I drive an S660 Bruno Leather Edition, and let me tell you, it's the best car I've ever owned. I've had a few rides in my time, but this one? Pure perfection. It's a mid-engine setup in Japan’s kei car category, with staggered tires and brakes that bite hard. The handling? Absolutely spot on. The small body makes every drive a blast, like you're tearing through the streets in a go-kart. Plus, the roof's removable, and the fuel economy is killer. Honestly, if I had to nitpick, the engine sound could be beefier, but other than that, it's the ultimate companion. You all should think about importing one for yourselves!
Did the same a few years back. Imported a Honda Preulde using a company like this and saved more than £15k on the deal after all of the UK conversions etc... Ran it perfectly for about 7-8 years with no issues. Only sold it as I had a mid-life crisis and needed more horse power.
Oh boy, a Dutch children's TV show used a Prelude. I shortly owned a Mazda 323F 1.8 with floffy headlamps which glorious, apart from being totally run down. I wouldn't mind spending 20-fold or 50-fold what I spend on that one for a mint version.
god i want a car like this here. without the restrictions we could put a slightly bigger engine in a sports version with like 100-150 hp and boom. pocket rocket
It's worth noting that the IVA test is not required for cars over 10 years old. So things like E markings on tyres and speedo conversion is not required for the standard MOT.
Just out of curiosity I have a vehicle that have just arrived, I have been informed that the IVA will take about 3 months to complete unfortunately because of the waiting list and the fact that the paperwork is just ridiculous so disappointing that i won’t get my vehicle because Christmas
Brilliant video. Have enquired about buying a Honda S660 previously but from a UK specialist importer. Was working out very expensive. This was vey educational and well edited also.
Can’t remember as it was pre-pandemic! But high teens,almost £20k which did not seem worth it for a tiddly car! (Torque GT) I have owned and run a Daihatsu Copen kei car previously for 6 years & 100,000 miles. Was brilliant fun. Cost just over £10k bought new from a UK Daihatsu dealer.
@@markymarkreviewsSame problem which I experienced when I wanted to import a S660 to the cayman islands nothing below 15000 USD. I ended up buying a 2015 Subaru BRZ automatic with a bit of aftermarket stuff on it and it was totally worth it 10k for the car with shipping and insurance. It’s a smart choice to buy cars from Japan, they maintain their cars very well.
It’s a myth that Japan doesn’t use salt on their roads. It’s true for the south of the country but in the north they use lots of salt. Especially in the northern island of Hokkaido.
I buy vinyl records from Japan. Some are 50+ years old and they look and play like new. I’m not surprised their vehicle auctions are similar. Cool car, btw.
We imported a Mazda Bongo 10 years ago, 102.000 kilometers, been all over Europe and UK in it, serviced regularly, only had a couple of minor issues with it. Actually sold it for nearly what we paid for it in June even though added 65 kilometres to it, it was very cheap motoring and had lot's of fun in it.
I have no intention of importing a car from Japan, but I enjoyed this video - particularly the tire surprise!. Import a Mazda RX-7, a Mitsubishi FTO or a MR2 Turbo next.
I am not even living in the the UK but I learnt many things from this amazing video. I was smiling and happy to see Mat's reactions throughout this entire video. Such an amazing guy with another amazing video. Thank you so much mat for posting this type of video.
Love a Kei car. Good to see the process. I always sort of knew, but good for it to be confirmed. It looks great. Last Kei i went in was the honda beat back in the early 90's
Living in India… I HATE THIS VIDEO! Just out of sheer jealousy that it is so easy to import such cars. So much red tape here, it’s nearly impossible to do the same here. 😢 But super happy for you.
You can still import but the duties will be just mind boggling. CIF value over $40,000: The car is subject to a 100% customs tax. CIF value under $40,000: The car is subject to a 60% import duty. Used car: The car is subject to a 125% import tax. I’m from India too but I lived in Cayman Islands for nearly 8 years and bought some cars while I was there. Absolutely amazing cars at dirt cheap prices.
I had a 2010 Audi A6 2.8Fsi Avant Quattro imported into New Zealand in 2015. Best car ever. It had all the bells and whistles. Pure luxury. Cost 14K UK pounds.
I remember early days of your channel, you were in i car show in Spain or Germany and you didn't get to be close to a car and you said maybe someday. well I am glad for you Mat :)
Nice video and good information about the car. I got my imported Honda Acty from Japan this summer to Denmark. Im still happy with it. But I will not use in the winter time.
I have two suggestions for you Matt. One is a Mitsubishi Pajero Evo rally edition. Very cool car. Another is the 90s Mercedes E500. I saw another video of some absolutely mint E500s that are maintained like new in Japan. Watch Harry’s Garage review of this car. Epic.
Used My Car Import before, really good services. The challenge with imported cars are service and insurance. Most of the online systems have no idea what is your car's make and model. It would be great if Mat also make a video about that.
