I did a full revs check and everything before i bought the car and had it inspected. The car believe it or not is immaculate on the exterior and the interior. Couldnt find any damage even when we put it up on the hoist. Only thing was a few scrapes on the front lip. The previous owner is willing to give me a $1000 refund for the rear brakes. Personally i think the v-spec badge was just put on the boot from when it was imported back in 2003 and im guessing none of the past 2 previous owners ever knew it was a non v-spec. Im not complaining because the car drives like a dream, i just wish i knew it was a non v-spec when i bought it because i feel cheated now. And as far as the new front bar goes im guessing it was just replaced some time along the line.