My journey Buying and Importing a legal R32!

[ODS]

TO BE CLEAR I AM NOT RECEIVING ANY COMPENSATION FOR THIS POST, GTR GARAGE ASKED TO TO MAKE A THREAD (WHICH I ALREADY PLANNED ON IT) I WILL BENIFIT IN NO WAY FROM THS POST. (OTHER THAN MY OWN SATISFACTION)


So I made the decision to buy and import my very own R32. I decided to trust GTR Garage to find a worthy car and handle everything, I messaged a few importers and they were the first ones to respond and start showing me cars that were available. I bought a July 1989 R32 GTS-T, because thats exactly what I wanted. Im making this thread to act as a guide for others to gain knowledge, know what to expect and avoid potential pitfalls.

In addition to the GTS-t I have also purchased A 08/89 GTR. The GTR was not a planned purchase, more like a to good to pass up kinda deal. Overall I'm extremely happy that we went for it because prices have been skyrocketing

I plan on having GTR Garage making some modifications to the car before it leaves Japan.

Video of the GTS-t running : https://vimeo.com/84679870

Video of the GTR running : http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/Skyline%20GTR/IMG_0308_zps0efc349b.mp4.html

Run back from Hara : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6wn2sQDJp0

-------------ORDER OF EVENTS THUS FAR-------------

January 3, 2014 : I E-Mailed Kunio at GTR Garage to inquire about a R32.

January 4, 2014 : I received a E-Mail from Kunio telling me about potential cars, and I made my decision to purchase a beautiful Black R32

January 6, 2014 : Kunio verified that the production month was infact July so I told him that I would like to move forward.

January 7, 2014 : I paid the deposit to secure the car. glad I did because interest spiked and I almost dident get the car.

January 10, 2014 : I paid the remaining balance off.

January 21, 2014 : The car made it to GTR Garage and I got some better pictures, the car was checked out by the mechanic and everything is in great shape!!

February 4, 2014 : Kunio contacted me about a GT-R that might interest me. Its was a Mine's factory tuned R32 that has substantial aftermarket work done. After some consideration I decided to allow Kunio to bid on it and ended up winning the car!

February 17, 2014 : The car arrived at the shop and Kunio gave it a test drive and everything appeared to be in better than expected shape!

April 3, 2014 : The GTR has been scheduled to go to Power Craft at the end of the month for a inspection.

April 10, 2014 : Change of plans the GT-R is going to Hara Works to get dyno'ed on the 30th! Video of the day will be shared.

April 10, 2014 : Added some pictures I had on my computer.

April 30, 2014 : The car was driven to Hara and was a big success! no issues! and made 475HP @ 1.2 Bar! https://vimeo.com/93428422

May 10, 2014 : Pickup a set of Work Equips 18x9.5J +23 for the GTS-t.

June 21, 2014 : Pickup a set of silver Work XD9's 18x10J +18!

July 30, 2014 : Cars have cleared customs and will be leaving soon!

August 4, 2014 : Both R32's are inbound!

August 17, 2014 : Both cars have left Taiwan (the final stop before Portland) Hopefully the shipping date will get pushed up!

September 12, 2014 : The container ship has landed in Tacoma and the container was removed from the ship.

And now we are here..... I will be updating this list step by step and keep everyone well informed.

[hobbs]

You're in good hands, Kunio is the man when it comes to this stuff!

[ODS]

Awesome! its takes alot of trust to send thousands of dollars to someone you have never met

[GTR-Garage]

Thanks for starting the thread. We want everyone to know exactly what it is like to buy a car from us. The Skyline will be on it's way up from Fukuoka in the next day or two so ODS will have plenty of pictures to share. Of course, it's going to look a bit different before it ships, but those are all details for him to share.

[WheelWhore]

Awesome! its takes alot of trust to send thousands of dollars to someone you have never met

This.

I deal with 6-7k dollar western unions to my Chinese Suppliers. Talk about nail biting dealings with new suppliers.

[Ramonesfreak2010]

Whats a general price of the car + fees once said and done?

[ODS]

If can be reasonable with the aftermarket parts it should be less that 10k landed.

[BossHogg]

Congrats! I have been waiting for a car import thread about GTR garage. I figured it would be top notch service as they are with getting parts also. This is good to hear! If I do end up going the import route on my next car, I was going to give them a shout. Post up pics when available!

[ODS]

Of course!! I plan on updating this thread very regularly.

[ODS]

I should be getting some HI-Res photos this weekend!!

[bearhat]

subscribed!!!

[greenmachine300zxtt]

interested in this thread

[sidewaysil80]

My Z33 is going up for sale this weekend and if I decide on R32 GTR (vice 70-73 Stingray) I will be using GTR Garage. I spent some time reading all the literature on their site and it was not only informative but also seemed very genuine. If I go the GTR route they will surely be getting my money.

It also helps seeing how active they are on zilvia and how they are constantly growing/evolving their ways to serve us.

[Michael E]

Cant wait to see a bunch of these on the streets!

[gostrider]

I want one too im in...

[fliprayzin240sx]

How about you guys make 1 damn review thread in the review section. Stop making multiple threads about the same company...

[ODS]

How about you guys make 1 damn review thread in the review section. Stop making multiple threads about the same company...

Its not a review thread, Its simply my experience buying a car and importing it, Im not "reviewing" the seller. Once this is all over with then I will be "reviewing" the seller, but that will be in the aforementioned "review" thread.

[ODS]

Pics moved to top

[jdm60]

AWESOME!
Looking forward to seeing these on the streets

[h2v7]

that is soooo sick

so from the day you ordered how long untill you actually receive and drive the car?

[ODS]

In order to comply with the 25 year federal law I will have to wait until July...

[94_240sx]

Why GTS-T, not GTR?

[ODS]

-I may swap it.
-I wanted to get my feet wet with a cheaper car just incase I hit some crazy problem that prevents me from getting the car.
-Im going to buy a GTR aswell, when I find the right one.

[silviaks2nr]

Glad you're happy with it. Too bad it's not a GTR

Usually people do a review after they receive the goods though. You don't leave feedback on ebay before the item arrives do you?

[ODS]

Ok, people. I wanted a gtst if i wanted a gtr thats what I would have bought... and this thread has nothing to do with reviewing the seller, its mearly the process of getting a R32 legally into the country. Thanks for your understanding.

[Fuego]

Ok, people. I wanted a gtst if i wanted a gtr thats what I would have bought... and this thread has nothing to do with reviewing the seller, its mearly the process of getting a R32 legally into the country. Thanks for your understanding.

You have to remember half a zilvia failed reading comp in high school. As someone who will be importing in the coming years, I'm enjoying this thread and your updates.

[ODS]

Good! I just want people to see this thread and know what to expect.

[fatduece]

Subscribed.

[ndfelts26]

Don't feel bad man I want a gtst too the only gtr I would ever get would be the hokosuka! Lol subscribed

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[Slippin'eight-nine]

In order to comply with the 25 year federal law I will have to wait until July...
:drama:
Wow seems like you jumped the gun a little with this thread. Nice car though!

[ODS]

:drama:
Wow seems like you jumped the gun a little with this thread. Nice car though!

I made the thread to show the progression of events, i wanted all the details i could get, i did not want to be retroactively posting everything. Plus now everyone can go through the agonizing wait with me :)

[theericsmith]

sub'd. I'm tired of owning an s14 and cressida daily. Wanted to dump them both for a BRZ but an r32 has always been a dream. Besides, who needs a warranty on anything? ;)

[gist864]

Subscribed, i probably won’t be getting one until next year but i would like to narrow down the companies I’m looking at.

[DJ 21o3]

sub'd. I'm tired of owning an s14 and cressida daily. Wanted to dump them both for a BRZ but an r32 has always been a dream. Besides, who needs a warranty on anything? ;)

Warranties are pointless when you know you will just end up modifying the car. lol

[ODS]

A short video of the car running..

https://vimeo.com/84679870

[ODS]

Can anyone lend perspective on wheels? I really like blitz 03s but im open to ideas..

[JVDSKYRINE]

Why don't people just bring them in from canada they are already landed here?

Hell I would drive them up if people payed me for my time

[tricky_ab]

Why don't people just bring them in from canada they are already landed here?

Hell I would drive them up if people payed me for my time

Because half of the RHD imports in this country are pretty much poop. Or people are not selling? Or people are asking more then what you can get them from Japan yourself. Or people want to select exactly what they want from a land far away...

...There's plenty of reasons...

[DJ 21o3]

Why don't people just bring them in from canada they are already landed here?

Hell I would drive them up if people payed me for my time

edit: ignore this post as I was proved wrong.

I am sure someone will add more detail but there is some legal bs that you can't legally import the vehicle unless it is exported straight out of the country of origin, which would be Japan.

[tricky_ab]

I am sure someone will add more detail but there is some legal bs that you can't legally import the vehicle unless it is exported straight out of the country of origin, which would be Japan.

That's not true at all... the first BNR32 that came into the US in January was from Canada.

