The Toyota Supra Mk IV (A80) is one of the most wanted Japanese sports cars ever made, thanks to the 2JZ engine, how well it takes tuning, and a shape that still looks right. If you are thinking about buying one abroad and bringing it to the UK, here is what is worth knowing first.
Which engine?
- 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo: the one everyone wants, sold at 280hp in Japan and 320hp in the US
- 2JZ-GE naturally aspirated: less power, still very reliable, and found in non-turbo cars
Which gearbox?
The six-speed Getrag V160 manual is the most desirable, and the most expensive to replace if it goes wrong. The four-speed automatic is less sought after, but plenty of autos have been converted to manual since.
What to check before you buy
- Turbos: originals can be tired, especially on high-mileage cars
- Rust: wheel arches, the underside and the rear quarter panels
- Modifications: lots of Supras have been modified, so look for quality parts and proper work
- Targa roof (Aero Top cars): worn seals mean leaks
Where to find one
- Japanese auctions, for JDM cars
- Private sellers and specialist import dealers
- US-market cars from North America
- European cars, from Germany and elsewhere
Getting it to the UK
Most Supras come over from Japan in a shared container, which is safe and keeps the cost down. As a guide, shipping from the USA starts from £1,450, and from Japan (in our rest of the world group) from £3,575. Those are shipping only, built from a year of real jobs. Your quote prices your actual route and includes collection, customs and unloading.
A Mk IV built in Japan pays 20% import VAT and 10% duty when it lands. Once a car is 30 years old it can qualify for a reduced 5% VAT rate, and the earliest Mk IVs are already past that mark. We work out exactly what applies when we quote.
Registering it here
Once it lands, the car can stay with us for testing and registration. A Mk IV is well over 10 years old, so it does not need an IVA test, but it will usually need a few changes for UK roads, such as a rear fog light and a speedo that reads in miles per hour. We handle those in-house at My Car Import.
Found one you like? Send us the listing or the auction lot and we will price the whole job.
