Knowledge Library · Reviews

Powered by Pulse — Value Added. The #1 source of truth in revenue operations. Find the bottleneck. Fix the pipeline. Win the quarter.

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value

Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value

📖 2,991 words🗓️ Published Sep 14, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best muscle cars 1967 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. Plymouth GTX

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1

The Plymouth GTX earns the top spot by pairing a standard 375-hp 440 Super Commando big-block with a clean, mature B-body, delivering near-Hemi performance for a 1967 MSRP of $3,178. The optional 425-hp 426 Street Hemi, a $546 upgrade, dropped the quarter-mile into the 13.5-second range at 105 mph, though only 720 buyers chose it.

This car is for the buyer who wanted Hemi pace without Hemi temperament, offering a more refined and mature alternative to the rowdier Dodge Coronet R/T below it. It trades away the GTO's badge cachet for superior standard power and a more focused performance identity. Compared to the Camaro SS 396, the GTX is heavier but offers more torque and a more upscale interior. It remains the most complete 1967 muscle car, blending speed, style, and collectibility.

2. Chevrolet Camaro SS 396

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2

The Chevrolet Camaro SS 396 ranks second because its all-new 1967 design instantly became an icon, offering a big-block answer to the Mustang with a 325-hp 396 V8 and 410 lb-ft of torque. Its tidy proportions and vast option list allowed buyers to build anything from a cruiser to a track weapon, with the rare L78 package lifting output to 375 hp.

This car suits the Mustang shopper who wanted a big-block punch in a lighter, more agile package than the Plymouth GTX above it. It trades away the GTX's standard 440 torque for a more balanced, nimble chassis and a lower entry price of $2,572. Compared to the GTO below, it offers a more modern, sporty feel with a wider range of powertrain options. Its blue-chip collectibility and enduring popularity make it a top-tier pick.

3. Pontiac GTO

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3

The Pontiac GTO ranks third as the car that defined the muscle car segment, and for 1967 it grew its V8 to a full 400 cubes producing 335 hp and 431 lb-ft of torque. Quarter-mile times ranged from 14.2 to 15 seconds depending on tune, with H.O. and Ram Air versions pushing harder. Its handsome stacked headlights, thick torque curve, and unmatched badge cachet made it the polished standard-bearer of the era.

This car is for the buyer who started the muscle craze and stayed loyal, valuing legacy and badge prestige over raw power. It trades away the Camaro SS 396's lighter handling for a heavier, more luxurious ride that still delivers strong straight-line performance. Compared to the Shelby GT500 below, it is far more affordable and practical, though it lacks the Shelby's exotic flair and exclusivity. It remains a desirable, quick, and valuable piece of American automotive history.

4. Shelby GT500

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4

The Shelby GT500 ranks fourth as the most exotic and expensive muscle car of 1967, introducing the first big-block Shelby Mustang with a 428 Police Interceptor V8 rated at 355 hp and 420 lb-ft. Its fiberglass nose, twin driving lamps, and fastback profile made it unmistakable, and quarter-mile times around 14.6 to 15 seconds were respectable if not class-leading.

This car is for the collector who wants the most exotic Mustang ever made, prioritizing rarity and visual drama over outright drag strip performance. It trades away the GTO's everyday usability and lower price for a truly special, investment-grade machine with a 1967 MSRP of $4,395. Compared to the Dodge Coronet R/T below, it offers far more prestige and exclusivity but costs significantly more both then and now.

5. Dodge Coronet R/T

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5

The Dodge Coronet R/T ranks fifth as Dodge's road-and-track flagship for 1967, offering a standard 375-hp 440 Magnum with 480 lb-ft of torque, the same engine as the GTX. The 426 Hemi was available on the option sheet for the determined, and quarter-mile times landed near 15 seconds with the 440. The R/T bundled heavy-duty suspension, bucket seats, and a console as standard, making it a complete performance package straight off the lot.

This car is for the Mopar buyer who wanted Road and Track muscle without the GTX's luxury pretensions, offering a more aggressive and performance-focused package. It trades away the Shelby GT500's exotic badge for a more practical, everyday muscle car with the same standard power as the top-ranked GTX. Compared to the Oldsmobile 442 below, it offers more brute force but less handling refinement.