[DJ 21o3]

That's not true at all... the first BNR32 that came into the US in January was from Canada.

There has been so much legal crap around r-chassis that I don't even know what is what anymore, but i stand corrected.

[s13rhdhatch]

I was gonna buy this but I didn't like that it had a sun roof. Who cares if it's not a gtr,a skyline is a skyline.

[killer240]

I thought R32's are illegal in the states and R33's are legal.
R32's failed the crash test and R33's passed it. Once caught by the police, it will get crushed?

[ndfelts26]

I thought R32's are illegal in the states and R33's are legal.
R32's failed the crash test and R33's passed it. Once caught by the police, it will get crushed?

It goes by how old the car is because 25 years or older makes it eligible for vintage tags which makes it a classic

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk

[GTR-Garage]

edit: ignore this post as I was proved wrong.

I am sure someone will add more detail but there is some legal bs that you can't legally import the vehicle unless it is exported straight out of the country of origin, which would be Japan.

It was our understanding that if the seller of the vehicle in Canada had the original paperwork used to import it (Japanese Export De-Registration) it would be possible to import it into the US under the 25 year rule. The US needs some proof that the vehicle is 25 years old to the month and Canadian titles only show the year.

The problem with the handful that have come in from Canada is that they technically shouldn't be permitted yet, because even if they had the correct paperwork showing the month of manufacture, the earliest those '89s would meet the requirement is the summer. Who knows what is going to happen to them, because they were technically imported incorrectly. Despite the fact that they filed all the correct paperwork and followed the established processes, they didn't meet the month requirement and expecting the Federal Government to say, "oh well, you slipped it by us so it's our fault and you're good to go" may be expecting too much...

So, if a car from Canada doesn't have the original paperwork it doesn't mean it can't be imported. It just means that if the Canadian title shows it is a 1989, it could technically be a December '89, which means it could be imported after January 1st, 2015 because there is no way that it is less than 25 years old at that point.

Why import from Japan? I can think of a few very good reasons:

1. Far more availability

2. Outfits like ourselves can have it tuned here

3. You can fly out and drift it before we ship it (possibly in a competition)

The savings that can be had by getting a bunch of parts installed before it is shipped can literally offset the cost of shipping the car. If those parts are large like seats, roll cages, coilovers, differentials, aero parts, etc. this can result in a significant savings. As ridiculous as it sounds, we can ship a car to the US for not much more than a full aero kit...

[ODS]

So this happened....

[CharCharXD]

does this mean the car doesnt have to get a smog?

[Fuego]

does this mean the car doesnt have to get a smog?

Correct. Also, if your car is over 20 in NV you could be emissions exempt as a Classic Rod.

[s0fa king]

she's looks gorgeous dude! congrats!

[silviaks2nr]

Good call on the GTR.

[S13GG]

The US needs some proof that the vehicle is 25 years old to the month and Canadian titles only show the year.


wouldn't the door vin plate indicate month/year, is this not acceptable (proof)?

wasn't the year change over still done in september back then? meaning a dec/89 car would have been sold as a 1990 model year car...

[ODS]

You're in good hands, Kunio is the man when it comes to this stuff!http://interinsurances.com/huht.jpg http://interinsurances.com/hu2f.jpg

That's good to know, I'm to financially invested to have him be a con-man.

[4-20sx]

Crazy. I wonder if Cali is the exemption lol

I would love to own a gtr :)

[Encore]

Correct. Also, if your car is over 20 in NV you could be emissions exempt as a Classic Rod.

But there is some kind of mileage limit for this right?

[g_mac530]

This is a good thread idea. Maybe mods should consider making a sticky about importing R32's at some point?

[ODS]

This is a good thread idea. Maybe mods should consider making a sticky about importing R32's at some point?

^This^ I want to put to rest all the speculation to the process. This will be the end all be, be all resource.

[ODS]

135 days...

[Alamo_City_210]

135 days...

In jail, you'd never count the days. You'd go crazy. You'll be suprised how fast time flies when you go be weeks and/or months. Thats what i did lol. Months went by.

[ODS]

True, I think 4 months that's not to bad. 135 days that's practically forever!! In the grand scheme it's not a long time considering ive been waiting for years lol

[ODS]

The GTR is scheduled for a run through at Power Craft at the end of the month, hopefully get it on the dyno!

[tricky_ab]

Are you having any work done by them specifically?

[ODS]

Not necessarily, but its not out of the question. Its mainly going there to get a through inspection by people that specialize in GTRs

[OBEEWON]

Have them put an LS1 in it before they ship it off.

[ODS]

Have them put an LS1 in it before they ship it off.

Thats basically high treason.

[spooled240]

So, are you still importing the GTS also?

Sucks that we CA peeps are SOL in terms of registering these cars :/

[ODS]

So, are you still importing the GTS also?

Sucks that we CA peeps are SOL in terms of registering these cars :/

Yes, im just going to ship them together. It kinda sucks because i have to wait a extra month for the GTS-t but ill save some money.

[OBEEWON]

Man, I know that wait is going to be torture for you. Good luck.

[supersayianjim]

so tell me. if I was to??

--fly to japan myself

--purchase a gtr legally

--purchase a transport and a container

if I had all the paperwork, why would I need a 3rd party like gtr garage(not taking anything away from them).

if it's legal to transport after 25 years, I would be able to go thorugh that process myself right??

then when it arrives at and then clears customs I can get in and drive??

isn't this correct IN THEORY?

[g35gabby]

so tell me. if I was to??

--fly to japan myself

--purchase a gtr legally

--purchase a transport and a container

if I had all the paperwork, why would I need a 3rd party like gtr garage(not taking anything away from them).

if it's legal to transport after 25 years, I would be able to go thorugh that process myself right??

then when it arrives at and then clears customs I can get in and drive??

isn't this correct IN THEORY?

Yes, you can and people have done this. The thing is if the paperwork isn't right when it hits the US port of arrival you are going to be jammed up or worse having the container rejected. There are several articles and dicussion about what/how/and where to find all the information you need for this. The reason you have GTRgarage, Rivsu, ect do it for you, is they have been there and know the paperwork cold. they also have people to translate the documents and make sure everything is done correctly the first time. This is in an invaluable service that well I might have paid extra for these services verse doing it myself, I can invest that time in doing more important things (like bugging Kunio for prices on parts for my GTST).

never mind how much you are "saving" to having someone else do the paperwork vs you paying to fly 1/2 around the world.....

To the OP:

I'm in the exact position you are. I happened to use Rivsu as they are literally 5 mins from my house and Kunio wasn't doing auto importation (or wasn't advertising it heavily) when I made my purchase in DECEMBER last year. The wait has been a little killer, but the ability to stock up on parts has been great. I too got a black July car, 5spd and Coupe. This time has allowed me to decide to have it painted prior to shipment and stock up on a bunch of replacment parts so that when it arrives it won't be a Garage anchor for more than intended. I have used Kunio to import several parts in the past, and he has been nothing short of a Gem to deal with. I too probably would have used him to import my R32 had I had some for thought.

get used to a lot dumb questions, and I would like to say the wait gets easier, but it doesn't. My husband is pretty well going off the deep end waiting for it to arrive so we have something new to wrench on and have fun with.

Everything Kunio has said about importing from CAN is correct. The prices of their 89s are also jumping up. Have spent a little time strolling GTRcanda and prices are ever increasing for their "rust bucket" (by comparison to the Jland ones) 89s.

as for if you can import a Nismo, under other conditions of not road use, or under 25 years there is not only a lot of bad info on this thread, but generally all over the internet. I could get into it deeper as I have been doing an abundance of reading since I don't have a car to play with right now, but I won't add a bunch more to an otherwise valuable thread.

Congrats on the purchase, and check out Skylineownersusa if you get a minute. Some good info and good people over there. Welcome to owning a skyline (eventually) and enjoy stocking up on the goodies.

PS Mines.....:love:

[ODS]

Man, I know that wait is going to be torture for you. Good luck.

I've waited for many things in this world, and it always boils down to the excitement of getting what you are waiting for, and the disappointment of not having it sooner. The best thing is to not thing about it because you start visualizing and imaging what it will be like, how real it will be, and you just get more disappointed.

[OBEEWON]

Very true. Good choice on the wheels btw.

[ODS]

Yes, you can and people have done this. The thing is if the paperwork isn't right when it hits the US port of arrival you are going to be jammed up or worse having the container rejected. There are several articles and dicussion about what/how/and where to find all the information you need for this. The reason you have GTRgarage, Rivsu, ect do it for you, is they have been there and know the paperwork cold. they also have people to translate the documents and make sure everything is done correctly the first time. This is in an invaluable service that well I might have paid extra for these services verse doing it myself, I can invest that time in doing more important things (like bugging Kunio for prices on parts for my GTST).

never mind how much you are "saving" to having someone else do the paperwork vs you paying to fly 1/2 around the world.....

