The 1977 Pontiac Firebird, Alabama's classic car darling, epitomizes American muscle. This third-generation F-body boasted sleek, aerodynamic styling that set it apart from its boxy predecessors. Available in a range of engine options, from the base 3.8L V6 to the mighty 6.6L V8, the '77 Firebird offered something for every enthusiast.
Its distinctive split grille and sloped fastback design made it instantly recognizable on the roads. Popular add-ons included the "Skybird" and "Redbird" packages, adding unique colors and graphics. The Firebird's blend of style and performance captured the spirit of the late '70s, making it an enduring favorite in the Heart of Dixie.
Alaska's favorite, the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette, marks the inaugural year of the second-generation C2 Corvette, also known as the "Sting Ray." Its revolutionary design featured a split rear window, a one-year-only styling cue that's now highly coveted by collectors.
The '63 Corvette introduced hidden headlamps and an independent rear suspension, significantly improving handling. Engine options ranged from a 327 cubic inch (5.4L) V8 producing 250 horsepower (hp) to a fuel-injected version making 360 hp. Despite Alaska's rugged terrain, the sleek lines and performance of this American icon clearly resonated with the Last Frontier's classic car enthusiasts.
Arizona's classic car of choice, the 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1, represents the pinnacle of muscle car evolution. This model year saw the Mustang at its largest and most powerful. The Mach 1 package added performance and style upgrades, including a functional hood scoop, competition suspension, and chrome exhaust tips.
Engine options were plentiful, ranging from a 351 cubic inch (5.8L) V8 to the monstrous 429 cubic inch (7.0L) Cobra Jet. The car's aggressive styling, with its NASA-style hood, side stripes, and rear window louvers, perfectly suited the bold landscape of the Grand Canyon State. Its ability to handle both desert heat and high-speed cruising made it a natural fit for Arizona's car culture.
The 1968 Pontiac Firebird, Arkansas's classic car favorite, represents the model's second year of production. This first-generation Firebird built on the success of its debut, offering refined styling and improved performance. It shared a platform with the Chevrolet Camaro but boasted distinctive Pontiac design elements, including a unique front grille and taillight panel.
Engine options ranged from a 250 cubic inch (4.1L) inline-six to a powerful 400 cubic inch (6.6L) V8. The '68 Firebird offered a perfect blend of muscle car performance and everyday drivability, making it a hit in the Natural State. Its sleek lines and powerful stance embodied the spirit of American automotive design in the late '60s.
California's choice, the 1967 Ford Mustang, marks a significant year in the model's evolution. This refresh of the original pony car brought a slightly larger body, allowing for bigger engine options. The '67 Mustang offered a range of powerplants, from the entry-level 200 cubic inch (3.3L) straight-six to the legendary 390 cubic inch (6.4L) V8.
The car's styling updates included a more aggressive grille, concave rear panel, and optional GT fog lamps. In performance-oriented California, the Mustang's blend of style, customization options, and power made it a perfect fit. From cruising the Pacific Coast Highway to navigating LA traffic, the '67 Mustang became an icon of California car culture.
The 1970 Chevrolet Camaro, Colorado's classic car of choice, represents the first year of the second-generation design. This model marked a significant departure from its predecessor, featuring a longer, lower, and wider body with a more European-inspired look.
The '70 Camaro offered a range of engines, from the base 250 cubic inch (4.1L) inline-six to the potent 396 cubic inch (6.5L) V8. Its F-body platform provided excellent handling, making it well-suited for Colorado's diverse driving conditions, from mountain passes to open prairies. The Camaro's combination of style, performance, and reliability resonated with Coloradans, cementing its place in the state's automotive heritage.
The 1949 Ford Custom, Connecticut's classic car favorite, marked a significant milestone in automotive history. It was Ford's first post-World War II design, introducing a modern "slab-sided" look that departed from pre-war styling. The '49 Custom featured a sleek, integrated body with fenders that flowed smoothly into the doors.
Powered by a flathead V8 engine producing 100 horsepower, it offered respectable performance for its time. The car's spacious interior and smooth ride made it ideal for Connecticut's mix of urban and rural driving. Its success helped Ford regain market share and set design trends for the 1950s, making it a beloved piece of Americana in the Constitution State.
