In Germany when purchasing a new car, buyers can customize their vehicle using a configurator according to their preferences. Although this is also possible in America, there are some differences. USCar-Trader.com explains how to buy a new car in the USA.

Almost every driver has used the configurator on car manufacturers' websites to design a new car according to their preferences and ultimately display the total price for their dream vehicle. Whether Volkswagen, Mercedes, or BMW: Almost all manufacturers offer the service to choose from different drives, paint finishes, or special features in Germany.

This is also possible when buying a new car in the USA; however, configurators in the States have several differences. After choosing a vehicle model on the manufacturer's website, such as the VW Atlas, you can select various equipment lines already equipped with corresponding special features and extras. This means: customizing the features is only possible to a limited extent!

For example, if customers choose the base model, in the case of the VW Atlas, the SE variant, they get a vehicle with 18-inch alloy wheels, a digital speedometer display (8 inches), and an emergency brake assist. Heated seats and a blind-spot assistant are already standard. The VW Atlas offers a total of five versions, which, with an increasing base price, offer an increased number of features, such as larger alloy wheels, automatic climate control, or additional assistance systems.

Hardly any individual wishes possible

In the next step, car buyers choose the engine, with a fixed drive usually assigned to each vehicle model. This means that the cheapest standard model often cannot be combined with the most powerful engine. Instead, only smaller adjustments are available, such as drive type (front, rear, or all-wheel drive) or transmission. Those who want a high-performance model cannot be satisfied with the standard equipment.

Subsequently, interested parties can choose the paint finish and a color for the interior. Finally, only minor details are left. Car buyers can choose wheels, for example, and order additional equipment (roof rack, bicycle rack, etc.). However, it is not possible to make in-depth changes to the vehicle. In contrast to the German market, where new cars can be customized down to the smallest detail according to individual requirements, car buyers in the USA must be satisfied with standard variants.

A solution in Germany as well?

Is this concept conceivable in Germany? Yes! The individual configuration of vehicles poses significant challenges for car manufacturers, and customers must expect considerable waiting times, especially in the current situation. The configurators of some car manufacturers, such as Tesla, have already been reduced to a minimum, comparable to the American system. Volkswagen's configurator has also been adapted to the US system for some time.

Most configurators on the websites of German car manufacturers are too complex, posing challenges for inexperienced car buyers. It is not without reason that more than 80 percent of all interested parties want personal contact in the car dealership. Only one in ten new cars is bought online. Online shopping for car purchases? Less likely in the future! This could also lead to car manufacturers further simplifying the configurator on their website in the future.

 Who doesn't dream of driving a classic American vintage car? In the United States and Canada, there is a wide range of attractive models that you can import to Germany or any other EU country together with USCar-Trader.com. However, when buying a vintage car, you should be aware of some important things. We will clarify and help you avoid mistakes.

Finding a vintage car can be challenging when car buyers desire a specific vehicle with high rarity value or simply want to fulfill a dream. Often, it is worth looking abroad to buy the desired vintage car. Here, you can find interesting vehicles like the Mercedes SL R129, which should still be considered a young classic. However, there are some things to consider when importing, especially if the car is purchased outside the EU, such as in the USA.

Don't forget the important paperwork!

To be allowed to import the vintage car to Germany and to avoid any problems during registration later on, you should not miss the required documents and papers. These include not only the purchase contract but also all vehicle documents that should be available as proof of ownership from the seller when purchasing. Although a title (comparable to the German registration certificate Part 2) is not necessary for older vehicles in some states, it should be clarified in advance whether the available documents are sufficient for both export and later registration in Germany, Austria, or any other EU country.

For vehicle registration, you will need the original vehicle registration document, the purchase contract, and a full inspection according to § 21 StVZO. The latter is necessary because imported vehicles from third countries generally do not have a general operating permit in Germany.

In addition, a customs receipt, i.e., an import duty notice or a customs clearance certificate, must be submitted to prove that the import duties have been paid.

