No jokes, no irony
There are several problems:
1) The steering wheel IS on the wrong side for driving here inthe DR.
2) The customs duties will be charged at new car value. If they tell you that the duty is only 30%, or 40%, you muct not believe them. They add on 10% Exchange surcharge, 2% import surcharge, and 12% VAT and anywhere between 10% and 80% Luxury tax, depending on the make and model. HAHA!!
3) The hassles you have to face to get your vehicle out of customs are enervating, frustrating, irritating and much, much more. Unlike anything you ever experienced.
4) The Honda Civics or Accords do not do well here. There are plent of them here but they seem to last far less than the Toyota Corollas and Camrys. By the way, a new Corolla that cost RD$380,000 pesos in February 2003, or about $17,000 at then current exchange rates is now selling for RD$950,000 or $22,600 at current exchange rates.
A final consideration is that public transportation is very inexpensive and safe. For the first few weeks or months you might want to look around and see if there is a big need for a vehicle, and also to see if an "opportunity" might pop up...and you get a really good deal on something that will fit your needs.
HB