2 місяці тому+1
Excellent point. I had that problem here in the USA with a European market Mercedes-Benz. Owner's manual only available in German not in English.
My wife will only buy JDM. Her current car is a 2019 Honda Fit hybrid. It's quicker, more economical and better equipped than my 2022 2.0l Corolla Hybrid. The only drawback is availability of parts. However, it being a Honda means you don't need to buy parts very often.
FYI - The speedo can display mph and the legend is there to display MPH and all the fuel economy/usage does work in miles/per litre. I used a company near Bristol to convert it but they will need the car for a couple of hours to reprogram the speedo.
Matt, I think you can order the original fog light from Honda, and do all the wiring with the original wiring. The winer version of most Japanese cars have rear fog lights.
Instead of a Toyota century, maybe look at a crown instead, anywhere from 2016 to 2020, super comfortable and luxurious while going for a hybrid model gives you good mpg, while driving around in something very unique in the UK
I bought a Hilux Surf from Japan back in the early 2000's. Never had a clue what I was doing, lol, but it was highly modified. It was incredibly easy. The price was freight on board. They told me to contact a UK shipping company, and I was amazed that they knew exactly what to. They quoted me a price, I paid, and they did the rest. 6 weeks later it was in a yard in Southampton. I insured it on the chassis number. A mate drove me down, we went to a shed and showed them the paperwork I had. The guy grabbed a key off the rack, and two minutes later rolled up with the truck. I drove it back to Bristol. Went to the DVLA and got a reg number, got the plates, got an MOT, and got it taxed. Then rang the insurance to let them know the reg number. Job done. At that time the Surf was about £3k and shipping £600.
@@michaelslattery9923 why are you comparing him to Clarkson? Just because he's a fun car guy doesn't mean that he's trying to be someone else or isn't being himself.
Hey Mat, I lived in Japan for 5 years and am now based in London and the Cotswolds. I import cars personally from Japan as a hobby, and am always happy to have a chat and give you some ideas if you are interested. Andy
The engineer that performed the M.O.T. it´s a fine example of what a professional standards checker should be, really outstanding, i bet it´s a lifetime car lover!
Great post Mat, I hope your gonna up the BHP, I`d love to see what a decent tune/remap could squeeze out of that wee thing (dare I mention engine swap)!! Keep em coming mate, love it!
Such videos are much MORE exciting and interesting than reviewing a 2 million $ or 300k$ vehicle which you need to be an engineer to appreciate the differences and a billionaire to be able to afford or just not count money. More please ! Thank you!
The plastic pretend "Cobra" you mean, seen them with Pinto engines in even, but always 427 badges and all the rest, all a bit sad really, why not just be proud of what it is and not pretend?
Hey @Mat Watson, loved the video. Thanks for sharing. I worked in Dubai, where I bought a 2003 Merc S600L (47000km!) imported from Japan. The laws were different - I basically took it off the boat, through the importer, pits, rego, and onroad. Paid AED19000 in 2017 for that and it was the best car, value for money, ride, power, quality I had ever done, and it was perfect! I still had to service it and after about 20000km do the air springs service, but it was worth it, and a blast to drive. Based on that, I would suggest that the 2008-10 model S600, with the twin turbo would be my next suggestion... however, a gas guzzler shouldn't be something you take into the UK. FFwd to 2024, how about a S400h - that could be a great option!
What a smart little car, never seen one before and I’m gutted they didn’t make them for the UK as it’s probably one of the best looking and reliable 2 seaters you could get……however I could be wrong lol
I moved from Australia to NZ and they had awesome cars on the road there because they bring them in used from Japan by the boat load, or they did when I was there. I really want to buy a BA or BF Falcon XR6 from Australia or NZ to UK though. So rare here.
@@adamlee3772 Yeah, great cars they are, but honestly, save a bit more and go for an FG MKII. They are reliable, good-looking, have no gearbox issues ( unlike the first FG ), and are just a good cruiser. Or, if you want some speed, get a turbo and do little mods, and you can get 300kw Easily compared to 270 stock.
@@Beau-x3f problem with a turbo is the insurance in U.K. But I have thought about it. I’m considering the BA or BF as I love the look of them over the FG. Plus over 20 years old and you don’t need to worry about converting the speedo to stupid MPH. Little things like that. The gearbox I’m hoping for is manual so not as troublesome as the autos in the BA or BF I understand but I think the BF has the improved auto gearbox anyway, though I may be wrong.
@@adamlee3772 Ofc whatever floats your boat, I prefer the FG to the BA-BF but you think the opposite which is completely fine. And yes you are right the BA is fitted with a pathetic 4 speed which is sluggish, but the BF is introduced with the ZF 6 Speed which is the gearbox u should get if u pick an auto. Good luck hunting for one.
@ thanks mate. I do like the FG as well but there’s a couple of practical things to think about. Perhaps in another four or five years though. So you just narrowed it down for me there. BA only as a manual or BF as auto or manual. Time to get shopping.
