European Cars That Were Banned From American Roads
European Cars That Were Banned From American Roads
It takes a lot for a car to be outright banned from American roads—particularly nowadays. But back in the 1990s, it was more common than you might think. Whether due to emission laws or just plain public safety, these cars couldn't be driven legally in the United States.
2010 Alfa Romeo 8C Spider Roadster
Italian car manufacturer Alfa Romeo fell afoul of American safety regulations in 2010 with their 8C Spider Roadster. The company began exporting cars to the US in 1961 but stopped in 1995 after poor sales. They attempted to return in 2010, but a different tire pressure monitoring system and occupant safety system than was required under US law meant that the Alfa 8C Spider was banned. They returned to the US market in 2015.
1989 Aston Martin Virage
With just over 1000 units produced between 1989 and 2000, the British Aston Martin Virage was exceedingly rare. In the US, the Virage failed to meet safety regulations in 1993, resulting in its banning from the American market. The cause? Lack of passenger-side airbags and its failure to meet emission standards set under the Clean Air Act.
1995 Audi RS2
This highly desirable car from the German manufacturer sold like hotcakes in Europe in the mid-90s, but that success couldn't be replicated in the United States.
This is due to its failure to meet American automobile stability and reliability standards for road cars. In reality, in experienced hands, it was a pleasure to drive.
1993 Bancroft Roadster
Maybe the Bancroft Roadster could have had a better run in the US, had it actually made it to production. Originally planned for a production run of 300 units, the ultra-rare Bancroft Roadster saw just six units ever produced before the project was cancelled due to high costs. Safety regulations prohibited its sale in the US.
