Mazda Eunos Roadster Import Guide: Costs to Land a JDM Miata
The Japanese-market original of the world's favorite lightweight roadster, pure and unadorned.
The Eunos Roadster is the Japanese-domestic version of the first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Affordable and plentiful, these cars appeal to enthusiasts wanting an original right-hand-drive example.
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) | $12,000 |
| Export agent & auction fees | $1,200 |
| Ocean freight | $2,700 |
| Marine insurance (~1.5%) | $180 |
| The standard US passenger-car import duty is 2.5% of declared value | $300 |
| Customs broker & port handling | $830 |
| EPA / DOT entry & compliance paperwork | $300 |
| Inland transport & registration | $1,500 |
| Estimated all-in landed cost | $19,010 |
Compliance & the fine print
Eunos Roadster cars older than 25 years are DOT-exempt under the 25-year rule, with EPA exemption at 21 years. Build months span several years, so confirm eligibility for the specific chassis.
Frequently asked questions
How is the Eunos Roadster different from a US Miata?+
It is mechanically very similar but was sold in Japan with right-hand drive and some market-specific trim.
Are parts easy to find for the Eunos Roadster?+
Yes, it shares most parts with the globally popular MX-5, making maintenance straightforward.
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