The allure of incredible power, speed, aggression, and muscle can be overshadowed by problems if you have the wrong American performance car.

For many car buyers, the performance car they drive is their only ride. This means that the car is not only made for fun and active driving, but it also has to be a reliable daily driver. Some performance cars are built to last, while others will leave you disappointed. Let’s take a look at ten options; five that should last 200,000 miles or more and five that are better off saved for those special driving occasions.

5 Long-Lasting American Performance Cars

2005 Ford Mustang GT

This Ford Mustang GT is pretty amazing. If you find one with low miles and in great shape, it’s a car you want to scoop up. You can drive this impressive machine every day and know it’s ready to take you wherever you want to go. Powered by the 4.6-liter V8 engine, this model delivers 300 horsepower. The 2005 version is when Ford transitioned this engine from an iron block to a 75-pound lighter aluminum build, making it a lighter and more powerful car.

2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

It’s hard to argue with the allure of the Chevrolet Corvette, but is it the right American performance car for you? If you’re looking for a car you can show off every day; this Corvette is the right choice. You’ll love showing up at events with this raw, loud, and fast car that delivers an impressive level of power. The 427-ci V8 small block engine delivers 505 horsepower to give you the power to head to the track. You can expect this car to go over 200,000 miles when properly cared for.

2009 Ford Focus RS500

Most might not think a Ford Focus belongs on the same list as a Mustang and Corvette, but the RS500 is an incredible hot hatch and a lot of fun to drive. This car was not sold in America, which means it’s not something you’ll find, but it could be shipped over and enjoyed. This Focus brings 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque while also offering a top speed of 165 mph. This is a long-lasting hatchback that delivers years of amazing driving fun.

2010 Chevrolet Cobalt SS

One of the most affordable American performance cars is the Chevrolet Cobalt. The SS trim gives this car a bit more power to reach 260 horsepower and a sprint time of 5.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. This car is a lot of fun to drive on roads and is better kept off the track. Thankfully, you’ll have a lot of fun in this car if you find one with low miles. The Cobalt SSS lasts a long time and is much more reliable than most of the competition.

2009 Dodge Charger R/T

Everything about this Dodge Charger screams American aggression. This Charger brings a strong 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine to the mix to give you 368 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque for the drive. Not only is this one of the most aggressive sports cars, but it also lasts a long time. The substantial build and toughness of this car ooze Dodge qualities that make it one of the best options when you need a daily driver but still want a high-powered sports car.

5 American Performance Cars Meant for Occasional Driving

2015 Dodge Challenger

It might seem strange that a platform-mate of the Dodge Charger would be on the list as a car that doesn’t last very long. The Dodge Challenger is an iconic American performance car, but this model typically doesn’t make it to 100,000 miles. If you’re looking for an affordable sports car that you drive when the weather is right and not every day, this Challenger is a good option. If you need this car to be your daily ride, look for something else.

2004 Dodge Viper SRT-10

Most owners wouldn’t dare turn their Dodge Viper into a daily driver, and for many good reasons. This car is hard to handle and works great on the track, but it’s a bit troublesome on the road. That said, the massive 8.3-liter V10 engine churns out 500 horsepower, and the incredible build makes this a great car to drive when you want a fun ride or have a track day scheduled. Save the Viper for the occasional drive, and it will give you years of driving pleasure.

2009 Pontiac G8

The Pontiac G8 could be part of why this brand is no longer around. This car, while attractive and plenty powerful, should have been a trustworthy daily ride, but that’s certainly not the case. The energetic 3.6-liter V6 engine offers 256 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, which isn’t enough to make this car exciting or one you want to reserve for occasional driving. If you see this car, you’re better off avoiding it unless you’ve got real love for this American performance car.

2002 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am

There’s plenty to love about the Firebird Trans Am. This car brings an incredible 5.3-liter V8 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 340 lb-ft of torque. You’ll hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and enjoy the look and performance of this amazing Firebird. Unfortunately, the Firebird Trans Am isn’t the most reliable sports car I the market. Keep it for fair-weather driving and enjoy everything this cool car has to offer.

2008 Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire is an attractive American performance car that brings plenty of great qualities to make it a lot of fun to drive. It’s cool, offers a different style, and has the Chrysler upscale appeal. Still, it’s not one of the most reliable sports cars you can buy. If you’re willing to save it for your weekend cruising fun, the Crossfire could be a great car for you to drive. When you need your sports car to be the car you drive every day, the Crossfire is probably the wrong choice.

Which of these American performance cars is the one you want to drive? Some are great for daily driving, while others are better for your weekend fun on the roads.