Classic cars

How do you import a BMW E30 M3 or 2002 to the UK?

Both the BMW 2002 (1968 to 1976) and the E30 M3 (1986 to 1992) are now over 30 years old and no longer in production, so original cars can be imported at 0% duty and 5% import VAT as collector’s vehicles, and the 2002 can also go into the historic tax class, with no vehicle tax to pay once you apply. The E30 M3 was never built in right-hand drive, and on both cars the thing to check is whether the engine, brakes and suspension are still original.

Published 26 September 2026 · 6 min read

Importing a BMW E30 M3 or 2002? Get a free quote to import your BMW E30 M3 or 2002 →

1. Years and what they mean

Sources: the BMW 2002 Register buying guide and Hagerty UK on the E30 M3. Both can qualify as collector's vehicles at 0% duty and 5% import VAT under heading 9705 if they are original, as both models are over 30 years old and no longer in production. The 2002 can go into the historic tax class with nothing to pay, but you have to apply for it (GOV.UK). The E30 M3 was built after 1 January 1986, so it pays normal vehicle tax. The MOT is a separate rule: a car built or first registered more than 40 years ago with no substantial changes is exempt, with a V112 declaration instead, so every original 2002 qualifies and an E30 M3 needs an MOT until it passes 40.

2. The E30 M3: left-hand drive and track history

Hagerty UK states that BMW did not offer the E30 M3 in right-hand drive, and that only a tiny number were converted in period by Birds in the UK. So nearly every M3 you import will be left-hand drive, and a right-hand drive car is a conversion, which changes the steering. Many M3s were also used on track, and fresh paint can hide rust. An M3 that has been developed for the track, with changed suspension or engine, is not in original state and pays the normal rates.

3. The 2002: what "original" looks like

The BMW 2002 Register's guide lists the changes owners typically make: gearboxes from the later E21, Tii or E21 front brakes, rear disc conversions, and Weber carburettors replacing Tii fuel injection. It also notes that the twin-carburettor Ti was not a UK model. Auto Express adds that the 2002 Turbo was never built in right-hand drive (Auto Express). Brakes, engine and gearbox are all on the collector's checklist, so know what your car has.

4. Proving age and specification

The DVLA dates the car from the original foreign registration document, or a dating certificate if that is missing (GOV.UK). A dating certificate can also confirm how the car was built, and we obtain it for you. A dating letter usually costs from about £60 to £90 through an owners' club, or from about £120 to around £300 directly from the manufacturer. From Germany, expect registration certificates Part I and II and export plates; from the USA, the title rules of US Customs and Border Protection.