The Autobahn Cruisers: 20 Coolest German Muscle Cars

By vukasin
The Autobahn Cruisers: 20 Coolest German Muscle Cars

In the modern automotive world, the German car industry holds a special place. It is one of the biggest national car industries in the world. Also, Germany is an extremely influential and competitive place when it comes to cars. Some of the world’s best luxury and sports car companies are there. And German engineering has a special meaning.

In fact, Germany invented the car as we know it today. In 1886, Karl Benz patented the first horseless carriage with an internal combustion engine. So, the German influence in the car industry and automotive history is immense. Although the number of important models is quite big, most car fans love German performance machines and muscle cars.

Instead of high-priced exotics and expensive supercars, this list will concentrate on the common, ordinary cars that drivers could buy new or used. These models are still reasonable propositions for enthusiasts with a need for speed. Unfortunately, some older models have experienced recent spikes in prices, keeping them out of reach of the average buyer.

Some of these cars are current and newer models, while others are classics. However, all of them have powerful engines, lively performances and are unmistakably German. These cars are quality engineered cars combining the best of both worlds: performance and dependability. These cars show that German manufacturers understand the “big power in small package” mantra.

  1. Volkswagen Golf R

If you thought the Golf GTI is the most powerful Volkswagen hot hatch, think again. The Golf R is a top of the line Golf with a powerful four-cylinder turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. It delivers a brutal performance for a family hatchback. The R version is the derivate of the mighty R32 Golfs from the early 2000’s featuring 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6 engines.

However, the latest versions feature a smaller yet more powerful 2.0-liter turbo four that delivers almost 292 HP. The performance is quite brutal for what is basically a family compact. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.5 seconds and top speeds reach 155 mph.

Although this is a hot hatch and they usually offer flamboyant designs, scoops and spoilers, the Golf R is restrained. This makes it perfect for people who want performance and compact dimensions without the attention. The Golf R can sneak up on those drivers of expensive sports cars and frustrate them at the traffic lights.