An American muscle car is an invaluable dream for many, yet beyond the well-known sports cars, there are also other classics that possess no less charm and power. And they show a bit more individuality.

Import Your Muscle Car - There Are Plenty of Alternatives

Muscle cars like the Ford Mustang, Shelby AC Cobra, Dodge Charger, or Chevrolet Camaro are well-known and in high demand, which accordingly drives up their prices. However, beyond the stars of the scene, there are several classics that receive little attention. Often unjustly so. Technically just as competent and also interesting in design, they are particularly rare on German roads. Such lesser-known vehicles often attract more attention than the "mass-produced" ones. Below, we introduce you to 11 interesting alternatives.

AMC AMX

AMC? Yes, this manufacturer also produced the infamous Gremlin. However, the AMX has little in common with it. It was often compared to the Corvette because of its relatively short wheelbase and powerful engines. Today, not only its design and power make it an interesting alternative. Its price-performance ratio is also reasonable. Despite having less power compared to some, its lighter weight allowed it to compete with much larger and more powerful rivals.

AMC Javelin

A direct competitor to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro is the AMC Javelin. An interesting detail: The second generation's AMX variant was the first pony car to be used by law enforcement agencies. Already in the first generation, the car shone with several innovations in the field of safety. Engines ranged from 3.8 to 6.6 liters displacement, producing 110 to 340 horsepower. It was built from 1967 to 1974.

AMC Rambler-Marlin

The AMC Rambler Marlin also deserves a second look. Rare yet affordable, this two-door fastback was only produced for two years, making it even more of a rarity in Europe than in its home country. As an exotic, it attracts many looks here. The engines range from 3.8 to 5.4 liters, delivering power from 155 to 277 horsepower. Unlike many other muscle cars of that time, the Rambler Marlin was luxuriously equipped and finished with high-quality materials.

Buick Gran Sport

Buick also played in the muscle car league. Starting in 1965, the Buick Gran Sport 400 was offered with its 6.6-liter V8 engine producing 330 horsepower. In 1967, a completely newly developed engine with 345 horsepower was introduced. In 1969, the Buick was modified. Stage 1 now reached 350 horsepower, and the rare Stage 2 variant officially produced 365 horsepower. Measurements showed that the actual power was much higher. In 1970, the GS400 was replaced by the GS455, now using a 7.5-liter engine with 350 horsepower, and from 1972 as Stage 1, it also had 375 horsepower. A slightly less powerful sister model (Gran Sport 340/350) with a 5.6-liter V8 was produced starting in 1967. (Image author: Greg Gjerdingen)

Chevrolet Chevelle SS

The Chevelle was built from 1964 to 1977. The sporty versions, which are considered muscle cars, were offered from 1966. Initially, they were equipped with a 6.5-liter V8 engine, which delivered up to 380 horsepower to the road. Later, the Super Sport received a 7.4-liter engine producing more than 270 horsepower. (Image author: nakhon100)

Ford Torino

A highlight from Ford and also very popular in the USA is the Ford Torino. The sporty Torino Cobras, offered in some model years, hold particular collector value. This mid-sized car, built in several body styles, features engines ranging from 5.8 to 7.5 liters, producing 154 to 205 horsepower. The Torino impresses not with the most powerful engine performances. However, it definitely represents the muscle car class with its design, and due to its relatively good equipment and rarity, it's an interesting vehicle with potential for value appreciation. (Image author: Sicnag)

Mercury Cougar

Also significantly cheaper than its established competitors is the Mercury Cougar. It was produced from 1967 to 1970 as a so-called "Pony Car" with engines ranging from 4.7 to 7.0 liters. With the second generation from 1970 to 1973, it grew to over five meters in length. The sports cars, exclusively equipped with V8 engines, deliver between 202 and 380 horsepower. Mercury is a brand of the Ford Motor Company. The Cougar is technically similar in many respects to the Ford Mustang. It is considered the better-equipped version of the cult classic. (Image author Greg Gjerdingen)

Mercury Cyclone

The sister model to the Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964 and offered until 1971. Equipped with V8 engines ranging from 4.9 to 7.0 liters, they produce 213 to 390 horsepower. A particular highlight was the limited Cyclone Spoiler version offered from 1970 to 1971. It featured a locking differential on the rear axle, spoilers at the front and rear, and a special decorative stripe.

