The Definition of "MuscleCar"

LOL, that last line, I'll have to say no.
On the flip side, like you were saying, does it have to built in a bracketed set of years. That I say no as well.
I have a '73 Cuda, 4spd. It was a 340 car. While the comp ratio dropped and valves got smaller, it was still a good running engine/car set up. Everyone is quick to point to the HP lose even though they know but don't acknowledge the fact that the way the rated the power changed in a big way from naked engine to full systems installed.

True, it took a hit in power, but since the entire car didn't change a bit except the way the power was rated and a hit in compression and valve size change it only alittle, it was enuff to get snubbed at in a big way at every place it went.