Re: Forbidden Fruit

[Simon Favre <simon@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Please read the fine print. Yes, Sun International may be able to certify and
import the new Alfa of your dreams, BUT...

A direct quote from their web site regarding the Lotus Elise:

"Special vehicles, such as the Elise by sun International, that are small
volume, 
high performance, high visibility, but lacking a factory network of spare parts 
and service are not for everyone. Life in the US has become rather sanitized and 
too civilized. If you're looking for a special car - a driver's car, a car that 
your neighbor doesn't have, a car with entertainment value for all of your
senses 
that also has easy low cost insurance, nearby service / spare parts, bank 
financing and warranties for everything, then this car is - NOT FOR YOU. Nothing 
about these cars is "mainstream." These are "irresistibly cool cars" that need
imaginative solutions and realistic owners!"

They also point out:

"Lotus U. K. and Lotus USA are not involved in this program and have no 
obligation or responsibility for the importation, Certification, warranty or 
after sales support. The original manufacturer, Lotus, has not intended this 
vehicle for the US. Only Sun International has responsibility for vehicles which 
it Certifies to US standards."

To read the pros and cons of exotic "forbidden fruit" ownership, see:

http://www.suninternational-usa.com/elise1.html

They are located in Southern California. If you don't live near them, I would
not advise this. If you do, then you also have the CARB and Smog II to deal
with. ;=(

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