Grey market cars?

[chris924]

Hello everybody,
I have come into the chance to buy a '79 Euro 924 Turbo and I was wondering if anybody has an experience in buying a "grey market" car? Insurance issues? Registration?
Thanks
Chris

[Bob's944]

I think those details all depend on what state you live in and how they do things in that state, and also the same with insurance companies. Since most states require insurance before registration, it might be good to call the insurance company with the VIN # to see if it gets past them first. I would imagine that their computer system would be the way they might catch it. Once that's done, then try getting by the state DMV's computer system. Usually the VIN # has a letter difference which would normally disqualify the car for US streets. If you were to somehow get it past the system and have it registered, I doubt you would have to worry about it again IN THAT STATE. The reality is that if it is caught on the road by a cop who wants to be a hard azz, I believe they have the right to impound and keep it until it is properly federalized, both bumpers and smog. Usually that is sooo much money it would cause the loss of the car.

There used to be a federal or maybe state law, not sure if it's still valid here or ever in your state, that said you were allowed one non-conforming car per individual, as long as the car is 10 yrs old or older. If the Euro 924 turbo has the same bumpers as the US version and only was different due to emissions from engine tuning, then that might be a way for you to get the car in.

Chances are... you states computer system will not allow the car to be registered, only legal for track/off road use..... just like every one of the best porsches ever made... the 959.