FYI: The motors from Japan typically are very low mileage. Tax
and inspections keep vehicles older than five years off the roads.
In some cases it is simpilier to scrap the car, and buy a new one
(which really helps their automotive industry).
Annual mileage is not that high, so indeed the Japanese import
engines are usually a very good deal.
If possible I like to personally inspect the used engine by taking
off the valve cover and looking at the valve train. Soon becomes
appearant some owners did NOT bother with oil changes, others
are spotlessly clean. Guess which I buy?
HOWEVER... not all import engines come from Japan. You can
get an engine much cheaper from Australia, were the SR20 are
also found. Guess what, those engines are from 'breakers' (wrecking
yard) and are pulled from wrecks. Great if the totalled car only had
10,000 miles on it. But you might also be getting a motor with 150,000
miles on it. Sigh.
Always pays to ask the importer where the engines come from, and
if you can inspect them (by removing the valve cover). Most are very
upfront and helpful. If they get really defensive about "all engines are
the same" use caution on your purchase.
Cheers,
Tom Walter
Austin, TX
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