Plymouth Road Runner

Strong and in the typical style of the muscle cars of the 1960s and 1970s, the Road Runner makes its appearance. An almost endless hood and an elongated trunk dominate the silhouette. Also typical are the spartan equipment and the rather cheap-looking materials used in the interior. Nonetheless, it's a serious contender among American vintage sports cars. It was built between 1967 and 1980 with engines from 6.3 to 7.2 liters, producing between 340 and 431 horsepower. The peak of engine performance was reached in 1971. Due to insurance companies' refusal to insure these vehicles, the power slowly decreased. The Plymouth Road Runner Superbird reached a speed of 322 km/h (200 miles) in 1971, becoming the first muscle car to do so.

Plymouth Sport Fury

Little known is that the Plymouth Fury, in its Sport version, is also considered one of the early muscle cars. Built between 1964 and 1973, the car has a 7.0-liter V8 with 370 and 380 horsepower. It was available in several body styles and was Chrysler Corporation's response to the 1963 Pontiac GTO.

Pontiac LeMans GTO

The first generation of the GTO is relatively expensive. Vehicles from Series 2, from 1968 to 1972, are somewhat more affordable and offer comparable performance to Mustangs and the like. Visually, it also stands out and pleasantly differs from the sea of most muscle cars. The high-displacement V8s range from 6.6 to 7.5 liters, with 253 to 375 horsepower, making the GTO similar in strength to its competitors. Motor Trend magazine named the GTO the Car of the Year in 1968.

Underrated Stars - Individuality for Everyone!

Of course, this list is not exhaustive. The US and Canadian markets offer far more beauties with style and plenty of power. Maybe it doesn't have to be the classic muscle car. In America's earlier decades, large and powerful engines, typical for the American lifestyle, were also implanted in station wagons, vans, and pickups. Surely you will find your dream car with the characteristic V8 sound in our vehicle market. USCar-Trader.com not only offers you the search for your jewel, but we also take care of a safe purchase, the import including all formalities, and the conversion. Are you looking for a very specific car? Our detailed search function will help you find it.

Converting and obtaining TÜV (Technical Inspection Association) approval for vehicles, especially from the USA, Canada, and other third countries, is an essential step to register these vehicles in Germany. Our experts at various locations in Germany specialize in this process, ensuring a smooth transition.

Technical Conversion and TÜV Approval for Imported Vehicles

Importing a vehicle from overseas often requires technical modifications to meet German and European standards. This is especially true for vehicles from the USA, Canada, and other third countries.

Why is a conversion necessary?

Each country has its technical and safety-related specifications for vehicles. To register an imported vehicle in Germany, modifications often need to be made concerning lighting, emission and noise standards, and safety regulations. The process of technical adaptation and verification concerning registration guidelines is referred to as conversion or homologation.

Our Service for Your Conversion and TÜV Approval

Our experts handle the conversion and TÜV approval at various locations in Germany. Thanks to our extensive experience in vehicle import and the corresponding expertise, we can offer you an efficient and professional service.

Benefits of our service:

• Technical adaptation and TÜV approval at multiple locations in Germany.
• Comprehensive expertise of our staff and partners.
• A conversion and TÜV approval in Germany by us also offers the advantage of a potential day registration. This provides you with German vehicle documents, which significantly simplifies registration in other EU countries.

Additional Information on Conversion

For the TÜV approval to obtain the §21 full acceptance, the presentation of the title, vehicle data sheet, photometric report, and emission behavior report is required.

TÜV SÜD provides additional information on the requirements and the conversion process on their website.

Required documents for conversion and TÜV approval:

• US Title/MSO or Ownership (for imports from Canada)
• Vehicle data sheet
• Photometric report
• Report on emission behavior

Apart from the US Title/MSO or Ownership, which is provided by the customer or is already available to us in case of an import by us, we take care of the additionally required documents during the conversion.

Technical Condition as a Key Factor in TÜV Approval

A significant factor influencing the conversion of imported vehicles is the vehicle's overall condition. It's essential to emphasize that the costs for the conversion and the associated adjustments heavily depend on the imported vehicle's technical condition.