6. Oldsmobile 442

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6

The Oldsmobile 442 ranks sixth as the grown-up's muscle car, balancing brawn with poise better than most rivals in 1967. Its 400 V8 made 350 hp at 5,000 rpm and a stout 440 lb-ft, with quarter-mile times around 15.5 seconds, while the rare W-30 package lifted output to 360 hp with cold-air induction. Olds engineering gave the 442 better brakes and suspension than the segment norm, so it cornered as well as it accelerated.

This car is for the thinking enthusiast who wanted muscle that also handled, valuing driving dynamics over outright straight-line speed. It trades away the Dodge Coronet R/T's raw power for a more balanced, refined chassis and understated styling. Compared to the Pontiac Firebird 400 below, it is more expensive but offers a more sophisticated and capable overall package. It remains a strong value among GM A-bodies, rewarding drivers who appreciate engineering nuance.

7. Pontiac Firebird 400

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7

The Pontiac Firebird 400 ranks seventh as the best value of 1967, launching as Pontiac's pony car with a 400 V8 producing 325 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Period testers ran quarter-miles from the mid-14s into the low 15s depending on transmission and axle, sharing much of the GTO's powertrain in a smaller, sharper package.

This car is for the buyer who wanted GTO power in a lighter, cheaper body, prioritizing value and agility over badge prestige. It trades away the Oldsmobile 442's handling refinement for a lower entry price and a more youthful, sporty character. Compared to the Ford Fairlane GT 390 below, it offers a more modern design and a better power-to-weight ratio. It remains the value champion of 1967, delivering most of the GTO's punch for meaningfully less cash.

8. Ford Fairlane GT 390

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8

The Ford Fairlane GT 390 ranks eighth as Ford's mid-size performance banner for 1967, carrying the 390 FE big-block V8 rated at 335 hp and 427 lb-ft of torque. The GT/A automatic ran quarters in the low-to-mid 14s in lighter trim, offering respectable performance for the era. The GT added stripes, hood scoops, and a sport interior, giving Ford buyers a stylish answer to the GTO and Chevelle.

This car is for the Ford loyalist who wanted mid-size muscle with a dependable FE engine and strong parts support. It trades away the Pontiac Firebird 400's lower price and lighter weight for a more traditional, roomy mid-size package. Compared to the Buick GS 400 below, it offers a more overtly sporty look but less luxury and torque. It remains a handsome, dependable choice that rounds out the Ford side of the 1967 muscle field.

9. Buick GS 400

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9

The Buick GS 400 ranks ninth as a refined muscle car, reworked for 1967 around an all-new 400 big-block that replaced the old nailhead. It made 340 hp at 5,000 rpm and a hefty 440 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds. Buick's famous finned alloy drum brakes resisted fade better than most, and the cabin carried the brand's upscale feel.

This car is for the buyer who wanted muscle with a touch of luxury, valuing comfort and braking performance over raw quarter-mile times. It trades away the Ford Fairlane GT 390's sporty styling for a more understated, upscale presentation. Compared to the Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 below, it offers more torque and better brakes but a lower profile and softer collector demand. It remains a refined, torque-rich sleeper that is a genuine value buy among 1967 muscle.

10. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10

The Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 ranks tenth as the established A-body benchmark, staying a strong and sensible pick for 1967. The base 396 made 325 hp at 4,800 rpm and 410 lb-ft, with the L34 stepping up to 350 hp and the over-the-counter L78 reaching 375 hp. Quarter-miles ran from roughly 14.4 to 14.9 seconds depending on tune, making it a proven performer.

This car is for the buyer who wanted proven big-block muscle on a budget, with a 1967 MSRP of $2,825 and deep parts support. It trades away the Buick GS 400's luxury and torque for a more straightforward, no-nonsense performance car with timeless Coke-bottle styling. Compared to the Firebird 400, it offers a more traditional mid-size layout but less modern design. It remains the dependable, well-priced classic of the bunch, always quick and always desirable.

How we ranked these

We weighted six factors using period road tests from Car and Driver, Motor Trend, and Car Life, plus modern collector data from Hagerty and auction records from Mecum and Barrett-Jackson. Straight-line performance (quarter-mile times, trap speeds, gross hp/torque) carried 30%. Iconic status and legacy counted 20%, engine character 15%, value in period 15%, style 10%, and current collectibility 10%. All figures are period-correct and gross-rated as Detroit quoted them in 1967.

