I'm stationed in Okinawa, Japan for another year or so and picked up an '03 Skyline 250GT after my Evo IV finally offed itself. Since I've been out here so long, I rate bringing a car back with me, but it was to be importable and that's where it starts to get confusing.

I've seen the NHTSA's lists and I've thumbed through a lot of information on their website, even e-mailed a few people up there, and no one seems to have anything definitive. My argument was the section where it refers to identical models being available in the U.S. and on the importation list where it talks about the different safety standards that have to be met for models past certain years, etc.

Does anyone know an RI that could chime in or does anyone have any clue what I would need to do to bring this car back with me next year? I truly love this car and would love to keep it!dit:

Edit: I realized I never specified; the 250GT is the JDM version of the G35.

 

There should be a transportation office over there that can help you get info for moving all of your stuff back (including the car). I'd start there. Also check with your NCOs that have been around a while, I have to think one of them has either done it or knows someone who has who might be able to help you figure it out.

Good luck in any case, but yeah start with the transportation folks.

 

The 250GTs have a smaller rear bumper, right-hand drive, and a different engine than the G35s, all items that would affect safety testing. So probably not worth it. Just sell it there and pick up a bigger-engined G35 in the states.

 

G35 is 350GT in Japan.

 

Yeah man the 250GT has a different engine. IMO it wouldnt be worth it to transport it back. You can probably get an actual G for cheaper in the States.

Unlessss you want to be unique and have a RHD

 

yea you got the nissan maxima basically lol

 

For the rear bumper, you must get a US rear bumper to meet the crash testing as i heard. The 250GT has a shorter bumper than the US version.

 

How does the 250GT compare to the G25? I know the years are different, but maybe it could slide by?

 

so you wanna import a fat sentra??? why??? not worth it at all , sorry just saying

 

Shipping your car here would cost too much to bring it up to standards or you have the option of reinlisting and staying in Japan....Gary

 

The G25 is essentially the same car and the same motor except that the 250GT receives a twin-turbo setup in its JDM guise. It might be possible to pass it off as a G25 since that car is available over here.