American Performance Cars At the Cincinnati Concours

Always one of the most popular classes at the Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance is the American Performance cars. Had the rain not come and deterred several of the owners and a lot of spectators the same would have been true for the recent 45th annual event. Still, the few cars that did brave the elements were fine representations of the Muscle Car Era. Among them was a very nice 1966 Pontiac GTO convertible. It is one of fewer than 13,000 produced that year. This particular car won gold at the GTO Nationals Concours and Best In Class at the Dayton Concours d'Elegance. It is powered by a 389 cubic inch V8 that generates 360 horse power.

1967 was the fourth year for the mid-sized Chevy Chevelle. This Super Sport model that was on display was one of less than 60,000 built in 1967. It sports a 396 cubic inch big block V8 that pounds out 350 horse power.

The third generation of the Pontiac Grand Prix was kicked off in 1969 and this is a perfect example of the new additions to the car. Pontiac General Manager John Z. DeLorean (yes, that guy) wanted the GP to up it's performance and so came three engine options from 400 to 428 cubic inches of V8 thrust, making up to 390 horse power.

This 1968 Chevy Camaro represents the second year of this pony car. It was one of only 7,199 buit sporting the Z/28 performance package that would allow for competing in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Trans Am series racing. With a Muncie four speed manual transmission and a 302 cubic inch V8 engine this car has 290 horse power.