We deliberately ignored modern reliability, fuel economy, safety ratings, and emissions compliance, as these were not considerations for original buyers. We also excluded subjective factors like interior comfort and ride quality beyond what period testers noted, because the muscle car ethos prioritized speed and style. Our focus remained on what made these cars icons in their era, not how they would fare as daily drivers today.

What to look for

When choosing between these 1967 muscle cars, prioritize the drivetrain's originality and documentation. A numbers-matching engine and transmission, verified by build sheets or fender tags, significantly impacts value and authenticity. For Hemi cars and Shelbys, demand registry or Marti-style verification to avoid clones. Also, inspect for rust in floors, trunk pans, quarters, and frame rails, as sheetmetal repairs are costly.

Decide whether you want a driver or an investment-grade collectible, as that shapes your budget and condition requirements.

The most common mistake buyers make is overpaying for a clone or a car with a swapped engine, assuming it holds the same value as a numbers-matching original. Another error is ignoring the importance of period-correct options like axle ratios and transmissions, which can drastically affect performance and collectibility.

Finally, many buyers focus solely on the most famous models like the GTO, overlooking better values like the Buick GS 400 or Firebird 400, which offer comparable thrills for less money.

FAQ

What was the best overall muscle car of 1967?

The Plymouth GTX was judged best overall, offering a standard 375-hp 440 Super Commando or an optional 425-hp 426 Street Hemi. With a base price of $3,178, it delivered near-Hemi performance and mature styling, making it the most complete muscle car of the year.

What was the best value muscle car of 1967?

The Pontiac Firebird 400 was the best value, starting at $2,777. It shared much of the GTO's 400 V8 powertrain in a lighter, sharper body, delivering quarter-mile times in the mid-14s. This made it a smart-money choice for buyers wanting big-block performance under $3,000.

How much horsepower did the 1967 Plymouth GTX have?

The standard 440 Super Commando V8 produced 375 hp at 4,600 rpm and 480 lb-ft of torque. The optional 426 Street Hemi was rated at 425 hp. These gross figures were typical of the era, reflecting Detroit's optimistic rating methods.

What was the quarter-mile time for the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro SS 396?

Period tests showed the Camaro SS 396 with the 325-hp 396 big-block running the quarter-mile in about 14.9 seconds. The rare L78 version, with 375 hp, was quicker, though exact times varied with gearing and transmission. These times made it a strong competitor in the pony car segment.

How many 1967 Shelby GT500s were built?

Shelby American produced only 2,048 GT500s for 1967, making it a rare and collectible model. This low production, combined with the Shelby name and big-block 428 power, has driven values into deep six figures, with the one-off Super Snake fetching $2.2 million at Mecum.

What made the 1967 Oldsmobile 442 handle better than its rivals?

Oldsmobile equipped the 442 with better brakes and suspension than the segment norm, including stiffer springs and shocks. This focus on handling, along with a 350-hp 400 V8, made it a balanced performer that cornered well, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted more than straight-line speed.

What is the difference between a 1967 GTO and a Firebird 400?

The GTO was a mid-size A-body with a 400 V8 making 335 hp, while the Firebird 400 was a lighter pony car with a 400 V8 rated at 325 hp. The Firebird was cheaper, starting at $2,777 versus $2,935, and offered similar performance in a smaller package.

Are 1967 Chevelle SS 396 cars still affordable?

Values vary widely, from the mid-$20,000s for driver-quality cars to over $210,000 for the best documented L78 examples. The base 396 cars are relatively accessible, making the Chevelle a good entry point into big-block muscle, while rare options command significant premiums.

What should I verify when buying a 1967 Hemi car?

