In MA, if I fail emissions testing and spend $735 (10+ year old car) on repairs, I can keep driving. ($835 for 6-9 years old, $935 for 0-5 years old.)
In Norway, they test more than just emissions. Brakes, emergency brakes, whether or not you have a safety triangle in your car and reflective vest - among other things.
Our car didn't quite pass a couple years ago, and we were able to do some repairs. It was brake work that time. There was a deadline to get this done. This past summer, it didn't pass, but it was an engine problem that was making some blue smoke. We let the state take it and just put the money towards a different 20-year-old car. It is possible to keep the car, but the government requires you to turn in your plates. You won't get far in an unplated car.