I have heard some people say they prefer some years of the SAR-1 over other years. What is the difference between all the years of manufacture and why are some more desired than others?

do they even import SARs any more?

No. That I do know.

I haven't actually handled lots from year to year.  But from what I understand from others that have had more experience with them - Some years were better about not having canted sights and not-so-terrific US parts in them.  Some people prefer the latter years compared to the first year or two that they were imported and assembled here in the US.

When buying one, just be sure to check the sights for proper alignment and the gas pistons.  Some of those were kind of soft and will start to mushroom.  The barrels on some were in poor shape also.  If you do a good once over as you would any gun purchase - you should be able to spot any problems.

i've heard is that the later ones had the muzzles turned down to small to be threaded to 14x1. supposedly all years had some rifles that were shipped with front site bases and/or gas blocks that were crooked, someone here even posted a pic of his with the front sight base on backwards
i've also heard that some had pretty crappy finishes.

over the last year i've bought two that were flawless and had untouched muzzles, definate keepers.