. Dodge Charger Rallye 440

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0114-b4.jpg)



The Charger Rallye 440 ranks fourth because it paired a muscular 440 Magnum with arguably the best-styled intermediate body of 1973. The 440 produced 280 net horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, giving the heavy coupe genuine highway authority despite its weight. The restyled body blended muscle-car menace with personal-luxury polish, making it the most handsome car in this segment.

This car is for the buyer who wants big-block punch wrapped in a comfortable, daily-drivable coupe that looks great doing it. It trades away outright dragstrip performance for a long-legged grand touring character that is easier to live with than the Road Runner below. Compared to the Plymouth, the Charger is heavier and slower in a straight line, but its superior styling and pop-culture fame make it more desirable.

## 5. Ford Mustang Mach 1 351

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0114-b5.jpg)



The Mustang Mach 1 351 ranks fifth as the most affordable performance car on this list, with a base price of just $3,088. The 351 Cobra Jet was rated at 259 net horsepower and 292 lb-ft of torque, decent figures for a year of strangled engines. As the final year of the big-body first-generation Mustang before the downsized Mustang II arrived, it holds special historical significance.

This car is for the Blue Oval loyalist who wants an accessible, end-of-line collectible without spending big money. It trades away the brute force of the Charger above for lower cost and a lighter, more nimble feel that is easier to enjoy. Compared to the Charger Rallye 440, the Mach 1 is down on power and torque, but its lower entry price and iconic Mustang heritage make it a practical choice.

## 6. Buick GS 455 Stage 1

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0114-b6.jpg)



The Buick GS 455 Stage 1 ranks sixth because it offered refined, underrated big-block performance that made it a genuine sleeper. The Stage 1 was rated at 270 net horsepower, comfortably above the standard 455, with the smooth, torque-rich Buick character that made these cars deceptively quick. Quarter-mile times hovered around 15.3 seconds, respectable for the year.

This car is for the connoisseur who wants a gentleman's muscle car with upscale refinement and genuine rarity. It trades away the aggressive image of the Mustang above for a more understated, sophisticated presence that rewards patient collectors. Compared to the Mach 1, the GS Stage 1 is faster and rarer, but it lacks the Mustang's name recognition and broad appeal.

## 7. Oldsmobile 442

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0114-b7.jpg)



The Oldsmobile 442 ranks seventh because it paired a 455 Rocket V8 with Oldsmobile's reputation for solid build quality and a comfortable ride. Rated at 270 net horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, it offered respectable thrust with smooth, refined power delivery. The new Colonnade body was clean and well-proportioned, giving the 442 a handsome, understated appearance that has aged gracefully.

This car is for the buyer who wants big-block muscle with a touch of class and dependable engineering. It trades away the rarity of the Buick above for a more common but still capable package that is easier to find and maintain. Compared to the GS Stage 1, the 442 is slightly less powerful and less exclusive, but its better parts availability and lower cost make it more practical.

## 8. Plymouth 'Cuda 340

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0114-b8.jpg)



The Plymouth 'Cuda 340 ranks eighth because it offered a balanced, tossable driving experience that the big-block cars could not match. The 340 small-block was rated at 240 net horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, lighter over the nose than the departed 440 and 426 cars. Only about 7,209 'Cuda 340s were built in 1973, making them genuinely rare.

This car is for the driver who values handling and agility over brute force, wanting a pony car that is fun to push through corners. It trades away the straight-line muscle of the Oldsmobile above for a lighter, more engaging chassis and iconic looks. Compared to the 442, the 'Cuda is down on power but offers superior balance and a more beautiful design that commands a premium.

## 9. Dodge Challenger Rallye 340

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0114-b9.jpg)



The Challenger Rallye 340 ranks ninth as a slightly friendlier-priced alternative to the 'Cuda, offering the same willing small-block character. The 340 produced 240 net horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, giving the lighter E-body a balanced, fun-to-drive nature. The Rallye package added the right visual cues and instrumentation, while the Challenger's longer, more relaxed proportions gave it distinct appeal.