Mat, I am on the same journey. A petroleum Volvo XC70 to replace my Diesel. Paperwork went to DVLA w/e 08 July. Response dated 02 August confirmed allocation of registration number OX08***. Response stated that number plates would have to wait for the V5C. The V5C which arrived a weeks later was for a Volkswagen. Speechless! The DVLA seemed to go into CYA mode without checking the paperwork that they had messed up. The car was finally available for use w/e 15 September and I collected it on Monday 16th. I hope you don’t have this type of problem - HOWEVER the tale is not yet over - DVLA have left a digit out of the VIN, heaven knows how long it will take to get the missing 7 inserted and yet another V5C issued.
I lived in Japan in the 90s and imported my Eunos. It cost £1000 to import, and all I had to do was put a restrictor on the fuel filler for UK pumps and rear fog light.
That's where my S660 was prepared and IVA'd last year. They did a great job. If you want to up the performance, TPW Engineering did a remap on mine and lifted the power to 75hp. I think mine was the first remap of an S660 in the UK. Made a big difference.
Dang.. that is one nice little convertible! Ofc 64HPS is...well ehh. But still a very very nice summer cruiser to take around town. Total shipping cost was super low doing it through the site that ships tons of cars at once and surprised me. Fun to have a car that is not for sale in europe that is right hand drive for you UK'ers. Not as cool for us on the left side as there is a TON of hassle getting these cars approved for anything at all.
Fascinating video. The car's a gem, should be fun but not harm your licence. Another import - yes, a Century. Should be the perfect family car with real comfort and pretty rare.
Nice video, and very detailed. I brought my own Beat to the UK over 20 years ago. As i owned it in Japan, and it was over 10 years old, and I handled the deregistration and shipping, there was no SVA or VAT. I picked it up from Southampton with a trailer, took it straight to an mot station. Failed on fog lamp and an iffy tyre, got that fixed next day (and picked up a reg number at Poole that day), and was straight out on the road a little over 24 hours from landing. Cost about £400 all in. I think the prices you paid were pretty good value tbh.
Mat should wrap it in the pink yanni did on his audighini, the difference between Japan and the UK, in Japan their out to help each other, in the UK everyones out robbing each other, import a mitsubishi lancer Evo 5/6
Here in mainland Europe I have seen a few Japanese imports that are LHD. 😮 Apparently the quality of used Japanese cars is so good that it’s worth it to import some European modern classics.
yeah. japanese don't flog their goods. They take care of them. i hear that if you buy anything second hand from japan, from gameboys, luxury bags to cars, they're pretty much going to be in as-new and pristine condition.
Loved the video. That little car looks great. Why not go for a Honda N Box next. We saw loads of them last time we were over in Japan. They just look like so much fun!
Brilliant Mat! I have been toying the idea of importing a Toyota Yaris GR RS- 1.5 litre auto version. I have owned a GR Yaris and find that one very intriguing.
Matt I bought a Pajero from the So’ton Docks via a friendly dealer about 18 years ago. It was £2399 from memory and UK Road legal. We simply had to re-register it which we did after getting home on dealer plates. The world has changed a bit but I still think getting an import is an enticing prospect.
Hi Mat u should get 1. Autozam 2. Nissan Stagea with a R34 Face 3. Jacky Chan/ Thundercop Evo 4. Honda CBX 1000 5. Liberty Walk Kit for your Honda S660
would love to see you import a J50 Land Cruiser, late model like 1979 or 78. Now that's something you will not see a lot in the UK, or anywhere for that matter.
This little cute looking 660cc sports car is fun to drive and eye catching machine. Its a rear wheel so, fun is all there to enjoy 😊. Get it tuned and enjoy even fast acceleration and 200kph speed
@ 8'50+, glad you like Yokohama, the Subaru Forester I had a few years back was fitted with their Geolander tyres and were so bad, I binned the front ones after 8k miles, less than half-worn. They had zero front end grip on vaguely damp roads and washed out on the slightest bend. After some research, I fitted Vredesteins, a little known brand here in the UK, but so much better than the Yokos and they did 22k miles without any problems. Usual disclaimers about makes of tyres, just an honest appraisal of my experience.
i have never heard of a japan import that wasn't in absolutely mint condition. they seem to care so much more for their car than the rest of the world.
I drive a VW imported from Japan. Dials were ordered from lockwoods and really easy to change. Using software to convert the radio and other bits and bobs was straightforward. Load of companies online to verify the history plus stickers everywhere to prove it was well looked after. Definitely the way to go!!
@@corinful I struggled with the satnav but it is doable. For VW plenty of guidance online, not sure about BM. In the end as I wanted android auto I replaced it with a more capable OEM unit which I unlocked. But the unit I converted worked fine in the UK, everything except the TV tuner!
