How to tell an import...
Discussion
I'm aiming this question at an S2000 I'm looking at at the moment, but also how can you tell any imported car?
I expect on certain models there will be things that give it away like a lack of standard rear fog lights but things like this could be fitted after import to look like an original. This is what concerns me - could one purchase an imported S2000 (for example) change the few little bits that make it obviously a Jap car and then sell it on as a UK car?
I have an FTO (Jap import) and I'm pretty sure the log book doesn't state it was an import, only the date of first registration. Obviouslt FTOs were only sold in Japan, but my point being how can I be certain??
Thanks folks.
I expect on certain models there will be things that give it away like a lack of standard rear fog lights but things like this could be fitted after import to look like an original. This is what concerns me - could one purchase an imported S2000 (for example) change the few little bits that make it obviously a Jap car and then sell it on as a UK car?
I have an FTO (Jap import) and I'm pretty sure the log book doesn't state it was an import, only the date of first registration. Obviouslt FTOs were only sold in Japan, but my point being how can I be certain??
Thanks folks.
Oh yes - very good point!
I'm concerned about resale too as I'll probably only have the car for 2 years and won't want to loose out because it's an import.
I was asking on a general knowledge kind of level too - is there a way of finding if a car is an import? You'd think it would be easy to find out but the DVLA don't state if it is or not on their vehicle enquiry site.
I'm concerned about resale too as I'll probably only have the car for 2 years and won't want to loose out because it's an import.
I was asking on a general knowledge kind of level too - is there a way of finding if a car is an import? You'd think it would be easy to find out but the DVLA don't state if it is or not on their vehicle enquiry site.
You need to pop over to the S2K site http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showforum=25 and read the FAQ, will give you all the info you need.
There are basically 2 types of import, EU and ROW (rest of world). EU imports are exactly the same spec as UK vehicles and are viewed as such, ROW imports are different spec and are viewed as different.
One of the main visual differences is the headlamp washers, UK / EU have them , ROW don't. Also usual issue of no rear fog light, no stereo and no alarm.
I bought mine back in August and ended up with an EU import.
There are basically 2 types of import, EU and ROW (rest of world). EU imports are exactly the same spec as UK vehicles and are viewed as such, ROW imports are different spec and are viewed as different.
One of the main visual differences is the headlamp washers, UK / EU have them , ROW don't. Also usual issue of no rear fog light, no stereo and no alarm.
I bought mine back in August and ended up with an EU import.
TaylotS2K said:
The most obvious way to tell an import for the rest of the World or(JDM - Japanese domestic market)is the rear bumper. The reg plate surround is smaller and squarer than a UK or Euro Import.
But an import retro-fitted with an EU/UK bumper will look just like a UKDM car. If someone was trying to be cute with an import, of course...That said, the V5 is the foolproof way.
Re: S2000 - headlamp washers I think is correct, also SOME imports came with/without certain kit:-
- leather seats were an option in Japan.
- stereo ditto.
- VGS (variable-geo steering) was an option, although consensus is avoid it.
How much is it going for?
What about this one?
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/700079.htm
All bills since new, FSH, only 40k miles, 12 months Honda warranty...all for less than 10 grand...teh seller will even put 12 months tax and test on it for you!
<shameless plug>
What about this one?
http://www.pistonheads.com/sales/700079.htm
All bills since new, FSH, only 40k miles, 12 months Honda warranty...all for less than 10 grand...teh seller will even put 12 months tax and test on it for you!
<shameless plug>
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