Once considered the great white hope of the auto industry, Detroit this year is soft pedaling the muscle market. Chrysler is a notable exception. But even so, the emphasis on youth orientation seems to be fading.

JAVELIN

American Motors' entry is longer and wider than last year's model with major styling changes from front to rear. With a wheelbase of 110 inches and an overall length of 191.8 inches, the series offers three models: Javelin, Javelin SST, and Javelin AMX.

Most noticeable styling changes are the sculptured raised front fender sections, sculptured hood and roof panels, and the "spoiler effect" of the trailing roof edge. Inside, the series has a new cockpit-type instrument panel, high-back bucket seats, and molded door panels which incorporate the arm rests.

BARRACUDA

Plymouth's popular performance series comes in six models this year: a sports coupe, hardtop, and convertible in the standard line; a hardtop in the Gran Coupe line; and a hardtop and convertible in the Cuda line. All are based on a 108 inch wheelbase with an overall length of 186.7 inches.

New front and rear end treatments in all lines reveal a stronger vertical grill treatment and redesigned tail lamps and backup lights. Elasfometric bumpers composed of high density molded urethane foam are available as an option. The standard engine is a 125 h.p., 198 CID six; but eight others are offered.

CHALLENGER

Minor changes in the front, rear and inferior are found in Dodge's Challenger series. In the front, a recessed grill is split into a pair of narrow horizontal rectangles that simulate air scoops. At the rear a similar treatment is used for the fail lights, backups, and turn signals to give continuity of design. Inside, new vinyl bucket seats are standard.

Based on a 110 inch wheelbase, the line offers an economy coupe, a hardtop and convertible, and an R/T model. The coupe has a 198 CID six cylinder engine, the standard Challenger employs a 225 CID powerplant and the R/T model has either a 383-4 or 340 CID engine.

MUSTANG

Ford, who started the whole pony trend back in 1964 has completely revamped its industry leader for '71. Two inches longer and wider and one-half to one inch lower (depending on the model), the Mustang displays a sleek flat-roof design on its sportsroof models and a "tunnel backlite" roof treatment on the hardtop models. At the rear, triple-lens tail lights dominate the fastback panel.

Standard for all models except the Boss 351 and the Mach I is a 250 CID IV six.

COUGAR

Dramatic changes in front end design and engineering highlight Mercury's specialty sports car. The new grille shows a strong Mark III influence. Wheelbase has been upped to 112 inches and tread has been increased three inches in the front and 2.5 inches in the rear.

Among the engineering changes are variable ratio power steering, steel guardrail protection and an improved air conditioning system. The convertible model now features a top linkage that provides more rear seat room. In addition, all '71 Cougars have flow-through ventilation systems.

CAMARO

Though Chevrolet introduced its sporty car in mid-year during 1970, it quickly captured the imagination of the buying public. In '71 changes are minimal in the model and indicate merely refinements and improvements. New high back front bucket seats will now be standard. Also changed are the steering wheel (now having a soft cushion center) and black soft control knobs on the instrument panel.

New options include an adjustable seat back for the driver, two new vinyl top colors, a lower front spoiler, and a full width rear spoiler that extends down the sides of the rear fenders.

Six engines are available ranging from a 250 to a 402 CID.

FIREBIRD

Pontiac's entry again features sleek styling, a choice of suspension and an endura front bumper. Available only as a two-door hardtop, four models are offered: the standard, Esprit, Formula, and Trans Am. All have a 108 inch wheelbase and measure 191.6 inches long.

New this year are high back bucket seats in the front, and optional rear seat consoles with ash tray and buckle storage pockets.

Self adjusting manual front disc brakes are standard on all except the Trans Am, which has power brakes. Power discs are available as an option on other models.