Customs declaration is necessary

If a vehicle is imported from a non-EU country, which is the case when the vintage car is purchased in the USA or Canada, registration with customs is essential. Customs clearance can be done directly at the border crossing into the EU.

From a customs perspective, imported goods only need to be cleared once in the EU. A German import duty notice is admissible in every EU country as proof and for registration.

Commercial importers who are not resident in the EU country where the vintage car crosses the border into the EU also have the option of fiscal customs clearance. This allows for import without any import duties under presentation of a valid VAT ID number. Proof of the vehicle's transfer to the final receiving country is necessary and should be available to the customs authorities upon request.

However, any importer is free to use a T1 transit document to transport the vehicle to any other country for customs clearance.

As a "collectible" with discounted import duties

Germany is one of the most attractive countries when it comes to import duties for vintage cars. For vehicles at least 30 years old, customs duties are waived, and a reduced import tax rate of only 7% applies.

The so-called "Customs Tariff 9705" is anchored in Chapter 97 of the EU's Combined Nomenclature. It states that a vintage car must be at least 30 years old and in its original, unaltered condition to be considered a collectible. Furthermore, the respective vehicle model must no longer be in production, which is almost always the case with a minimum age of 30 years. Exceptions apply, for example, to racing cars with a special history.

IMPORTANT: There is no guarantee that the reduced tax rate will actually apply, as the final decision lies with the responsible main customs office. Kit cars with a chassis from e.g. 1965, including the corresponding title, are no longer recognized as vintage cars.

For young classics that have not yet reached the full 30 years, the import duty is 10% of the vehicle value plus the applicable shipping costs. In addition, car buyers must pay the import sales tax, which is usually 19%.

Oddity from Switzerland: If the vintage car is in poor or restoration-worthy condition, the customs clearance will use the vehicle's value after restoration as the basis for assessment, not the purchase price.

If there is no current value, there is even the possibility that customs will initiate a value inquiry at a later date to determine the customs fees retrospectively.

Additional costs: Don't calculate too tightly

When buying a vintage car and having it shipped from abroad to Germany, you should expect additional costs. Apart from age-related problems that may cause additional expenses during the TÜV inspection, vintage cars are generally a cost-intensive hobby.

Speaking of costs: In addition to the applicable customs duties, car buyers should not forget the other expenses. Not only transport costs make the vintage car purchase more expensive when importing, but there may also be costs for the disposal of non-importable refrigerants (R12) or a possible CPA (X-ray of the import container) or a conventional customs inspection. It is advisable to inquire about possible fees in advance. USCar-Trader.com is happy to help.

Buying a vintage car: What should you consider?

When buying a vintage car, especially abroad, you should know the relevant basics. This prevents unnecessary trouble, especially since buying a vintage car often involves an increased risk. It is important to know that the law of the country where the purchase contract was concluded always applies. If hidden defects appear later, it is usually difficult to hold the seller liable.

It is therefore advisable to ask in advance if the vintage car may be examined by an independent expert. If the seller refuses this request, caution is advised. Ideally, payment should be made through an escrow service when interested parties buy a vintage car. This offers the greatest possible security. A down payment of up to $1,000 is not uncommon. This ensures the seller that there is actual interest in the car and no intermediary sale occurs. Nevertheless, car buyers should pay attention to appropriate protection.

Conclusion: Buying vintage cars in the USA/Canada!

Buying a vintage car in North America (USA/Canada) may seem complicated and time-consuming. However, with some experience and expert support, it is worth buying a vintage car abroad. USCar-Trader.com will accompany you and make importing vehicles from the USA and Canada especially easy. From vehicle checks, purchase processing, and escrow services to shipping to Germany, we will take care of all necessary tasks for you.