You can also get 3rd party boxes which use the screen in the car for lots of models, an alternative option. Or oem lookalike android jobbies. I wanted it as original as possible hence buying OEM stereo with android auto
Great detail on what is required pass the variety of tests /standards in the U.K to make a car road worthy. That fog light requirement blows my mind. In Japan we normally fail the Inspection "Shaken" test due to headlight aim. Then we run across the street to the adjustment shop, pay about Y3,000, then run back and pass the inspection in the same day. For the S660 and similar "Kei" cars, we replace the ECM/ECU to boost BHP to close to 100BHP. And the smarter folks in Japan request a "White" license plate for the Kei vehicle so we can speed on the highway without sticking out with the standard "Yellow" license plate.
If you want to import a car from Japan check out Autocom Japan here: bit.ly/autocom_japan_inc
Okay
Tysm
Why was it taken down a while ago and re-uploaded now?
Congrats Mat
She's a beauty and sure to give you miles of fun
This series has been one of my favourite so far!
import Autozam AZ-1 from japan
Dear Mat, enjoy your Japanese 660cc car. Looking forward to seeing you again in Japan.
I will come and check you guys out when I'm in Japan! Always wanted an import
I bought a car from you in June, expecting it to arrive this week in Mozambique. I'm super excited.
totally the best i bought my mazda cx 5 with good condition on January
Do you ship to South africa 🇿🇦?
@@shingitha I don't think they allow imports in SA ,
I drive an S660 Bruno Leather Edition, and let me tell you, it's the best car I've ever owned. I've had a few rides in my time, but this one? Pure perfection. It's a mid-engine setup in Japan’s kei car category, with staggered tires and brakes that bite hard. The handling? Absolutely spot on. The small body makes every drive a blast, like you're tearing through the streets in a go-kart. Plus, the roof's removable, and the fuel economy is killer. Honestly, if I had to nitpick, the engine sound could be beefier, but other than that, it's the ultimate companion. You all should think about importing one for yourselves!
CAN YOU SUPERCHARGE IT
@@tanghhoyou can supercharge any car, some will just be easier to do than others.
Did the same a few years back. Imported a Honda Preulde using a company like this and saved more than £15k on the deal after all of the UK conversions etc... Ran it perfectly for about 7-8 years with no issues. Only sold it as I had a mid-life crisis and needed more horse power.
What car did you get to satisfy your needs?
I guessing you mean £1500 as a Honda Prelude is not even close to £15k if you buy one
@@rubyyousaf8965 you haven't comprehend what the original commenter posted.
@@rubyyousaf8965He clearly said he bought it years ago and ran it for 8 years...
Oh boy, a Dutch children's TV show used a Prelude.
I shortly owned a Mazda 323F 1.8 with floffy headlamps which glorious, apart from being totally run down.
I wouldn't mind spending 20-fold or 50-fold what I spend on that one for a mint version.
NISSAN NOTE EPOWER. You'll never regret it. The fuel consumption on that car is on another level.
This is a Mini nsx.
So cool
god i want a car like this here. without the restrictions we could put a slightly bigger engine in a sports version with like 100-150 hp and boom. pocket rocket
@@Mr.MarblesSay a Honda CBR1000RR engine perhaps 😁
It's worth noting that the IVA test is not required for cars over 10 years old. So things like E markings on tyres and speedo conversion is not required for the standard MOT.
Just out of curiosity I have a vehicle that have just arrived, I have been informed that the IVA will take about 3 months to complete unfortunately because of the waiting list and the fact that the paperwork is just ridiculous so disappointing that i won’t get my vehicle because Christmas
@@barrygoh5840contact us at my car import. That’s what we do 😊
@GavinHeward-p5i Gavin, so you are the mechanic in the video? I want to import a car from Japan. How to use your great service?
Brilliant video. Have enquired about buying a Honda S660 previously but from a UK specialist importer. Was working out very expensive. This was vey educational and well edited also.
How much was the car gonna be
Can’t remember as it was pre-pandemic! But high teens,almost £20k which did not seem worth it for a tiddly car! (Torque GT) I have owned and run a Daihatsu Copen kei car previously for 6 years & 100,000 miles. Was brilliant fun. Cost just over £10k bought new from a UK Daihatsu dealer.
@@markymarkreviewsSame problem which I experienced when I wanted to import a S660 to the cayman islands nothing below 15000 USD. I ended up buying a 2015 Subaru BRZ automatic with a bit of aftermarket stuff on it and it was totally worth it 10k for the car with shipping and insurance.
It’s a smart choice to buy cars from Japan, they maintain their cars very well.
It’s a myth that Japan doesn’t use salt on their roads. It’s true for the south of the country but in the north they use lots of salt. Especially in the northern island of Hokkaido.
There's also road salt in western japan where I live.
I don't know why but I don't notice any corrosion on any of my vehicles.