This car is for the buyer who wants 'Cuda character with a touch more value and a slightly different look. It trades away the 'Cuda's more aggressive styling for a more relaxed, comfortable cruiser that is still engaging to drive. Compared to the 'Cuda above, the Challenger is nearly identical mechanically but often commands slightly lower prices, making it a smarter buy for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

## 10. AMC Javelin AMX 401

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0114-b10.jpg)



The AMC Javelin AMX 401 ranks tenth because it proved a scrappy independent could still deliver real muscle in 1973. The big 401 V8 was rated at 255 net horsepower, giving the bold, swoopy Javelin genuine straight-line credibility. Only about 1,420 Javelin AMX cars were built with the 401 in 1973, making them rare and distinctive. With a base price near $3,300 with the 401, it offered a unique alternative to the Big Three.

This car is for the independent thinker who wants muscle from outside the mainstream and values underdog status. It trades away the brand recognition and parts availability of the Challenger above for a more distinctive, outsider character that is a cult favorite. Compared to the Challenger Rallye 340, the Javelin is slightly more powerful and rarer, but it suffers from lower resale and less aftermarket support.

## How we ranked these

We ranked the top 10 muscle cars of 1973 using a weighted scoring system. Straight-line performance (30%) was judged by net horsepower, torque, and quarter-mile times relative to the choked standards of the year. Iconic status and legacy (20%), engine character (15%), value in period (15%), style (10%), and current collectibility (10%) were also factored in. Data came from period road tests, auction records, and valuation tools.

We deliberately ignored modern modifications, aftermarket parts, and restored or upgraded examples, focusing only on factory-stock condition as delivered in 1973. We also excluded cars that were not true performance models, such as luxury coupes or base trims with cosmetic packages. This ensures a fair comparison of what buyers actually got from the factory during the final year of the classic muscle car era.

## What to look for

When choosing between these 1973 muscle cars, the real priorities are authenticity, condition, and intended use. For a collector, a numbers-matching SD-455 Trans Am or a documented 440 Mopar demands verification of engine codes, VINs, and build sheets. For a driver, a clean, rust-free example with a solid drivetrain matters more than matching numbers. Budget for rust repair and mechanical sorting, as 1973 bodies are prone to decay.

The biggest mistake buyers make is overvaluing rarity without verifying provenance. Many cars wear fake SS, Rallye, or AMX badges, and clones are common. Paying a premium for a 'matching' car that is actually a re-badged base model is a costly error. Always insist on documentation like PHS records or fender tags, and price the car based on what it truly is, not what it appears to be.

## Related questions

### What was the fastest muscle car of 1973?

The Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455 was the fastest, with Car and Driver recording a quarter-mile in about 13.8 seconds at over 103 mph. Its 290 net horsepower was underrated, and it outperformed nearly every other production car of that year, making it the undisputed king of 1973.

### How much did a 1973 Trans Am SD-455 cost new?

The base Trans Am was priced around $4,204, and the SD-455 engine option added roughly $521, bringing the total to about $4,725. This was a significant sum in 1973, but it bought the last genuinely fast factory muscle car of the era.

### Why is the 1973 Road Runner considered the best value?

The Road Runner 440 delivered a 280 net horsepower big-block V8 for a base price of just $3,115, with the 440 option costing only about $153 more. This gave buyers the most cubic inches per dollar of any 1973 muscle car, making it the smartest performance buy of the year.

### What engine was in the 1973 Chevelle SS 454?

The 1973 Chevelle SS 454 used the LS4 454 cubic-inch V8, rated at 245 net horsepower and a substantial amount of torque. The heavier Colonnade body and emissions tuning meant quarter-mile times slipped to around 15.7 seconds, but the big-block still delivered strong mid-range punch.

### How rare is a 1973 Plymouth 'Cuda 340?

Only about 7,209 'Cuda 340s were built for 1973, making them quite rare. This scarcity, combined with the timeless E-body styling, has driven clean examples to trade in the $38,000 to $54,000 range, reflecting strong collector demand.

### What was the last year for the big-block Chevelle SS?

1973 was the final year for the Chevelle SS 454. The new Colonnade body and emissions regulations marked the end of the legendary big-block badge, giving these cars significant 'end of the line' appeal among Chevelle enthusiasts and collectors.

