C-Kwik wrote:The government doesn't assume cars are built the same. Even a USDM S14 and JDM S14 has different build standards in terms of crash testing. Therefore, a S15 would need to be properly crash tested AND emissions tested before it could be brought into the US as a street legal vehicle.
Right, I know the gov doesn't assume it, it's actually the opposite:
Quote » NHTSA Says: While there is no specific restriction on importing a right-hand drive vehicle, an eligibility number based on a substantially similar U.S.- certified motor vehicle may not apply. Our experience has shown that the safety performance of right-hand drive vehicles is not necessarily the same as that of apparently similar left-hand drive vehicles offered for sale in this country. However, we will consider them "substantially similar" if the manufacturer advises us that the right-hand drive vehicle would perform the same as the certified left-hand drive vehicle in crash tests. If the vehicle is not substantially similar to one sold in the U.S., the RI would have to demonstrate that the vehicle, when modified, would comply with the applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards, which could involve crash testing several vehicles.[/quote]I was wondering if Nissan would be able to explain some of the similarities (if there are any) to the NHTSA, so that such extensive testing could circumvented. I know it's not gonna happen, or it would have by now, but it's just a thought...