He didn't say that they don't salt the road's. He says they use less 😊
Well, since the cars are driven for few years in Japan before export, the corrosion doesn't have time to get bad.
@andrewkibedi1484 he said they don't salt their roads.
The Japanese always do things a million times better than everyone else
True story
that's true
Part from as they just said the car will rust to crap cause they don’t bother putting covers under car 😂
They also exaggerate as much
Not true. Is just the UK that does everything wrong. Any other countries do what is normal, what Japan does aswell.
I buy vinyl records from Japan. Some are 50+ years old and they look and play like new. I’m not surprised their vehicle auctions are similar. Cool car, btw.
this S660 does not need doors, just jump in and jump out as Mat did at the first second of the video. Btw, very clean car!
He lives in uk
@@shiraishi1 I think I know that as I was next to him in some parts.
We imported a Mazda Bongo 10 years ago, 102.000 kilometers, been all over Europe and UK in it, serviced regularly, only had a couple of minor issues with it. Actually sold it for nearly what we paid for it in June even though added 65 kilometres to it, it was very cheap motoring and had lot's of fun in it.
I love how Autocom Japan guy been using the monitor with their logo sticker slapped over the apple.
😂
Yeah I mean doing that is groundbreaking , you sound very easily pleased . 🙄
It's always correct to cover that cult's logo.
I’ve never seen one ! Love it !! The guys in the video seemed really helpful 👌
I have no intention of importing a car from Japan, but I enjoyed this video - particularly the tire surprise!. Import a Mazda RX-7, a Mitsubishi FTO or a MR2 Turbo next.
20:42 dude really set up a second camera so we can see him from more than one perspective. W
I am not even living in the the UK but I learnt many things from this amazing video. I was smiling and happy to see Mat's reactions throughout this entire video. Such an amazing guy with another amazing video.
Thank you so much mat for posting this type of video.
Love a Kei car. Good to see the process. I always sort of knew, but good for it to be confirmed. It looks great. Last Kei i went in was the honda beat back in the early 90's
日本でS660を乗っています。ずっとこの車のレビューをしてほしかったのでとても嬉しいです！
次の動画も楽しみにしています。
Living in India… I HATE THIS VIDEO! Just out of sheer jealousy that it is so easy to import such cars. So much red tape here, it’s nearly impossible to do the same here. 😢 But super happy for you.
You can still import but the duties will be just mind boggling.
CIF value over $40,000: The car is subject to a 100% customs tax.
CIF value under $40,000: The car is subject to a 60% import duty.
Used car: The car is subject to a 125% import tax.
I’m from India too but I lived in Cayman Islands for nearly 8 years and bought some cars while I was there. Absolutely amazing cars at dirt cheap prices.
Focus on building a public toilet and hygienic awareness first. Ok?
oOoOO.... that is raww!!!...@@viruskiller03
just eat curry mate
@@prash21in the stainless steel train toilets, they dump in the corner across from the toilet, priceless 😂
Import a Nissan Z
Really enjoyed Gavin's explanations, clear and informative
Love the integrity, and attention to detail of the Japanese. Just awesome.
And Gavin the mechanic is a top player.
Thank you ❤❤
I had a 2010 Audi A6 2.8Fsi Avant Quattro imported into New Zealand in 2015. Best car ever. It had all the bells and whistles. Pure luxury. Cost 14K UK pounds.
The best car video on UA-cam so far. Very informative. I learned a lot
I remember early days of your channel, you were in i car show in Spain or Germany and you didn't get to be close to a car and you said maybe someday. well I am glad for you Mat :)
Nice video and good information about the car. I got my imported Honda Acty from Japan this summer to Denmark. Im still happy with it. But I will not use in the winter time.
in Japan, they change only oil without a filter at about 2.5-3k km and then they change oil and filter togather at about 5-6k km
Gav seems a cool guy. Straight to the point and knows his stuff
I have always wanted an S660, now I want one even more!!
dreams come true, man. pre-owned car in UK is sooo affordable. I'm from Kazakhstan and I'm just crying about it
12:35 Gav knows his electrical stuff! That electric wire clamper... is a special one that clamps the wire on 4 spots... and they are around 100€!!!
Are you joking?? It has a Voilamart label, just German brand china import wire clamper. I have one just like that for £10-15???
@@michaeltue3176 I meant the genuine one...
Another great video. Love the enthusiasm. Fascinated by all the little changes that needed to be made.
I have two suggestions for you Matt. One is a Mitsubishi Pajero Evo rally edition. Very cool car. Another is the 90s Mercedes E500. I saw another video of some absolutely mint E500s that are maintained like new in Japan. Watch Harry’s Garage review of this car. Epic.
Or the Pajero Mini 660cc 'off roader'! There might even have been a Ralliart version...
@@GlenMcCabe wow, that sounds awesome. Going to google that right now
Used My Car Import before, really good services. The challenge with imported cars are service and insurance. Most of the online systems have no idea what is your car's make and model. It would be great if Mat also make a video about that.