Delaware's choice, the 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, represents the pinnacle of 1980s American performance coupes. This G-body model combined luxury with sportiness, featuring an aerodynamic front fascia, sporty bucket seats, and a powerful 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 engine producing 180 horsepower.
The SS package added performance upgrades like a sport-tuned suspension and 15-inch rally wheels. Its combination of comfort and performance made it perfect for both highway cruising and spirited driving on Delaware's varied roads. The Monte Carlo SS's popularity in NASCAR during this era further cemented its status as a desirable classic, particularly in a state with a strong racing heritage.
The 1969 Dodge Charger, favored in the District of Columbia, is an iconic representation of American muscle. This second-generation Charger featured a sleek "coke bottle" styling with a split grille and hidden headlights. Engine options ranged from a 225 cu in (3.7L) slant-six to the legendary 426 cu in (7.0L) Hemi V8.
The '69 Charger gained additional fame as the "General Lee" in the TV show "The Dukes of Hazzard." Its combination of style, performance, and cultural significance made it a standout even in the politically-focused streets of D.C. The Charger's imposing presence and powerful engines embodied American automotive prowess, making it a fitting choice for the nation's capital.
Florida's classic car of choice is also the 1969 Dodge Charger, showcasing its widespread appeal. In the Sunshine State, the Charger's powerful air conditioning systems were particularly appreciated. Its muscular styling and range of high-performance engines made it perfect for cruising Florida's long stretches of coastal highways.
The car's popularity was boosted by its success in NASCAR, a sport with a strong following in Florida. Whether parked at a beach or roaring down the streets of Miami, the '69 Charger's blend of style and power captured the dynamic spirit of Florida's car culture.
Georgia's favorite classic car is once again the 1969 Dodge Charger, demonstrating its enduring popularity across the South. In the Peach State, the Charger's rugged build and powerful engines were well-suited to both urban Atlanta and rural backroads.
Its spacious interior made it comfortable for long drives through Georgia's diverse landscape. The Charger's success in stock car racing, a sport deeply rooted in Georgia's culture, further enhanced its appeal. From cruising Peachtree Street to showcasing at local car meets, the '69 Charger became a symbol of American automotive passion in Georgia.
The 1962 Chevrolet Corvette, Hawaii's classic car of choice, represents the final year of the first-generation (C1) design. This model year saw the Corvette at its most refined, featuring a cleaner rear styling with a ducktail spoiler and four taillights. Powered by a range of V8 engines, including the potent 327 cubic inch (5.4L) option, the '62 Corvette offered impressive performance for its time.
Its sleek, open-top design was perfectly suited to Hawaii's tropical climate and scenic coastal drives. The Corvette's blend of style, performance, and exclusivity made it a status symbol on the islands, embodying the spirit of freedom and adventure associated with Hawaii's car culture.
Idaho's favorite, the 1935 Ford Pickup, reflects the state's rugged, practical nature. This classic truck was part of Ford's influential Model 48 series, featuring a distinctive V-shaped grille and elegant styling that set it apart from earlier, more utilitarian designs. Powered by a flathead V8 engine, it offered a good balance of power and efficiency for its time.
The '35 Pickup's durability and versatility made it ideal for Idaho's diverse terrain, from farmlands to mountain roads. Its continued popularity in the Gem State speaks to Idaho's appreciation for hardworking, reliable vehicles with a touch of classic American style.
The 1969 Chevrolet El Camino, Illinois' classic car of choice, uniquely blends car-like comfort with pickup utility. Based on the Chevelle platform, the '69 model featured sleek styling with a bold front grille and sculpted body lines.
Engine options ranged from a 250 cubic inch (4.1L) inline-six to powerful V8s, including the 396 cubic inch (6.5L) big-block. This versatility made it popular in Illinois, suiting both Chicago's urban streets and rural farmlands.
Indiana's classic car favorite, the 1968 Chevrolet Camaro, represents the model's second year of production. This first-generation Camaro offered refined styling over its predecessor, with a more aggressive grille and new side markers. Engine options were plentiful, ranging from economical six-cylinders to the powerful SS 396 V8.
