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grey market cars
In regards to buying/shipping/registering an european car in the US:
Most of what has been said is probably very true, but then comes along the
dreaded phrase "Hmmm, that depends...."
I bought a Honda, new, in Germany (long story) and had it shipped to the US. It
was US-spec, but had never been registered/titled in the US. I paid my $700 to
have it shipped to the US and picked it up. I picked it up a matter of hours
after it came off the boat. As far as I can tell DOT, customs, etc, never
looked at it.
I drove it around with my US military "USA" plates for a few weeks (illegally)
until I got to Alabama (temporary destination). I paid my $25 and had a
genuine, one-each, valid US title.
Disclaimers: I had miltary orders moving me back to the US (I'm only a
Captain, no pulling rank here); I did not complete the shipping documents, the
shipper did, but I may have signed something that said: "Of course this car
meets all EPA, DOT, federal and state laws. What do you think I am, stupid?";
Honda Accords are sold in the US and aren't nearly as conspicuous as, say a
Porsche 959; the car was/is US-spec, but it was not entered into the Honda of
America system (Warranty repair: "Umm, we're sorry sir, but your VIN doesn't
exist in our system.) so I don't think VINs are flagged by the DOT/EPA
(insurance company, maybe).
Is it possible to ship a car that has never been in the US to the US -- yes.
Might I try it again in a few years with a non US-spec model like an S6+ Avant?
If I win the lottery, sure, why not?
Joe Yakubik
PS to Huw: Haven't you ever read the warnings: Do not dive into shallow water.
Permanent injury or death may result!