10 Rare Muscle Car Trim Pieces That Cost More Than You Expect
When it comes to restoring classic muscle cars, some of the most valuable parts can be the smallest and most unexpected. Whether it’s a rare grille, unique trim piece, or a hard-to-find spoiler, these components often come with a price tag that surprises even the most seasoned collectors. The value of these parts is driven by their rarity, demand, and the role they play in preserving the authenticity of a vehicle. For many, hunting down these elusive pieces is part of the thrill of owning and restoring a piece of automotive history. However, as the market for these trim pieces continues to grow, so does their cost.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Hood
The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one of the most iconic muscle cars ever produced. The ZL1 hood trim piece is highly sought after due to its rarity and the car’s special edition status. This particular trim piece is unique for its lightweight construction, which helped contribute to the vehicle’s performance, making it a standout among other Camaros. Over the years, the ZL1 has become a collector’s item, with parts like the hood trim holding significant value.
The original hood was made from fiberglass, providing a balance between durability and weight reduction, which was important for performance racing. Because the ZL1 was produced in limited numbers, finding an original trim piece today is rare. The value for this particular hood trim piece can range between $3,500 and $4,500 depending on its condition. Restored or mint-condition pieces may even exceed this price. It is an essential component for collectors seeking to restore their vehicles to factory-original specifications.
1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Grille
The 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T grille is a piece of automotive history, emblematic of the golden age of muscle cars. This trim piece is often regarded as one of the most striking features of the Challenger, with its wide and aggressive look that commands attention. The grille is made from high-quality chrome-plated steel, offering both durability and a premium aesthetic. Over the years, these original grilles have become rare due to the high demand from collectors looking to restore their Challengers to factory specifications.
The design of the grille is a key element in giving the 1970 Challenger its signature appearance, with a larger opening to maximize airflow to the engine. Since it is no longer produced, obtaining a genuine 1970 R/T grille can be quite costly. The price for an original or well-restored piece can range from $2,000 to $3,500. Finding a pristine or untouched original part can push the price even higher, especially if it is an unrestored example in excellent condition.
1970 Plymouth Barracuda Side Marker Lights
The 1970 Plymouth Barracuda is a muscle car that continues to hold a special place in automotive history. One of its standout features is the side marker lights, which give the car a distinct and aggressive look. These lights were designed to provide better visibility and safety while maintaining the car’s sleek aesthetic. While many muscle car enthusiasts focus on engine components or body parts, the side marker lights of the Barracuda have become an unexpected focal point for collectors.
These lights were unique for their design, which was both functional and visually striking. Original side marker lights can be very hard to come by due to their small size and the fact that they were often damaged or replaced. The current market value for a genuine 1970 Barracuda side marker light can range from $800 to $1,500 depending on the condition and originality of the part.
1969 Pontiac GTO Judge Rear Spoiler
The 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge is often regarded as one of the most desirable muscle cars of its time. The rear spoiler, which was part of the Judge option package, is a highly coveted trim piece that adds to the car’s sporty look and performance. It was designed to improve aerodynamics, helping the car maintain stability at high speeds.
Over the years, the rear spoiler has become a symbol of the GTO Judge, and finding an original piece can be quite challenging. Many owners of classic GTOs search for these spoilers to complete their restorations, driving up the price for original pieces. A genuine 1969 GTO Judge rear spoiler in good condition can cost between $2,500 and $3,500. Restored or near-mint-condition pieces may fetch prices closer to $4,000.
1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Front Bumper
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS front bumper is an integral part of the car’s bold look. Known for its powerful performance and iconic design, the Chevelle SS remains one of the most desirable muscle cars in automotive history. The front bumper was designed not only for protection but also as a distinctive feature that helped define the Chevelle’s aggressive stance. Original bumpers are increasingly rare, and their value has risen significantly among collectors.
The bumper was made from heavy-duty steel, providing both strength and a premium feel. A well-maintained, original 1970 Chevelle SS front bumper can range in price from $1,500 to $2,500, with pristine examples going for even more. For anyone restoring a Chevelle SS to its original condition, this part is a crucial and often expensive piece.
1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 Side Scoops
The 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is known for its high-performance capabilities and distinct design. One of the standout features of this muscle car is the side scoops, which not only provide a visual flair but also helped with aerodynamics and cooling. These side scoops were functional, designed to channel air into the engine bay for better cooling during high-speed performance.
Original Shelby GT350 side scoops are rare and expensive due to the limited production of the model. Finding an original, undamaged set of these scoops can be a daunting task, which is why prices have remained high. Depending on the condition, prices for a pair of genuine 1967 Shelby GT350 side scoops can range from $2,500 to $3,500. Mint-condition pieces can command even higher prices, especially if they retain their original factory finish.
1968 Mercury Cougar Eliminator Front Grille
The 1968 Mercury Cougar Eliminator is one of the lesser-known yet highly collectible muscle cars. The front grille is a distinctive trim piece that contributes significantly to the car’s aggressive appearance. Unlike the standard Cougar, the Eliminator trim was designed for performance and sportiness, and the grille was one of the key features that gave it its unique look.
Over the years, the grille has become a rare find, as many of these cars were either modified or scrapped. Restoring a Cougar Eliminator to its original form requires a genuine grille, which can be very costly to acquire. The price for an original 1968 Eliminator front grille can range from $2,000 to $3,000 depending on its condition, with mint-condition pieces fetching higher prices.
1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda Fender Vents
The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda is one of the most legendary muscle cars ever produced, and its fender vents are a sought-after trim piece for collectors. The Hemi ‘Cuda was designed for maximum performance, and the fender vents helped with both cooling and aerodynamics. These vents are unique to the Hemi version of the ‘Cuda and are an integral part of the car’s look. The rarity of the 1971 Hemi ‘Cuda combined with the scarcity of these fender vents has made them one of the most expensive trim pieces in the muscle car market.
Depending on the condition and originality, prices for an original set of Hemi ‘Cuda fender vents can range between $3,500 and $5,000, with some going for more if they are in near-mint condition. For collectors seeking to restore their Hemi ‘Cuda to its original factory specifications, this trim piece is invaluable.
1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Grille
The 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is another iconic muscle car, and its front grille plays a major role in its bold appearance. The grille is wide, with sharp lines and a powerful presence, matching the Chevelle’s performance-oriented design. These grilles were designed for both visual appeal and functional airflow to the engine, making them a crucial part of the car’s overall look.
Original grilles for the 1970 Chevelle SS are highly sought after, particularly because of the car’s status as a performance legend. The demand for this part has caused prices to rise steadily, with original grilles typically ranging from $2,000 to $3,500. Pristine or restored pieces may fetch even higher prices, especially for those in perfect condition.
1970 Plymouth Road Runner Front Grille
The 1970 Plymouth Road Runner is another classic muscle car that’s known for its aggressive styling and powerful performance. The front grille of the Road Runner is a key component in giving the car its menacing look. Made from durable materials, the grille also provided essential protection to the vehicle’s front end.
Over the years, the grille has become a sought-after trim piece for collectors and enthusiasts looking to restore their Road Runners to their original glory. The market for this particular grille has risen steadily due to the increasing demand for original parts. Prices for an original 1970 Road Runner front grille typically range from $2,000 to $3,000, depending on its condition and originality.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.