American muscle cars are simply unmistakable. Power, noise, and a little instability keep fans coming back through the decades, gripping the steering wheel with pearly-white grins and ghost-white knuckles.
The world loves American things, and global automakers aren't shy about putting their own twist on the American classic.
From Europe to Japan to smaller American brands, here are 21 pics of off-brand muscle cars that you might not remember.
1
Opel GT
You’d be forgiven for thinking this is a Corvette.
2
Jensen Interceptor
Although inspired by American muscle, this ride was bespoke built in England.
3
Mitsubishi Galant GTO
No, this isn’t a Mustang, it’s Japanese.
4
Jaguar XK
Jaguar often intercepts the muscle genre, like with its current Type-F. Tragically, nobody talks about this 2010s beauty anymore.
5
Iso Grifo
Made by the Italian brand Iso, the Grifo is more Mustang than Ferrari.
6
AMC Javelin
More known for compact and affordable cars, this AMC held its own.
7
AMC Rebel
Although rare, the Rebel is unmistakably a ‘70s muscle car.
8
AC Cobra
Although you might not think of Shelby as off-brand, AC was not yet fully part of Ford when the iconic Cobra was produced.
9
MGB GT V8
Although decidedly British, who’s to say this V8 isn’t muscle?
10
Toyota Celica
Often dubbed the “Japanese Mustang,” it’s hard to tell the difference from the back.
11
Holden Monaro HT GTS
Perhaps not off-brand in Australia, but GM’s Holden brand is a rare sight in the states.
12
Holden Commodore
It’s like a Chevy SS, only ten times cooler.
13
Vauxhall VXR8
GM loves its international rebrands, and the Vauxhall Chevy SS fits right in.
14
Sunbeam Alpine GT
Early versions of this are quite European. Once you hit the ‘70s, it’s a French take on American muscle.
15
Opel Diplomat V8
Although branded for European markets, this big-bodied V8 is still American muscle.
16
Toyota 2000GT
Although very Corvette-like, this is pure Japanese.
17
Auto Union 1000 SP
No, this isn’t a Ford Thunderbird, it’s German.
18
IKA Torino
Made by Industrias Kaiser Argentina, who’s to say South American doesn’t count for American muscle?
19
AMG Hammer
AMG loves a muscle car, but nobody remembers this aging beast.
20
De Tomaso Mangusta
Italian looks, with American muscle feeling.
21
De Tomaso Pantera
The Mangusta’s successor, this Italian beast definitely has the looks.