Vehicles being converted for the German market must not only meet specific requirements for imported vehicles but also the general technical standards applicable to all vehicles. This means that an imported vehicle, regardless of its origin, must be in perfect technical condition to pass the TÜV approval.

If defects are detected during the inspection, such as faulty brakes, worn tires, or other components that do not meet the Road Traffic Regulations, these parts must be replaced or repaired before the vehicle receives approval. This can incur additional costs that go beyond the standard conversion costs.

It is therefore advisable to conduct a thorough technical inspection before importing a vehicle or ensure that the vehicle is already in a condition that meets German standards. This can not only save time and money but also ensure that the conversion process runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Final Steps for Registration

After successful conversion and TÜV approval, the vehicle's registration is next. Of course, we also support you in this step and are at your side with advice and action.

For registration, you will need the following documents:

• Report for obtaining the §21 full acceptance
• US Title/MSO or Ownership
• Purchase invoice or Bill of Sale
• Tax assessment or ZUB for moving goods
• Registration certificate for moving goods

If you have any further questions or uncertainties, we are always available by email or phone.

The VW Atlas is considered a midsize SUV in America. Compared to its corporate sibling, the Touareg, it offers more space with up to 7 seats and over 5 meters in length, which can make importing this German American SUV a worthwhile option.

VW Atlas: An SUV for Europe and America

Since mid-2017, the VW Atlas has been offered as a "Midsize SUV." It aims to fill the gap between the smaller VW Tiguan and the larger VW Touareg, but in terms of length, it actually surpasses the Touareg. With its 5.05 meters in length, it exceeds it by a full 17 centimeters.

As the largest SUV, it is based on the MQB platform and uses four-cylinder transverse engines from the modular system, as well as V6 engines. The Atlas is produced in two variants and offers 7 seats, while the Cross Sport can accommodate 5 adults. Almost identical, but under a different name (VW Teramont), it is offered in China and the Arabian Peninsula.

Technical Specifications of the VW Atlas

The large SUV comes with two engine options. The 2.0-liter TSFI engine has four cylinders and is transversely mounted in the front. It delivers 238 PS and a torque of 350 Nm. A 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine is also available, producing 280 PS and 360 Nm of torque.

All-wheel drive (4Motion) is currently reserved for the VR6 engines. Both engines come standard with an Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission.

Starting with the 2024 model year, the VR6 will no longer be offered. Instead, Volkswagen will install a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a power output of 273 PS and a torque of 370 Nm.

Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive (4Motion) available as an option. Power is transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

With a wheelbase of almost exactly 3 meters, the Atlas glides comfortably over uneven terrain.

Design and Interior of the VW Atlas

Volkswagen offers a solid and well-thought-out vehicle with the Atlas. Clear lines meet typical American dimensions. A large panoramic sunroof allows plenty of light into the spacious interior. The controls are where you'd expect them to be. You can get in and drive without having to study annoying user manuals. The infotainment system is up-to-date and offers wireless smartphone connectivity. Even Wi-Fi is available. The Atlas Cross Sport adopts a coupe-like design at the roof and rear, accommodating only 5 passengers. The standard Atlas offers generous seating for seven.

The equipment also stands out with thoughtful details and a modern ambiance. Even the base SE trim includes many features such as air conditioning, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, heated seats, and much more. The higher trim levels, SE with Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line, further enhance the Atlas. The SE with Technology trim already includes dual-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, and Easy-Open trunk. The top-tier SEL Premium R-Line leaves nothing to be desired, offering 21-inch alloy wheels, heated and ventilated leather front seats, premium sound system, and of course, the R-Line exterior design.

Equipment Variants and Prices for the VW Atlas Overview:

The Volkswagen Atlas is available in various equipment variants:

• SE: This base variant starts at a price of $39,075.

• SE with Technology: An upgrade from the SE version, offering additional technology features. The starting price is $43,015.

• Peak Edition SE with Technology: A special edition with additional features and a unique design. The starting price for this variant is $47,905.

• SEL: A higher equipment variant with more luxury and comfort features. The starting price for this variant is $49,795.

• Peak Edition SEL: A special edition of the SEL model with additional features. The starting price is $51,785.

• SEL Premium R-Line: The top equipment variant with the most features and highest comfort. The starting price for this variant is $53,805.

