nathanz

Ok thanks for the info! really appreciate it. I'm on the lookout for a Hiace and was contemplating the idea of importing one. Still on the search for the right exporter/agent in Japan. If you have any suggestions feel free to let me know.

Cheers

Ok, so if its 20 years old it doesn't need to meet frontal impact standards "Motorcycles don’t have to meet emissions standards. Cars over 20 years old don’t have to meet frontal impact standards". But it doesn't mention exemption from emission standards so I'm guessing cars will have to meet emission standards? unless I get an exemption?

Then I'm also kinda confused because I find this on a different page

"To register your vehicle you must be able to prove it was manufactured to meet frontal impact and exhaust emissions standard unless:

• it is over 20 years old"

Sorry if this sounds kinda basic, just finding it a tad confusing and the site sorta revolves in circles. I fit was older than 1990 I think I would be fine but I'm looking in the 1992-1996 range of vehicles. If someone could clarify for me it'd be super helpful.

So I've been trying to do some research online about importing a car from Japan that's older than 20 years. I understand the whole emissions codes and frontal impact standards to import cars newer than 2004/2005 but am not sure how to go about it with cars older than 20 years.

I hear the rules don't apply for cars that old and could import one and get compliance so long as it's in good condition. But is there something else I'm missing that would stop me from doing that? 

Could someone clarify for me some of the standards that have to be met for passing the inspection? Do seatbelts, extra lights (brake light) etc need to be installed on older cars like 1960s-70s era? I'm looking at buying a de-reg car around that age and want to know what I could be getting myself into