Excellent point. I had that problem here in the USA with a European market Mercedes-Benz. Owner's manual only available in German not in English.
So many cool cars behind you. The Cobras and Zenos
My wife will only buy JDM. Her current car is a 2019 Honda Fit hybrid. It's quicker, more economical and better equipped than my 2022 2.0l Corolla Hybrid. The only drawback is availability of parts. However, it being a Honda means you don't need to buy parts very often.
FYI - The speedo can display mph and the legend is there to display MPH and all the fuel economy/usage does work in miles/per litre.
I used a company near Bristol to convert it but they will need the car for a couple of hours to reprogram the speedo.
Hi pal would you mind sharing details of that company please? Thanks
@donmonster1888 kmh-mph .Co. uk...but they need the car for 2 hours or the clocks at least.
Yeh what is this company please?
Matt, I think you can order the original fog light from Honda, and do all the wiring with the original wiring. The winer version of most Japanese cars have rear fog lights.
Instead of a Toyota century, maybe look at a crown instead, anywhere from 2016 to 2020, super comfortable and luxurious while going for a hybrid model gives you good mpg, while driving around in something very unique in the UK
i believe he wants it for the V12 engine 😀
More for classic looks for as well
I bought a Hilux Surf from Japan back in the early 2000's. Never had a clue what I was doing, lol, but it was highly modified. It was incredibly easy. The price was freight on board. They told me to contact a UK shipping company, and I was amazed that they knew exactly what to. They quoted me a price, I paid, and they did the rest. 6 weeks later it was in a yard in Southampton. I insured it on the chassis number. A mate drove me down, we went to a shed and showed them the paperwork I had. The guy grabbed a key off the rack, and two minutes later rolled up with the truck. I drove it back to Bristol. Went to the DVLA and got a reg number, got the plates, got an MOT, and got it taxed. Then rang the insurance to let them know the reg number. Job done. At that time the Surf was about £3k and shipping £600.
It's time for you to bring in the Skyline R34, Mat! Would love to see your take on this JDM legend-0-60, drag races, all the classic Mat tests!
R34s are overrated
Not another R34 on youtube...
enough boring youtubers have an r34 now, and the prices are all stupid
We have found the 15 year old guys 😂
@@Terrencetulani 🤣
Got to admire the Japanese precision and honesty. 😊
A gorgeous thing like that, could NEVER be a mistake. It's fantastic
The energy you put into all your work is next level.
He’s too busy trying to be Clarkson but he’s nowhere near as funny
@@michaelslattery9923 stop replying to bots you clown
33 people liked a bot 😂
@@samuelgarrod8327 The bots also have like bots.
@@michaelslattery9923 why are you comparing him to Clarkson? Just because he's a fun car guy doesn't mean that he's trying to be someone else or isn't being himself.
Really enjoyed this video. You already have me browsing the website. 👍🏾
Hey Mat, I lived in Japan for 5 years and am now based in London and the Cotswolds. I import cars personally from Japan as a hobby, and am always happy to have a chat and give you some ideas if you are interested. Andy
What type of test is needed for a Volvo from Japan to the UK?
Hi. Im looking to import a car for personal use. Would love to have a chat. Message me if you see this 😊
The engineer that performed the M.O.T. it´s a fine example of what a professional standards checker should be, really outstanding, i bet it´s a lifetime car lover!
This was a very informative video mat🎉thank you for the heads up 😊⚡🙏
Gav is a legend and deserves to be in many more videos.
Toyota Century from JP would be great!
Mat great choice in choosing this Honda S600, now let's modding begin 😅😅
Keep up with great work
Matt, perhaps the best video you ever make. Enjoy.
Great post Mat, I hope your gonna up the BHP, I`d love to see what a decent tune/remap could squeeze out of that wee thing (dare I mention engine swap)!! Keep em coming mate, love it!
Such videos are much MORE exciting and interesting than reviewing a 2 million $ or 300k$ vehicle which you need to be an engineer to appreciate the differences and a billionaire to be able to afford or just not count money.
More please ! Thank you!
One of the most honest people in the world
The Cobra at 10:30 just stands there, menacingly..
The plastic pretend "Cobra" you mean, seen them with Pinto engines in even, but always 427 badges and all the rest, all a bit sad really, why not just be proud of what it is and not pretend?
Hey @Mat Watson, loved the video. Thanks for sharing. I worked in Dubai, where I bought a 2003 Merc S600L (47000km!) imported from Japan. The laws were different - I basically took it off the boat, through the importer, pits, rego, and onroad. Paid AED19000 in 2017 for that and it was the best car, value for money, ride, power, quality I had ever done, and it was perfect! I still had to service it and after about 20000km do the air springs service, but it was worth it, and a blast to drive. Based on that, I would suggest that the 2008-10 model S600, with the twin turbo would be my next suggestion... however, a gas guzzler shouldn't be something you take into the UK. FFwd to 2024, how about a S400h - that could be a great option!