Each of these variants offers different features and equipment that affect the price. It's advisable to check the exact specifications and features of each variant to make the best choice for your needs.

In terms of safety, the VW Atlas does not lag behind its rivals. All major safety assistants are included. Collision warning, emergency braking assist, and lane change assist are just a few of the possible helpers.

Interested in the VW Atlas? Then check out the offers here.

Other SUV Options Compared to the VW Atlas

If the Atlas isn't the right vehicle for you or you simply want to learn about possible alternatives, consider checking out the Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, or Chevrolet Traverse.

Some American vehicle brands have a good reputation in Germany and Europe. They differ significantly from their European competitors and offer a genuine alternative due to their distinctive qualities.

The Distinctive Features of American Cars

Boldly styled, large, and equipped with big, powerful engines - that's how US cars are universally known. The development of the automobile in the USA and Canada took a completely different direction than in Europe. There might have been attempts here and there to follow the American way, but these were mostly met with a shake of the head from European customers.

American Excess vs. European Sensibility?

From a European perspective, this could certainly be described this way. But is it really that simple? What exactly defines a classic American car? And what about the typical European counterpart? Tastes, as we know, are different. They have often developed over the course of history and are as deeply ingrained in the population as the national dish. It sounds like a cliché, but it's easily traceable across generations of car history.

Americans tend to prefer cars that are:

• Spacious
• Visually striking
• Powerfully motorized
• Luxurious

 

However, they place less value on material quality and details in the manufacturing process.

 

European vehicles are primarily known for their:

• Compact size
• Relatively spartan/practical equipment
• Lovingly detailed workmanship
• More economical engines

Some vehicle classes were only created through American development. For instance, the Chrysler Voyager can be considered the "original van" or "first minivan". Through it, small transporters were transformed into modern, well-equipped MPVs suitable for families. Today, it's known as the Chrysler Pacifica and has many imitators worldwide.

SUVs are also a distinctly American type of vehicle. Off-road vehicles have of course been available worldwide for a long time. However, it was the Americans who recognized the potential and transformed them into lifestyle vehicles. One of the first vehicles of this kind was the Cadillac Escalade. It impressed a wide range of customers from bankers to gangster rappers. Besides offering a glamorous appearance, these lifestyle trucks provide sheer size and powerful V8 engines.

Naturally, the latter require much more gasoline than a small four-cylinder Passat. The reason is different pricing structures. In the past, gasoline in the USA was relatively cheap. Consumption often played a minor role. However, things have changed significantly in recent years. Just like in Europe, gas prices have increased, and a rethink has begun. New and stricter environmental regulations from American authorities also contribute to the strategy change in American car manufacturers. The result: the typical V8 engine is becoming increasingly rare, even on the American market.

Did Europe Miss the Train? American-Made Electric Cars

For a long time, Europe stuck to combustion engines. Only a few of the well-known manufacturers seriously pushed the development of alternative drives. Timid attempts with manageable ranges and rather narrow performance were offered as revolutions at high prices. China and America show that it can be done differently. Some start-ups like Lucid and Rivian offer interesting alternatives to the electric Europeans. Particularly in the luxury class, real competitors can be found. Lucid already offers ranges of almost 900 kilometers.

 

But also, traditional manufacturers have recognized the signs of the times. For example, Ford offers the F-150 Lightning, a highly innovative pick-up. Depending on the battery pack, it offers ranges of over 380 to over 510 kilometers, making it a vehicle that is anything but shy. Coupled with the usual luxurious equipment and high power of the drives. In typical American fashion, it is not trimmed for economy, but mainly for performance. Even the resurrected Hummer after 10 years is a trailblazer in the luxury off-road vehicle class. The brute power of over 1,000 HP and yet a range of over 500 kilometers must first be surpassed.

European or American Sports Cars?

Opinions differ here. On paper, Porsche, Ferrari, Corvette, and Mustang are barely distinguishable. Yet an American car offers a completely different driving experience than the European competition. While European sports car manufacturers develop sophisticated technology, design extremely light vehicles, and install technically elaborate chassis technology, sheer power seems to be the focus on the American continent.

