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Monday, November 30, 2009

FOOD Review 1: KFC's NEW "PROTOTYPE" Menu... Check it out...

Last week, I managed to taste 1 of the 4 "PROTOTYPE" Products of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). The Cashier told me that these 4 products are only available for a LIMITED PERIOD of time only in:

1) KFC PUSAT BANDAR DAMANSARA (Picture below)

2) KFC Wangsa Maju.

What are the products?
There are "FLAVA ROAST BBQ Chicken Wings", FLAVA ROAST Grilled Chicken Burger, FLAVA ROAST Grilled Chicken Steak... Here are some pictures...



Above: This is what I ordered...

ENJOY...

An original Jeff's Production. My Original work...

Longtermer #1, Update 17, Nov 09: Ford Telstar Ghia 16v (A)

Longtermer #1, Update 17, Nov 09: Ford Telstar Ghia 16v



In this blog entry, I am updating my Ford Telstar i4 Ghia. This is the 17th update.

What's up in the month of November?

The BEST/WORST Fuel consumption is NOT recorded for this month as I have only 1 Recording done for this month.


As I am typing this, the Telstar only done 148,388km. Previous month, it's 148,148km. It covers >300km per month. Why is it so? It’s because my DAD is OVERSEA (traveling between China, Hong Kong and Vietnam) since October 24 till now… This means that I GET TO DRIVE HIS CIVIC FD2 2.0IVTEC. I drove his Civic ALMOST EVERYDAY. To Seremban in 3rd week of this month and Putrajaya (4 days and 3 night convention, ended yesterday).

Alright, back to the Ford Telstar, I only drive this car around Petaling Jaya, furthest Putrajaya (1 round). Every week, I fetched my BITCH Xiao Pai (a Cross-Spitz) to the Vet Clinic to clean her wound since October. She got bitten by Snake (at her back, see photo below).


Apparently, her wound got WORSE due to Rainy season. Maggots began to form. Today, ALL maggots DIED and removed, wound cleaned with IODINE and ANTI-Maggot spray.

As you can see from the pictures below, she enjoyed the ride.

Today, she even learned how to SIT properly in the car AND REFUSED TO GET OUT OF THE TELSTAR. Prior to today, she stood on the sit (balancing as the car turns), looking out of window most of the time. Here’s more pictures of Xiao Pai…







Again, Back to the TELSTAR, last month, I reported the Front tyres balding… I still haven’t changed the tyres. Instead I “OVERINFLATED” the tyres all 4 of them to 38psi. Why?
It’s because the Centre part of the front tyres still got 50% thread. Anyway, the Ride and handling is more balanced. Without further ado, let’s proceed to Logbook…

LOGBOOK:

Year of manufactured: December 1998 (registered January 1999)
Purchase price: RM42,000 (Aug 2005)
Current value: RM13,000 (As at August 2009)
Depreciation per year (averaged): RM10500
Mileage last month: 148,148km

Mileage now: 148,388km
Fuel consumption (so far):
BEST: 10km/l (25 August 2009)
WORST: 5.9km/l (September 14, 2009) => 100% City driving

THIS MONTH (November):
BEST AND WORST NOT RECORDED… Only 2 fill ups, 1 is by Someone else (who borrowed my car) and the other one: RM50 (27.778L) = 250km, RON95 Shell. This means, it recorded 9km/L. This is one of the best achievements for the Telstar.

0-100km/h: 10.4 secs (27/9/2009). Previous run 10.8 secs (25 Aug 2009).

TODAY, As at 29 November,

Expenses (this month)

1) Fuel expenses (RM150)
2) Parking and tolls charges...


Before I go, here's a parting shot above.

End of Update, thanks for having the patience to read it... Next Update: December 29 2009.

AN ORIGINAL JEFF LIM PRODUCTION (My original work)

Monday, November 23, 2009

FULL REVIEW: Nissan Bluebird 2.0SSS-G @ Altima

FULL REVIEW: Nissan Bluebird 2.0SSS-G @ Altima


In this blog entry, I’ll post about 1993-1997 Nissan Bluebird 2.0SSS-G.. By end-94’ its no longer called “Bluebird”, rather its name changed to “Nissan ALTIMA”. Leather seats, alloy rims added. The car’s on sale in Malaysia Locally assembled (CKD) by TAN CHONG in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur until End-1997. By then, it was replaced by Cefiro 2.0i V6.

