The 1970s kicked off a revolution on American roads as foreign cars surged in popularity. Compact, fuel-efficient, and undeniably stylish, these imports offered a fresh alternative to the era’s gas-guzzling giants. Ready to take a voyage down memory lane of 20 picks? Let’s begin.

Toyota’s Big U.S. Debut

Americans couldn’t resist Toyota’s reliable, compact Corolla. This model changed the game and combined affordability with incredible durability, and it quickly became a top choice. Toyota’s dedication to quality earned the brand a permanent spot in U.S. driveways.

Volkswagen’s Beetle Buzz

With its fun design and impressive gas mileage, the Beetle quickly became a favorite among drivers across the U.S., leaving a lasting legacy as one of the coolest and most iconic cars of the decade. In the 1970s, the Beetle wasn’t just a car—it was a cultural phenomenon.

Honda and the Civic’s Rise

When the Civic arrived, it brought fuel efficiency just when drivers needed it most. Its practicality and low price attracted everyone from first-time car owners to families on a budget, and this made Honda a household name in the U.S. in record time.

Datsun’s Affordable Style

Famed for dependability and a sporty edge, Datsun won fans across the U.S. and became a go-to choice for affordable performance. Datsun caught American eyes with sleek models like the 240Z, which offered style without a steep price.

Fiat’s Italian Touch

Americans looking for something unique and affordable enjoyed Fiat’s smaller size and fuel economy. This brought a little Italian flair to U.S. streets and expanded the range of choices. Fiat added a dash of European style with models like the Fiat 124.

Mercedes-Benz Luxury Factor

Mercedes-Benz wowed U.S. drivers with its luxury feel and smooth ride, especially with models like the S-Class. The brand soon became a must-have for those seeking high-end cars that delivered on both performance and elegance and made Mercedes a status symbol.

BMW’s Sporty Edge

Widely regarded for its “Ultimate Driving Machine” slogan, BMW grabbed attention and developed a strong fan base among drivers wanting a little thrill in their commute. The 3 Series quickly defined BMW’s image in the ‘70s, blending performance with a sporty, upscale vibe.

Renault’s Budget Appeal

Those on a tight budget found Renault’s compact, European cars ideal for city driving, which made the brand a top contender. Renault provided American drivers with affordable options like the Renault 5, a small and practical choice during gas shortages.

Mazda’s Rotary Engine Buzz

Turning heads with an unusual rotary engine, Mazda brought a fresh twist to the market through models like the RX-3 and RX-7. The unique engine design gave Mazda a distinct edge in the U.S. market and appealed to Americans intrigued by its creative approach to performance.

Peugeot’s French Flair

Peugeot’s classic styling, especially in models like the 504, brought French elegance to U.S. roads. Drivers who enjoyed a relaxed and refined experience, all while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency, found exactly what they were looking for in these vehicles.

Saab’s Quirky Vibe

Saab stood out with its unconventional designs, like the Saab 99, appealing to Americans in search of something unique. These Swedish cars quickly gained a reputation for reliability and became a favorite for those who valued quirky style and solid performance.

Alfa Romeo’s Italian Charisma

Style and solid handling made Alfa a favorite among American car enthusiasts seeking flair. Alfa Romeo brought charm with models like the Spider and appealed to U.S. drivers who wanted an affordable taste of European sports cars.

Lotus’s Agile Icon

The Lotus Elan Sprint impressed U.S. car enthusiasts with its nimble handling and featherlight design. Built for speed and precision, this British roadster redefined sporty driving in the 1970s. Drivers seeking a thrilling and responsive ride found the Elan Sprint to be a dream come true.

Audi’s Luxury Twist

Audi introduced American drivers to a touch of German luxury with models like the Audi 100. The car’s smooth handling and classy feel resonated with those seeking a more refined drive, and this set Audi up as a go-to brand for upscale imports.

Opel’s Compact Advantage

Under General Motors, Opel attracted American drivers with its efficient Manta model featuring easy handling at a budget-friendly price. With its sleek design, reliable performance, and fuel efficiency, it became a practical choice for drivers looking for style and value without sacrificing quality.

Triumph’s British Roadster Style

TR6 brought the excitement of British roadsters to America. The car’s classic style and fun, sporty ride appealed to U.S. car enthusiasts who wanted a taste of European motoring and made Triumph a memorable addition to the decade’s car scene.

Mitsubishi’s Quiet Start

Famous for its toughness and high quality, Mitsubishi’s introduction to the U.S. market set the stage for the brand’s future growth and appealed to drivers who valued dependability. They began making a name for themselves with reliable models like the Galant.

Volvo’s Safe Bet

Volvo won the trust of U.S. families, with models like the 240 prioritizing safety and strength. The brand quickly became a mark of dependability and gained popularity among safety-conscious drivers with its sturdy build and unwavering focus on passenger protection.

Isuzu’s Practical Pick

Models like the Isuzu Florian offered dependable performance and simple designs, making them a smart choice for those seeking a straightforward, reliable vehicle. With features like spacious interiors, efficient engines, and easy maintenance, it quickly became a trusted option for everyday use.

Lancia’s Italian Innovation

Lancia offered a unique choice with models like the Beta, which is known for its innovative engineering. American drivers interested in European craftsmanship were drawn to Lancia’s distinct style, which added a touch of Italian flair to their daily drives.