### How many 1973 Javelin AMX 401s were built?

Approximately 1,420 Javelin AMX cars were built with the 401 V8 in 1973. This genuine rarity, combined with AMC's underdog status, makes the 401 AMX a cult favorite among collectors who appreciate its outsider appeal and bold styling.

## FAQ

**Was 1973 really the last year of the muscle car?**

Effectively, yes. 1973 was the muscle era's last stand: the 1974 oil embargo, soaring insurance costs, and tightening emissions rules combined to end factory performance as it had been known. The Trans Am SD-455 carried on into 1974 as the lone survivor before it too faded.

**Why was the Trans Am SD-455 so special when everything else got slower?**

Because Pontiac built it as a genuinely heavy-duty engine with reinforced internals, forged components, and the bones of a race motor. While rivals bled compression, the SD-455 delivered 290 net horsepower that was widely believed to be underrated, humiliating nearly everything else built that year.

**What does SAE net horsepower mean?**

SAE net horsepower is a measurement standard that includes all accessories, exhaust, and emissions equipment, giving a more realistic figure than the older gross ratings. In 1972, automakers switched to net ratings, which made horsepower numbers drop dramatically even when engines were unchanged.

**How much is a 1973 Trans Am SD-455 worth today?**

Clean, documented SD-455 Trans Ams now trade well into six figures, with top sales reaching $200,000 to $260,000. This blue-chip status reflects the car's rarity (only about 252 built), its performance legacy, and its status as the last real muscle car of the era.

**What is a clone car, and why should I avoid it?**

A clone is a base model dressed up to look like a high-performance version, such as adding SS badges or a hood scoop. While a clone can be a good driver, it should be priced as such. Paying a premium for a fake 'matching' car is a common and costly mistake.

**What are the common rust areas on 1973 muscle cars?**

The usual 1970s rust traps are lower fenders, quarter panels, trunk floors, and frame rails. These bodies were not built for longevity, so thorough inspection is critical. Rust repair can be expensive, so a clean, solid example is worth paying more for.

**Is numbers-matching important on all 1973 muscle cars?**

Numbers-matching matters most on headline cars like the SD-455 Trans Am or 440 Mopars, where it commands a strong premium. On more affordable entry cars like a Road Runner or Mach 1, a clean, honest, well-sorted example often beats a rough 'matching' car. Buy the car, not just the fender tag.

**What was the cheapest muscle car of 1973?**

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 351 had the lowest base price on this list at $3,088, while the Dodge Challenger Rallye 340 started around $3,011. The Plymouth Road Runner 440 was also a bargain at $3,115, offering the best performance per dollar.

**Why are 1973 Mopar E-bodies so collectible?**

The 1973 'Cuda and Challenger were the last of the original E-body designs, and their timeless styling is universally adored. With big-blocks gone, the 340 small-block offered balanced handling, and low production numbers (like 7,209 'Cudas) have made them strong collectibles.

## Sources

- https://www.caranddriver.com/
- https://www.motortrend.com/
- https://www.hagerty.com/
- https://www.mecum.com/
- https://www.barrett-jackson.com/
- https://bringatrailer.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pontiac_Firebird
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plymouth_Road_Runner
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Chevelle
- https://www.hemmings.com/

## Related on PULSE

- [More muscle cars 1973 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty 455

2. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454

3. Plymouth Road Runner 440

4. Dodge Charger Rallye 440

5. Ford Mustang Mach 1 351

6. Buick GS 455 Stage 1

7. Oldsmobile 442

8. Plymouth 'Cuda 340

9. Dodge Challenger Rallye 340

10. AMC Javelin AMX 401

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What was the fastest muscle car of 1973?

How much did a 1973 Trans Am SD-455 cost new?

Why is the 1973 Road Runner considered the best value?

What engine was in the 1973 Chevelle SS 454?

How rare is a 1973 Plymouth 'Cuda 340?

What was the last year for the big-block Chevelle SS?

How many 1973 Javelin AMX 401s were built?

FAQ

Sources

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