Mike in Manila... cars and wheels

I'm amazed at the number of imports from the grey market of higher end cars in metro Manila.

Value for money is supposed to be good- but- there is the idea that with gas prices rising the way they are the costs of upkeep on high end grey arket cars must be skyrocketing.

But then - if you can afford the cars - gas prices must be the least of you worries.

Higher end imports have come in under new liberalized tax rates that put a flat 500,000 tax on imported cars and trucks- which actually is improving the market of cars that before were taxed at up to 300% of the sticker price.

Ok ten million pesos for a Porshe is out of my league or seven million for a high end BMW but still if you've got the money and a feeling of wanting to flaunt it. Get the number from the picture and enjoy life a little!