To the OP:

I'm in the exact position you are. I happened to use Rivsu as they are literally 5 mins from my house and Kunio wasn't doing auto importation (or wasn't advertising it heavily) when I made my purchase in DECEMBER last year. The wait has been a little killer, but the ability to stock up on parts has been great. I too got a black July car, 5spd and Coupe. This time has allowed me to decide to have it painted prior to shipment and stock up on a bunch of replacment parts so that when it arrives it won't be a Garage anchor for more than intended. I have used Kunio to import several parts in the past, and he has been nothing short of a Gem to deal with. I too probably would have used him to import my R32 had I had some for thought.

get used to a lot dumb questions, and I would like to say the wait gets easier, but it doesn't. My husband is pretty well going off the deep end waiting for it to arrive so we have something new to wrench on and have fun with.

Everything Kunio has said about importing from CAN is correct. The prices of their 89s are also jumping up. Have spent a little time strolling GTRcanda and prices are ever increasing for their "rust bucket" (by comparison to the Jland ones) 89s.

as for if you can import a Nismo, under other conditions of not road use, or under 25 years there is not only a lot of bad info on this thread, but generally all over the internet. I could get into it deeper as I have been doing an abundance of reading since I don't have a car to play with right now, but I won't add a bunch more to an otherwise valuable thread.

Congrats on the purchase, and check out Skylineownersusa if you get a minute. Some good info and good people over there. Welcome to owning a skyline (eventually) and enjoy stocking up on the goodies.

PS Mines.....:love:

I agree with your first point completely, its worth it for me to pay someone who knows how to do it and has experience. there is to much money tided up for something to go wrong.

But if I knew the process and had someone to stay with in Japan Id probably try to do it myself, I wouldn't fly over with hopes and prayers that I would find one, have a place to stay, have transportation not to mention speak Japanese which would be helpful. But hey if you have a few of those things in your favor it would more that likely work out.

And thanks, its nice to know there are people in the same boat. I've been on the parts search as well (I should be saving money), It just makes financial sense to have stuff source and installed over there. Ill start saving when the cars get here.....

[Dolph_KYAS13]

have you heard from kunio recently? I PM'd him last week and got nothing.

[ODS]

have you heard from kunio recently? I PM'd him last week and got nothing.

Its been about a week since we talked but he was the last to email me so I wasn't expecting anything. He's a great guy, sometimes slow to respond (I just keep emailing him lol). He told me things are nuts over there right now and to be patient and forgive him for the slow response.

[ODS]

It's nice to hear about other people's importing processes. The excitement, the wait times... Everything. It's kinda refreshing to say the least.

It's funny, I started looking for my car last March. It took a few months to find one that I liked (and the cars that I lost the bids on). Then the wait till it was legal for road use in Canada.

So I feel where a lot of you guys are coming from. The flip side is that I've been purchasing parts for the last few years haha!

True that! Yea im in a weird spot with the GTR, there is a but of hesitance on the part of Mines to give up the info on the car. As far as we can tell the car was built (Swapped, all parts installed and tuned) by them, the problem is the build sheet was completely packed, so much so that things were probably left off.


BCNR33 RB26DETT N1 Engine
Mine's VX-Rom (tuned by Mine's)
Mine's Camshafts
Mine's VX Intake Kit
Mine's Turbo Outlets Pro
Mine's Front Pipe Pro
HKS GT-SS Turbo Kit
HKS EVC-5
Racing Muffler (doesn't say the brand)
Tomei Head Gasket
Tomei 600cc Injectors
Airflow Sensor Upgrade (doesn't say which ones)
Coilover Suspension (doesn't list brand)
Upgraded Brakes
Upgraded Clutch (Nismo Coppermix)
Upgraded LSD
18'' TE37s
Nismo Brake Hose

"The rest of it is hard to make out" according to Kunio. Some stuff has been figured out AP Racing brakes front and rear, Twin disk, D-Jetro but I want to know what Upgraded LSD, Coilovers, Mines Cams, mean, like the actual specifics of every part. Hence why its going to Power Craft.

[ODS]

Very true. Good choice on the wheels btw.

Thanks, they have always been one of my favorites, sucks they have been a victim of the vicious knock off brands. But I love them anyways. Now I need some Blitz 03's for my GTS-t.......... (cough cough) Kunio

[GTR-Garage]

There's not going to be any disappointment with this one. It's so fast I'm scared to drive it. I think my description to ODS was that it is like sitting in a jet.

If anyone needs to get in touch it's best to send an email to [email protected] I haven't been able to find much time to log onto Zilvia. Too busy arranging container loadings.

[ODS]

Kunio likes to tell you how nice and fast your car is. He proabaly thinks it makes the waiting eaiser.

[GTR-Garage]

Kunio likes to tell you how nice and fast your car is. He proabaly thinks it makes the waiting eaiser.

Bah, nothing makes the waiting better. I can't even stand waiting the two days it takes to get a car down from Osaka. Buying more cars isn't going to help either! One of the first few episodes of our web series "Tuned Life" is going to feature the ODS GT-R trip to Power Factory.

[ODS]

I though buying the GTR would help, it definitely did not. But im greatful that i had the opportunity to buy it. It really is a dream.

[Nikzilla]

I really would like to know how much the average is for a GTR.

I'm mean like total. How deep of a hole in your pocket does the seminal fluid oozing out of your testicles have to fill when you first drive it in the US?

[tricky_ab]

True that! Yea im in a weird spot with the GTR, there is a but of hesitance on the part of Mines to give up the info on the car. As far as we can tell the car was built (Swapped, all parts installed and tuned) by them, the problem is the build sheet was completely packed, so much so that things were probably left off.


BCNR33 RB26DETT N1 Engine
Mine's VX-Rom (tuned by Mine's)
Mine's Camshafts
Mine's VX Intake Kit
Mine's Turbo Outlets Pro
Mine's Front Pipe Pro
HKS GT-SS Turbo Kit
HKS EVC-5
Racing Muffler (doesn't say the brand)
Tomei Head Gasket
Tomei 600cc Injectors
Airflow Sensor Upgrade (doesn't say which ones)
Coilover Suspension (doesn't list brand)
Upgraded Brakes
Upgraded Clutch (Nismo Coppermix)
Upgraded LSD
18'' TE37s
Nismo Brake Hose

"The rest of it is hard to make out" according to Kunio. Some stuff has been figured out AP Racing brakes front and rear, Twin disk, D-Jetro but I want to know what Upgraded LSD, Coilovers, Mines Cams, mean, like the actual specifics of every part. Hence why its going to Power Craft.

Man, this car is going to pull like a freight train! That's quite the impressive parts list! The responsiveness is going to really get you into trouble ;)

[ODS]

Id say at the minimum, if you bought one early on close to 15k if not more.

[Nikzilla]

Id say at the minimum, if you bought one early on close to 15k if not more.

That's actually really not that bad, when you consider a mint supra here goes for more than 15k.

[ODS]

Thats the same logic i used when i bought the GTR, i could have had a STI, EVO, FD, S2000 or whatever but a GTR is much more interesting.... To me anyways



That's actually really not that bad, when you consider a mint supra here goes for more than 15k.

[Nikzilla]

Thats the same logic i used when i bought the GTR, i could have had a STI, EVO, FD, S2000 or whatever but a GTR is much more interesting.... To me anyways

I agree. It's better too.

Man, if I wasn't in college right now...

[ODS]

I was going to build and GTR but this will keep me satisfied for a bit!

Man, this car is going to pull like a freight train! That's quite the impressive parts list! The responsiveness is going to really get you into trouble ;)

[ODS]

To be frank is also because these are cash only cars. And it can be challenging to come up with the funds and take the risk.


I agree. It's better too.

Man, if I wasn't in college right now...

[Nikzilla]

To be frank is also because these are cash only cars. And it can be challenging to come up with the funds and take the risk.

Can you elaborate for me?

[Ramonesfreak2010]

Is there anything you have to do on your end once the cars are in the US? Like paperwork and such, or when it arrives it will be delivered all paperwork completely done and ready to register?

[g35gabby]

And thanks, its nice to know there are people in the same boat. I've been on the parts search as well (I should be saving money), It just makes financial sense to have stuff source and installed over there. Ill start saving when the cars get here.....

You would be surprised how "many of us" there really are, getting to know more and more people who are coming out of the wood works as I go. It isn't as exclusive as I actually anticipated. Which to me is a positive, more people = more reason for vendors state side to stock replacement parts and goodies.

I really would like to know how much the average is for a GTR.

I'm mean like total. How deep of a hole in your pocket does the seminal fluid oozing out of your testicles have to fill when you first drive it in the US?

