6 Small-Block Mopars Cheaper Than A New Ford Maverick Now
Classic Mopar muscle cars that will fill you with pride aren’t exactly out of reach. There are small-block Chrysler powerhouses that are more affordable than you might think compared to brand-new vehicles like the Ford Maverick. The 2026 Ford Maverick Lariat has an MSRP of $38,090, and the destination and delivery fees add another $1,595 to $1,845 to the final price. Plus, adding features like the 4K tow package or assist tech puts the MSRP over $44,009. This means that respectable, vintage muscle cars are more affordable than a pickup truck.
6
Dodge Dart Sport 360
Average value for models in good condition: $10,300
The 1974 Dodge Dart Sport 360 is described as a wolf in sheep’s clothing because it has a surprising amount of speed that no one expected. It could keep up with and beat heavier and more expensive iconic muscle cars of the era as an affordable, drag-strip weapon right as strict emissions standards began killing big-block engines.
With the 360 cubic-inch (5.9-liter) small-block V8 engine, the Dart Sport churns out 245 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. But it is considered underrated, with an output that is actually closer to 325 hp. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds and complete a quarter mile in roughly 14.6 seconds at around 87 mph, with a top speed of 118 mph.
This coupe stands out because of its unique “Convertriple” fold-down rear seat. It provided drivers with extra cargo space, which was rare in other sporty fastbacks of the era. Plus, the lightweight car was available with a rare, manually operated hand-crank sunroof and Chrysler’s brand-new electronic ignition system.
5
Plymouth Valiant Scamp 318
Average value for models in good condition: $10,300
The 1971–1976 Plymouth Valiant Scamp 318 is a luxurious two-door model with plenty of muscle to make rivals nervous at stoplights. It was a more practical and affordable option compared to other muscle cars that lacked creature comforts for smooth cruising, with a longer wheelbase than the Dodge Dart.
With the 318 cubic-inch (5.2-liter) small-block V8, you get 230 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. This upscale cruiser can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.2 seconds and finish a quarter-mile in around 16.9 seconds with a top speed of roughly 104 mph. So the extra length did impact its power-to-weight ratio.
This two-door model draws the eye with an athletic pillar-less roofline and distinct concave rear window. It provided a sleek style with a more comfortable interior that didn’t come with a luxury price tag. Also, it had available hydraulic power steering to make daily driving much easier with the heavy V8 on the front end.
4
Dodge Dart Demon 340
Average value for models in good condition: $16,850
Before the Dart Sport arrived, the 1971–1972 Dodge Dart Demon 340 carried a controversial name that upset Christian and other religious groups. While its cartoon mascot of a devil holding a pitchfork fit in with the rebellious nature of muscle car enthusiasts, it caused a backlash against the entire brand.
Under the hood, you’ll find the 340 ci (5.6-liter) V8 that’s conservatively rated at 275 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. In 1972, these figures were reduced to 240 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque with reduced compression ratios due to rising emission standards. The 1971 Demon 340 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.0 seconds with a 14.4-second quarter-mile time at around 98 mph and a top speed of 128 mph.
It was quite popular due to its aggressive style, which featured bold side stripes, hood scoops, dual exhaust pipes, and a rear spoiler. Plus, the Demon 340 was available with an upgraded heavy-duty Rallye suspension. Buyers could opt for standard 10-inch drum brakes with power assist or available power front disc brakes as well.
3
Plymouth Barracuda 340
Average value for models in good condition: $20,800
Get ready for pony car nostalgia and excitement with the 1968–1972 Plymouth Barracuda 340. It was Chrysler’s secret weapon, as it delivered superior cornering and balance as a more agile alternative to heavier muscle cars. The Barracuda 340 was also much more efficient compared to big-block options.
With the reliable 340 ci (5.6-liter) LA Series V8 engine, it provided a factory-rated 275 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. Dyno tests showed that it may have had closer to 320 hp. The Barracuda flies from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.7 seconds, with a 14.2-second quarter-mile time at around 99 mph and a top speed of roughly 125 mph.
It stands out from the crowd with aggressive and athletic styling cues such as lower body side stripes, a blacked-out grille, hood stripes, hood scoops, and a dual exhaust with chrome tips. Plus, the Barracuda 340 features an available performance handling package with a heavy-duty suspension, rear leaf springs, and Firm-Ride shocks.
2
Plymouth Duster 340
Average value for models in good condition: 21,400
The performance-oriented 1970–1972 Plymouth Duster 340 left competitors choking on its exhaust. It provided tons of surprising power and a low base price, making it a budget-friendly muscle car that dodged higher insurance premiums and other high costs associated with big-block cars.
Once again, the 340 cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8 engine is found under the hood. In the Duster 340, it produces 275 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque with a 10.5:1 compression ratio. It flies from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds and completes a quarter mile in around 14.1 seconds at 95 mph with a top speed of roughly 130 mph.
This car weighs in at about 3,110 lbs with an incredible power-to-weight ratio to outrace heavier muscle cars. Because it had an understated look with black body stripes and subtle fender callouts, it surprised people as a sleeper model. It came with the Chrysler limited-slip 8.75-inch rear axle, heavy-duty torsion bars, and rear-leaf springs.
1
Dodge Dart Swinger 340
Average value for models in good condition: $26,371
Another excellent late-1960s contender is the 1969–1970 Dodge Dart Swinger. It launched as an experiment to provide buyers with more horsepower per dollar as an alternative to the more expensive Dart GTS. This budget-friendly powerhouse quickly became popular as a high-revving cultural icon.
The popular and reliable 340 ci V8 engine makes another appearance here with a factory-rated 275 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. It propels the Dodge Dart Swinger from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 6.3 seconds with a 14.8-second quarter-mile time at around 96 mph and a factory stock top speed of about 120 mph.
It has an aggressive style with a functional twin-snorkel “Power Bulge” hood, borrowed from the Dart GTS, and a distinct bumblebee rear stripe that wraps around the rear quarter panels and trunk. A chrome dual exhaust completes its look. Plus, it features a heavy-duty Rallye suspension, specially valved shock absorbers, and stiffer spring rates.
Source: Hagerty
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