For decades, Ford's F-150 has topped the sales charts in the U.S. This pickup is as emblematic of the traditional American image as hamburgers, baseball, and country music—or high-displacement V8 engines. So, it came as a surprise to many when, in 2019, Ford announced an all-electric version of this best-seller. But even more surprising was the enthusiasm the F-150 Lightning, unveiled in May 2021, sparked among consumers. By December, Ford had already received over 200,000 orders. Deliveries started in May 2022. Let's take a closer look.

Capable of towing up to 4,500 kilograms, the F-150 Lightning remains a versatile choice. Two battery sizes (98 kWh or 130 kWh) offer a range of up to 512 kilometers. Photo: Manufacturer

Ford F-150: 40 million vehicles sold in nearly 75 years

The long-standing success story of the Ford F-Series began in 1948 when the Detroit-based automaker introduced the first generation of this versatile model. From the get-go, only 6- and 8-cylinder engines powered these trucks—a fact that remained constant through 14 model generations until the debut of the F-150 Lightning. Since 1983, diesels have been available alongside gasoline engines. To date, more than 40 million units of the Ford F-Series have been sold. Since 1977, Ford has dominated the pickup segment in the U.S. with this model. And since 1981, it has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. every single year.

Mission: Making EVs mainstream

To ensure the enduring leadership of this pickup icon in an evolving market, Ford made a proactive move in 2019 by announcing its electric variant. They didn't want to leave the electric segment uncontested to challenger Tesla. Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, announced the Tesla Cybertruck that same year, but its production start date has been postponed multiple times. Presently, experts anticipate its market debut no earlier than late 2023. While the futuristic-designed Cybertruck may not target traditional pickup buyers in the American Midwest, Ford aims precisely for this demographic with the F-150 Lightning—intending to make electric vehicles popular with the masses.

Acceleration akin to a sports car

To achieve this, Ford isn't skimping on power. There are two motor options: The base model delivers 452 horsepower, while the top variant boasts 580 horsepower, accelerating the three-ton pickup to 100 km/h in a staggering 4.5 seconds. Both variants are equipped with dual motors. With 1050 Nm of torque, the F-150 Lightning outshines all its combustion-engined counterparts. Its maximum towing capacity is around 4.5 tons.

Visually, the all-electric F-150 Lightning closely mirrors its combustion engine counterparts. The Lightning can produce up to 580 horsepower and offers 1050 Nm of torque—more than any other production Ford. Photo: Manufacturer

Over 500 kilometers of range

But raw power and impressive acceleration alone won't sway staunch petrol enthusiasts. Here, Ford seeks to impress with a commendable range and efficient charging capabilities: The base model, equipped with a 98 kWh battery, offers a nominal range of 370 kilometers. It can recharge from 15% to 80% in just 44 minutes at a fast-charging station. The top model, with its 130 kWh battery, takes 41 minutes for the same charge and offers a maximum range of 512 kilometers. Both models use 400-volt technology and can charge at up to 150 kW. As a unique feature, Ford highlights that the F-150 Lightning can power a home for up to three days during an outage.

The Ford F-150 Lightning: A familiar sight

Visually, this electric pickup barely differs from its conventionally-powered Ford siblings—probably a strategy to not alienate traditional buyers at first glance. The F-150 Lightning measures 5.91 meters in length, 2 meters in height, and a broad 2.44 meters wide, including extended side mirrors. The four-door aluminum body rests on a steel frame. With a wheelbase of 3.70 meters, the five-seater offers ample interior space. The controls in the Lariat and Platinum trim levels are operated through a 15.5-inch vertical display in the center console or by voice command. Where the combustion engines would typically be, the F-150 Lightning has a 400-liter storage space.

Competitive starting price

Price remains a significant purchasing factor—and it seems to resonate with consumers, as the numerous pre-orders attest. The base version starts just under $40,000, with the top variant available from close to $91,000.