No idea on the 2nd question, but the 1st question is much easier....

on average you can get a GTST or GTS4 for 8-10k depending on mods and rust imported from most vendors (You can find them cheaper, but most of them were really not worth the $ for the repairs needed). The GTR's go for 16-20k again depending on mods, miles, ect. The Nismo's which could be imported tomorrow, go for in the 25-30k range as they are limited production.

for me it was easy, I paid 8500 for mine, caged, lots of cusco parts, lots of blitz goodies, and nice wheels (I believe are BRS posions). It is "just a GTST", but it was cheaper than building the S13 I had at the time, 1/2 the miles of the 13, and I couldn't even come close to the mods on it without dropping close to the price of the car to bulid my S13 with less mods. Sold the S13 as we are running out of parking, and bought the 32. I assume my experience would not be the same now, as since I purchased mine prices have jumped and Steve has even been offered more $ than I paid to sell mine to them instead of me. Jan 1, when Trevor "drove his R32 from canada in legally" turned all the fanboys and kids crazy and resulted in prices jumping both in the mother land and state side.

Is there anything you have to do on your end once the cars are in the US? Like paperwork and such, or when it arrives it will be delivered all paperwork completely done and ready to register?

All of the shipping paperwork is already handled when it gets to port. It won't get bonded without it. When it arrives and clears, depending on who is importing it, it may already be titled for you, or you may have to do the title work on your own (which isn't overly horrible as the hard work is done).

[ODS]

Basically its eaiser to finance a car then pay cash.

Can you elaborate for me?

[Dolph_KYAS13]

Jan 1, when Trevor "drove his R32 from canada in legally" turned all the fanboys and kids crazy and resulted in prices jumping both in the mother land and state side.


This is great news for us Canadian Owners. I bought my '93 GTS-T Type M for 5 grand in 2010 with a bunch of mods. Now you are hard pressed to find a decent GTS-t for under 8K.

-Jordie

[g35gabby]

This is great news for us Canadian Owners. I bought my '93 GTS-T Type M for 5 grand in 2010 with a bunch of mods. Now you are hard pressed to find a decent GTS-t for under 8K.

-Jordie

Yep, that is pretty much how it is. Heard that is basically the same deal over in Jland which translates to closer to 10k+ landed.

[tricky_ab]

Basically its eaiser to finance a car then pay cash.

C.R.E.A.M.

This is great news for us Canadian Owners. I bought my '93 GTS-T Type M for 5 grand in 2010 with a bunch of mods. Now you are hard pressed to find a decent GTS-t for under 8K.

-Jordie

I know there's going to be quite a few Canadians who will be selling "up" in a few years.

[ODS]

I had a dream about the GTR last night... It was a little strange.

[b4l]

Subscribed

Sent from my T-Mobile myTouch Q using Tapatalk 2

[ODS]

Change of plans the GT-R is going to Hara Works to get dyno'ed on the 30th! Video of the day will be shared.

[Gold Coast S14]

Subscribed over here... hate to put my kouki on the backburner again but the R32 is just such a raw car. Gunmetal paint lowered on some matte bronze CE28's... my god... haha sounds like the prices are only going to up. If I get a '90 how much do they charge to store it before shipping it? Thanks.

[tricky_ab]

Subscribed over here... hate to put my kouki on the backburner again but the R32 is just such a raw car. Gunmetal paint lowered on some matte bronze CE28's... my god... haha sounds like the prices are only going to up. If I get a '90 how much do they charge to store it before shipping it? Thanks.

That depends on where you purchase it from. I've seen importers charge you nothing till the car is ready to ship. I've seen others charge $50-$100 a month till your car is ready to be shipped.

[ODS]

Subscribed over here... hate to put my kouki on the backburner again but the R32 is just such a raw car. Gunmetal paint lowered on some matte bronze CE28's... my god... haha sounds like the prices are only going to up. If I get a '90 how much do they charge to store it before shipping it? Thanks.

Most places seem to be around 150$ per month to store, at least from my research. GTR Garage is free, which is part of the reason I went with them. I actually though all companies would offer free storage, but I was wrong haha.

[g35gabby]

That depends on where you purchase it from. I've seen importers charge you nothing till the car is ready to ship. I've seen others charge $50-$100 a month till your car is ready to be shipped.

I haven't seen any not handing it before it ships, as their costs for storage are prior to shipment and that is when they pay.

the 2nd 1/2 is correct. 50-100 is pretty much the standard rate. Some will say "free", which means they have already factored in those costs to the price.

[tricky_ab]

I haven't seen any not handing it before it ships, as their costs for storage are prior to shipment and that is when they pay.

the 2nd 1/2 is correct. 50-100 is pretty much the standard rate. Some will say "free", which means they have already factored in those costs to the price.

Not handing it? I guess I wasn't specific enough. I meant that they would not charge you any "storage" fees till the car is ready to ship. All the venders that I had inquired while importing my car, and you pay for the actual item after you win the auction.

If that's what you are talking about...

[ANVIL]

Were the prices you listed (gtst for 8-10k) gtr for 16-20 cost of everything to your door?

[ODS]

Were the prices you listed (gtst for 8-10k) gtr for 16-20 cost of everything to your door?

Yes Sir! Although they are creeping towards the higher end and sometimes surpass those numbers.

[ANVIL]

Have you got with your insurance company? How do they value it or do you get liability only?

[ODS]

Have you got with your insurance company? How do they value it or do you get liability only?

Im going to contact them here pretty soon and get the details.

[BoostSlideWayz]

I wonder how someone in California goes about this.

[GTR-Garage]

Not handing it? I guess I wasn't specific enough. I meant that they would not charge you any "storage" fees till the car is ready to ship. All the venders that I had inquired while importing my car, and you pay for the actual item after you win the auction.

If that's what you are talking about...

There are a few ways of doing things. We don't charge any storage fee and it isn't "rolled" into the price. We're not in the heart of Tokyo/Osaka/Kobe so everything is cheaper out here. We have some space and didn't feel the need to charge for it. If someone wanted to store a car for 2-3 years that's a different story.

A deposit to bid on a car is pretty standard industry practice. We charge $2,000. If we win an auction we have to have to get payment in full over to the auction house the next day. We give our customers a week to make final payment.

However, we're very low volume operators in terms of "sports cars". Most of what we buy are sub 200,000 yen commuters that get sold locally.

[GTR-Garage]

Have you got with your insurance company? How do they value it or do you get liability only?

Not all insurers will cover these cars because they have "non-standard" VINs. My first question to my insurer would be "do you cover direct import vehicles with non-standard VINs?"

[tricky_ab]

I wonder how someone in California goes about this.

You move to another state...

[g35gabby]

Not all insurers will cover these cars because they have "non-standard" VINs. My first question to my insurer would be "do you cover direct import vehicles with non-standard VINs?"

Just about everyone I have contacted has been happy to cover my skyline. 1 or 2 have asked for me to stop by one of their locations to "see it" in person to verify it, but none have denied coverage. Geico, hagerty, and Progressive have by far been the easiest to deal with however. I haven't tried "the general" or "direct" or any of the other so called "cheap" insurance companies, but my experience with this over all has been pretty simple.

[ODS]

And the dyno results are in! Video will be posted soon!

[ODS]

DYNO VIDEO

https://vimeo.com/93428422

[acslater9]

DYNO VIDEO

https://vimeo.com/93428422

Wow that is so awesome. I love how the cardboard piece fell, lol.

[spooled240]

I just saw this on fb. Sounds healthy!

[ODS]

Thanks man!!

[ODS]

Its going to be awesome when there is a bunch of R32s buzzin around.

[LEG1T]

Best of luck with the GTR man !

And I gotta say out of all the Japanese importers out there. GTR garage seems to be the must supportive, and helpful. I would def love to business with them in the future, seems like real stand up guys.

[ODS]

Yea one company actually emailed me back a few weeks ago, about 2 months after I sent them the original email.

[BossHogg]

damn it man that is awesome. I just read through more of this thread lol. I was just looking at mines r32 parts myself then come in here and see you got a shit ton. Your car is perfect. Black and obviously tuned by a legend company. I will be in the market for a Nismo r32 probably next year. The only thing I hate about the nismo versions is that they are not black lol. I have the cash now, but I may want a little work done before its sent here. Doing lots of research right now, basically just want a tip top (super clean) car that will be ready for the road and not have any surprises. If I came across something like yours though, I would be tempted to go with a non Nismo model. I like the collectability though. I'm weird like that. Your car is badass, if it had RG orginals in gold it would be damn near my dream r32. Looking forward to more.

Lets get some interior shots!!!

[ODS]

Kunio, the people want interior shots!

Thanks man! I was not planning to buy until next year aswell. This one kind fell in my lap and I had to make a quick decision, so I went for it.

[BossHogg]

you made a good choice.

[gtr888]

Just about everyone I have contacted has been happy to cover my skyline. 1 or 2 have asked for me to stop by one of their locations to "see it" in person to verify it, but none have denied coverage. Geico, hagerty, and Progressive have by far been the easiest to deal with however. I haven't tried "the general" or "direct" or any of the other so called "cheap" insurance companies, but my experience with this over all has been pretty simple.

I use Grundy and have my 91 Skyline insured for 30,000 value.

[ODS]

Now all I have to do is endure some more time!

you made a good choice.

[ODS]

I had to show the GTS-t some love.....

[ODS]

Should be getting some video from the Hara trip here soon!

