There was a graph floating around charting each major manufacturer's top-horse-power vehicle over the years. The crazy thing about it was HP hit a high in the late 60's, the nose-dived in the 70's with efficiency and safety regulations, and didn't return to the 60's-era-levels until very recently (I want to say early 2000's).

It makes me think that the powerful cars of the late 60's must have been terrifying to drive. Rear-wheel-drive, tons of power, and the only safety feature would be - what? - a lap belt?