For V8 enthusiasts with a penchant for making impressive appearances on the drag strip, the Stellantis brand, Dodge, offers two fitting choices: Alongside the four-door sedan Charger, which boasts up to 797 HP, the Americans claim that their two-door Challenger is the fastest and most powerful muscle car in the world, with up to 1025 HP. However, both models are also available in more subdued, yet still very sporty versions.

The Dodge Challenger (front) and Charger, especially in their SRT versions, leave no doubt about their performance capabilities. Photo: Manufacturer

Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger: Tailored for the young America of the 1960s

The names Charger and Challenger first appeared in Dodge's price list during the wild 1960s. The Ford Mustang had created an entirely new market segment for young buyers since 1964, and the parent company, Chrysler, wanted a piece of the pie with these two new designs – just like GM with the Pontiac Firebird or the Chevrolet Camaro. Initially, the concept was successful, but by the 1980s, it seemed the era for the products of the Flower Power generation had passed: The Challenger disappeared from the lineup in 1983, followed by the Charger four years later.

The return of the two legends with the help of Mercedes-Benz

It took almost 20 years before the Dodge Charger could celebrate its comeback in 2005. The technical foundation for the rear-wheel-drive four-door came from the Chrysler LX platform, which in turn was based on numerous technical solutions from Mercedes-Benz's toolkit. At that time, Dodge was part of the DaimlerChrysler conglomerate – hence, there was ample developmental assistance from Stuttgart. For the two-door coupe Challenger, introduced in early 2008, developers utilized the modified and shortened LX platform named LC. The basic concept of these two technically closely related vehicles has changed little since then.

Five seats in both the Charger and Challenger

With its four doors and five seats, the Charger, depending on the version, measures up to 5.11 meters in length, presenting itself as a sports sedan that offers space for the whole family plus luggage. Things are a bit tighter in the Challenger, even though the coupe, with a total length of 5.03 meters, almost matches the sister model. However, the two-door has a 102 millimeter shorter wheelbase compared to the Charger, leading to significantly less legroom in the back seats.

Quality craftsmanship and numerous equipment options

Even in the Dodge Challenger, three passengers can fit in the back seat, but getting in requires some agility. Thanks to the four doors, passengers in the Charger have a much easier time with this task. While the spatial economy of both models generally earns mediocre grades, the quality of the interior workmanship, as well as the lavish equipment with countless options, regularly receive praise from testers.

Classic interior design with an integrated central monitor and intuitive controls. Photo: Manufacturer

V6 and V8 engines across various models

Beyond the striking appearance, it's primarily the drive that contributes significantly to the unique allure of these two cars. With the Charger and Challenger, the top-tier engines, such as the 6.2-liter V8 supercharger, which in certain models delivers up to 797 HP in the Charger and up to 1025 HP in the Challenger, solidify their status as muscle car icons. However, Dodge offers a broad range of engines for both models. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V6, which in the Charger delivers between 292 and 300 HP, and in the Challenger, 305 HP. Additionally, there's the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 370 HP in the Charger and 375 HP in the Challenger, as well as the 6.4-liter HEMI V8, producing 485 HP in both models.

Distinct differences in rear design. Dodge Challenger with a pronounced curve towards the rear, larger trunk access, and elongated lines in the four-door Dodge Charger. Photo: Manufacturer

Diverse drive options and transmission variants

The variety of drive options continues with the transmission variants. While the Charger is exclusively equipped with an eight-speed automatic, the Challenger offers both the eight-speed automatic and a six-speed manual transmission in certain models. This provides customers with the opportunity to tailor their driving experience to their individual preferences.

Exciting models at affordable starting prices

In the US market, Dodge offers the Challenger starting at $30,825, while the base price for the Charger is $32,500. Not a lot of money for cars that, with their high-capacity engines, stand for both driving pleasure and a unique lifestyle. However, the end of this era is also looming for Dodge, as from 2024, the brand plans to introduce an electric muscle car.