[ODS]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q6wn2sQDJp0

[ODS]

Haven't posted on here in a while. Everything is going well just stacking up parts waiting for the shipping date!

[ferrariowner123]

Haven't posted on here in a while. Everything is going well just stacking up parts waiting for the shipping date!

What all do you have coming in addition to the two cars?

-Kyle

[ODS]

Well I'm getting some suspension parts for the gtst, full GTR N1 areo, maybe another set of wheels, some seats, front mount intercooler for the gtst a nice piping kit for the GTR and maybe some other odds and end stuff.

[ODS]

picked up some upper control arms for the GTS-t and some R33 GTR seats!

[theericsmith]

I will be in the market for a Nismo r32 probably next year. Doing lots of research right now, basically just want a tip top (super clean) car that will be ready for the road and not have any surprises.

Not trying to destroy your hopes and dreams but they'll probably make an R36 before you find that.

[g35gabby]

Not trying to destroy your hopes and dreams but they'll probably make an R36 before you find that.

http://rivsuimports.com/inventory.html

steve has imported 3 this year. there is one read to buy, but not what I would call "super clean". that body kit kills it for me.

His personal Nismo GTR was super clean. I think GTR garage had one f/s as well. So did thegtrshop in england. Last I heard the GTRshop one hadn't sold yet.

[BossHogg]

Not trying to destroy your hopes and dreams but they'll probably make an R36 before you find that.

the hell you talking about lol. Who cares if the r36 is out or not. The r36 will be out soon. Has nothing to do with a r32 lol.

[BossHogg]

http://rivsuimports.com/inventory.html

steve has imported 3 this year. there is one read to buy, but not what I would call "super clean". that body kit kills it for me.

His personal Nismo GTR was super clean. I think GTR garage had one f/s as well. So did thegtrshop in england. Last I heard the GTRshop one hadn't sold yet.

I want a bone stock one, at least cosmetically. Whoever had that r32 ruined it. I wouldn't pay 5k for that pile. The stock aero is what I want. No rear wiper etc. I will most likely have work done to it while its over their. It really depends on the cash flow at that time. If the car is not clean enough to begin with, then might as well just get a regular GTR and save some cash to throw into it for resto/upgrades. It will all depend on when the time comes. I'm spontaneous like that. Not in any hurry.

[BoostSlideWayz]

Haven't read every page, But is there anyone who has imported an R32 like this legally into California ?

Obviously here the smog and car laws are so extensive im sure even with the 25 year rule its difficult.

I've read many websites, forums and other sources on the process.. but there seems to be lots of unclear advice.

I know some people seem to want to be the only one with cars like this but i think it would be helpful if people could possibly make a thread or post on this thread the exact steps they took and websites they used.

Like:
-what website did you go to, to purchase the vehicle ?

-What company did you use to ship it here ?

- Do you just go to the dock where the shipment arrives or does the car go through customs for a couple days ?

- How much paper work did you have to go through to actually drive or tow the car home ?
( listing the exact types of forums or papers you had to fill out and what kind of info do they ask )

Pretty much the process it takes to get a car like this or other companies besides nissan in California from Japan.


Like any other user on here i'd be highly interested in a car like this or a different type of car. But i have heard that the us customs and boarder protection sometimes will give you a hassle if you don't already have some certain documents ready.

This page is mainly what i've learned from how some of it goes( http://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/importing-car). But i just wanna hear some successful stories of imports that made it to california along with their own personal account on how they did it specifically.

[GTR-Garage]

I can tell you what we know about importing into California and why we tell all our customers there that if they bring a vehicle in under the 25 year exemptions they will likely be unable to register it. We certainly aren't experts in the specifics and will not say it's impossible, but we aren't going to put a customer at risk of not being able to register the car they import.

California has it's own "EPA" of sorts called the California Air Resources Board. Direct imports (including cars brought in under the 25 year exemption) are required to pass a one time intensive inspection before they can be registered. This is not a SMOG test. It is very expensive ($1,000+ per hour) and in all likelihood the vehicles everyone wants to import like Skylines, Silvia, Laurels, Cefiros, etc., will not pass it. Older Skylines like the Hakosuka can be registered because they do not have to go through the test as California has an exemption 1976 models or older.

Until something changes, or an above board (i.e. legal) way to register direct imports under the 25 year exemptions in California and can be proven legitimate we aren't going to export cars to California unless the customer specifically states and is willing to sign off on their intention to use it as an off-road vehicle only.

If anyone knows more about the specifics of the issue we'd love to hear it. We haven't had time to invest in researching it our retaining a legal researcher to look into it further.

Haven't read every page, But is there anyone who has imported an R32 like this legally into California ?

Obviously here the smog and car laws are so extensive im sure even with the 25 year rule its difficult.

I've read many websites, forums and other sources on the process.. but there seems to be lots of unclear advice.

I know some people seem to want to be the only one with cars like this but i think it would be helpful if people could possibly make a thread or post on this thread the exact steps they took and websites they used.

Like:
-what website did you go to, to purchase the vehicle ?

-What company did you use to ship it here ?

- Do you just go to the dock where the shipment arrives or does the car go through customs for a couple days ?

- How much paper work did you have to go through to actually drive or tow the car home ?
( listing the exact types of forums or papers you had to fill out and what kind of info do they ask )

Pretty much the process it takes to get a car like this or other companies besides nissan in California from Japan.


Like any other user on here i'd be highly interested in a car like this or a different type of car. But i have heard that the us customs and boarder protection sometimes will give you a hassle if you don't already have some certain documents ready.

This page is mainly what i've learned from how some of it goes( http://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/importing-car). But i just wanna hear some successful stories of imports that made it to california along with their own personal account on how they did it specifically.

[BoostSlideWayz]

Good info, that is another aspect i was thinking of is if you register the car as off road can you just get it with out the inspection ? Or is the inspection mandatory regardless of whether you plan for it to be an off road vehicle or not ?

Pretty much the inspection seems to be the main thing to hault the whole process.

I would even be willing buy a car register it as offroad and keep true to that buy towing it where ever i wanna take it and just unload it where ever. Like for car shows or track days etc.

But if the inspection is mandatory, i dont know if i even want to attempt it.

[GTR-Garage]

The inspection is mandatory to get it registered. The safety and emissions exemptions are Federal laws. California can't stop you from importing and legally owning one of these cars, but they can bar you from registering it. You can actually insure them as well, you just can't get plates.

[BoostSlideWayz]

Ok so thats not avoidable, so lets say i purchased the same car ( r32 skyline ) For around maybe 6500 USD.

How much more would i spend besides that on:

Container

Shipping

Inspection

And other fees that apply for importing said car to california ? Sorry for so many questions but im interested in something like this in the future.

[GTR-Garage]

Boost - I just sent you a PM. I figured it might be rude to start throwing pricing out on a public thread. Don't want to step on anyone's toes.

[ODS]

....... The wait is almost over!

[GTR-Garage]

The question is, just how many sets of wheels are you going to buy before the container is sealed?

[ODS]

Haha! We shall see!

[ODS]

I have been buying lots of parts! Also if you guys are not aware I've postponed my shipping date so I can do a container share! Contact GTR Garage and they can source any part you are looking for.

[EJ8 944]

I'm excited for you, reading this thread, watching this all progress, I can't want until your car is finally in your hands.

[ODS]

Its been a killer waiting lol but it will be worth it.

[Slippin'eight-nine]

Any updates??

[coreyh]

I can tell you what we know about importing into California and why we tell all our customers there that if they bring a vehicle in under the 25 year exemptions they will likely be unable to register it. We certainly aren't experts in the specifics and will not say it's impossible, but we aren't going to put a customer at risk of not being able to register the car they import.

California has it's own "EPA" of sorts called the California Air Resources Board. Direct imports (including cars brought in under the 25 year exemption) are required to pass a one time intensive inspection before they can be registered. This is not a SMOG test. It is very expensive ($1,000+ per hour) and in all likelihood the vehicles everyone wants to import like Skylines, Silvia, Laurels, Cefiros, etc., will not pass it. Older Skylines like the Hakosuka can be registered because they do not have to go through the test as California has an exemption 1976 models or older.

Until something changes, or an above board (i.e. legal) way to register direct imports under the 25 year exemptions in California and can be proven legitimate we aren't going to export cars to California unless the customer specifically states and is willing to sign off on their intention to use it as an off-road vehicle only.

If anyone knows more about the specifics of the issue we'd love to hear it. We haven't had time to invest in researching it our retaining a legal researcher to look into it further.




every gray market car that comes into California will got through a visual inspection to make sure its road-worthy and that all emissions devices are un-altered. the only exemption is 65 and older.

75 and newer need to go through FTP (federal testing procedures) to be brought up to smog standards. They'll then give you a BAR tag in your drivers door-sill that will list the year of the car, the year/make/model/and size in cc and liters, for the car. it will also list every emissions device on the car. if you want to get this done my advice is buy all C.A.R.B. legal mods BEFORE you go in to get tested. its an expensive process, but besides being time consuming isn't difficult at all. there's a soarer here that had it done. the first 50 state street legal gray market car I believe. FTP all said and done usually costs about 10,000. obviously its not exact costs but that should give you a ball park estimate.

this all information given to me by C.A.R.B., B.A.R., and California EPA. ive got well over 90 hours bar training in just gray market vehicles alone, so if you've got any questions I'm more than happy to help.