Both have their own unique charm, both find their fans and drivers in their own way, and both record their successes in the relevant sports competitions. The difference is not only found in the technology and performance. The design is often very distinctive, almost typically American.

German Cars in America?

Yes, German car manufacturers enjoy a good reputation in America. They have often adapted to the local market and offer models there that are not available here. For example, a larger version of the Passat was offered until 2021. The VW Atlas is completely unknown in Europe and is sold overseas in the full-size SUV class with 7 seats.

Many of these vehicles are relatively inexpensive. Even after adding import costs, the buyer often gets a very affordable vehicle. A good comparison here is the VW Taos. Also only available on the American market, it is actually a more modern, stronger, and better-equipped VW Tiguan. Currently, importing a Taos can save you about 10,000 euros.

US Imports for Everyone?

Admittedly, importing a US car is not for everyone. However, it is an alternative for many people who have not thought of it before. Whether it's a large road cruiser with a V8 engine, a high-powered muscle car, a full-size pickup, a van, or a sensible electric car, the American market has a lot to offer. Often, comparable European vehicles are much more expensive than the American dream car, even when including shipping and conversion costs as well as customs duties and taxes.

Just take a look at our database! There you will find Europe's largest selection of new and used cars as well as classic cars in North America and Canada. Of course, we also take care of safely bringing your new treasure across the big pond. We are also happy to take care of the conversion for registration here for you.

The Chrysler Pacifica is more than just a minivan. This luxurious, affordable vehicle has everything families need: space, comfort, and an optional hybrid drive. Popular in North America, it presents a tempting alternative to European vans. Discover the vehicle that's redefining family travel.

Import North America's family favorite - The Chrysler Pacifica

Since 2016, the Chrysler Pacifica has been manufactured as the successor to the Chrysler Town & Country. In Europe, it was also known as the Chrysler Voyager and Grand Voyager. The 8-seater van is based on a new platform and weighs less than its predecessor. In addition, this luxury liner for families is available for the first time as a plug-in hybrid. Like its predecessor, the Pacifica offers a generous amount of space, making a family vacation trip a pleasure. Reliable technology, good equipment, and many practical details make it a particularly family-friendly companion, which impresses with its good value for money and is a serious alternative to European vans.

Technical details of the Chrysler Pacifica

The family van in its base version comes with a 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine. The power is 291 HP, and the torque is specified at 355 Nm. Enough power to move the alternative 8-seater smoothly. However, it's not a sports car. The second variant offered is the 3.6 Hybrid. It has the same engine as the base model but has been somewhat reduced in power. It offers 264 HP, and the torque reaches 310 Nm.

The drive is standard via the front wheels. In the 3.6 gasoline engine, the power transmission is taken over by a 9-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available as an option from 2021.

The hybrid has a stepless EVT transmission (Electric Continuously Variable Transmission). Two electric motors with a total of 148 kW are installed and, together with the 16 kWh large lithium batteries, allow an electric range of 51 kilometers.

With a length of 5.18 meters, a width of 2.04 meters, and a height of 1.78 meters, the family car already plays in the league of European minibuses. The trunk allows about 915 liters of luggage with full seating. Folding down the rear seats creates up to 3,979 liters of cargo volume. The payload is somewhat meager at only 600 kilograms. The permissible trailer load is 1,600 kilograms.

Design – Chrysler Pacifica

The Chrysler Pacifica presents itself as a classic, but also modernly designed family van. Large sliding doors ensure comfortable entry in the rear seating rows and also make somewhat narrower parking spaces usable. The LED lighting is modernly designed and casts a good light.

The equipment also impresses with thoughtful details and a modern ambiance. An elaborate leather interior awaits buyers of the higher equipment lines.

The safety equipment also leaves little to be desired. Numerous assistants make driving not only more pleasant but also safer. A reversing camera is a given. Of course, a complete airbag system is also on board. Especially with a family vehicle, the safety of all passengers is important. In the Euro NCAP crash test, the Chrysler Pacifica scored an excellent five out of five stars.

In North America, the Chrysler Pacifica is one of the most popular family cars. Are you interested? Look at our offers for your Pacifica

Alternatives – Chrysler Pacifica

Playing in the same league as the Pacifica are for example the Dodge Grand Caravan. Also interesting is the Toyota Sienna from Japan.