Convertible owners have every reason to rejoice when the sun shows its face in spring and the folding roof can finally be opened after a long winter break. Often, the convertible remains in the garage over the winter months, leaving noticeable marks on the fabric roof. To ensure that the convertible top shines again and remains beautiful and especially watertight in the coming years, car owners should not neglect the important care of the convertible top. USCar-Trader.com reveals what matters!

Car wash is possible, but hand washing is better

Generally, visiting a car wash with a modern convertible is no problem. The material, whether fabric top or hardtop, is not damaged by the soft brushes and cleaning agents. However, the use of hot wax should be avoided as the wax settles in the pores of the fabric, resulting in unsightly white streaks.

Depending on the car wash, there are even special cleaning programs for convertibles, where the brushes move over the car with less pressure. However, this option is rare and can only be found in large car washes. Those driving a classic, like Mercedes SL R129 or BMW Z3, should avoid car washes. Hand washing is much gentler on the convertible and therefore better suited. Car owners can decide how intensive the cleaning should be and which care products are really necessary.

Important basic rule: A high-pressure cleaner can damage the fabric roof! Therefore, it should not be used for cleaning the convertible top. Instead, it's sufficient to first remove coarse dirt with a soft brush. Alternatively, a sponge can also be used, always rubbing in the direction of the fabric structure to avoid leaving marks on the material.

Beware, avoid aggressive cleaning agents!

Light dirt, pollen, or sand can be removed with a dry brush. If necessary, some cold, clear water can help with cleaning afterwards. Only if stains remain on the convertible top after this process is it advisable to use a cleaning agent.

However, it is essential to ensure that it is a special top cleaner that is gentle on materials and acid-free. Aggressive chemicals can attack and damage the material. As a result, the fabric roof fades, becomes spotty, or even cracks.

Even if it's a special care product, it doesn't hurt to test the product in an inconspicuous place. Each fabric roof has its peculiarities, so damage can never be completely ruled out. At the same time, the effectiveness of the cleaning agent can never be guaranteed.

In any case, the manufacturer's usage instructions should be read and followed to carry out the cleaning as effectively and consequence-free as possible. The use of general stain removers, commonly used in households, should be strictly avoided.

An impregnation protects against dirt

After cleaning, it is advisable to apply a special impregnation to protect the convertible top from new dirt. The material should first dry completely to ensure the best possible adhesion of the impregnation. It is generally important to let the convertible top dry after each cleaning and rain in the closed state to prevent mold or mildew stains. Also, odors in the vehicle can be prevented this way.

It is advisable to choose an impregnation with UV protection, which also protects against fading from sunlight. A convertible top has many rubber seals that absolutely need to be cared for. Special care products based on silicone are suitable for this. This prevents the rubber from becoming brittle or cracked over the years, making it leaky.

Depending on the convertible model, there is a plastic window in the rear part of the top, which also shows signs of wear over time. The material usually becomes cloudy, brittle, or scratchy, which not only affects the optics but also safety. Unfortunately, replacing the plastic windows is not easy, so it's better to focus on early care.

What matters in top care

• Remove dirt as soon as possible
• Avoid car wash, perform hand wash
• Remove light dirt with a soft brush
• If necessary: use as little cold water as possible
• Aggressive cleaning agents only in an emergency!
• Thoroughly dry the top after cleaning
• An impregnation protects against new dirt
• Don't forget seals, frame & windows

A hardtop makes convertible care easier

Owners of a convertible with a hardtop, i.e., a steel roof painted in the car color, have significantly less work. Visiting the car wash is no problem, and there are usually no differences compared to a classic coupe. If necessary, even polishing the paint is possible to achieve a radiant shine.

However, even owners of a convertible with a steel roof cannot avoid caring for the mechanics. The frame is usually more complex and more robust because a steel roof has a much higher weight than a light fabric roof. Regular lubrication is recommended, but the manufacturer's specifications must be strictly adhered to. A look at the corresponding convertible manual provides information about the need for care.

