Importing a Lamborghini Diablo to the USA: What It Really Costs
A V12 wedge of pure 1990s excess that defined the supercar bedroom poster.
By Sofia Berg, Customs & compliance writer · 7 min read
The Diablo carried Lamborghini's V12 into the modern era with dramatic styling and huge presence.
European cars may differ in lighting and emissions spec from US-market versions.
The full cost breakdown
Plug in your own purchase figure — everything below the vehicle scales only modestly with value. All amounts are researched 2026 estimates in USD.
| Vehicle (purchase price) | $280,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $4,200 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $7,000 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $297,730 |
Compliance & the fine print
A Diablo aged 25 years or more is exempt from federal conformity under the 25-year rule. Given high values, verify the VIN, history, and matching numbers thoroughly.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Diablo be imported under the 25-year rule?+
Yes, any example 25 or more years old qualifies for the exemption.
Is there VAT due on entry?+
No, the US has no VAT; the cost is the 2.5% duty plus shipping.
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