The '68 Camaro's popularity in Indiana likely stems from the state's deep connection to automotive culture and racing, particularly the Indianapolis 500. Its combination of style, performance, and affordability made it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts, from street racers to Sunday cruisers.
The 1964 Pontiac GTO, Iowa's classic car of choice, is often credited with launching the muscle car era. This model was originally an option package for the Pontiac Tempest, featuring a powerful 389 cubic inch (6.4L) V8 engine in a mid-size car body.
The GTO's combination of performance and style, with its stacked headlights and muscular stance, struck a chord with Iowa's car enthusiasts. Its ability to deliver exhilarating performance while maintaining practicality for daily use made it well-suited to Iowa's mix of rural and urban driving environments.
The 1969 Dodge Charger makes its appearance on this list again as Kansas's favorite classic car. Its sleek "Coke bottle" styling and hidden headlights made it a standout on Kansas roads. Its spacious interior and comfortable ride made it ideal for cruising Kansas's long stretches of highway.
Whether parked at a local drive-in or thundering down rural roads, the '69 Charger embodied the spirit of freedom and power that resonated with Kansans.
Kentucky's classic car of choice, the 1967 Chevrolet Impala, represents the model's fourth generation. This full-size car offered a perfect blend of luxury and performance, appealing to Kentucky's diverse driving needs. The '67 Impala featured clean, flowing lines and a fastback roof on two-door models.
Engine options ranged from a 250 cu in inline-six to the powerful 427 cu in V8. Its spacious interior and smooth ride made it ideal for family outings to the Kentucky Derby or cruising through the Bluegrass State's scenic byways. The Impala's enduring popularity in Kentucky speaks to its versatility and the state's appreciation for classic American engineering.
The 1971 Ford Mustang, Louisiana's favorite classic, marked the beginning of the model's largest design. This first year of the third generation featured a longer, wider body with a more aggressive stance. Engine options ranged from a 250 cu in six-cylinder to the mighty 429 cu in Cobra Jet V8.
The '71 Mustang's blend of muscle car performance and grand tourer comfort made it well-suited to Louisiana's diverse driving conditions, from New Orleans' busy streets to the state's rural backroads. Its larger size and powerful air conditioning were particularly appreciated in Louisiana's hot, humid climate.
Maine's classic car favorite, the 1977 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, gained iconic status partly due to its starring role in "Smokey and the Bandit." This second-generation F-body boasted sleek, aerodynamic styling with its distinctive "shovel" nose and optional T-top roof.
Powered by a range of V8 engines, including the 400 cu in (6.6L) option, the Trans Am offered impressive performance for its era. Its combination of style and power made it perfect for cruising Maine's coastal roads or tackling the state's rugged terrain.
Maryland's choice, the 1954 Chevrolet Bel Air, represents the pinnacle of 1950s automotive design. This was the second year of the second-generation Bel Air, featuring a more streamlined look with a lower stance and a wraparound windshield.
The '54 model introduced Chevy's new 235 cu in "Blue Flame" inline-six engine, offering improved performance. Its combination of style and comfort made it ideal for cruising Maryland's diverse landscape, from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains.
The 1969 Dodge Charger, Massachusetts' favorite classic, embodies muscle car era excellence. Its iconic design, featuring a split grille and hidden headlights, turned heads on Bay State roads. Engine options ranged from the base 225 cu in slant-six to the thunderous 426 Hemi V8, catering to various performance appetites.
The Charger's blend of style and power made it perfect for cruising coastal routes or navigating Boston's streets. Its popularity in Massachusetts reflects the state's appreciation for American engineering and performance. Whether at Cape Cod beaches or in Berkshire mountain towns, the '69 Charger represented a perfect fusion of muscle and sophistication for Massachusetts enthusiasts.
Michigan, the heart of America's auto industry, also favors the 1969 Dodge Charger. In the Motor City state, the Charger symbolized Chrysler's engineering prowess. Its powerful engine options, including the 440 Magnum and 426 Hemi, showcased Michigan-made muscle. The Charger's success in NASCAR further endeared it to Michigan's racing fans.
