ok here's a new problem that was popular back in the late 70's. after
mini's were no longer allowed to be imported into the u.s. due to not
meeting minium bumper heights and crash test stuff, it became popular to
illegally import mini's as fast as titles and serial number plates could be
found from cars pre dating the cut off date. it was widely done by people
who raced mini's looking for newer bodys and suspension components. some
were done for resale as street cars. i knew one individual who dilligently
sought rusted out and derilict mini's for outrageous prices just to secure
the vin number plates and titles to take to canada and change serial numbers
in canada to bring mini's to u.s. to restore to sell. he had a fleet of
cars in pieces and a few really sweet looking clean cars for sale .
honestly that was a long time ago . but the point is that the mini must be
a year before the cut off year to be allowed into u.s. . now that was the
law back then. i am not aware of any changes in that aerea.
BUT!!!! it is my understanding that a u.s. citizen may import 1 car in a
lifetime that does not meet u.s. specifications. my father was considering
purchasing a renault alpine(i believe a late 60's vintage) not too long ago.
there is some provision somewhere (lots of red tape included) in the laws to
allow for a once in a lifetime purchase of a non fedralised automobile from
out of the country. now where do you go to find this out? i am not
positive. could ask dad though(next time i see him, easter dinner i
guess).
i know the above is no help with the mini question. but if you have a junk
mini, register it and take a plate along with the vin. plate and title as
proof of ownership and drive or trailer your car home .
and remember! try to not look guilty! he-he-he!
chuck.
i know nothing!..............-NOTHING! (sgt. schultz, hogan's hero's)
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