Demand a build sheet, fender tag, and ideally registry verification from sources like the Chrysler Registry. Clones are common, so confirm the engine and transmission numbers match the VIN. Documentation is crucial, as the premium for genuine Hemi cars is enormous.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall"] S --> N0["1. Plymouth GTX"] N0 --> N1["2. Chevrolet Camaro SS 396"] N1 --> N2["3. Pontiac GTO"] N2 --> N3["4. Shelby GT500"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall"] C --> H0["9. Buick GS 400"] C --> H1["10. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[Top 10 Muscle Cars 1974 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0162)
[Top 10 Muscle Cars 1965 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0152)
[Top 10 Sports Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0174)
[Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0114)
[Top 10 Muscle Cars 1972 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0102)
[Top 10 Muscle Cars 1966 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0085)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best muscle cars 1967 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. Plymouth GTX

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0122-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall"]
  S --> N0["1. Plymouth GTX"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Chevrolet Camaro SS 396"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Pontiac GTO"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Shelby GT500"]
```


The Plymouth GTX earns the top spot by pairing a standard 375-hp 440 Super Commando big-block with a clean, mature B-body, delivering near-Hemi performance for a 1967 MSRP of $3,178. The optional 425-hp 426 Street Hemi, a $546 upgrade, dropped the quarter-mile into the 13.5-second range at 105 mph, though only 720 buyers chose it.

This car is for the buyer who wanted Hemi pace without Hemi temperament, offering a more refined and mature alternative to the rowdier Dodge Coronet R/T below it. It trades away the GTO's badge cachet for superior standard power and a more focused performance identity. Compared to the Camaro SS 396, the GTX is heavier but offers more torque and a more upscale interior. It remains the most complete 1967 muscle car, blending speed, style, and collectibility.


## 2. Chevrolet Camaro SS 396

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0122-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall"]
  C --> H0["9. Buick GS 400"]
  C --> H1["10. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```


The Chevrolet Camaro SS 396 ranks second because its all-new 1967 design instantly became an icon, offering a big-block answer to the Mustang with a 325-hp 396 V8 and 410 lb-ft of torque. Its tidy proportions and vast option list allowed buyers to build anything from a cruiser to a track weapon, with the rare L78 package lifting output to 375 hp.

This car suits the Mustang shopper who wanted a big-block punch in a lighter, more agile package than the Plymouth GTX above it. It trades away the GTX's standard 440 torque for a more balanced, nimble chassis and a lower entry price of $2,572. Compared to the GTO below, it offers a more modern, sporty feel with a wider range of powertrain options. Its blue-chip collectibility and enduring popularity make it a top-tier pick.

## 3. Pontiac GTO

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0122-b3.jpg)


The Pontiac GTO ranks third as the car that defined the muscle car segment, and for 1967 it grew its V8 to a full 400 cubes producing 335 hp and 431 lb-ft of torque. Quarter-mile times ranged from 14.2 to 15 seconds depending on tune, with H.O. and Ram Air versions pushing harder. Its handsome stacked headlights, thick torque curve, and unmatched badge cachet made it the polished standard-bearer of the era.


This car is for the buyer who started the muscle craze and stayed loyal, valuing legacy and badge prestige over raw power. It trades away the Camaro SS 396's lighter handling for a heavier, more luxurious ride that still delivers strong straight-line performance. Compared to the Shelby GT500 below, it is far more affordable and practical, though it lacks the Shelby's exotic flair and exclusivity. It remains a desirable, quick, and valuable piece of American automotive history.

## 4. Shelby GT500

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0122-b4.jpg)


The Shelby GT500 ranks fourth as the most exotic and expensive muscle car of 1967, introducing the first big-block Shelby Mustang with a 428 Police Interceptor V8 rated at 355 hp and 420 lb-ft. Its fiberglass nose, twin driving lamps, and fastback profile made it unmistakable, and quarter-mile times around 14.6 to 15 seconds were respectable if not class-leading.