Its robust build quality and performance made it well-suited to Michigan's diverse driving conditions, from Detroit's urban sprawl to Upper Peninsula's rugged terrain. The '69 Charger's enduring popularity in Michigan is a testament to the state's deep-rooted automotive heritage and appreciation for homegrown engineering excellence.
Minnesota's classic car of choice, the 1969 Dodge Charger, proves its versatility across diverse climates. In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the Charger's powerful engines and rear-wheel drive provided thrilling summer cruising, while its weight offered stability in harsh winters.
The spacious interior proved comfortable for Minnesotans during long drives. Its muscle car status appealed to the state's performance enthusiasts, while its stylish design turned heads from Minneapolis to Duluth. The Charger's enduring popularity in Minnesota demonstrates the state's appreciation for a vehicle that combines power, style, and practicality in equal measure.
Mississippi's favorite, the 1969 Ford Bronco, reflects the state's love for outdoor adventure. This first-generation Bronco was a compact SUV, offering a perfect blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Powered by either a straight-six or V8 engine, it tackled Mississippi's diverse terrain with ease, from muddy Delta backroads to Gulf Coast beaches.
The Bronco's removable top made it ideal for enjoying Mississippi's warm climate. Its rugged reliability and versatility resonated with Mississippians' practical nature, while its iconic design appealed to classic car enthusiasts.
The Show-Me State shows its love for the 1969 Dodge Charger, marking another appearance for this iconic muscle car. In Missouri, the Charger's combination of style and performance made it a hit from St. Louis to Kansas City. Its powerful engine options were perfect for cruising along the Mississippi River or tackling Ozark mountain roads.
Its popularity in stock car racing added to its appeal in a state with a rich motorsports history. The '69 Charger's enduring fame in Missouri reflects the state's appreciation for classic American muscle and engineering.
Montana's favorite, the 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 variant, features a sleek fastback design, hood scoop, and side stripes, standing out on Montana's open roads. Engine options ranged from the 351 cu in V8 to the mighty 428 Cobra Jet, providing ample power for Montana's vast highways and mountain passes.
The Mach 1's combination of style, performance, and practicality resonated with Montanans, offering excitement for summer cruising and sure-footed handling for winter driving. Its enduring popularity reflects Montana's appreciation for vehicles that blend rugged capability with classic American style.
Nebraska's choice of the 1980 MG MGB stands out as a unique favorite. This British sports car brought a touch of European flair to the Cornhusker State. The MGB's compact size and nimble handling made it perfect for both urban commutes in Omaha and Lincoln, and spirited drives on Nebraska's rural roads. Its convertible top allowed Nebraskans to enjoy the state's warm summer evenings.
While not as powerful as American muscle cars, the MGB's efficient four-cylinder engine and lightweight design offered a different kind of driving pleasure. Its popularity in Nebraska demonstrates the state's diverse automotive tastes and appreciation for the simple joys of open-top motoring.
Nevada's classic vehicle of choice, the 1956 Ford F100 pickup, reflects the state's rugged, independent spirit. This second-generation F-Series truck featured a more modern, integrated design than its predecessors. Powered by either a straight-six or V8 engine, the F100 offered reliable performance for Nevada's challenging desert environment.
Its robust construction made it ideal for work duties in Nevada's mining towns or ranches, while its stylish design turned heads on the Las Vegas Strip. The F100's enduring popularity in Nevada speaks to the state's appreciation for vehicles that combine practicality with classic American styling, capable of handling both work and play in the Silver State.
New Hampshire's favorite, the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, brings muscle car flair to the Granite State. This model year, the last of the first-generation Camaros, featured refined styling with a more aggressive grille and new quarter panels. Engine options ranged from the base six-cylinder to the potent SS396, offering performance for every preference.
The Camaro's combination of style and power made it perfect for cruising New Hampshire's scenic byways or tackling mountain roads. Its popularity reflects New Hampshire's "Live Free or Die" spirit, appreciating a car that offers both freedom and excitement.
The Garden State's classic car of choice, the 1969 Dodge Charger, makes another appearance on our list. In New Jersey, the Charger's blend of performance and style made it a standout from the Jersey Shore to the Delaware Water Gap. Its powerful engine options were perfect for quick sprints on the turnpike or cruising along the coast.