It’s available in BOTH 5 speed manual and 4 speed Automatic and back in 1993, it was priced between RM90,000 to RM96,000 OTR. Today, as at November 2009, a used example is yours at the following prices:

Year: 1993........1994………..1995……..1996……..1997
Price(RM): 10/12k….12.8/13.8k…15/16k……17/18k…..20/21k
(Man/Auto)

Note: Averaged price between August to November 2009 as advertised in The Star Metro Classifieds and Motortrader (last 10 issues).

I STRONGLY RECOMMEND this car, a very WORTHY BUY especially at these prices. Truly BEST VALUE for money. Why? READ ON…

As usual, I don’t have a car to test drive and brag about it… All is not lost… I dished out a VERY WELL WRITTEN ARTICLE published by my ALL-TIME FAVOURITE MALAYSIAN MOTORING MAGAZINE: “HIGHWAY MALAYSIA”, July 1993 issue. Sadly, this Magazine became a victim of 1997 ASIAN ECONOMIC CRISIS, last issue being published in October 1998.

Without further ado, let’s proceed to this WELL WRITTEN ARTICLE by its editor, “UNCLE CHIPS P.S. YAP”.

NISSAN BLUEBIRD 2.0 SSS-G: “RETURN OF THE TRIPLE S”


“Unlike most new models, the new Nissan Bluebird 2.0SSS-G is one car that we have encountered twice before its official introduction in Malaysia. Regular readers will recall reading about the new Bluebird in our February 1992 issue, following the Nissan Organised preview for Asian journalists in Penang. After a 50km drive on the twisty Balik Pulau road, we came away impressed, expressing admiration for the new and higher standards and lauding Nissan for the bold new styling concept.

Then, in December last year, we again met the Bluebird during a tour in Nissan facilities in the USA, driving its American made cousin, the “ALTIMA” between Los Angeles and San Diego. The Nissan USA people were proud of the Altima because its body was designed by Americans at Nissan Design International (NDI) Studio in San Diego. It had also been selling remarkably well since being launched in August.

And the car still had not been launched in Malaysia, NOT until May 1993! (NOTE: 15 months after Asian Premiere).

GETTING USED TO THE MONOFORM:




The other helpful thing about the delay of the Bluebird is that people now see the styling as LESS RADICAL. When we 1st saw in Penang, we thought the monoform shape too unique and even the Tan Chong Motors people had some reservations about its acceptance by Malaysians.

But we believed that it would “grow on you in a year’s time”. And indeed, looking at the Bluebird now, it appears contemporary because we now have similar rounded, wide-bodied shape in the Honda Civic (EG), Toyota Corolla (SEG), Mazda 626 and Ford Telstar – all of which came AFTER the Bluebird appeared in Japan, by the way.
So the people at NDI deserve a pat on the back for their belief that the styling trend would go in such a direction.

NDI’s proposal was chosen after a competition between Nissan’s stylists in Japan and NDI’s All-American team. The proposal by the Japanese stylists was thought to be ‘Uninspiring for the 1990s’ whereas NDI’s fresh, non-linear approach was bold – a genuine mould breaker - and just the thing to take the Bluebird away from the Conservative image it had acquired over the past decade, its rather insipid name notwithstanding.


The American way gives the occasional ‘great leap forward’, as evident in the Bluebird, but the Japanese one produces fewer mistakes. So what was eventually done was to use the NDI proposal and have the major engineering part be done by Japanese at the Nissan Technical Centre – a prime example of Cross-Pacific collaboration which, at times was done real-time by satellite.

Surprisingly, what seems to be like a very aerodynamic form yields a Cd of only 0.35. But this can be brought down with optional Rear spoiler to 0.34 for RM800 extra.

LARGER AND MORE POWERFUL:


The new Bluebird (the 9th generation of the model line which started in the mid-1950s) is longer than its predecessor by 65mm but almost the same width. It’s wheelbase of 2620mm is 70mm more than before and it is 30mm taller. The kerb weight has also gone up by slightly more than 100kgs in-spite of using lighter materials in many areas.