This car is for the collector who wants the most exotic Mustang ever made, prioritizing rarity and visual drama over outright drag strip performance. It trades away the GTO's everyday usability and lower price for a truly special, investment-grade machine with a 1967 MSRP of $4,395. Compared to the Dodge Coronet R/T below, it offers far more prestige and exclusivity but costs significantly more both then and now.

## 5. Dodge Coronet R/T

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0122-b5.jpg)


The Dodge Coronet R/T ranks fifth as Dodge's road-and-track flagship for 1967, offering a standard 375-hp 440 Magnum with 480 lb-ft of torque, the same engine as the GTX. The 426 Hemi was available on the option sheet for the determined, and quarter-mile times landed near 15 seconds with the 440. The R/T bundled heavy-duty suspension, bucket seats, and a console as standard, making it a complete performance package straight off the lot.


This car is for the Mopar buyer who wanted Road and Track muscle without the GTX's luxury pretensions, offering a more aggressive and performance-focused package. It trades away the Shelby GT500's exotic badge for a more practical, everyday muscle car with the same standard power as the top-ranked GTX. Compared to the Oldsmobile 442 below, it offers more brute force but less handling refinement.

## 6. Oldsmobile 442

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0122-b6.jpg)


The Oldsmobile 442 ranks sixth as the grown-up's muscle car, balancing brawn with poise better than most rivals in 1967. Its 400 V8 made 350 hp at 5,000 rpm and a stout 440 lb-ft, with quarter-mile times around 15.5 seconds, while the rare W-30 package lifted output to 360 hp with cold-air induction. Olds engineering gave the 442 better brakes and suspension than the segment norm, so it cornered as well as it accelerated.

This car is for the thinking enthusiast who wanted muscle that also handled, valuing driving dynamics over outright straight-line speed. It trades away the Dodge Coronet R/T's raw power for a more balanced, refined chassis and understated styling. Compared to the Pontiac Firebird 400 below, it is more expensive but offers a more sophisticated and capable overall package. It remains a strong value among GM A-bodies, rewarding drivers who appreciate engineering nuance.


## 7. Pontiac Firebird 400

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0122-b7.jpg)


The Pontiac Firebird 400 ranks seventh as the best value of 1967, launching as Pontiac's pony car with a 400 V8 producing 325 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Period testers ran quarter-miles from the mid-14s into the low 15s depending on transmission and axle, sharing much of the GTO's powertrain in a smaller, sharper package.

This car is for the buyer who wanted GTO power in a lighter, cheaper body, prioritizing value and agility over badge prestige. It trades away the Oldsmobile 442's handling refinement for a lower entry price and a more youthful, sporty character. Compared to the Ford Fairlane GT 390 below, it offers a more modern design and a better power-to-weight ratio. It remains the value champion of 1967, delivering most of the GTO's punch for meaningfully less cash.


## 8. Ford Fairlane GT 390

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0122-b8.jpg)


The Ford Fairlane GT 390 ranks eighth as Ford's mid-size performance banner for 1967, carrying the 390 FE big-block V8 rated at 335 hp and 427 lb-ft of torque. The GT/A automatic ran quarters in the low-to-mid 14s in lighter trim, offering respectable performance for the era. The GT added stripes, hood scoops, and a sport interior, giving Ford buyers a stylish answer to the GTO and Chevelle.

This car is for the Ford loyalist who wanted mid-size muscle with a dependable FE engine and strong parts support. It trades away the Pontiac Firebird 400's lower price and lighter weight for a more traditional, roomy mid-size package. Compared to the Buick GS 400 below, it offers a more overtly sporty look but less luxury and torque. It remains a handsome, dependable choice that rounds out the Ford side of the 1967 muscle field.

## 9. Buick GS 400

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0122-b9.jpg)


The Buick GS 400 ranks ninth as a refined muscle car, reworked for 1967 around an all-new 400 big-block that replaced the old nailhead. It made 340 hp at 5,000 rpm and a hefty 440 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds. Buick's famous finned alloy drum brakes resisted fade better than most, and the cabin carried the brand's upscale feel.


This car is for the buyer who wanted muscle with a touch of luxury, valuing comfort and braking performance over raw quarter-mile times. It trades away the Ford Fairlane GT 390's sporty styling for a more understated, upscale presentation. Compared to the Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 below, it offers more torque and better brakes but a lower profile and softer collector demand. It remains a refined, torque-rich sleeper that is a genuine value buy among 1967 muscle.

## 10. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

![Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0122-b10.jpg)


The Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 ranks tenth as the established A-body benchmark, staying a strong and sensible pick for 1967. The base 396 made 325 hp at 4,800 rpm and 410 lb-ft, with the L34 stepping up to 350 hp and the over-the-counter L78 reaching 375 hp. Quarter-miles ran from roughly 14.4 to 14.9 seconds depending on tune, making it a proven performer.


This car is for the buyer who wanted proven big-block muscle on a budget, with a 1967 MSRP of $2,825 and deep parts support. It trades away the Buick GS 400's luxury and torque for a more straightforward, no-nonsense performance car with timeless Coke-bottle styling. Compared to the Firebird 400, it offers a more traditional mid-size layout but less modern design. It remains the dependable, well-priced classic of the bunch, always quick and always desirable.

## How we ranked these

We weighted six factors using period road tests from Car and Driver, Motor Trend, and Car Life, plus modern collector data from Hagerty and auction records from Mecum and Barrett-Jackson. Straight-line performance (quarter-mile times, trap speeds, gross hp/torque) carried 30%. Iconic status and legacy counted 20%, engine character 15%, value in period 15%, style 10%, and current collectibility 10%. All figures are period-correct and gross-rated as Detroit quoted them in 1967.


We deliberately ignored modern reliability, fuel economy, safety ratings, and emissions compliance, as these were not considerations for original buyers. We also excluded subjective factors like interior comfort and ride quality beyond what period testers noted, because the muscle car ethos prioritized speed and style. Our focus remained on what made these cars icons in their era, not how they would fare as daily drivers today.

## What to look for

When choosing between these 1967 muscle cars, prioritize the drivetrain's originality and documentation. A numbers-matching engine and transmission, verified by build sheets or fender tags, significantly impacts value and authenticity. For Hemi cars and Shelbys, demand registry or Marti-style verification to avoid clones. Also, inspect for rust in floors, trunk pans, quarters, and frame rails, as sheetmetal repairs are costly.

Decide whether you want a driver or an investment-grade collectible, as that shapes your budget and condition requirements.


The most common mistake buyers make is overpaying for a clone or a car with a swapped engine, assuming it holds the same value as a numbers-matching original. Another error is ignoring the importance of period-correct options like axle ratios and transmissions, which can drastically affect performance and collectibility.

Finally, many buyers focus solely on the most famous models like the GTO, overlooking better values like the Buick GS 400 or Firebird 400, which offer comparable thrills for less money.

## Related questions

### What was the fastest 1967 muscle car in the quarter-mile?

The 426 Street Hemi-equipped Plymouth GTX and Dodge Coronet R/T were the quickest, with period tests showing times in the 13.5-second range at around 105 mph. This was significantly faster than the 14-to-15-second times of most big-block rivals, making them the undisputed kings of the strip in 1967.

### Why is 1967 considered a watershed year for muscle cars?

1967 saw the simultaneous debut of five landmark models: the Plymouth GTX, Dodge Coronet R/T, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, and Shelby GT500. This unprecedented influx of new performance cars intensified the horsepower race and solidified the muscle car era's peak, offering buyers more choices than ever before.

### Which 1967 muscle car offers the best value for collectors today?

The Buick GS 400 and standard Pontiac Firebird 400 remain relatively affordable, with clean examples often in the five-figure range. They offer first-year status and strong performance without the premium prices of GTOs or Hemi Mopars, making them smart entry points for collectors.

### How does the Plymouth GTX compare to the Pontiac GTO?

The GTX offered superior performance per dollar, with a standard 375-hp 440 and optional 425-hp Hemi, while the GTO topped out at 335 hp. However, the GTO holds greater legacy as the original muscle car and commands strong badge cachet, making it more valuable in terms of heritage.

### What is the current value of a 1967 Hemi GTX?

A documented 1967 426 Hemi GTX can bring deep six-figure sums at auction, often exceeding $200,000. This is dramatically more than the 440-powered versions, which typically trade in the high five figures, reflecting the Hemi's rarity and legendary status.

### Did the 1967 Shelby GT500 use a 427 or a 428 engine?

Production GT500s used the 428 Police Interceptor V8 rated at 355 hp. The famous 427-powered Super Snake was a one-off prototype built for Carroll Shelby, not a regular production model, making it an extreme rarity that fetched $2.2 million at auction.

