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There are a lot of rules for importing non-US spec cars. Here are a few basics:

- Non-spec cars can only be imported by a Registered Importer.

- Cars that don't meet US Safety or Emissions specs must be modified to meet us standards after entry.

- Only certain cars are on the current approved list for mods. Its called the Eligible Non-Compliant Vehicles list and it is maintained by the NHTSA.

- Cars that aren't on the list must be destroyed or re-exported.

Here are some links with a lot more info.

http://japan-used-car-exporting.info...used-cars.html
http://www.importexporthelp.com/importing-cars.htm
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/import/
http://www.money-zine.com/Financial-...mporting-Cars/

Read through them and make an informed decision. I did a lot of online research because I wanted to import a Daihatsu Copen or Ginowhen I go back to the states. I checked with several RIs and all of them said no way will I get a non eligible vehicle into the States. Even eligible vehicles cost big bucks to modify to US spec (4x-6x the cost of the vehicle in many cases). I'vereadthe kit car thing before too. I've heard that the NHTSA is wise to that now and you run a risk of getting your car crushed or sent back. If you get it in, many states will still register it if you have a title in english (also a problem). But registered and legal are different. Itwould still not bea legal US vehicle and can be destroyed or reexported if you get nabbed. Many shippers want the car driveable so they can roll-on and roll-off (RORO) into the containers or ships. I suspect it will cost more money if it is just a rolling shell. Talk to a car exporter in your area who also deals in parts and he can probably give you abetter idea.

Just so this isn't all discouraging news, 96-98 Skyline GT-Rs are on the eligible list. I heard the guys that first imported them bought 5 and paid big bucks to crash test them.

Good luck and let us know if you find out anything promising.