The convertible top frame as a necessary basis

The convertible top frame has a significant influence on the functionality and tightness of the convertible top, so the care and inspection of the mechanics should not be forgotten. In the first step, the frame should be cleaned of dust and dirt with a soft cloth. The convertible top box should also be cleaned, as leaves and other dirt usually accumulate here.

If necessary, the joints should be greased. The correct procedure can be found

The Mercedes SL R129 is among those vehicles on the fast track to becoming a classic and achieving old-timer status. Currently, the car is relatively affordable. That's likely to change once the roadster becomes a true rarity.

What does SL mean at Mercedes?

Between 1989 and 2001, Mercedes-Benz built the two-seater sports car as part of its SL-Class. About 200,000 units were launched in various versions during this period. The SL-Class stands for "Sport Light" vehicles at the Stuttgart-based carmakers, typically comprising roadsters and, to some extent, coupes.

Where was the R129 built?

The Mercedes SL R129 succeeded the R107 series in 1989 and was replaced by the R230 series in 2001. In the 12 years of its production, approximately 205,000 units were produced at the Bremen site. Today, around 33,000 vehicles are still registered in Germany.

Long development history - three model revisions until 2001

The Mercedes SL R129 has a rather long history. Development of the vehicle began in the mid-1970s. However, the project was initially put on hold as other models fully utilized the automaker's development capacity.

It was not until 1982 that attention returned to the new roadster. The design was finalized in 1984. The drive technology primarily relied on the engines of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class produced in parallel - six, eight, and twelve cylinders. In 1992, the first twelve-cylinder model was offered. Later, the more modern V6 and V8 engines of the S-Class were added.

Early models were still designated SL at the rear, such as the 500 SL. From 1993, with the introduction of Mercedes' class designations, the SL was moved to the front.

Individual numbers were assigned for each model variant. For example, from the R129 series, one can find a Mercedes SL 600, SL 500, SL 320, 300 SL-24, 300 SL, SL 280, etc. At first glance, this might seem a bit confusing. The roadster was revised three times during model maintenance:

1. For IAA 1995 in Frankfurt am Main, a new 5-speed automatic transmission was introduced for the SL 500 and SL 600 models, along with a modified V12 and 5.0 L V8 engine. An Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was also available for the first time. The most noticeable external changes were the newly designed front and rear bumpers, as well as the optional aluminum hardtop with glass roof and sun blind;

2. For the Turin Motor Show in 1998, the second revision was made. Here, the cars were introduced with new V6 and V8 engines with three-valve technology. A revised and larger braking system was installed on the front axle. New oval exhaust pipes, as well as redesigned exterior mirrors and tail lights, were the most significant visual changes.

3. The last model revision concerned only details for vehicles built from 2000 onwards.

Now a museum piece - Lady Di's Mercedes SL R129

The SL R129 models were not "bargains" even in their time. Depending on the model version and market launch, the price started at around 100,000 DM in the basic configuration and could climb to over 200,000 DM for certain versions. By today's standards, these are no "small matters."

Nonetheless, the first models were highly sought after and buyers had to wait up to seven years for delivery. Among the notable owners was Lady Diana. In 1991, the then-wife of the British heir apparent received a glossy red Mercedes-Benz 500 SL.

She was the first member of the British royal family to own a foreign car in her private possession - a scandal! After criticism from the government, unions, and industry, the princess returned the roadster in September 1992. Today, it can be admired at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.

If you now decide to buy a used Mercedes SL R129, you won't have to dig as deep into your wallet as before. Moderately preserved examples are available for under 10,000 euros. For one in better condition, you might have to invest over 20,000 euros at the peak. An appreciation in value, once old-timer status is achieved, is anything but excluded.

