When it comes to the phrase “muscle car” we typically think of American muscle car classics like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, or even the Dodge Challenger. Just because this is what we usually think of when it comes to muscle cars doesn’t mean they are the only ones, and there are actually some pretty impressive European muscle cars out there too.

The Jensen Interceptor

The Jensen Interceptor has a name that sits well among popular American muscle cars like the Challenger and Charger. It has the style, power, and name that could trick you into believing it’s an American muscle car, but the Interceptor is actually built in England. It also falls into the realm of classic cars, as the Jensen Interceptor was only in production from 1966 to 1976, so although the numbers it produced don’t seem very impressive compared to modern-day cars, it still holds its ground as a fun muscle car of the time.

Jaguar F-Type R

The Jaguar F-Type R is just popular in the United States as it is in Europe, and while it may just be an exotic sports car in the States, it holds true as a European muscle car too. It might not be as classic at the Interceptor, as it went into production in 2013 and is still currently in production, but it has everything American muscle cars have to offer in a European package. It’s front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive align it with the popular American idea of muscle cars, and the supercharged 5.0L V8 engine sitting under the car’s hood has the power and performance to hold it’s own.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

The Aston Martin brand may not be a foreign sports car in the United States, but in Britain, the V8 Vantage is a domestic car. Like many American muscle cars, underneath the hood of this sporty car is a large displacement V8 motor that offers power and performance. Paired with the luxury suspension typical of Aston Martin and you are guaranteed to have a smooth and pleasant ride. Like many American classics, the V8 Vantage has a timeless look that ages well over the years.

Porsche 911

This one might be obvious, but the Porsche 911 deserves to make this list. The Porsche 911 is an exotic sportscar in the States, like the Aston Martin, but it is also a powerhouse car, and its performance brings it into the realm of muscle power. It’s a stunning design and aggressive body lines make it a well-loved car, and it is known for dominating on the roadways and the track. It can be affectionately modified to have all of the custom touches you’d like, and produce even more power than it has from the factory.

While they may not be our traditional idea of muscle cars, these European powerhouses have everything that American muscle cars have to offer. Power, performance, displacement, and most of all that timeless, classic look that keep us interested year after year.