In a message dated 11/17/00 12:58:22 AM Pacific Standard Time,
andrew.grebneff@STONEBOW.OTAGO.AC.NZ writes:

<< So what if the RSA T3 doesn't meet US crash specs? (and I bet it's
 structurally identical). What right do the feds have to stop you importing
 one? Here you can import any car you want, including LHD. You may not be
 allowed to use it on public roads, but you can still bring it in and own
 it! >>

The US does allow import of ANY vehicle w/o crash testing if it's going back
out in a year or sooner or if it will be for exhibition purposes only which
may NOT be driven on public roads. Have you got a big enough estate?

I would think that crash results in a RHD vehicle w/ the larger side windows
would be slightly different from the US spec LHD Vanagons. Although
negligible, the larger glass area would necessitate changes to the frame
structure. The steering mechanicals on the opposite side of the vehicle will
be different in relation to the engine components etc. The only way to be
certain is via empirical evidence -- crash testing. There is no law that I am
aware of to prevent one from driving a RHD vehicle on public roads in the US.
They just don't want you manufacturing them that way.

BenT
San Francisco