Only 1 engine is now available for the New Bluebird, partly because the 1.8L version of the previous generation didn’t sell too well and also because the Distributor wanted the “SSS-G” specification which is used only for the sporty versions of the Bluebird.

As many readers may remember. The Datsun 1600 SSS (or triple-S) was a 1970s saloon slanted towards performance in the same vein as the BMW 2002. The Ford TX3 didn’t exist then and if you wanted something muscular for street use, the SSS was it.

The last Bluebird SSS sold here was the last of the rear-wheel-drives (RWD) introduced in 1981. It had a twin-carb 1800cc engine and was loaded with goodies. Subsequently, the model specifications were toned down and the car was marketed more as a comfortable executive sedan.

Now the “SSS” badge returns and the new Bluebird is powered by a variant of the sophisticated SR engine series, the SR20DE. This DOHC 16valve engine is related to that used in the Nissan Pulsar GTI-R and produces 106.6kw @ 6400rpm with 178.4Nm torque @ 4800rpm.

Notable features of the engine include a long, large-diameter intake manifold, ‘aerodynamic’ ports that accelerate mixture flow at medium-low speeds, an aluminium oil pan and the use of Y-shaped rocker arms that reduce valve system inertia and help enhance intake efficiency.


The engine management system, known as Electronic Concentrated-engine Control System (ECCS), uses a 16-bit microprocessor to maintain the engine’s functions at peak efficiency. ECCS also controls the fully sequential fuel injection system to squirt a precise amount of petrol into each cylinder according to its own intake timing.

The engine has Chain-drive for the camshafts, not a Timing belt drive as used in many engines to reduce chain noise. According to Nissan Engineer, chain drives are becoming popular among Japanese manufacturers as it has been found that belts snap too easily.

The chain used in the engine is a single-roller chain that is light, durable and only marginally noisier than a belt. It has a semi-hydraulic half-ratchet chain tensioner to avoid clutter from the chain being loose and extend engine life. Like the Sentra, Cefiro, the Bluebird’s engine hooks up to a propriety diagnostic unit.

Both manual and automatic transmissions are available for the new Bluebird which, of course, has the driving wheels at the front. The lightweight 4-speed automatic transmission uses tandem servos to improve downshifting response.

HEIGHTENED DYNAMICS:

To meet to customers’ expectations of the “SSS” badge, the chassis and suspension have been developed for heightened dynamic performance. The front and rear suspension systems are mounted on sub-frames which reduce noise transmission while helping to increase compliance. Attaching the steering gear box to the subframe also help increase mounting rigidity.

The front suspension is ‘universal’ in arrangement, ie. MacPherson struts, coil springs and telescopic dampers. At the rear is the Super Toe Control (STC) Suspension, a passive form of rear-wheel-steering to neutralise the bad effects of forces exerted on the wheels. This also uses spring struts and employs 2 parallel links of uneven length to control toe angle. A more detailed explanation of the STC suspension is given BELOW: (double click to read it)


Disc brakes are fitted to all 4 wheels (ventilated in front), ABS is NOT INSTALLED though, as this is still a costly item. Standard wheels for the car are 6JJx14 pressed steel types which are shod with 195/65HR14 tyres. For RM1300, one can opt for the JRD 5-spoke alloy rims that are virtually identical to the original Nissan design. (see picture below. Picture also shows the optional rear spoiler RM800 extra which brings the Cd down to 0.34 (from Cd 0.35).


MORE RIGID, MORE SAFE:



Structurally, the new Bluebird is quite advanced as it uses 1-piece side body panels which have better rigidity. With computer analysis and simulations using Cray supercomputers, the engineers were able to increase torsional-rigidity by 40% and flexural rigidity by 10%. The overall feel of the car and its stability during lane changes is more secure with this increased rigidity. The car has large crushable zones at both ends which suppresses sectional deformity to protect the occupants from impact forces. There’s also protection from side-collisions by beams installed in the doors.

In dealing with noise and vibration, measures taken include using 2 hydraulic engine mounts that reduce low-frequency engine shake, smaller holes (for wiring and other linkages) between engine compartment and cabin, abolition of speedometer wire cable (an electronic speedometer is now used) and 3x front door sealing.