### What are common issues to look for when buying a 1967 muscle car?

Rust in floors, trunk pans, quarters, and frame rails is a major concern. Verify numbers-matching drivetrain components and check for documentation like build sheets. Be wary of clones, especially for SS 396, GTO, and 442 models, and ensure the car's options match its claimed identity.

## FAQ

**What was the best overall muscle car of 1967?**

The Plymouth GTX was judged best overall, offering a standard 375-hp 440 Super Commando or an optional 425-hp 426 Street Hemi. With a base price of $3,178, it delivered near-Hemi performance and mature styling, making it the most complete muscle car of the year.

**What was the best value muscle car of 1967?**

The Pontiac Firebird 400 was the best value, starting at $2,777. It shared much of the GTO's 400 V8 powertrain in a lighter, sharper body, delivering quarter-mile times in the mid-14s. This made it a smart-money choice for buyers wanting big-block performance under $3,000.

**How much horsepower did the 1967 Plymouth GTX have?**

The standard 440 Super Commando V8 produced 375 hp at 4,600 rpm and 480 lb-ft of torque. The optional 426 Street Hemi was rated at 425 hp. These gross figures were typical of the era, reflecting Detroit's optimistic rating methods.

**What was the quarter-mile time for the 1967 Chevrolet Camaro SS 396?**

Period tests showed the Camaro SS 396 with the 325-hp 396 big-block running the quarter-mile in about 14.9 seconds. The rare L78 version, with 375 hp, was quicker, though exact times varied with gearing and transmission. These times made it a strong competitor in the pony car segment.

**How many 1967 Shelby GT500s were built?**

Shelby American produced only 2,048 GT500s for 1967, making it a rare and collectible model. This low production, combined with the Shelby name and big-block 428 power, has driven values into deep six figures, with the one-off Super Snake fetching $2.2 million at Mecum.

**What made the 1967 Oldsmobile 442 handle better than its rivals?**

Oldsmobile equipped the 442 with better brakes and suspension than the segment norm, including stiffer springs and shocks. This focus on handling, along with a 350-hp 400 V8, made it a balanced performer that cornered well, appealing to enthusiasts who wanted more than straight-line speed.

**What is the difference between a 1967 GTO and a Firebird 400?**

The GTO was a mid-size A-body with a 400 V8 making 335 hp, while the Firebird 400 was a lighter pony car with a 400 V8 rated at 325 hp. The Firebird was cheaper, starting at $2,777 versus $2,935, and offered similar performance in a smaller package.

**Are 1967 Chevelle SS 396 cars still affordable?**

Values vary widely, from the mid-$20,000s for driver-quality cars to over $210,000 for the best documented L78 examples. The base 396 cars are relatively accessible, making the Chevelle a good entry point into big-block muscle, while rare options command significant premiums.

**What should I verify when buying a 1967 Hemi car?**

Demand a build sheet, fender tag, and ideally registry verification from sources like the Chrysler Registry. Clones are common, so confirm the engine and transmission numbers match the VIN. Documentation is crucial, as the premium for genuine Hemi cars is enormous.

## Sources

- https://www.hagerty.com/valuation-tools
- https://www.motortrend.com/
- https://www.caranddriver.com/
- https://www.mecum.com/
- https://www.barrett-jackson.com/
- https://musclecars.howstuffworks.com/
- https://www.curbsideclassic.com/
- https://www.streetmusclemag.com/
- https://www.dragzine.com/

## Related on PULSE

- [Top 10 Muscle Cars 1974 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0162)
- [Top 10 Muscle Cars 1965 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0152)
- [Top 10 Sports Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0174)
- [Top 10 Muscle Cars 1973 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0114)
- [Top 10 Muscle Cars 1972 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0102)
- [Top 10 Muscle Cars 1966 — Best Overall + Best Value](/knowledge/ca0085)

Was this helpful?

⌬ Apply this in PULSE

Pulse CheckScore reps on the metrics that matter

Top 10 Muscle Cars 1967 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Plymouth GTX

2. Chevrolet Camaro SS 396

3. Pontiac GTO

4. Shelby GT500

5. Dodge Coronet R/T

6. Oldsmobile 442

7. Pontiac Firebird 400

8. Ford Fairlane GT 390

9. Buick GS 400

10. Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What was the fastest 1967 muscle car in the quarter-mile?

Why is 1967 considered a watershed year for muscle cars?

Which 1967 muscle car offers the best value for collectors today?

How does the Plymouth GTX compare to the Pontiac GTO?

What is the current value of a 1967 Hemi GTX?

Did the 1967 Shelby GT500 use a 427 or a 428 engine?

What are common issues to look for when buying a 1967 muscle car?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

Two scores — Gate vs IQ