Muscle car is an American term used to refer to a variety of high-performance
automobiles. The
Merriam-Webster dictionary defines muscle cars as "any of a group of American-made 2-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving." A large
V8 engine is fitted in a 2-door,
rear wheel drive, family-style
mid-size or
full-size car designed for four or more passengers. Sold at an affordable price, muscle cars are intended for street use and occasional
drag racing. They are distinct from two-seat
sports cars and expensive
2+2 GTs intended for high-speed touring and
road racing. Developed to meet specific market requirements, muscle cars also emerged from manufacturers in Australia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and elsewhere.