Pontiac Firebird Trans Am (1982)

The mid-1970s Firebird Trans Am became a symbol of American performance during a period when muscle cars were under pressure from emissions rules and fuel concerns. Its shaker scoop, flared guards and bold graphics gave it attitude even as the market changed.

The Trans Am’s cultural profile exploded through film and television, especially later-decade appearances that made the black-and-gold look famous. It represents the survival of muscle-car image when raw horsepower was harder to deliver.