The Charger's roomy interior comfortably accommodated families on trips to the shore, while its muscle car status satisfied New Jersey's performance enthusiasts.
New Mexico's classic car of choice, the 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1, embodies the spirit of the Land of Enchantment. This performance-oriented Mustang variant featured a sleek fastback design and powerful engine options, perfect for New Mexico's long, straight highways and winding mountain roads.
The Mach 1's bold styling, with its hood scoop and side stripes, stood out against New Mexico's dramatic landscapes. Its range of V8 engines, including the potent 428 Cobra Jet, provided ample power for high-altitude driving.
The Empire State's favorite classic, the 1969 Dodge Charger, proves its versatility from bustling city streets to upstate countryside. In New York, the Charger's muscular styling turned heads in Manhattan traffic and rural hamlets alike. Its powerful engine options, ranging from the base 318 cu in V8 to the legendary 426 Hemi, satisfies New York's diverse driving needs.
The Charger's spacious interior made it comfortable for long drives through the Adirondacks or Catskills. Its enduring popularity in New York speaks to the state's appreciation for iconic American design and performance, bridging the gap between urban sophistication and rural practicality.
North Carolina's classic car favorite, once again the 1969 Dodge Charger, reflects the state's deep connection to automotive culture and NASCAR heritage. The Charger's success on superspeedways like Charlotte Motor Speedway enhanced its appeal among Tar Heel State enthusiasts.
Its powerful engine options were well-suited to North Carolina's diverse landscape, from coastal cruising to mountain ascents. The Charger's blend of performance and style resonated with North Carolinians, whether at Outer Banks beach meetups or Blue Ridge Parkway drives.
North Dakota's choice, the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette, brings a touch of sports car glamour to the Peace Garden State. This model year, the last of the second-generation (C2) Corvettes, is often considered the most refined and desirable.
Its sleek, aggressive styling stood out on North Dakota's open roads, while its range of powerful engines, including the top-tier 427 cu in (7.0L) V8, provided exhilarating performance. The '67 Corvette's combination of style and power made it perfect for summer cruising across North Dakota's vast prairies.
Ohio, a state with deep automotive roots, also favors the 1969 Dodge Charger. In the Buckeye State, the Charger's muscle car status resonated with enthusiasts from Cleveland to Cincinnati.
The Charger's spacious interior made it more practical for family use, appealing to Ohio's balanced lifestyle. Its popularity in NASCAR added to its appeal in a state with a rich racing history.
Oklahoma's classic car of choice, the 1964 Ford Fairlane, represents a perfect blend of style and practicality. This mid-size car offered Oklahomans a more manageable alternative to full-size models without sacrificing performance.
Engine options ranged from economical six-cylinders to potent V8s, including the high-performance 289 cu in option. This versatility made the Fairlane ideal for both daily commutes and weekend cruises across Oklahoma's diverse landscape.
Oregon's favorite, the 1970 Ford Mustang, brought muscle car flair to the Pacific Northwest. This model year saw the Mustang at its largest and most powerful, perfect for cruising Oregon's scenic coastal highways or tackling mountain roads.
The '70 Mustang's sleek fastback design and aggressive styling stood out in Oregon's lush landscapes. Engine options, ranging from the base 250 cu in six-cylinder to the mighty 429 cu in Cobra Jet V8, catered to all performance preferences.
Pennsylvania's classic car choice, the 1967 Chevrolet Nova, reflects the state's practical yet performance-oriented tastes. This compact model offered Pennsylvanians a nimble car for navigating tight city streets in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, while still providing enough power for Pocono mountain drives.
The '67 Nova's clean, no-frills design appealed to the Keystone State's sensible nature, while its optional V8 engines satisfied performance enthusiasts.
Rhode Island, the Ocean State, favors the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette as its classic car of choice. This model year marked the debut of the second-generation (C2) Corvette, featuring the iconic split rear window design.
The '63 Corvette's sleek, European-inspired styling turned heads on Rhode Island's coastal roads and in Newport's yacht-filled harbors. Its compact size made it well-suited to the state's small geography, while its powerful engines, including the top-tier 327 cu in (5.4L) V8, provided thrilling performance.