[coreyh]

keep in mind FTP also needs to be done on kit cars in California as well, so they treat gray market cars like a kit car in simpler terms. Also FTP is to bring your car up to standards, so they'll add catalytic converters and such to get your car to pass, so expect to pay. You could go to a state referee and talk to them about legally swapping a usdm engine into the car, which will make the process a bit easier.

[ODS]

Yes! I've been buying more parts! And the shipping dates only a week away!!!!

[ODS]

The cars are currently at the port awaiting a final customs clearance then they will be on the way!

[Fries]

Dude awesome! Really hope everything else goes smoothly.

[ODS]

Im sure it will, I have to much time and money into this for something to go south!

[ODS]

Cars have cleared customs and will be heading out next week!!!

[DMayne]

Looks super dope. Good to see a step by step process thanks!

[ODS]

Thanks man! Im getting pretty excited!!!

[ODS]

The R32s are officially inbound!!!

[ODS]

ALL THESE ARE MOVIES
R32 GTS-t Up
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/th_HCR32_Up_zps72d8c46b.mp4 (http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR32_Up_zps72d8c46b.mp4)
R32 GTS-t Down
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/th_HCR32_Down_zps42789cd7.mp4 (http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR32_Down_zps42789cd7.mp4)
R32 GT-R Up
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/th_GTR_Up_zpsbaeba1b2.mp4 (http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR_Up_zpsbaeba1b2.mp4)
R32 GT-R Down
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/th_GTR_Down_zpsed7db961.mp4 (http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR_Down_zpsed7db961.mp4)

[ODS]

Pictures

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/Both_zps0d5d8e3e.jpg
(http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/Both_zps0d5d8e3e.jpg.html)http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR323_zpsf2c04b63.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR323_zpsf2c04b63.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR322_zpsd05bbc97.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR322_zpsd05bbc97.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR321_zps26df7909.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/HCR321_zps26df7909.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR2_zpsc3928ff1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR2_zpsc3928ff1.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR3_zps0e7c5e70.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR3_zps0e7c5e70.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR1_zps58d903d1.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/R32s%20at%20the%20port/GTR1_zps58d903d1.jpg.html)

[ferrariowner123]

When's the eta for landing on us shores.

-Kyle

[ODS]

First week of September.

[s0fa king]

good looking cars!!

[ODS]

The cars are leaving Taiwan today!

[ov1989]

Awesome! Needed something like this. I know who to go to now.

[ODS]

So far they have been great to work with, I have no complaints!

[ODS]

Feel like an update is in order. THE CARS ARE ABOUT A WEEK OUT!!!!!!

[laurel4]

Couple questions. What port did it leave from in Japan and did you ship via container or RORO? Just curious because you said the cars were coming to Portland and I know I had to ship my car through Tacoma because there was no RORO ship routes from Yokohama to Portland. Just curious.

Also where about are you in Washington? If you're down south should have a RHD meet :)

[ODS]

I did a container share with GTR Garage so that's why they have to go to Portland. I believe it left from a small port to Kobe to Taiwan and then to Tacoma then on a truck to Portland. And yea we totally should! Im far enough south to meet up!

[laurel4]

That makes sense. I know one of the GTR Garage guys, though I didn't get my car through them. Just let me know when you want to meet up, I'm down whenever.

If you happen to be going to PARCfest this weekend I'll be driving my Cefiro. Feel free to come say hi

[ODS]

I will not be there :( but we should still meet up.

[laurel4]

For sure. Nice looking cars by the way

[ODS]

Hey thanks! I'm going to continue to modify the GTS-t and I probably won't fiddle to much with the GTR.

[s0fa king]

^famous last words. :)

[GTR-Garage]

Couple questions. What port did it leave from in Japan and did you ship via container or RORO? Just curious because you said the cars were coming to Portland and I know I had to ship my car through Tacoma because there was no RORO ship routes from Yokohama to Portland. Just curious.

Also where about are you in Washington? If you're down south should have a RHD meet :)


We aren't aware of any Ro/Ro routes to Washington either. The closest is probably Vancouver, but then you have the mess of landing a car in Canada. Long Beach is the closest US port for Ro/Ro.

[GTR-Garage]

Hey thanks! I'm going to continue to modify the GTS-t and I probably won't fiddle to much with the GTR.

There isn't much left to fiddle with...

[laurel4]

That's incorrect as I used RORO from Yokohama to Tacoma

[GTR-Garage]

That's incorrect as I used RORO from Yokohama to Tacoma

We love being incorrect on this one. Sent a PM.

[ODS]

I know.....


^famous last words. :)

[JULIAN2723]

Thing looks awesome!!

[ODS]

Thanks! Hopefully this is my last week with them!

[silviasandbeer]

see this thread, and then walking out to the parking lot to see my co workers r32 makes me want one so bad... i need to save up cash for one!!
totally awesome

[ODS]

I love R32s, its been a dream to own one.

[ODS]

Container shipping is not an exact science if anyone was wondering....

[gun]

I have a weird question yet is somewhat relevant considering 3D printing is getting better and better. There's this guy online that made a full size replica of the old james bond aston Martin using a 3D printer. Hypothetically speaking, if one were to do the same with a skyline , would it be eligible as a kit car since the parts made to use it were not intended to be used on a skyline? Sorry if this is the wrong place to ask this but i think people on this thread are the most savvy as far as skyline laws are concerned. ..

[GTR-Garage]

I have a weird question yet is somewhat relevant considering 3D printing is getting better and better. There's this guy online that made a full size replica of the old james bond aston Martin using a 3D printer. Hypothetically speaking, if one were to do the same with a skyline , would it be eligible as a kit car since the parts made to use it were not intended to be used on a skyline? Sorry if this is the wrong place to ask this but i think people on this thread are the most savvy as far as skyline laws are concerned. ..

Isn't kit car registration a state level process as opposed to federal? If you are producing the parts and constructing the car yourself I don't see why it wouldn't qualify as a kit car. Are Shelby Cobra kit cars simply registered as kit cars? Interesting topic.

[gun]

Isn't kit car registration a state level process as opposed to federal? If you are producing the parts and constructing the car yourself I don't see why it wouldn't qualify as a kit car. Are Shelby Cobra kit cars simply registered as kit cars? Interesting topic.

Indeed it is state, my uncle has an ac cobra kit btw with the smog exemption certificate . The only hurdle i foresee is the glass, headlights and molding. If the body panels are made to fit on a tubeframe chassis, you can add in interior panels after the car is inspected. I'm surprised that no one has done this yet, maybe that means I'll need to try!

[ODS]

The cars have made it to the US! now I'm just awaiting a pickup notice!

[tricky_ab]

The cars have made it to the US! now I'm just awaiting a pickup notice!

Oh man, I bet you're excited!

[living4surf]

Get ready for lots of attention I picked mine up last week and people have been taking pictures every time I drive and asking about it pretty much every time I park anywhere

[ODS]

The last 2 weeks have been harder than the last 9 months haha! And as long as someone doesn't steal it I'm good.

[silviaks2nr]

I have a weird question yet is somewhat relevant considering 3D printing is getting better and better. There's this guy online that made a full size replica of the old james bond aston Martin using a 3D printer. Hypothetically speaking, if one were to do the same with a skyline , would it be eligible as a kit car since the parts made to use it were not intended to be used on a skyline? Sorry if this is the wrong place to ask this but i think people on this thread are the most savvy as far as skyline laws are concerned. ..

CNC'd foam is a much more cost effective and efficient way of producing a body buck like that... i.e. http://www.contactscale.com/ But if you are going to build a car as a tribute to the original why not pick a more rare or exotic car? That's why the Aston db4 replica makes sense.

[gun]

CNC'd foam is a much more cost effective and efficient way of producing a body buck like that... i.e. http://www.contactscale.com/ But if you are going to build a car as a tribute to the original why not pick a more rare or exotic car? That's why the Aston db4 replica makes sense.

Very good point. The only reason to not go that route is usually a foam full size car is more expensive than what it'd cost to do it at home. And as afar as more exotic and rare, I live in Communist California lol, Skylines are as rare as anything else lol. Most likely i'll try to find someone or some company that has already made a body mold of a skyline for Drag racing purposes like Wiggs Motorsports out of new Zealand. Again, a good point, which may ultimately be a solution if all else fails

[ODS]

Hopefully I will be driving the cars this week!!!

[LEG1T]

Hopefully I will be driving the cars this week!!!

Nice man!

Please post a ton of pictures !

[ODS]

I definitely intend to!!!!

[ODS]

Tomorrow is the pick date ladies and gentlemen!!!

[EJ8 944]

^Good luck getting sleep tonight with excitement like that on your mind.

