Importing Smart from Europe?

[PolyPill]

I couldn't find any info on this so I'm posting, if there is info available a link would be nice.

Basically since the waiting list is 2 years long in the usa I was wondering if anyone has imported one from Europe? It seams like a 2003 after shipping charges is still rather affordable but I can't find any information on registering, customs, and what taxes I might have to pay.

I have a friend in Spain that imports cars from the USA, he said he can get me a spot on a container going to the USA for cheap but he has no idea what I have to do to get the car into the country legally.

Also, since the older ones were never sold in the USA, does that make it harder/more expensive?

[JPaul]

The major hurdle would/will be registration: the car needs to pass EPA and other certifications. Very difficult, not to mention costly. Definitely more expensive than buying here, even as a loaded orphan...

[PolyPill]

That's what I figured, but I heard if the same car was sold in the usa then its far easier, although that probably means same year too. I also saw various references to a list of cars that was sold but all links are dead, also the NHTSA website is down.

[spdickey]

And dealers in Europe won't sell a smart unless its going to be titled in Europe. I tried.

[Big Panda]

Originally Posted by PolyPill

That's what I figured, but I heard if the same car was sold in the usa then its far easier, although that probably means same year too. I also saw various references to a list of cars that was sold but all links are dead, also the NHTSA website is down.

you can try 'autotrader.com' and even 'eBay' for deals on the "450's" that were brought here and converted to US EPA standards.

major problem is finding anyone that will work on them and if you need parts, you'll have a major wait time. smart centers are FORBIDDEN to work on these 'gray market' cars and do not have access to parts.

they can be great cars, but only if you get a great deal!!!

[RICHARD GILLEN]

I tried to get one when I first saw them in 2004 in Paris and I could not find anyone that would even talk to me about it they just refused to sell to Americans. If Pensky didn't take on the job I guess we wouldn't have them in the USA.

[wrumbarger]

Howdy all
smart center Tyson's Corner (VA) can (and has) worked on 450 grey markets.

basic diagnostic is $350 (just to find out what's wrong) PLUS fixing whatevery they find wrong? $90/hr tech fee + parts?

Cheaper to buy an orphan.

[micromachine]

If you are interested in importing an older smart why not contact the guys who made it possible?

G&K Automotive Conversion - Smart Car

While parts are not readily accessible at your smart center they are not the hard to come by and are actually cheaper at times to order from Europe. I ordered a roadster turbo, janspeed exhaust and viper induction kit from the UK and had it within a week. The price was considerably cheaper than any North American option. There are lot's of indie's overseas who will work with you and can be very pleasant and helpful. You can also put a parts request in with G&K through their website. The car is pretty simple to work on and maintain. Just follow the guides on evilution.co.uk.

I wouldn't trade my 450 in a heartbeat. It's just a different car than the 451.

[PolyPill]

I'm some what of a mechanic and parts are not my concern, I think if you can't work on your own cars then you're an idiot to even think of doing something like this.

And buying/shipping to the USA is not my problem, making it street legal is what I don't know. I requested a quote from G&K but really I'd rather have a list of what has to be done, I'm far more interested in doing everything myself than paying a company to perform magic.

Edit: Also customs

[jwight]

This may help: IMPORTING CARS - CAR IMPORTING