Originally Posted by
Guy Mayers
The biggest market is where they're built, in the UK obviously. And there's a huge market in Europe at the moment with registered cars that do come to the market being snapped up quickly irrespective of being right or left hand drive. I suspect that the imminent departure of the UK from the EU may be driving this as rule changes will be easier to implement without us which might make registration of self built vehicles harder/impossible. So, those that are available are getting bought for whatever price willing sellers ask with a premium on LHD obviously. Being self builds they aren't difficult to convert. LB I believe to be straight forward, later/current Hawks not so easy and older Hawks possible but compromised.
I believe that the import of completed cars into the US is complex with a date cut off after which a car has to meet emissions legislation. Older cars (25 years plus rings a bell with me) can be imported. So, what's critical to you is buying either a part built LHD kit or a RHD (convertable) part built LB or an older, properly registered, car (which is going to exclude LB) I think.
There are only a few originally built LHD cars in the UK and they're in long term ownership, it would have been a heart over head decision when ordering to go LHD in a RHD market so these cars are still in owner/builder hands and not likely to change hands. There are also a couple of converted LHD cars (mine being one) that fit the bill for age/correct registration but once again, these cars are owned by fanatical lunatics who are never going to sell. And I've been offered stupid money and won't part with it. It's family.
So, unless you're lucky enough to fall onto one of the few cars already in the USA I would strongly recommend getting a deposit down for a new kit with either LB or Hawk Cars (your choice - listen to all the voices on here before you make up your mind!). Unfortunately both companies have long waiting lists at the moment. A deposit will usually be refundable if you decide to back out should the right car turn up but if you're serious about ownership then NOW is the time to order. Keep an eye on this website in the meantime just in case the right one turns up!
Guy
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