Are you looking to invest in a car that’s not only a thrilling ride but also a potential future classic? These 11 HEMI-powered legends are sure to turn heads and appreciate in value.
From the rarest of the rare to the most powerful production cars ever made, these machines represent the pinnacle of American muscle. Which one will you choose to add to your collection?
1. 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Convertible
The 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Convertible is a true unicorn among muscle cars. Only nine were built with the mighty 426 HEMI engine, making it one of the rarest and most desirable Challengers ever produced.
A pristine example with a four-speed manual and Shaker hood scoop can fetch upwards of $1.25 million at auction.
But it’s not just about rarity – the Challenger R/T Convertible is a stunning machine with timeless styling and raw power. The 425-horsepower HEMI V8 propels this drop-top to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, while the convertible top lets you feel the wind in your hair as you cruise down the highway.
2. 1971 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible
If the Challenger R/T Convertible is rare, the 1971 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible is practically mythical. Only 11 were built in the final year of HEMI production, and just two of those had the coveted four-speed manual transmission.
These are the most valuable muscle cars in the world, with a #1-condition example valued at a staggering $3.15 million.
The ‘Cuda’s aggressive styling, with its Shaker hood scoop and billboard graphics, perfectly complements the raw power of the 426 HEMI engine.
With 425 horsepower on tap, the ‘Cuda can sprint to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds and run the quarter-mile in 13.7 seconds. It’s a true legend that any serious collector would love to own.
3. 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170
Fast forward to the present day, and Dodge is still building HEMI-powered monsters that will surely be future classics.
The 2023 Challenger SRT Demon 170 is the most powerful production car ever made, with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 that churns out an astonishing 1,025 horsepower.
Only 3,000 Demon 170s will be built, ensuring its rarity and collectibility. But it’s not just a straight-line rocket – the Demon 170 features drag radials, a TransBrake, and a suspension tuned for the strip, making it a true dragstrip weapon that can run the quarter-mile in just 8.9 seconds.
4. 2023 Dodge Charger King Daytona
The 2023 Dodge Charger King Daytona is another modern HEMI legend that pays homage to its muscle car roots. With a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 807 horsepower, the King Daytona is the most powerful Charger ever built.
Only 300 King Daytonas will be produced, each with a unique “Last Call” plaque and a host of performance upgrades.
The King Daytona can rocket to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds and run the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds, making it a true force to be reckoned with on the street or the strip.
5. 1966 Dodge Coronet 440 Convertible
The 1966 Dodge Coronet 440 Convertible is a rare gem from the early days of the street HEMI. Only six were built with the 426 HEMI engine, making it one of the rarest Coronets ever produced.
While the Coronet may not have the same muscle car cachet as the Challenger or ‘Cuda, it’s still a stunning machine with classic 1960s styling.
The 425-horsepower HEMI V8 provides ample power, while the convertible top lets you enjoy the sunshine as you cruise down the road.
6. 2025 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda
The Plymouth ‘Cuda is set to return in 2025, and it’s already generating buzz among muscle car enthusiasts. The new ‘Cuda will blend classic styling cues with modern technology and engineering, creating a true 21st-century muscle car.
Details are still scarce, but rumors suggest the 2025 ‘Cuda will be powered by a supercharged HEMI V8 producing over 700 horsepower.
With its iconic styling and raw power, the new ‘Cuda is sure to be an instant classic that will be appreciated for years.
7. 1966 Dodge Coronet Four-Door Sedan
You might be surprised to see a four-door sedan on this list, but the 1966 Dodge Coronet Four-Door Sedan is a true oddity among HEMI cars. Only one was built with the 426 HEMI engine, making it the rarest HEMI-powered Mopar ever produced.
While a four-door sedan may not be the most exciting body style, the sheer rarity of this Coronet makes it a must-have for any serious Mopar collector.
And with 425 horsepower on tap, it’s still a formidable machine that can hold its own on the street or the strip.
8. 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible
The 1970 Plymouth HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible is the holy grail of muscle cars. With only 14 built, it’s the rarest HEMI ‘Cuda and one of the most valuable American cars ever produced.
In 2014, a Lemon Twist yellow example sold at auction for an astounding $3.5 million.
What makes the 1970 HEMI ‘Cuda Convertible so special? It’s the perfect storm of rarity, performance, and styling. The 426 HEMI V8 churned out 425 horsepower and could propel the ‘Cuda to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.
The Shaker hood scoop, billboard graphics, and aggressive stance made it an instant icon. If you’re lucky enough to find one, be prepared to pay a king’s ransom.
9. 2018-2021 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is a modern legend destined for classic status. Produced for just one year in 2018, the Demon was the most powerful production car ever made, with 840 horsepower from its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8.
But the Demon wasn’t just a straight-line monster. It featured drag radials, a TransBrake, and a suspension tuned for the strip, making it the first production car to lift its front wheels on launch.
Only 3,300 Demons were built, and with its combination of rarity and performance, it’s sure to be a prized collectible for generations to come.
10. 2021 Ram 1500 TRX
The Ram 1500 TRX is the most powerful production pickup ever made, and it’s a future classic. With a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 702 horsepower, the TRX can rocket to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and conquer any terrain with its off-road suspension and massive 35-inch tires.
Only 702 Launch Edition TRXs were built for 2021, each with a unique VIN and exclusive features. But even the standard TRX is a rare beast, with production limited by the availability of its high-performance components.
If you want a pickup that can outrun sports cars and climb mountains, the TRX is the ultimate choice.
11. 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost
The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost is a modern tribute to a legendary Detroit street racer. In the 1970s, Godfrey Qualls terrorized Woodward Avenue in his black 1970 Challenger RT SE, earning the nickname “Black Ghost” for his elusive nature and unbeatable performance.
The 2023 Black Ghost pays homage to Qualls’ car with a sinister black-on-black color scheme, white graphics, and various performance upgrades. With 807 horsepower from its supercharged HEMI V8, the Black Ghost can run the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds.
Only 300 will be built, making it an instant collector’s item and a fitting tribute to the HEMI’s street racing heritage.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
