A friend of mine has a brother in law in Italy that is willing to sell him his F430 for a great price. Question: is importing almost impossible? What's the process with the DOT?
The February 2006 issue of Car&Driver has an article on this,which I don't have the equipment to post or email.
Costly. There are emmision issues, major differences include engine e.c.u's secondary air systems and the lack of pre-cats, I guess the state in which it's to be registered will determin the impact. The bumpers are different, having no side-markers and all the lights and the door mirror glass is also different. I suggest you research the cost carefully. I've converted a federal-spec 360 to euro-spec and it was a costly and time consuming task. I therefore imagine this will be the case for your friend.
I would say after shipping and modifications and paperwork, it's just not worth it. In addition, grey market cars are worth less in resale.
Want my advice. Don't do it. There are tons of FNA F430's here. Sounds like an administrative nightmare dealing with EPA and DOT and paying import taxes, shipping, etc. Plus, most U.S. buyers want a FNA car for emissions purposes, resale, etc. I think you only see grey market cars when a new model hits and FNA cannot keep up with the demand. For example there are a bunch of 2000 and 2001 grey market 360 Spiders around but the market was crazy then and it made a tad bit of sense to some people.
Thanks guys, you've all affirmed my thoughts and fears about this. Just wanted to double check my knowledge. The price is so good that it would be worth while to do it if he were to keep it for himself but he plans on selling the F430 almost as soon as he gets it. So, not a good idea
I went through the federalization and import process about 13 years ago for a rare BMW. It is worth it if it's for a collectable car that's not available in the US, but NOT for one you can buy here. It will cost you a minimum of $15K-$20K to do this...