Given the modern methods of assembly and the use of galvanised steel for many panels, the Bluebird should last a long time. The car consists of more than 110 recyclable plastics and other rubber parts.

LUXURY SALOON AMBIENCE:

The longer wheelbase is fully exploited to create a cabin more spacious than the exterior suggests. There is efficient packaging and shows how well the interior designers adhered to “Neither TOO MUCH nor TOO LITTLE” theme. In fact, when the roominess inside is experienced, all thoughts of the unimpressive Cd will be banished!

Although this is a sport sedan, the interior does not reflect it and instead has the ambience of a luxury saloon. This not only comes from the classy wood panelling that stretches across the centre of the dashboard but also in the quality of the materials used.



For the driver, everything needed to drive the car safely, comfortably and enjoyably has been put within easy reach and view. The placement of the master switches for the power windows on an inclined panel is practical and makes operation easier.

The driving positions is adaptable to many different body shapes as there are 2 facilities for seat height adjustment and an adjustable steering column. Though the door pocket presses against the seat, it’s a good idea as it prevents making seat adjustments while driving.

The 2 door mirrors can be folded inwards by remote control, a feature which we thought unnecessary but later proved to be useful. Motorcyclists appreciate it if you fold the mirrors in when driving in a traffic jam allowing them to squeeze past without banging the mirrors!

The high roofline makes the rear part of the cabin more spacious. The seats too are generally proportioned and there’s a centre armrest. Seatbelts are provided for 3 persons, the centre ones being ‘lap-belt’.

But the mounting of the amplifier (a high-tech sound system available for RM3,600) under the front passenger’s seat does not seems to be a good idea. Rear passengers would put their shoe on it, we feel.

By using a space-saving resin fuel-tank design, not only can the Bluebird carry more fuel but there’s also better boot capacity of 395L.

ON THE ROAD:


Recollections of the old SSS, though vague, whetted our enthusiasm for testing the new Bluebird (our testcar comes with 5 speed manual gearbox) and we were not disappointed at all.

The 1st few runs (we normally do 10) for acceleration times were impressive as the car clocked low 9s with an average of 9.2 secs from 0-100km/h. With the air-conditioner on, the time only changed by 4/10ths of a second, a far cry from the days where the difference would be 1-2 seconds.

The Bluebird charges up to a high cruising speed very easily and it doesn’t take very long to reach the top speed of 195km/h, which we could only achieve in 4th gear at 6800rpm. Stability at that speed was excellent and inspired much confidence.

In the lower speed ranges, the ‘oomph’ available depends on which part of the torque curve the engine is at; up to about 3200rpm, the tractive power is moderate and would require a downshift from top for passing quickly. However, after 3200rpm, the torque generated is stronger and the car surges ahead very impressively. In driving dynamics, the new Bluebird is a paragon of balance and fine handling. It is also an entertaining car to drive on secondary roads while inherently good as a highway cruiser – roomy, fast and comfortable.

Torque steer is well suppressed and there’s unerring directional stability all the way to high limits. Crude or untidy cornering styles don’t upset the car as its roadholding keeps everything under control.

All our testers liked the car’s handling and found they could drive really hard without fear of anything untoward happening. Even when understeer was provoked, the car would ‘put up a hell of a fight’ (as 1 tester described it) before losing its grip. For most situations, lifting off will bring the car back into chosen line again.

No one on our test team could remember what the old SSS felt like though it probably had a good ride due to its independent rear suspension. The latest SSS also has an-independent rear end and as expected, it soaks up bumps effectively. The suspension is supple and yet not floaty in speed.

MUSCULAR SPORTS SEDAN:




Throughout our testing, there was this constant feeling that the new Bluebird is a REALLY GOOD CAR. Question was, what was it that made it feel that way?
After many hours of discussion, this was the sum-up; a very well-executed machine all round with qualities that a wide spectrum of drivers would appreciate.

At RM90,641 (OTR Incl. insurance, 5 speed manual), the new SSS quite obviously does not cater for the same sort of buyer as its predecessor did in the 1970s. But it might be perfect for someone who did own the original “triple-S” and who misses the pleasures of driving a muscular sports sedan. In his middle-age by now, he wound also wish for more comfort and more space, both of which the new Bluebird offers.”

