No, we're not talking about the athletes of Team U.S.A. currently competing at the Winter Olympics. Just thinking back on some of the home-grown hot rods we've been driving over the past several weeks.
And you know what? Without exception, it's been a surprisingly enjoyable experience. For all the gloom-and-doom that's surrounded American manufacturers over the past year, we think these four models have the potential to lead the way to a brighter future where "Made In The USA" is a good thing:
It's almost scary how much this newest pony car reminds us of the original, like some sort of Detroit déjà vu. One big difference: the 315-horsepower V-8 motor under the hood of the GT model delivers acceleration that would make that 1965 version look like a boat anchor.
While most people use the phrase "reinventing the wheel" like it's a bad thing, this is one example of how a thoughtful re-imagining of a familiar form can end up being both comfortably nostalgic and excitingly fresh. And speaking of excitement, the SS model's 426-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 is enough to make grown men giggle uncontrollably.
The third entry in our flag-waving line-up is perhaps our favorite. The styling is a home run, but here's the real surprise: The V-6-powered version is actually the one we'd recommend, by virtue of its respectable performance, better fuel economy, and much more livable ride quality.
Wherever The Fonz is, this is the bike he's surely riding. Blacked-out trim, a solo saddle, and classic front fork gaiters make this one of the coolest Harley's we've seen in years.
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