Breaking the Top 3

3. Ford Escort RS Cosworth
The Ford Escort RS Cosworth, yet another standout from Ford Europe on this list, is one of the most iconic rally-inspired vehicles ever produced. Launched in 1992, the Escort RS Cosworth was developed to dominate the World Rally Championship, carrying forward the legacy of its Sierra predecessor. Under the hood, it housed a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing an impressive 227 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This potent combination, along with its advanced all-wheel-drive system, made the Escort RS Cosworth a formidable force both on the rally stage and on the road.

The car’s performance was further bolstered by its large rear wing, which became a defining feature, as well as a finely tuned suspension system that allowed it to tackle corners with precision. Its aerodynamics were carefully designed to enhance stability at high speeds, a critical factor in rally racing. Ford’s decision to keep this model exclusive to the European market, similar to its other rally-bred creations, was driven by the intense popularity of rallying in Europe, particularly in the UK, where the Escort name carried significant weight.

2. Hillman Avenger Tiger
The 1972 Hillman Avenger Tiger is a prime example of British engineering aimed at delivering a spirited driving experience in a compact package. Developed by the Rootes Group, the Avenger Tiger was a high-performance variant of the standard Hillman Avenger, created to compete with other popular small sports sedans of the era. Under the hood, it featured a tuned 1.5-liter inline-four engine, which, thanks to its twin Weber carburetors, produced 93 horsepower—a significant boost over the standard Avenger models. This power was delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission, making the Tiger a lively performer on winding British roads.

The Avenger Tiger wasn’t just about engine upgrades; it also came with distinctive styling cues, including a bold black stripe along the sides, a front spoiler, and wider wheels and tires, all contributing to its aggressive stance. Inside, the Tiger featured sporty bucket seats and a distinctive wood-rimmed steering wheel, enhancing the driving experience. The car’s lightweight build and nimble handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts who wanted a spirited drive without the higher costs associated with larger sports cars.

Honorary Mentions:
Several vehicles didn’t make the cut on this list, but we would have loved to see these models in the U.S. Unfortunately, like others on this list, they never crossed the Atlantic.

The VW Polo GTI, though a compact and spirited performer with its turbocharged 1.8-liter engine producing 148 horsepower, remained a European favorite due to its practicality and nimble handling, without ever making it to American shores.

The Pagani Zonda C12-S stands out with its 7.3-liter V12 engine delivering an exhilarating 547 horsepower and its stunning carbon-fiber design. Its extreme exclusivity and adherence to European standards kept it out of the U.S. market.

Similarly, the Jaguar XJ220, with its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 542 horsepower and a top speed of 212 mph, was a British supercar icon that U.S. enthusiasts could only admire from afar due to regulatory hurdles and limited production.