Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about importing American classics
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about our import service, costs, deadlines, models and the purchasing process. Can't find your answer? Contact us directly: +351 924 964 671 or [email protected].
How long does it take to import a classic car from the USA to Portugal?
On average, 2.5 to 3 months between the initial click and delivery of the registered vehicle in Portugal. This is broken down into: 1-2 weeks for negotiation and paperwork in the USA, 4-6 weeks for shipping, 1-2 weeks for customs clearance and DAV, and 2-3 weeks for IPO inspection and Portuguese registration. When you buy a car already in stock at Autozilla, you pick it up the same day.
Do cars over 30 years old really have total tax exemption in Portugal?
Yes, they are exempt from ISV (Vehicle Tax) and benefit from reduced IUC (Single Circulation Tax). In 2026, any vehicle built before 1996 is eligible for this exemption, as long as it is more than 30 years old at the time of nationalization. This is the biggest tax advantage for classic car importers.
Can I see the car in person before I buy it?
Yes, all the vehicles in stock are in Vila Nova de Gaia, already nationalized in Portugal, with Portuguese plates issued and IPO approved. Prior booking recommended (WhatsApp +351 924 964 671) to ensure availability of the vehicle you wish to inspect.
Do you accept resellers and professionals (B2B)?
Yes. Autozilla specializes in B2B for resellers and professionals in the European market. We accept intra-community TINs from Portugal, Spain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and other EU member states. Registration via /dealer/registo/ with automatic validation via the European Commission's VIES database in seconds. Access dedicated resale prices.
Which American models are the most popular in Portugal?
The most sought-after are the Ford Mustang (Coupé and Convertible 1965-1967), the Chevrolet Camaro 1967-1969, the Dodge Charger 1968-1970, the Chevrolet Corvette (all generations), and classics such as the Pontiac GTO and the Plymouth 'Cuda. Also in high demand: Willys Jeep, Ford Bronco classic, Cadillac Eldorado and Lincoln Continental.
How do I check that the car has no problems (VIN, title, history)?
Before any purchase, we carry out a professional check: VIN check on Carfax / AutoCheck, title validation (clean, no salvage), confirmation that the VIN on the chassis matches the one on the engine and documents, verification of liens. For high-value vehicles, we do an in-person mechanical inspection in the USA before payment.
What are the real costs of importing a Ford Mustang from the USA?
For a 1965-1967 Mustang Coupé with a V8 engine (purchase ~18,000 USD): the total nationalized in Portugal is between 21,000 and 23,500 €. This includes the purchase price in the USA, mechanical inspection, inland transportation to the port, shared 20" container to Leixões, insurance, brokerage, ISV/VAT exemption for +30 years, IUC, IPO import inspection and Portuguese registration. See the detailed guide on our blog.
Do you work with auctions like Bring a Trailer or Mecum?
Yes. Our American dealer's license gives us direct access to the main private auctions in the USA: Bring a Trailer, Mecum, Barrett-Jackson, RM Sotheby's, and specialized auto auctions. We also buy from dealers specializing in classics (mainly in California, Texas and Arizona) and from private individuals.
Can I order a specific car that is not in your current stock?
Yes, we offer a personalized import service. Tell us the model, year, exterior color, engine and budget available - we'll contact our network of American dealers and private individuals to find the ideal car. Transparent pricing: purchase cost + import costs + our margin (variable depending on the value of the car).
What guarantees do you offer on the vehicles you sell?
All vehicles sold by Autozilla come with: full Portuguese documentation (DUA, IPO, warranty book), documented history (VIN check, owner history available), approved IPO import inspection, first mechanical overhaul completed. For private individuals, we offer a legal guarantee of conformity. For B2B (dealers), warranty conditions are negotiated on a case-by-case basis.