A surprising number of cars that we probably take for granted have never graced the roads of America. Of course, there are plenty of amazing vehicles over there that we rarely see out and about in the UK – when was the last time you saw a Chevy Camaro parked up at your local supermarket?
Today though, we are lamenting the cars that have been cruelly ripped from the grasp of US petrolheads because of strict safety regulations, emissions standards or the fact they do not meet “Show or Display” requirements.
R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R
This legendary Skyline, along with most of its kind, has been outlawed in the US. The V-spec is perhaps the biggest lost to the American fan base, with its advanced (by 90’s standards) tech that would give you all the usual readings, plus a G-force counter!
TVR Tuscan
Apparently the 1996-2006 Tuscans’ acceleration speeds are just too much for the American market, or maybe the fact that the car has no airbags or anti-lock brakes had something to do with its illegal status…
Jaguar XJ220
Seen as a possible Mustang rival, Ford has kept this one out of the country, although one example of the rare S model was welcomed. This is rather out of character for the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), seeing as an XJ220-S produces a breathtaking 690hp.
Lotus Elise
The Series 1 (1996-2001) and limited edition 340R released in 2000 never ventured across the pond to join the Series 2 “Federal” Elise. Lotus’ S1 reaches 150mph and 118bph, whilst the 340R with its great power to weight ratio has an impressive 177bph – aren’t us Brits lucky!?
Toyota Supra
Supra lovers in the USA may never know the joy of driving a 1994 model, as this, and only this, model year is strictly off-limits. This particular JDM masterpiece may be Fast, but its lack of availability undoubtable makes US fans Furious!
TVR Sagaris
It seems a crime that the Sagaris is yet another TVR that you can’t take for a cruise around America. Models from 2005-2006 have been banned, which is a real shame as this sports car, built for endurance racing, is one of their best.
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