Japanese imported models can have a hard to trace history, but they do tend to have a higher specification level compared to UK supplied models.

Typical things that UK models tend not to benefit from

Lower Mileages. (Japanese car speedometer and odometers read in KPH BTW)

Air conditioning or climate control

High level brake lamp

Electrical folding mirrors

Steerable fog lamps

Traction control

4 wheel anti lock brakes

Cruise control

Turbo charged engines (GT and GT-S)

Inspection

The overall quality of imported models can vary dramatically. Have a look at the following as they may give an insight to the cars Japanese history.

Screw holes in the dash or A pillars, may be due to removed tuning electronics.

Holes or flaps in the carpets. Has this car previously had a roll cage or harnesses fitted?

Are date tags still fitted to the seat belts. If no, is someone hiding the cars age?

There is no reason why an imported model should be any less reliable than a UK supplied car, as long as you choose carefully. If a model is at a bargain price, beware and look very closely before agreeing to buy.

Always buy with your head and not your heart!

How to spot an import from the outside

The easiest way to spot an import, is to look for a few tell tale differences. Bear in mind a determined owner can modify the car to look like a UK model.

Square number plates fitted.

Orange marker lamps fitted into the front bumper trims.



Reproduced with permission from PeteJ (MR2OC)

Nice contribution Spanky KC +1

If i were to import a 95 G-Limited from japan tomorrow how much would it cost me in VRT etc?

Currently saving the pennies for a 2, seeing loads of nice japanese cars on tradecarview and other auction sites

I think the vrt is only € 686 for a g-limited

try this site www.ros.ie/VRTEnquiryServlet/showCarCalculator

That VRT thing your guys have in the south is such a rip off. It was quoting more than €2000 for importing a 97 tubby.

Is there a chance you would also have import duty on that as well or is that included?

By the time you get the car shipped and on the road you would have spent the same as it costs to buy it in the UK.

Such a rip off

I presume the same applies if you bring a car from NI to 'the south'?

yup it sure does. i'm fairly sure it is illegal as in the eu aren't allowing it. because supposed to be free trade in eu or some other shit.