We all import cars from Japan! Zimbabwe 🇿🇼
Honda fit kkkkkk chete chete
And you export white Zimbabweans🙄
Hey Matt, loved the video great fun and very informative. You've gotta get that Century next time!
Very educational and I really wanted the Honda.
What a smart little car, never seen one before and I’m gutted they didn’t make them for the UK as it’s probably one of the best looking and reliable 2 seaters you could get……however I could be wrong lol
Don’t worry mat here in Australia they cost 28k onwards, and that was the lowest price I saw with high K’s on it…. the highest price one was 42K!!
I moved from Australia to NZ and they had awesome cars on the road there because they bring them in used from Japan by the boat load, or they did when I was there. I really want to buy a BA or BF Falcon XR6 from Australia or NZ to UK though. So rare here.
@@adamlee3772 Yeah, great cars they are, but honestly, save a bit more and go for an FG MKII. They are reliable, good-looking, have no gearbox issues ( unlike the first FG ), and are just a good cruiser. Or, if you want some speed, get a turbo and do little mods, and you can get 300kw Easily compared to 270 stock.
@@Beau-x3f problem with a turbo is the insurance in U.K. But I have thought about it. I’m considering the BA or BF as I love the look of them over the FG. Plus over 20 years old and you don’t need to worry about converting the speedo to stupid MPH. Little things like that. The gearbox I’m hoping for is manual so not as troublesome as the autos in the BA or BF I understand but I think the BF has the improved auto gearbox anyway, though I may be wrong.
@@adamlee3772 Ofc whatever floats your boat, I prefer the FG to the BA-BF but you think the opposite which is completely fine. And yes you are right the BA is fitted with a pathetic 4 speed which is sluggish, but the BF is introduced with the ZF 6 Speed which is the gearbox u should get if u pick an auto. Good luck hunting for one.
@ thanks mate. I do like the FG as well but there’s a couple of practical things to think about. Perhaps in another four or five years though. So you just narrowed it down for me there. BA only as a manual or BF as auto or manual. Time to get shopping.
Mat, I am on the same journey. A petroleum Volvo XC70 to replace my Diesel. Paperwork went to DVLA w/e 08 July. Response dated 02 August confirmed allocation of registration number OX08***. Response stated that number plates would have to wait for the V5C. The V5C which arrived a weeks later was for a Volkswagen. Speechless! The DVLA seemed to go into CYA mode without checking the paperwork that they had messed up. The car was finally available for use w/e 15 September and I collected it on Monday 16th. I hope you don’t have this type of problem - HOWEVER the tale is not yet over - DVLA have left a digit out of the VIN, heaven knows how long it will take to get the missing 7 inserted and yet another V5C issued.
That S660 is cute
I lived in Japan in the 90s and imported my Eunos. It cost £1000 to import, and all I had to do was put a restrictor on the fuel filler for UK pumps and rear fog light.
That's where my S660 was prepared and IVA'd last year. They did a great job. If you want to up the performance, TPW Engineering did a remap on mine and lifted the power to 75hp. I think mine was the first remap of an S660 in the UK. Made a big difference.
Gonna do the turbo upgrade for 100hp
@@MatWatsonCars going big!
Dang.. that is one nice little convertible! Ofc 64HPS is...well ehh. But still a very very nice summer cruiser to take around town. Total shipping cost was super low doing it through the site that ships tons of cars at once and surprised me. Fun to have a car that is not for sale in europe that is right hand drive for you UK'ers. Not as cool for us on the left side as there is a TON of hassle getting these cars approved for anything at all.
Fascinating video. The car's a gem, should be fun but not harm your licence. Another import - yes, a Century. Should be the perfect family car with real comfort and pretty rare.
Nice video, and very detailed. I brought my own Beat to the UK over 20 years ago. As i owned it in Japan, and it was over 10 years old, and I handled the deregistration and shipping, there was no SVA or VAT. I picked it up from Southampton with a trailer, took it straight to an mot station. Failed on fog lamp and an iffy tyre, got that fixed next day (and picked up a reg number at Poole that day), and was straight out on the road a little over 24 hours from landing. Cost about £400 all in. I think the prices you paid were pretty good value tbh.
Mat should wrap it in the pink yanni did on his audighini, the difference between Japan and the UK, in Japan their out to help each other, in the UK everyones out robbing each other, import a mitsubishi lancer Evo 5/6
S660's are really fun - just rented one in Japan and this video does me no favours in wanting one! Remember the lil rear view boost window.
Here in mainland Europe I have seen a few Japanese imports that are LHD. 😮 Apparently the quality of used Japanese cars is so good that it’s worth it to import some European modern classics.
