Sports cars vs. muscle cars

What's the difference between a muscle car and a sports car?

Muscle cars are known for their powerful engines and larger, boxier shapes. Think classics like the 1970 Dodge Challenger, 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, and 1976 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. They stand out with long, boxy hoods to contain larger-than-usual engines. They reach their best speeds when driving in relatively straight lines.

Sports cars tend to be small and sleek and hug the road while driving — giving an extra feeling of control, especially when making tight turns at high speeds. Sports cars provide excellent control on curvy roads and typically have better fuel economy.

Features of muscle cars

Classic muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s are still a favorite among car enthusiasts. Still, there are plenty of modern-day muscle cars too. Newer models include the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, Chevrolet Camaro SS, Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat, and Ford Mustang GT.

Typical features of these cars include:

• Powerful engines: Muscle cars have engines typically V8 or larger and have more horsepower than most cars.
• High speed: The powerful engine in a muscle car allows it to reach high speeds. While sports cars can safely speed through tight turns, muscle cars need to slow down while turning.
• Large size: Muscle cars are traditionally larger than sports cars. The larger size means they also have more interior space, leading to extra comfort and more trunk space.
• Domestic production: American companies like Dodge, Chevrolet, and Ford manufacture the most muscle cars. Many international car producers design sports cars. Find out about foreign vs. American cars.
• Low fuel efficiency: If you're looking to lower your carbon footprint, a muscle car may not be for you. The high-power engine goes through more fuel than the average car.
• Safety: When hitting high speeds in a muscle car, it's reassuring to know that most score well in crash tests. Muscle cars are also heavier and more elevated than most sports cars, meaning they tend to handle better in different weather conditions.

Features of sports cars

Where muscle cars are large and in charge, sports cars are small and sleek. Their design is aerodynamic and inspired by race cars. Some of the most popular sports cars on the market today include the Porsche 911 Carrera, Chevrolet Corvette, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Jaguar F-Type, and Audi R8 Coupe. Common characteristics of sports cars include:

• Quick acceleration and speed: Where muscle cars focus more on power, sports cars focus on quick acceleration. Some sports cars have turbo engines, which increase power and acceleration.
• Small and compact design: Sports cars are smaller than muscle cars and usually look sleeker. Inside, there's typically less space. Two-seater sports cars are common, and trunk space is often limited.
• Affordability: The average sports car costs less because muscle cars have more powerful engines and larger bodies, costing more to produce.
• Excellent control on curvy roads: Muscle cars go fast when driving in a straight line, but sports cars also keep up that speed through turns. They hug curves in the road, giving a superior feeling of control.
• Good variety: Most major car manufacturers have a sports car option in their lineup. Whether you'd prefer something domestic or international, high-end or modestly priced, there's a sports car out there for you.
• Fuel efficiency: A slightly less powerful engine and more lightweight design mean you likely need less gas to run a sports car vs. a muscle car. For even more fuel efficiency, there are hybrid and electric cars like the Tesla Roadster and Porsche Taycan.

Does auto insurance differ for a muscle car or a sports car?

Both types may cost more to insure than standard sedans. That's because car insurance companies factor in several things when calculating rates, such as engine size, speed, safety, repair costs, and car make and model.

If you finance or lease your sports car or muscle car, your lender typically requires comprehensive coverage and collision coverage. However, even if your vehicle is paid in full, these coverages can be crucial in protecting your car against theft, vandalism, and physical damage. Learn more about insuring sports cars and exotic cars.

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