Now that we are in 2024, a unique opportunity opens up for automobile aficionados in the United States thanks to specific import laws. Under these laws, cars that are 25 years old become exempt from the stringent Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards that typically prevent many foreign cars from being sold in the U.S. This means vehicles made in 1999 are now eligible to be imported and driven on American roads — finally!
Why does this matter? Well, for years, many exceptional cars were produced around the world—cars that, due to various regulations, never made their way to the American market. These cars often include high-performance sports cars, unique models packed with innovation, and designs that American petrolheads could only dream of owning—until now.
In 2024, the gates open for some of the most intriguing models from 1999. This includes a selection of cars known for their exceptional driving experiences and holds a special place in automotive history. From the iconic Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 to the super exotic Pagani Zonda C12, each car brings its own story and excitement.
So buckle up as we list down some of the coolest cars you can now legally import to the USA. Let’s explore these incredible machines and what makes each one so special.
Audi RS4 (B5)
The Audi RS4 B5 stands out as one of the best station wagons from the late 1990s. It’s notable for its relatively rare blend of luxury and high-performance engineering. And thanks to relaxed import laws, this model is now available to American enthusiasts.
Under the hood, the RS4 is powered by a formidable 2.7-liter V6 engine developed in collaboration with Cosworth, a tuning company famed for its racing engines. This twin-turbocharged powerhouse delivers 375 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. The engine has two intercoolers and a sophisticated 30-valve configuration, ensuring robust performance and efficiency.
Audi’s acclaimed Quattro all-wheel-drive system is another key feature of the RS4, improving the vehicle’s handling and stability in diverse driving conditions. This system intelligently distributes power to all four wheels, providing superior traction and making the RS4 a joy to drive, especially when pushing the limits on curvy roads.
Aesthetically, the RS4 B5 sports an aggressive stance with widened fenders and distinctive bumpers that set it apart from standard A4 models. The interior is equally impressive, featuring sport seats and upscale materials catering to comfort and luxury.
Indeed, as a model never originally sold in the U.S., the RS4 B5 now uniquely appeals to car enthusiasts, especially those who have a soft spot for wagons.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI is a legend in the world of rally sports and performance sedans. Debuted in 1999, the Evo VI was Mitsubishi’s attempt to create vehicles that excel both on the track and on the road, based on the sixth-gen Lancer.
Central to the Evo VI’s appeal is its robust 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, boasting a power output of 276 horsepower. While this number may seem modest by today’s standards, the real magic of the Evo VI lies in its advanced all-wheel-drive system and the finely tuned dynamics that provide exceptional handling and agility. The car’s power is efficiently managed by a five-speed manual transmission.
The Evo VI also features significant improvements over its predecessors in cooling and durability. The model sports revised fascias, giving it a more aggressive look and improving air intake to keep the engine running at optimal temperatures. Additionally, the suspension system was upgraded with aluminum components to reduce weight and lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, resulting in sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience.
With its rally-derived heritage, the Evo VI is a favorite among car enthusiasts who value performance and history. Its arrival on American shores opens up new possibilities for collectors and racers alike, offering a slice of automotive history that’s now legally accessible. Whether you like a spirited Sunday drive or a competitive racing machine, the Evo VI promises an exhilarating ride.
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Nissan Silvia S15
The Nissan Silvia S15 is the final evolution of Nissan’s celebrated Silvia lineup and a revered icon in the world of sports coupes. Known for its sleek design and dynamic performance, the S15 appeals not only to traditional car enthusiasts but also to a younger crowd who admire its drifting capabilities and tuner culture status.
At the heart of the Silvia S15’s appeal is its engine lineup, consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine available in two versions: naturally aspirated and turbocharged. The turbocharged variant, known as the SR20DET, is particularly sought after for its high performance, delivering close to 250 horsepower. This power, coupled with a lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive configuration, makes the S15 exceptionally agile and fun to drive.
The S15 also stands out for its aesthetic enhancements and functional aerodynamics. Its design features sharp lines and an aggressive stance, with options like a rear spoiler and body kits that enhance its appearance and improve its aerodynamic performance. Inside, the Silvia S15 offers a cockpit that blends sportiness with simplicity, featuring essential gauges and a layout that puts the driver’s experience at the forefront.
This is essentially another important JDM piece unlocked for America. S15’s combination of style, performance, and tunability makes it a beloved choice among car enthusiasts, especially those keen on modifying their rides.
Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 is undeniably a cultural icon, revered by automotive enthusiasts worldwide for its bleeding-edge technology and extraordinary performance at the time.
The R34 is powered by the legendary RB26DETT engine, a 2.6-liter inline-six twin-turbocharged powerhouse that officially produces 276 horsepower, although many enthusiasts believe the actual output to be significantly higher. This engine is coupled with a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system known as ATTESA E-TS, which dynamically allocates power to the wheels that need it most, improving the car’s grip and handling on diverse road surfaces.