Make sure to post some pics when you pick it up.

[ODS]

It will be tough! And ill post some good pics for everyone!

[s0fa king]

Ahem..... Edge of my seat here

[GTR-Garage]

http://i.imgur.com/Y4xPC3Y.jpg?1

[ferrariowner123]

Wait a minute... That's not my driveway! What gives?

Lol looks awesome.

[10psitx]

Congrats!! thats a lovely pic, kinda looks like my driveway.

Skyline GTS-t and Toyota Mark II twin turbo.

http://i947.photobucket.com/albums/ad311/TURBOFREEK1/IMG_20140505_090610_690.jpg

[ODS]

It has been a crazy few days!!

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/0921141828_zpsffae6167.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/0921141828_zpsffae6167.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/0921141827_zps4e0c1525.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/0921141827_zps4e0c1525.jpg.html)
http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/IMG_20140920_101056_nopm__zpsda7ad068.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/IMG_20140920_101056_nopm__zpsda7ad068.jpg.html)

[SilviaSR20DET]

Beautiful car man! Hope to see this car around Seattle!

[ODS]

Hey thanks! Im sure we will cross paths

[s0fa king]

wow! gorgeous!

[10psitx]

Awesome...just awesome!!

[g35gabby]

Indeed it is state, my uncle has an ac cobra kit btw with the smog exemption certificate . The only hurdle i foresee is the glass, headlights and molding. If the body panels are made to fit on a tubeframe chassis, you can add in interior panels after the car is inspected. I'm surprised that no one has done this yet, maybe that means I'll need to try!

JDM cars as "kit cars" have been tried, repeatedly. Kaizo did this, as well as others. I believe the end result was how much "kit" it was, verse just trying to subvert the law. just like there are now holden UTE kit cars using GTO chassis's and vin numbers. the car still has to maintain 60% GTO to be registered as that.

little article by motor trend on the "kit car" work around and how well that went for them.
http://wot.motortrend.com/feds-begin-to-seize-illegal-nissan-skyline-gtrs-in-california-6257.html

There is some guy out in Cali right now selling and registering "his kit cars" as "nissanie"

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s370x247/10420263_965622666797802_2982996166684020180_n.jpg ?oh=4c571f5e926ab6362d2edb7b45bf0d9f&oe=548B0DDF&__gda__=1422060898_ed759d2b2d14cae30f23b1bf81944ac 6
https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10712866_965622770131125_1709484230752466141_n.jpg ?oh=bd43ebff420193236bd225b85b09fdcd&oe=54CDCC9B
https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10647013_893830753980463_8227546277420178972_n.jpg ?oh=b5aa016f2d7ff49b5a49aeb4bfbb3350&oe=54CDE9DD&__gda__=1422338405_8672c9b1c7bf7d8e1a77450563b9955 e

Dude has this one f/s for 180k if you are interested..... sounds like a big gamble to me, but some are willing to risk it.

anyways, enough of the thread jack, cars look amazing ODS. That Mine's tuned car is sublime. Look forward to seeing more.

[ODS]

Thanks everyone!! Just and update both cars are state titled and insured (with full coverage). The process was super simple and Kunio gave me all the paperwork I could have needed.

[laurel4]

Just out of curiosity who did you go through for insurance? Cars look great by the way, look forward to our rhd meet sometime

[ODS]

I used Geico and they were very receptive,

[g35gabby]

What value did they put the cars at through Geico and did they ensure them as a basic driver car like they would any other daily? I had horrible time dealing with them and have 3 other cars with them.

[laurel4]

I know I had to go through progressive for my cefiro because everyone else gave me shit.

[S14kouki805]

sORRY IF I MISSED IT BUT HOW MUCH DID IT WIND UP COSTING TO GET THAT BAD BOY?

[ODS]

I just told them what I thought they were worth and they said ok. Im not sure if that means they accepted that value because they said if anything happens their "claims team" will determine the value.

[laurel4]

sORRY IF I MISSED IT BUT HOW MUCH DID IT WIND UP COSTING TO GET THAT BAD BOY?

I've personally come to loathe this question, to the point I've just started to make up more ludicrous numbers. It's frankly no ones business how much you paid for your car.

Not trying to single out S14kouki805 by the way, I get that question constantly from all kinds of people.

[GTR-Garage]

What value did they put the cars at through Geico and did they ensure them as a basic driver car like they would any other daily? I had horrible time dealing with them and have 3 other cars with them.

Our demo R32 is insured through Geico and we didn't have much of an issue with them. We did have to provide justification for the high value it was insured at due to the fact that the cost that we could prove via records of purchase is less than we wanted to insure it for as we invested a great deal of money in upgrades. All we had to do is send them copies of invoices from purchases made.

[S14kouki805]

It's a legit question that's why people keep asking, I understand if you don't want to answer though. Who wouldn't want to know what people are paying for an R32?

[GTR-Garage]

A good R32 GTS-T can be imported, registered and on the road for $8,000~$12,000 depending on the particular car, mileage, level of tune, etc. For a GT-R you would be looking at at least $15,000~$20,000.

[Kuma]

A good R32 GTS-T can be imported, registered and on the road for $8,000~$12,000 depending on the particular car, mileage, level of tune, etc. For a GT-R you would be looking at at least $15,000~$20,000.

Thank you! I've been wondering for a while, but not enough to ask any owners. There is a local guy that got a 2wd rb20 r32 imported from Canada before the exemption date... his is now on the local CL for $19k which seemed a bit steep for what it was.

[g35gabby]

Our demo R32 is insured through Geico and we didn't have much of an issue with them. We did have to provide justification for the high value it was insured at due to the fact that the cost that we could prove via records of purchase is less than we wanted to insure it for as we invested a great deal of money in upgrades. All we had to do is send them copies of invoices from purchases made.

seems it totally depends on the day and who you talk to. Specially if the car isn't in the country yet. Heard a few people have the same basic experience with them and would have been happy with that, but I got some tool on the phone who told me they wouldn't do anything other than liability (30/month) because it is a "super car". Others have had the same problem, kind of disappointed with it as it makes for another bill I have to remember once a year, but 306/year with full coverage and 15k stated value sure didn't upset me.

if you have a specific rep or agent that is good to deal with, that would be great info to have out there. That is how I ended up with collector car insurance, just by word of mouth from another skyline owner.

It's a legit question that's why people keep asking, I understand if you don't want to answer though. Who wouldn't want to know what people are paying for an R32?

if you follow GTRgarage or any of the other importers for more than 5 mins you start to get a feel for where the market is and what things cost. I paid 8500 for my GTST, seen a few come through that were a little cleaner than mine w/o a cage for less, but they definitely aren't all that expensive when compared to your 1/2 jacked up Sr swapped coupes from the same era with all kinds of "I think it has" or "it just needs". I don't mind telling anyone what I paid as anyone with access to google can utilize my vin number and find the buying price, it will also be on all the proper paperwork if/when I sell it with how much in taxes my importer paid to get it into the country.

I used a different importer than GTRgarage, but I wouldn't have a question about using Kunio. hell I think I may have spent more with him than I have on my car at this point....:hs: woops...

A good R32 GTS-T can be imported, registered and on the road for $8,000~$12,000 depending on the particular car, mileage, level of tune, etc. For a GT-R you would be looking at at least $15,000~$20,000.

That seems to be the going rate for the reasonable businesses out there. There are a few importers out there that like to throw on a "tax" or "service with a smile fee", but if you follow 3-4 different ones you start to pick up pretty quick who is marking things up more than the others. specially when the same car come across at auctions and all 15 of them advertise that they can get this for you.

[hobbs]

The Mines GTR looks absolutely fantastic, these R32s are becoming more and more appealing to me. I guess it's time to start looking into importers and get one for myself. Congrats on the pickup!

[spools420a]

I've personally come to loathe this question, to the point I've just started to make up more ludicrous numbers. It's frankly no ones business how much you paid for your car.

Not trying to single out S14kouki805 by the way, I get that question constantly from all kinds of people.
understandable but at he same time when making these sort of threads it tends to make it everyones buisness and a very large piece to the owning a import puzzle is the price,Just saying.

[laurel4]

understandable but at he same time when making these sort of threads it tends to make it everyones buisness and a very large piece to the owning a import puzzle is the price,Just saying.

I understand it's a fair question in context of this thread, I was speaking more generally. Like the random guy on the street who knows nothing of the importing process and often doesn't even know what the car is, whose first question is how much did it cost. Perhaps it bugs me more because I imported my car myself without an importer.

Also would like to say that Kunio and GTR garage have some of the most reasonable prices around and have been great to deal with for getting some parts brought over.

[ODS]

His prices are very reasonable and he has superior customer service!!!

[LEG1T]

I should have a full write-up on my experience with GTR Garage soon, as I too am in the process of getting a vehicle.

For anyone on the fence about where to go in getting their vehicle sourced I strongly recommend http://www.gtr-garage.com as you can see by his companies posts on here, Kunio offers tons of information and is ready and able to answer any questions you might have. I can't say that I see any other importer posting on the forums with support like he does.

