Japanese cars have a habit of outlasting their reputations. A Land Cruiser bought new in Osaka in the 1980s can still be a dependable, characterful car today, often with fewer miles and less rust than the same model sold in Europe. That is why so many of the cars we find at That's Classic come from Japan. Here is what you need to know if you are thinking of importing a Japanese car to the UK, from choosing the right model to registering it on British plates.
Why buy a car from Japan?
A few things make Japan a particularly good place to look for a classic or a characterful 4x4:
- Right-hand drive. Japan drives on the left, so most Japanese-market cars are already right-hand drive and feel at home on UK roads.
- Models we never got. Many versions were sold only in Japan: the Mitsubishi Jeep, particular Land Cruiser engines and body styles, and countless kei cars and special editions.
- Strict roadworthiness checks. Japan's Shaken inspection is demanding and expensive, which encourages regular maintenance and often keeps tired cars off the road.
- Detailed history. Cars sold at Japanese auctions usually come with an inspection sheet that records the grade, recorded mileage and known marks or repairs.
None of that means every Japanese car is a good one. Condition varies as much as it does anywhere, and a few areas of Japan use salt on winter roads. It does mean the right car is often out there, if you know what you are looking for.
Popular Japanese imports we are asked about
Land Cruisers are a particular interest of ours, but our sourcing covers a wide range of Japanese classics and 4x4s.
Toyota Land Cruiser 40, 60, 70 and 80 Series
Each generation has its own appeal. The 40 Series is the icon, the 60 Series adds a roomy station wagon body, the 70 Series comes in more body styles than most people realise, and the 80 Series is a comfortable long-distance tourer. Model codes matter: an HJ60 with its 2H diesel is a different car to a turbocharged HJ61, and a short wheelbase 70 drives very differently to a long PZJ77.
Mitsubishi Jeep
Built under licence in Japan for decades, the Mitsubishi Jeep is about as close as you can get to a classic Willys-style Jeep with right-hand drive and Japanese build quality. Our 1976 Mitsubishi Jeep J54 is a good example of how simple, honest and fun these are.
Toyota FJ Cruiser
The FJ Cruiser was never officially sold in the UK, which is a large part of its appeal. Retro styling inspired by the FJ40, a V6 petrol engine and genuine off-road ability make it a modern classic in its own right. See our Toyota FJ Cruiser.
Japanese classics and something different
From early coupes like the Toyota Celica TA22 to compact 4x4s such as the Suzuki Jimny, Japan has plenty to offer beyond Land Cruisers. If you have something in mind, it is worth asking.
How importing a Japanese car works
Whether you use a specialist or go it alone, the journey from Japan to a UK driveway follows the same broad steps.
- Agree the brief. Model, engine, gearbox, body style and your total budget in the UK. The more specific you are about what matters, and where you can be flexible, the better the search.
- Find and check the car. Cars are found through auctions and dealers in Japan. Photographs, the auction or inspection sheet and any agreed checks should all be reviewed before you commit.
- Buy and export. Once you are happy, the car is bought, de-registered in Japan and prepared for export.
- Ship to the UK. Most cars travel by sea, either roll-on roll-off or in a container. Timings depend on the shipping schedule.
- Clear customs. The import is declared to HMRC and any import VAT and duty are paid.
- Register with the DVLA. The car needs to pass the right roadworthiness test for its age before it can be registered, taxed and given UK number plates.
What does it cost to import a car from Japan?
The price of the car in Japan is only part of the picture. When you plan your budget, allow for:
- the purchase price and any auction or agent fees
- transport in Japan, export paperwork and shipping
- import VAT and duty, which depend on the car's age and origin (cars over 30 years old, in original condition, may qualify for reduced rates as historic vehicles)
- port charges and delivery from the port
- any MOT or approval testing, and DVLA registration
- preparation for UK use, such as servicing, tyres or a speedometer conversion to miles per hour
This is why we always talk about a total UK budget. Comparing the Japanese price of one car with the UK price of another rarely tells you much.
What to check before you buy
For an older Japanese car, condition comes before specification. A rare engine option is no bargain if the chassis needs major work. Pay particular attention to:
- Chassis and underbody. Look at photographs of the underside, especially on 4x4s and cars from snowy regions.
- Auction grade and notes. Grades and written notes on the inspection sheet help, but should be read alongside photographs, not instead of them.
- Mileage. Japanese cars show kilometres. Check the recorded history and that the mileage fits the condition.
- Modifications. Lift kits, engine swaps and conversions are common. Some are well done; all affect value, insurance and registration.
- Parts and servicing. Popular models like Land Cruisers are well supported in the UK. Rarer cars may need more planning.
Buy from stock or source to order?
If you see a car you like on our cars for sale page, buying from stock is the quickest route. The import has been handled and you can see the car for yourself. If you want a particular model, specification or colour, our Japanese car sourcing service starts with your brief and your total UK budget. We look for suitable examples in Japan, share photographs and condition information, and coordinate shipping, customs and registration once you have chosen a car.
Thinking about a Japanese import?
Whether it is a Land Cruiser, a Mitsubishi Jeep or something more unusual, tell us what you have in mind. We are based in Bournemouth and happy to talk it through, even if you are at the very early stages. Start your Japanese car search or get in touch.