Additionally, the R34 features an advanced multi-function display on the dashboard, which provides real-time data on mechanical and performance parameters, including turbo boost pressure, oil and water temperatures, and more. This was cutting-edge technology then and remains a highlight for tech-savvy drivers. The car also includes the Super-HICAS system, which provides rear-wheel steering to improve maneuverability at high speeds, a rare feature that adds to its mystique and driving dynamics.
Indeed, the Skyline GT-R R34 stands out for its engineering, performance, and role in popular culture, including its appearances in films and video games, which have cemented its status as a dream car for many. Now legally importable to the U.S., the R34 offers American petrolheads a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of automotive history.
Pagani Zonda C12
The Pagani Zonda C12 is an exquisite example of Italian craftsmanship and automotive artistry, marking the debut of the Pagani brand in the supercar world. This model set a new standard for what a boutique supercar manufacturer could achieve with a combination of avant-garde design and extreme performance.
At the core of the Zonda C12 is a Mercedes-Benz sourced M120 engine, a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 powerhouse producing 450 horsepower. This engine delivers breathtaking acceleration and beautiful sound that is music to any car enthusiast’s ears. Coupled with a lightweight carbon fiber chassis, the Zonda C12 offers a driving experience that’s both visceral and exhilarating, showcasing superb dynamics and precision handling.
The design of the C12 is equally as striking as its performance. Featuring flowing lines and a distinctive rear-end design, the car is instantly recognizable and stands out even among other supercars. Its cockpit is a blend of luxury and technology, with a focus on high-quality materials and a driver-centric layout that provides both comfort and control.
As one of the rarest and most sought-after supercars, the Zonda C12 is truly a masterpiece on wheels, destined to captivate and thrill those fortunate enough to own it. You can expect to spend six figures to park it in your home in the States.
Porsche 911 GT3 (996.1)
In 1999, Porsche introduced the first 911 GT3 with the 996.1 generation. It was the brand’s first iteration of making a 911 that embodies the essence of its racing heritage distilled into a street-legal car. Known for its raw and unfiltered driving experience, this model is a favorite among purists who cherish precision and performance — a statement that stays true even for the current-gen GT3s.
Powering the 996.1 GT3 is a high-revving 3.6-liter flat-six engine, finely tuned to produce around 360 horsepower. This engine is engineered for responsiveness, delivering exhilarating acceleration and a high-pitched roar satisfying to purists. The car’s rear-wheel drive layout and a six-speed manual transmission emphasize a hands-on driving experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s world of driver assists.
From a technical standpoint, the 996.1 GT3 features a race-bred suspension system designed to deliver exceptional handling and stability at high speeds. Porsche equipped this model with larger brakes and a more aggressive aero package, including a fixed rear wing that adds downforce and distinctly marks the GT3’s sporting intentions.
Visually, the 996.1 GT3 maintains the iconic 911 silhouette but stands out with its more track-focused aesthetics. It even comes with bucket seats and fewer comforts to save weight and enhance the connection between driver and machine. Such a focus on reducing weight and maximizing performance makes the 911 GT3 a highly desirable model for driving enthusiasts.
TVR Tuscan Speed Six
The TVR Tuscan Speed Six is a striking British sports car known for its dramatic styling and powerful performance. With its arrival now permissible on American shores, it offers a unique blend of raw power and distinctive design that sets it apart.
At the heart of the Tuscan Speed Six is its robust 3.6-liter inline-six engine, which delivers over 350 horsepower. This engine is known for its exhilarating high-rev performance, capable of propelling the car to high speeds with a visceral sound that underscores its sporty pedigree. Coupled with a lightweight chassis, the Tuscan’s power-to-weight ratio ensures rapid acceleration and nimble handling, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads or racetracks.
The Speed Six’s exterior is as bold as its performance. Featuring swooping lines and an aggressive stance, the car’s design includes a long hood and a compact cabin that echoes classic sports car proportions. This look is further amplified by innovative features like the unique headlight arrangement and the option for color-shifting paint, which changes hue based on the viewing angle and lighting conditions, adding to its head-turning appeal.
Inside, the TVR offers a cabin that matches its exterior flamboyance. The interior is crafted with a focus on driving engagement, featuring minimal distractions and an array of custom options that allow owners to personalize their space.
So, if you’ve watched the car chase scene in the 2001 movie Swordfish and have fallen for the Tuscan ever since, now it’s the time to fill out those import paperwork and bring it home!
Last Words
Needless to say, the lifting of the import ban on 1999 model-year cars is an exciting time for automotive enthusiasts across the U.S. This year, the doors have opened to a remarkable array of iconic vehicles, each with its own unique story and cult following. Hence, despite the long wait, the opportunity to bring these cherished models to American roads is finally here.
Might as well cherish it, right?
