Hey all, new to this forum. Still trying to figure out how to finish my profile. I used to own an ls400 and sold it before I deployed but am now looking to import a soarer when I get back. I just have a few questions for those who have imported a vehicle before. I am in Idaho and the closest port is Washington
Did you use an import company like japanese classics or just find an ri? I'm not trying to figure out all the paperwork myself.
Any good websites or auctions to find a good priced one? My only condition is I'd like it to be a manual.

Pretty much just looking for the easiest way to import one that's in good condition without being screwed. Thanks for any and all tips!

 

Why not just buy a boosted manual sc300 here? You get to drive on the correct side of the road and not deal with registration issues. Plus you can fly to check the car out b4 you buy it cheaper and easier than importing one.

I've built my 93 Sc300 myself and i'm about to put an r154 in it after blowing up a w58. I'm already running a boosted Na-T and i'm only 7k in including the r154 swap.If you can afford the 15k+ for a Soarer you can get a lot for your value with someone whose built one here with quality parts instead of buying something OEM and 25 years old.

Just my opinion though man

 

You're not wrong with it being cheaper. I have always wanted a soarer however with the electronic gauges and rhd. Just the cool factor I guess with not many people having them here.

 

^^ I have not tried importing myself but have watched part of the process alongside a friend who brought in a vintage Mercedes. A good RI is worth it. Japanese Classics is a very good one. So is the RI/import company that Sean Morris runs. Sean has been in the car import business for most of his life.

 

I have to put in my two cents here in case anyone happens to be on the same wavelength as me. A car being modified by someone you don't know is a huge red flag for some people. On top of that, a lot of Japanese people tend to take very good care of their cars. I know our perspective is skewed due to most of the Soarers being brought over with a history of drifting at a track, essentially being treated like a beer can at a festival.

If you can find a car with absolutely no aftermarket parts, and even one-owner history in Japan, it is extremely worth the money. It all comes down to standards in my opinion. Every bolt has synced threads with proper torque spec, there are no surprise wiring issues anywhere, and all the maintenance was done correctly in the past. There's a reason some people pay the premium for the 25-year-old OEM car!