The 1960s brought about a revolution in the car industry, with different carmakers introducing new designs, technology, and features that would have a lasting impact on classic car enthusiasts until this day. In an era of iconic cars, there is no shortage of remarkable models to retrospect, as each decade carries its own unique impression. The 60s featured a groundbreaking selection of automobiles characterized by design, power, and technological breakthroughs that, to many classic car aficionados, remain some of the most iconic classic cars of the period.
The Mustang – Iconic Automobile of the 60s
An undisputed classic amongst automobiles, the Mustang was the essence of freedom, comfort and chic style that defined the American cars made in the 1960s. Ford’s Mustang, first introduced in April of 1964, instantly became an American icon in the automotive industry and eventually an entire car line. The first model year of the Mustang saw a newer design and introduced a classic era referred to as the ‘Pony Car’.
The Mustang was available in two-door coupe and two-door convertible designs in five trim levels; Deluxe, Standard, GT350, GT500 and GT500KR. The Mustang’s base model had a manual transmission, the Inline Six-cylinder engine, and 260-cubic inch V8 engine. Later models featured larger engines, including the 289-cubic inch V8 and the 390-cubic inch V8.
These original 5 trim levels quickly exploded in popularity, as enthusiasts from around the world flocked to the Mustang. There was a surge in scale and manufacturing of the Mustang, which allowed for additional special editions, convertible models, and other modifications of the vehicle. This offered a vast range of options to those who were interested in getting a Mustang, which helped it become the most iconic classic car of the 1960s.
The Impala – The Sanctuary of Luxury
Another unmissable classic of the 60s is the Chevrolet Impala, with a belief it was designed as a sanctuary of luxury. The Impala was introduced in the late 50s and early 60s, as Chevrolet aimed to create a car parallel to the look and feel of top of the line luxury cars in the US market. The Impala first came available with a larger, more powerful engine than what was typically available in the Chevrolet lineup.
The Impala featured a four-door sedan, with a choice of I6 or V8 engines and three trim levels. The Super Sport Package, only available in the Impala line, was offered from 1961. This gave the car additional power and design to set itself apart from the standard model. Initially, the Impala had small bumpers and a winged rear window; in1971 this would be replaced by the classic Impala design with the large turbine wheel covers.
The Impala was by far the largest car in the Chevrolet lineup and eventually the most influential car in the 60s. The Impala, equipped with novel features and the unmistakable styling of the classic muscle car, was a true embodiment of the spirit of the 60s.
The Mustangs and Impalas of the 1960s are amongst the most influential of their era, but there was also a series of classic cars that featured an exciting look and even more extraordinary features. Without further adieu, let’s take a look at some of the most iconic classic cars of the 1960s.
Iconic Classic Cars of the 1960s
- AC Cobra
The AC Cobra is one of the most successful cars of the 60s, It came off the production line in 1962 as a result of a collaboration between AC Cars and the Ford Motor Company. The car featured a powerful 4.3L V8 engine, producing a tremendous 425hp. This engine build was the flagship for the sport’s car industry, with the AC Cobra setting a new performance benchmark for the decade.
- Pontiac GTO
The Pontiac GTO was one of the essential Pontiac models ever made, as it was the first muscle car in the US. This car was originally a special option package that was available with the Pontiac Tempest, designed to inject power and style into the Tempest model. The Pontiac GTO was equipped with a 389cu in V8 engine and a four-speed manual transmission, featuring a top-end speed of 140mph. This car was a testimony of Chevrolet’s philosophy of performance car manufacturing.
- Plymouth Barracuda
The Plymouth Barracuda was the other classic car to make a splash in the 60s. The Barracuda was released one week before the Ford Mustang and became a great success, featuring a classic design with various models from 2-door and fastbacks to performance packages. The Plymouth Barracuda featured an HP small block V8 engine 384cu in, a 230hp engine and a four-speed transmission.
- Ferrari 275 GTB
The Ferrari 275 GTB is an extraordinary model beloved by many classic car enthusiasts. It is equipped with a 3.3L V12 engine and 4-speed manual transmission. It features an abundance of luxurious exterior features, such as the iconic silver-colored alloy wheels and the chrome grille. This model displays the beauty of Italian craftsmanship with its dazzling design and breathtaking performance.
- Volkswagen Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle was introduced in 1938 but it became a force to be reckoned with in the 1960s. The car spread its popularity from Europe to the Americas, becoming one of the coveted cars of the decade. The Volkswagen Beetle featured a 1.5L Inline Four engine which generated 40hp, a top speed of 83mph and a 4-speed manual transmission.
- Chevrolet Corvette
The Chevrolet Corvette is undeniably one of the most iconic classic cars of the decade. This car, widely acclaimed for its sleek design, was produced by Chevrolet from 1963 to 1967. It had an engine displacing 327 cubic-inches, a 4-speed manual transmission, and a top speed of 150mph, making it one of the fastest cars of its time.
The 1960s were a definitive period of remarkable, classic cars that left an immense impression on classic car enthusiasts throughout the world. From the iconic, cult-like favorite of the Mustang to the timeless beauty of Ferrari, the classic cars of the 1960s are symbols of vintage style and design that will continue to enthrall the classic car community and beyond. From the power of the GTO to the luxury and quality of the Impala, these classic cars of the 1960s will remain just as impressive and captivating today as they were when they first hit the market.