Can't wait to get my R32, and I hope more ppl can chime in on there experiences to help the community with some re-assurance on this relatively new practice

[shihabby]

FYI, I purchased my '90 R32 GTR a few weeks ago from The GTR Shop in the UK and it cost £10995 shipped which translates to $18,433 including exchange rate and roughly $500-$600 in Paypal international fees. I'm factoring in another $1500-$2000 or so in customs broker fees and Texas tax, title, and inspection fees. And this is with me picking up the car myself from port at Houston or Galveston. Mine is a well-modded, excellent shape R32. It is NOT as cheap as you think, the paper/legwork is a big hassle and future costs will be even more PITA. Dedication is absolutely required.

[shihabby]

JDM cars as "kit cars" have been tried, repeatedly. Kaizo did this, as well as others. I believe the end result was how much "kit" it was, verse just trying to subvert the law. just like there are now holden UTE kit cars using GTO chassis's and vin numbers. the car still has to maintain 60% GTO to be registered as that.

little article by motor trend on the "kit car" work around and how well that went for them.
http://wot.motortrend.com/feds-begin-to-seize-illegal-nissan-skyline-gtrs-in-california-6257.html

There is some guy out in Cali right now selling and registering "his kit cars" as "nissanie"

[img]https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/s370x247/10420263_965622666797802_2982996166684020180_n.jpg ?oh=4c571f5e926ab6362d2edb7b45bf0d9f&oe=548B0DDF&__gda__=1422060898_ed759d2b2d14cae30f23b1bf81944ac 6[img]
[img]https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10712866_965622770131125_1709484230752466141_n.jpg ?oh=bd43ebff420193236bd225b85b09fdcd&oe=54CDCC9B[img]
[img]https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10647013_893830753980463_8227546277420178972_n.jpg ?oh=b5aa016f2d7ff49b5a49aeb4bfbb3350&oe=54CDE9DD&__gda__=1422338405_8672c9b1c7bf7d8e1a77450563b9955 e[img]

Dude has this one f/s for 180k if you are interested..... sounds like a big gamble to me, but some are willing to risk it.

anyways, enough of the thread jack, cars look amazing ODS. That Mine's tuned car is sublime. Look forward to seeing more.

Excuse my language but that is illegal as fuck. An R34 in no way meets the EPA definition of a kit car ( http://www.epa.gov/otaq/imports/kitcar.htm --> 1st paragraph). Even modifying/assigning a new VIN to a car that already came with one from the factory is illegal under NHTSA rules ( http://www.nhtsa.gov/cars/rules/import/VIN%20ERRORS.pdf ).

Shady outfit is shady.

[shihabby]

ODS, sorry for going off topic. Cars are amazing! Please please please do not change the outer appearance of the GTS-T, especially to that of a GTR. I think it looks gorgeously understated as it is.

[GTR-Garage]

FYI, I purchased my '90 R32 GTR a few weeks ago from The GTR Shop in the UK and it cost £10995 shipped which translates to $18,433 including exchange rate and roughly $500-$600 in Paypal international fees. I'm factoring in another $1500-$2000 or so in customs broker fees and Texas tax, title, and inspection fees. And this is with me picking up the car myself from port at Houston or Galveston. Mine is a well-modded, excellent shape R32. It is NOT as cheap as you think, the paper/legwork is a big hassle and future costs will be even more PITA. Dedication is absolutely required.

The fees can add up quickly and it can feel like you're being nickled and dimed. Especially when it comes to container shipping. Depending on where it is going and who someone uses drayage and de-vanning can end up adding 30% plus to the overall freight charges. It is definitely worth using a broker as well as you've obviously already realized. The fee for their services is typically a bargain if it lets you avoid having to deal with the paperwork.

Although we are technically "exporters" we offer to handle import arrangements for our customers like many of the importers do. That is one of the advantages of going through a dealer/service. You show up at their place and pick up your car and you are handed all the paperwork you need to register.

If there is one thing we've learned it is to our customers advantage to notarize everything. We have the Japanese title translated and the translation notarized. The Bill of Sale is notarized, lien releases are notarized (if required by the state), odometer statements are notarized, etc.. Not every state or even every DMV in said state is going to require all the notarizations, but it makes everything easier.

We have cars registered and on the road in 8 states now and the two documents that have been the most important are the HS-7 and 3520-1. Also, even though the Japanese titles/de-reg certificates are mostly in Japanese and English now, most DMVs are going to want a translation.

So far the only state that has been a bit difficult has been Arizona, but that is because they wanted everything notarized and forced our customers to go through inspections of the cars (one failed the first time around because of a bad bulb for a third brake light). We aren't currently exporting to California so there is no need to get into that nightmare!

Washington - Easy
Oregon - Easy
Arizona - Slight PITA
New Mexico - Easy
Texas - Easy
Colorado - Easy
Florida - Easy
Indiana - Easy
Illinois - Easy

If anyone needs help with import arrangement feel free to email us. We're happy to help and just want to see more of these cars on the road. That includes customs brokerage, intermodal, registration and even notarized title translations. We are more than willing to field questions as well and pass on any knowledge we've gained in terms of the process.

[s14kkouki]

No regrets going with Gtr garage. Congrats op. Can't wait to get mine.

[ODS]

Im glad to see the information is flowing about importing cars!

[spools420a]

A good R32 GTS-T can be imported, registered and on the road for $8,000~$12,000 depending on the particular car, mileage, level of tune, etc. For a GT-R you would be looking at at least $15,000~$20,000.are you guys importing cars like mitsubishi evo 1/n14 nissan pulsar gtir in the upcoming future?the evo1 would be a thrill since its the lightest evo made.you would think there would be a be a bunch of excitment on this site for a nissan pulsar gtir?that should be next year correct?will you be shipping these if so whats the average price for one?

[Backintoans13]

Good to know New Mexico is easy, we usually are seeing as how we don't even smog, hopefully next yr I can try and grab one, definitely dealing with gtr garage :cool:


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GTR-Garage]

are you guys importing cars like mitsubishi evo 1/n14 nissan pulsar gtir in the upcoming future?the evo1 would be a thrill since its the lightest evo made.you would think there would be a be a bunch of excitment on this site for a nissan pulsar gtir?that should be next year correct?will you be shipping these if so whats the average price for one?

The Pulsar will be eligible in late 2015. They can definitely be landed for under $10,000. We are looking forward to a number of cars becoming eligible. The 1JZ powered JZX81s are not far off.

[shihabby]

BTW, I know it's the silliest thing in the world to buy for $100 but I grabbed this from you guys last night. I'd actually been looking for one for over a month :o

http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0209/8160/products/Y1.jpg?v=1408855676

[ODS]

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/1009141634_zps6ceb1fc5.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/1009141634_zps6ceb1fc5.jpg.html)

[ODS]

http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd162/olydriftsquad/1003141820a_zpsc5d7bc13.jpg (http://s220.photobucket.com/user/olydriftsquad/media/1003141820a_zpsc5d7bc13.jpg.html)

[laurel4]

Looking good

[s0fa king]

wheres the TE's? put away for winter?

[ODS]

I pulled them off to refinish them.

[s0fa king]

Awesome, i was almost sad. You need to put some 303 Aerospace protectant on that plastic lower lip of the GTR. My detailing OCD is coming out. :)

[ODS]

Thanks for the tip! ill look into it!

[dyjjjcfg]

You're in good hands, Kunio is the man when it comes to this stuff! http://financede.com/apple/images/40.gif

[jppierre]

ODS i have a quick question, since you shipped the 2 cars together from japan did you pay double shipping or just a little extra? and do the 2 cars fit in one container or did they shipped it in 2 different containers

[GTR-Garage]

His cars were sent in a 40 foot container. It costs roughly $500 more to go from a 20 foot to a 40 foot container. Two cars fit without issue and there is still room for pallets of parts behind them. It is far cheaper to send cars via Car Carrier. Two cars would run roughly $2,000 in freight costs to Galveston, whereas a 40 foot container would be $6,000+. If you aren't shipping a load of parts with the cars there is no reason to use a container.

[fatduece]

^can you legally import cars with blown motors? Or a car that has rod knock? I would love to find a gtr with a good condition body. I dont care for the motors. I plan for rb30.

[GTR-Garage]

^can you legally import cars with blown motors? Or a car that has rod knock? I would love to find a gtr with a good condition body. I dont care for the motors. I plan for rb30.

Yes, you can import them. Customs doesn't check to see if they run. A non-running car would have to be shipped via container as far as we know.

With that being said, if a GT-R has a nice body it will likely have a good motor as well. It may be hard to find a GT-R with a bad motor and good body for cheap. Because of the demand exporters will take a car like this, repair the motor and then put it up for sale. We've seen GT-Rs with damage/mechanical issues going for $4,000-$5,000 more than they normally would just because they were 1989 or early 1990 models. There is a financial incentive to pick these up and repair them.