Perhaps even importing from the USA might pay off. In our exchange for American used cars, you're sure to find a Mercedes SL R129 or two. Well-preserved - and especially at a good price. We offer you the highest safety and quality standards (for example, through the AutoCheck service when buying/importing US cars and ensure hassle-free transport and complete handling of direct imports!

 

In Europe, the principle for price indications is that they must be final prices. Therefore, the stated amount includes the sales tax - often separately itemized - and other costs associated with a purchase. This naturally applies to car purchases as well.

This is not the case in the USA. Here, additional amounts are added to the stated price for vehicles, which are often only specified when the buyer and dealer have agreed and a contract is signed. For German buyers purchasing a vehicle in the United States, the so-called documentation fee is particularly relevant. In addition, dealers charge their customers fees for US registration and sales tax. There are also other fees, but these are not consistently applied.

Varying Prices from State to State

A documentation fee is completely unknown in Germany. This fee is intended to cover the back-office costs of the car dealer. The paperwork involved in selling new or used cars requires a lot of work and effort. This is often handled by dedicated employees or the sales staff has to devote a significant part of their working time to it.

The calculation of the documentation fee is a standard practice across the US. Some car dealers are negotiable on the amount, many are not. It is not even mandatory for the fee to be explicitly mentioned in the invoice. Many dealers tend to not itemize the documentation fee separately, but rather combine it with other "additional costs" of the purchase into one item. A reason why many US car buyers pay little attention to the documentation fee, although the costs can be quite noticeable.

The amount of the documentation fee varies from state to state. The range is from a low of $55 to a high of $607. In 35 states, there are no legal limits to the fee, creating "room for maneuver" from the dealer's perspective. Sometimes the fees are calculated as a percentage of the agreed purchase price, and sometimes fixed amounts are applied. Only in one state - Alaska - must the fee be included in the car price; in all other states, it is calculated additionally.

The most expensive states in this regard are currently Florida (average $607), followed by Colorado ($508) and Georgia ($502). At the other end of the scale is California with an average of $55. The table listed here shows the current average values for all US states.

Consideration in Calculation

Consequence: two identical vehicles in terms of equipment, age, and condition, offered in Florida and California for $20,000 each, do not cost the same. In California, the car is on average about $550 cheaper. Of course, this is an isolated view, with other possible cost differences - such as transportation costs - not taken into account. However, German buyers should be aware that the documentation fee needs to be considered in their calculations.

Average Dealer Fees by State

Every used car purchase often resembles the famous "buying a pig in a poke". It remains unclear if the vehicle truly lives up to its promises. Naturally, the seller is inclined to present the car in the best light to achieve a high price, often concealing any defects. This risk is particularly present when importing used cars from the USA, where the great distance and time difference pose additional challenges.

Risk Minimization: The Importance of a Reliable Vehicle History

A comprehensive review of vehicle history is essential to minimize the risk of a bad purchase. USCar Trader offers in collaboration with our partner a detailed query of vehicle history. This is an excellent Carfax alternative, enabling a detailed overview of the history of vehicles originating from the USA. This way, buyers can verify the reliability of seller information before purchase.

ClearVIN - A Carfax Alternative

ClearVIN utilizes extensive databases and is an effective Carfax alternative. It draws information from US-State Departments of Motor Vehicles (DMV), car manufacturers, dealers, leasing companies, salvage companies, and insurers. These diverse data sources allow for an almost seamless reconstruction of the vehicle history, largely independent of the previous owner's statements.

The Report: More Than Just History

The report provided by ClearVIN is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the vehicle history. This includes not only basic information but also details about all known issues and events in the vehicle's past. The included scoring system, based on mathematical-statistical methods, evaluates the condition of the vehicle and thus provides an objective basis for the purchasing decision. This report is available online for a fee and offers a transparent overview for buyers.

Conclusion: Why a History Report is So Valuable

A comprehensive history report can significantly reduce the risk of a used car purchase. It provides a solid foundation for evaluating the vehicle but does not replace personal inspection. Undetected damages or unofficial repairs that have not been documented remain a challenge. A personal vehicle inspection in the USA and Canada before purchase, offered through USCar Trader, can minimize this residual risk.

