The purpose of this worksheet is to turn a broad model-name search into a decision that can be checked, quoted and handed over without silently changing assumptions.
Start with legal identity
Registration and conformity documents must match the badge and model accepted at the destination. A shared design history does not allow one name to replace another on customs or registration paperwork.
Record: Save the source, capture date and VIN reference beside this finding so another candidate cannot inherit it by mistake.
Compare market specifications
Measure body, engine, output, transmission, emissions, tyres and equipment using the correct official source and candidate file. Similar appearance can hide different homologation or trim content.
Record: Enter the verified value and the evidence owner. If the seller supplied the answer, label it seller-stated until independently checked.
Check parts cross-references
A part that looks identical may have a different number, calibration or connector. Ask suppliers to cross-reference by VIN and component code and confirm return terms before ordering a service pack.
Record: Record what was inspected, what remained inaccessible and who performed the check; silence is an open item, not a pass.
Evaluate service coverage
Dealer and independent support vary by country. Identify who can diagnose the engine, transmission, immobilizer and electronics and whether technical information is available for the exact badge.
Record: Note every destination assumption behind this conclusion and reopen it when the port, buyer country or registration route changes.
Inspect condition equally
Do not let a more familiar name receive a lighter inspection. Compare structural repair, mileage, maintenance, tyres, transmission behaviour and electrical functions under the same scope.
Record: Attach the supporting photograph, report page or document reference and preserve the original language where translation could alter meaning.
Choose delivered value
Combine candidate condition, parts plan, registration confidence, preparation and landed cost. The cheaper vehicle can be the worse choice if its identity or support creates unresolved expense.
Record: State the commercial consequence: accept, reject, reprice or request more evidence, together with the person responsible and deadline.
Close the note with a decision record
Write the selected candidate, rejected alternatives, evidence reviewed, unresolved questions, responsible person and next deadline. If another vehicle replaces the candidate, reopen identity, inspection, cost and destination checks. A copied conclusion is not valid for a different VIN.
- Start with legal identity: confirmed / open / not applicable
- Compare market specifications: confirmed / open / not applicable
- Check parts cross-references: confirmed / open / not applicable
- Evaluate service coverage: confirmed / open / not applicable
- Inspect condition equally: confirmed / open / not applicable
- Choose delivered value: confirmed / open / not applicable
Questions buyers should still ask
Start with legal identity: what should the buyer retain?
Retain the dated document, image or test result that closes “Start with legal identity”, together with the VIN and the name of the person who supplied or checked it. A listing label alone is not sufficient evidence.
Compare market specifications: what should the buyer retain?
For “Compare market specifications”, write down what is verified and what remains an assumption. An open point may be acceptable, but it must stay visible in the price, inspection scope or handover conditions.
Check parts cross-references: what should the buyer retain?
Recheck “Check parts cross-references” if the vehicle, destination, route or responsible supplier changes. Conclusions belong to the candidate and dated evidence set; they should not be copied to a replacement VIN.