For car enthusiasts, looking to the continent in order to find their perfect car can be an expensive business.

Imported cars are often specified to meet regulations in their country of origin, but these little differences can often lead to difficulties when used on the roads in the UK.

However there are two classifications which can help to determine usability in the UK. The two main types of import cars are grey imports and parallel imports. Both of which can lead to differences when looking for a car insurance quote.

Grey imports are usually vehicles which have been built outside of the EU - such as Japan and the United States - with Japan being the most popular choice for import buyers.

Through this chain, enthusiasts are able to purchase cars that are of a higher specification as compared to a UK model or are not available in the UK at all.

However, the process of buying, importing and finding suitable car insurance can be costly. Differences in technical regulations mean that buyers will have to shell out more to get the vehicle modified and tested through the Single Vehicle Approval (SVA) scheme to ensure they meet environmental and safety regulations within the UK.

Repairs can also be expensive for owners of grey import vehicles, services can prove trickier due to differences in parts and specifications. Some dealers may offer parts and servicing, but it's always best to double check before committing to a sale.

Parallel imports are vehicles that have been purchased from within the EU, but still retain the specifications of the UK models - such as right-hand drive and safety checks.

All cars sold within Europe have to meet the same minimum standards for areas such as emissions and protection. Some features may be optional on some vehicles - such as sunroofs and interior trims - which would usually be included in the UK model, however some buyers will be happy to accept these minor differences if the price suits them.

It is advisable to check vehicle specifications and warranties when purchasing a vehicle from abroad, as this information can be vital when searching for a motor insurance quote.

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