ClearVIN - Your Reliable Alternative to Carfax

ClearVIN is a reliable Carfax alternative, distinguished by its comprehensive and precise information. It provides access to data from leading sources and experts in the automotive industry, including NMVTIS, NVS, NHTSA, J.D. Power, Black Book, and others. With ClearVIN, buyers receive a comprehensive and trustworthy insight into vehicle history, enabling a well-informed purchasing decision.

The corona crisis has made it possible for vehicle imports from outside the EU, a lower sales tax, which applies starting from July 1st. This general reduction of the VAT is part of the 130 billion euro economic stimulus package of the German government which also includes import sales tax.

This makes car imports cheaper for end consumers. The standard tax rate will fall from 19% to 16%, the reduced tax rate - interesting for classic car imports - from 7% to 5%. It is important to note that the tax reduction is limited until the end of the year 2020. Until then, the import must be completed. It is therefore worth considering buying a car in another EU country - or within the USA and Canada - in the second half of the year and fulfilling a long-cherished car dream. You save money!

The Chevrolet Corvette - or Corvette for short - has been around since 1953. The elegant sports car has been popular from the very beginning and has thrilled more than 1.5 million Corvette fans in its eight editions to date. GM has always been able to adapt the design and equipment to the tastes and wishes of its customers. Thus the Corvette has remained a successful model to this day. This is probably also true for the Corvette C8, the eighth generation of the sporty racer.

Production was originally scheduled to start in the fall of 2019, but a strike at GM's Bowling Green plant in Kentucky delayed the start of construction. Production only started in February of this year. It is likely to be some time before the Corvette will be on sale in our stores, as the official market launch in Germany can be expected in 2021 at the earliest. Those who want to enjoy the car before then will have to buy directly in the USA, and then import their Corvette C8 here, making this to be interesting in terms of price. But, we'll discuss this more later.

Even sleeker, even sportier - the "new" Chevrolet Corvette C8

The vehicle is powered by a 6.2-litre V8 engine with 495 hp and 637 Nm. An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, developed by General Motors together with Tremec, ensures that the car runs smoothly. Three equipment lines are planned for the Corvette C8: 1LT, 2LT and 3LT. Standard features on all models include: an electrically adjustable steering wheel, a 12-inch diagonal display as a combination instrument, an 8-inch touch-sensitive screen for the infotainment system, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The 2LT and 3LT lines will be equipped with additional features. The Corvette C8 has two luggage stowage areas - one in the front and one in the back - because of the mid-engine. This will not allow for large transports, but that's not what the Corvette C8 is designed for.

A total of 12 colours are offered for the body. Although the Corvette C8 is still brand new on the market in the USA, there are already reports about a possible facelift. Among other things, additional paint colors with the designations "Red Mist Tintcoat" and "Blade Silver" will be available soon. Rally stripes in various colours will provide an even sportier look. Also intended for a particularly sleek exterior: fairings made of visible carbon for the air intakes behind the doors and visible carbon rear wings. In the interior, GM will possibly offer two new two-tone seat covers: suede in yellow-grey and a leather version in black-grey. Infotainment is now also to support the wireless coupling of iPhones via Apple CarPlay.

Earlier, faster, cheaper - that's why it's worth importing

These new features will probably be available within the U.S. in September, and in our country, only immediately with the market launch in the course of 2021. Those who don't want to wait, can already purchase their Corvette C8 directly "on site". In the USA, the car is offered for around 60,000 dollars (converted to approx. 55,600 Euros). When the Corvette C8 comes on the market here, the price should be around 100,000 Euros. So it is worth thinking about importing it, even if you consider the costs for transport and import. As a partner with many years of experience in importing US vehicles, we are happy to help you!

Photo: Chevrolet