Absolutely! Many older European cars in Japan can also be LHD. It is too bad they bale cars at around 10 years old...
yeah. japanese don't flog their goods. They take care of them. i hear that if you buy anything second hand from japan, from gameboys, luxury bags to cars, they're pretty much going to be in as-new and pristine condition.
Loved the video. That little car looks great. Why not go for a Honda N Box next. We saw loads of them last time we were over in Japan. They just look like so much fun!
Great video, great car. Really enjoy Matts presenting style and trust his opinion all things motoring. Something luxurious as the next import please!
Where is the launch?
Brilliant Mat!
I have been toying the idea of importing a Toyota Yaris GR RS- 1.5 litre auto version. I have owned a GR Yaris and find that one very intriguing.
日本でS660に乗ってます。
S660、イギリスに届いたんですね。おめでとうございます。
現地の法規に合わせるのにバックフォグの取り付けなどもされて色々大変そう。
各種オーディオ周りも全て日本語なので大変だと思いますが頑張って下さい（笑）
perfect collaboration on importing my cars to cyprus. japan is the most reliable and easy market worldwide concerning cars
Please mat would you drag race your Jimny and s660 we would love to see it please
great idea
One of the best videos..quite informative 👏
Matt I bought a Pajero from the So’ton Docks via a friendly dealer about 18 years ago. It was £2399 from memory and UK Road legal. We simply had to re-register it which we did after getting home on dealer plates. The world has changed a bit but I still think getting an import is an enticing prospect.
Marvellous and excellently presented. Importing is worth it. Thanks Mat
22:17 Kenya 💪🏽💪🏽
Kenya is a main market...
Hi Mat u should get
1. Autozam
2. Nissan Stagea with a R34 Face
3. Jacky Chan/ Thundercop Evo
4. Honda CBX 1000
5. Liberty Walk Kit for your Honda S660
in 21:50 how did you film that angle, did you have a cameraman in japan?
Finally someone made a video I wanted to watch for ages.
Enjoy "esuroku" life.
I've droven N-ONE for 11 years in Japan, a sister of S660.
around 100hp is comfortable
would love to see you import a J50 Land Cruiser, late model like 1979 or 78. Now that's something you will not see a lot in the UK, or anywhere for that matter.
This little cute looking 660cc sports car is fun to drive and eye catching machine. Its a rear wheel so, fun is all there to enjoy 😊. Get it tuned and enjoy even fast acceleration and 200kph speed
what in the chatgpt is this
I’ve owned 2 imported Japanese cars .
The only problem was insurance being slightly tricky .
Apart from that , brilliant.
I wish we could have this in US but big auto says no and their servant politicians bowed. The land of the free. 😂
Home of the enslaved
@ 8'50+, glad you like Yokohama, the Subaru Forester I had a few years back was fitted with their Geolander tyres and were so bad, I binned the front ones after 8k miles, less than half-worn. They had zero front end grip on vaguely damp roads and washed out on the slightest bend. After some research, I fitted Vredesteins, a little known brand here in the UK, but so much better than the Yokos and they did 22k miles without any problems. Usual disclaimers about makes of tyres, just an honest appraisal of my experience.
i have never heard of a japan import that wasn't in absolutely mint condition. they seem to care so much more for their car than the rest of the world.
This Honda S660 is a gem 😍 looking forward to see the other video on the S660 - tearing down the streets (in UK) 😊
Omg @10:10 Cobras in the back
I drive a VW imported from Japan. Dials were ordered from lockwoods and really easy to change. Using software to convert the radio and other bits and bobs was straightforward. Load of companies online to verify the history plus stickers everywhere to prove it was well looked after. Definitely the way to go!!
How did you go on with the Sat Nav ?
I've imported a 3 series's but the maps are in Japanese
@@corinful I struggled with the satnav but it is doable. For VW plenty of guidance online, not sure about BM. In the end as I wanted android auto I replaced it with a more capable OEM unit which I unlocked. But the unit I converted worked fine in the UK, everything except the TV tuner!
You can also get 3rd party boxes which use the screen in the car for lots of models, an alternative option. Or oem lookalike android jobbies. I wanted it as original as possible hence buying OEM stereo with android auto
Automatic, is not a car for enthusiasts.
Different strokes for different folks. Your car only has to suit you, mate. 🙄🫠
Great detail on what is required pass the variety of tests /standards in the U.K to make a car road worthy.
That fog light requirement blows my mind.
In Japan we normally fail the Inspection "Shaken" test due to headlight aim. Then we run across the street to the adjustment shop, pay about Y3,000, then run back and pass the inspection in the same day.
For the S660 and similar "Kei" cars, we replace the ECM/ECU to boost BHP to close to 100BHP.
And the smarter folks in Japan request a "White" license plate for the Kei vehicle so we can speed on the highway without sticking out with the standard "Yellow" license plate.
IS THE TITLE I NTENTTIONAL?😂😂😂
IVA isn’t solely for imported vehicles, also require Ivas if you’re turning a normal van into a passenger vehicle for example