5 muscle cars that lost their mojo

Collectible muscle cars have enjoyed a spectactular run-up in prices. Now some are falling in value faster than others. Hagerty reveals the biggest losers.

1969–70 Ford Mustang Mach 1: -12%. Ford introduced the Mach 1 package for 1969. Only available in SportsRoof configuration (previously fastback), the Mach 1 was a huge success. Engines could be optioned with everything from a two-barrel 351-cubic-inch V-8 to a 428 Super Cobra Jet. They’re popular and abundant. Lately less popular with the Cobra Jet taking the biggest hit.

1970–71 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Hardtop: -11%. In 1970, Chrysler launched its E-body platform with the all-new Dodge Challenger and third-generation Barracuda. A standard 383 car is expensive and desirable, a 440 six-barrel is highly sought after while Hemi Cudas are top of the pecking order. They are among the leading blue-chip muscle cars. There has been a softening in Hemi values, and a knock-down effect has occurred.

1973–74 Pontiac Trans Am Super Duty: -10%. While the muscle era had ended, Pontiac introduced a brand-new performance engine that revived the Super Duty name for 1973. For Pontiac fans, 455 SD–equipped cars are some of the most sought-after Firebirds, with just 1295 Formula and Trans Am cars produced over two years. While the Formula 455 SD is rare, with 100 total, Trans Ams are fairly common. Prime examples are changing hands for lower prices.

1966–67 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396: -9%. By late 1965 Chevrolet had begun to be a player with the Z16-code 396 V-8 it shoved into the Chevelle Super Sport. By 1966, the Chevelle SS would be equipped with a 325-horsepower 396 big-block engine standard, with options taking it up to 375 hp. This finally put the Chevelle on track to play with the big boys. Chevelle SS 396s from 1966–67 enjoyed a quick rise in 2022. Things changed in the spring of 2025 and values are dropping.

1970–72 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28: -6%. Good for 360 horsepower in 1970, the Z/28 continued a winning combination of power and handling. Model-year 1972 would be the final year for the LT1-powered Z/28s. Z/28s remained steady performers, with values fluctuating little. Q1 2025 however has seen sale prices falling noticably for 1970–72 Z/28s.