I'm young, but I need space in my car.

Hello. I'm looking to buy my first car (21 y/o) but I need space in the boot. I don't want to go down the van route unless I really have to. I've been thinking of getting an estate, more specifically a Subaru Legacy outback (the 1999/2000 model). As a 21 y/o it's going to be expensive to insure and tax. I have a few questions regarding running this car cheaper. I am registered as self employed; can I insure this as a business vehicle (something I need for my job?). Will removing the seats/seatbelts/etc. from the back and converting it into a commercial make a difference? I've also heard about people talking about a 'goods vehicle'? Will these above points affect just my tax or insurance or both? Lastly, what would be involved with buying the car in the UK if I did? I've tried googling and going through forums but I can't find any solid answers.

25.07.2016

Our answer:

Hi Blaine,

I think in terms of insurance there’s not much you can do. Converting the car to a commercial will help to reduce VRT and motor tax costs, but insurance is basically a brick-wall in Ireland and at just 21 you’re going to find it very hard to get around it. Basically, any car with an engine larger than 1.0-litre is going to be cripplingly expensive to insure.

As for bringing in the car from the UK, it’s relatively simple. Once you’ve found it, bought it and brought it here, you have seven days to book an appointment at your local NCT centre. Once there it will be inspected and evaluated for VRT purposes and you’ll have 30 days to pay that.

Answered by Shane O'Donoghue
29.07.2016

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