LHD Z4 - from US?

[Anonymous]

I am thinking of buying a used Z4 and take it to Spain. LHD models seem to be cheap in the USA and can be shipped to Europe for about $1000. What changes have to be made to a US spec car to make it legal in Europe? Are there any differences in engine spec affecting performance? Would there be any issues in getting it serviced? I would appreciate any advice.

 

[AlanJ]

Bruce - welcome to the Forum. Firstly engine spec may vary to to different emmision regs in the US and the EU but nothing significant in terms of overall performance (I belive emission regs cabn vary state to state but perhaps others more knowledgable will assist) Service should be no issue as oils etc and service parts will be identical if you use a main dealer. As for other issues which predominantly deal with lighting and safety equipment then as Spain is in the Eu equipment and light fittings must be brought up to EU spec to make it fully legal. There is a 12% import tax to pay which will be reflected by the value of the vehicle you import. Below are a couple of websites that give details - the second one gives details of EU conformity and an appropriate Homologation Certificate prior to taxing a registration.

http://www.spainexpat.com/spain/information/importing_cars_bringing_your_car_to_spain/
http://vehicleimportadvice.com/spain/spain_import_process.asp

 

[pvr]

The front lights will be your main issue. Fortunately, a friendly dealer had a spare set that he used for clients to swap out for each annual check (this was in NL by the way, but Spain will be the same).

 

[MarkC]

Bruce, check your private message. I've seen a US specs here in the UK for sale; 03' 3.0i, 6 speed, black, HID, sports package, 40K miles etc. Has lights converted to EU/UK specs (should be simple to change rear fog light location for Spain). Send me a private message and I will forward you his contact info.