10 Reasons Why Europe Should Love American Cars
Image via bbc.co.ukAmerica is a fiercely proud nation and a nation that loves its home-grown cars. Over here in sarcasm-loving Europe, that leads to a fair amount of mockery. But why? American cars are brilliant in ways that we can appreciate, too. Here are 10 reasons why we need to man-up and give 'Murica a fair shot:
No replacement for displacement
Image via flickr.comOK, our friends across the pond are now beginning to turn to the dark side of economic city cars, but historically, it's the U.S we have to thank for the development of inappropriately massive V8s. And as we all know, everyone loves a good V8.
Yank cars are loud and proud
Image via tech.corvettecentral.comAmericans are notoriously patriotic, and - thanks to motor cities like Detroit - have been incredibly proud of their motor vehicles being home grown. This is perhaps one reason they often make their cars big enough and noisy enough to grab peoples' attention.
Their in-yer-face looks
Image via infrequentautomobile.comAmerican cars are no shrinking violets. Their road presence is unrivalled, particularly old muscle cars which have fantastically extravagant design features that you'll never see today. If the noise doesn't grab your attention, the looks certainly will.
Swedish girls love American muscle
Image via vice.comSwedes have embraced the American car culture almost as much as the Americans themselves. In fact, according to some studies, there are more restored '50s and '60s muscle cars in Sweden than there are in America.
They're cheap compared to EU rivals
Image via motortrend.comIf you want a Chevrolet Camaro like the one Rob Huff wrecked last week, it'll set you back £35,500. Should you wish to pick up a similar European vehicle such as a BMW M3 you'll have to cough up £55,000. 'Nuff said!
LS engine swaps
Image via tech.corvettecentral.comGeneral Motors created the LS engine to be used across its range and, in various forms, has powered everything from pickup trucks to the Chevrolet Corvette. Because of this, LS motors can be swapped between cars with ease, which makes massive power gains relatively inexpensive if you have the know-how.
American cars live forever
Image via phaidon.comEuropean and Japanese cars are bloody complicated, while Americans have traditionally held on to older technologies for longer (sweeping generalisation, I know). This helps them achieve that 'cheap' status we mentioned, and extends to the fact that it is easy to source parts when things go pop. Certainly easier than in your 'emotive' Alfa, that's for sure. For this reason, they'll last forever with a few simple tweaks and upgrades.
Fast pickups = 1 car for every occasion
Image via blog.xtrailights.comUs Brits love a hot hatch. Why? Because you can stick the kids in the back for a school run, pop to Tesco and do your weekly shop, then drop the Mrs off at the salon and hoon your favourite B-road before tea. The Americans have taken that to the next level with fast pickups such as the Ford Raptor. You can do all of those things - off road, if you wish - as well as lugging a few deer home after a successful hunting trip. Perhaps your family needs warmth? Cut down a tree, chuck it on the flatbed and cane your beast home before the cold sets in. Your move, Focus ST.
They're super comfortable
Image via allfamouswonders.comAcross the United States of America there are roads so long that, due to the curvature of the Earth, they have curves built in to ensure that the road is straight on a flat map. That's a long ass road, right there. When cruising these epic freeways, you want your large behind to be comfortable, so couple soft suspension with sofa-like seats and you have yourself the ultimate cruising machine.
They perfected the idea of social driving
Image via superchevy.comThe driving experience shouldn't be a solitary one. Sometimes being alone at the wheel, at one with your machine as you attack apex after apex, is an excellent way to unwind. More often that not, though, great road trips are shared road trips.
What better way to do that than riding shotgun with two of your mates. The bench seat might lead to awkward passenger pile ups at the mere hint of a corner, but there's nothing cooler than sitting back with a couple of close friends up front.
Got any other reasons why Europeans should love American cars?
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