SPECIFICATIONS: (double click to enlarge)

–END OF REVIEW-

NOTE: It took me THREE-AND-A-HALF HOURS to painstakingly TYPED word by word (10 pages!), Scanned and resized the image and post it in this OTOREVIEW Blog! You should thank me for it…


That’s all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this LONG ARTICLE. It actually ran up to 10 pages! Unlike today’s CAR MAGAZINE where Car reviews are BRIEF @ 3 page-per-car average (some are JUST SUMMARY!) and NON-technical.

Eg. Asian Auto, Torque, Auto International. Auto International USED to be DETAILED review – also 8 pages per “COVER Featured” car + FULL SPECIFICATIONS, but NOT ANYMORE! The magazine Contents are deteriorating since 2005. What happened Mr. Shahrizan Hussien? – FOUNDER & ‘OWNER’ OF THIS MAGAZINE).

MAN! HOW I MISSED the GOOD OLD “80-page Auto International” (Now reduced to a pathetic 60 page + cover) AND “THE LATE” HIGHWAY MALAYSIA. In my HUMBLE OPINION (IMHO), STILL THE BEST MALAYSIAN CAR MAGAZINE BY FAR. No CURRENT Malaysian car magazine can MATCH ‘HIGHWAY MALAYSIA’. KUDOS to the 2 editors of the magazine, UNCLE CHIPS YAP and UNCLE LEEPS LEE. Again, Sadly missed…


References:
1) Highway Malaysia July 1993 issue. Page 22 to 32 by Uncle Chips Yap.
2) Motortrader magazine (Last 10 issues). For used ‘Bluebird Altima’ pricings
3) The Star Metro Classifieds (Last 10 days). Latest being 21 November 2009 (Sat).

Friday, November 20, 2009

HALL OF SHAME Vol. 2

In this blog entry, I'll pick-up from where I left off what I published in November 16 2009. Here's SOME Info and Pictures of SERIOUS OFFENDERS:

Between 16 November to 19 November:

1) TAL 6688 - Corolla Altis. White, Section 17/3, PJ 1700hrs
2) BKN 991 - Corolla Altis, Also white. 1803hrs (Section 17/29, PJ)
BOTH: Offences: 1) Speeding in Residential Area, BKN 991 at WET ROAD Somemore 2) TAL 6688: Turning into SMALL junction at High-speed (around 60km/h) & W/o signalling.

3) WQX 8233 - Silver Civic (This one, wasted, my Camera NO BATTERY to take their pictures). 16 November 2312hrs Also in Section 17/27
OFFENCES:
i) Turn sharply w/o signalling
ii) SPEEDING AT Residential Area (Up to 100km/h!). I tried tailing them but FAILED. They then STOPPED at Chin Nyit Sin Shell Station for Fill-ups. LADY DRIVER SOMEMORE with her boyfriend. Sped off shortly after (again up to 100km/h on Same ROAD). On a 50km/h Zone.

4) KBF 898 - Mercedes C-Class. See Photo. Along Jalan Damansara. 17 Nov 2009, 2257hrs.

OFFENCES:
i) Break Traffic Lights
ii) Zigzagging and Speeding (Up to 110km/h towards Phileo Damansara)

AND NOW, SAVING THE BEST FOR LAST:

5) WSG 8086 - "HERO" Grey TOYOTA VIOS on 19/11/2009. 10.11am. OFFENCES:
i) Break traffic-lights (KLGCC area)
ii) Zigzagging
iii) Tailgating
iv) Speeding up to 110km/h at slip roads & 80km/h along Jalan 16/1 (Jalan Dato Abu Bakar).
CHECK OUT THE PHOTOS:

This photo: Taken along Jalan Damansara "LALUAN TOL BEBAS" Slip roads. The driver's driving up to 110km/h along this road.


This photo: Taken along Jalan 16/1 (Dato Abu Bakar).

AGAIN, You've been watched... Note only cars with:
1) MORE THAN 1 OFFENCES
2) Serious Offences (eg. almost hit a pedestrian/bike/car)
3) Same occurence no plate (ie. caught more than 2 times).

WILL BE PUBLISHED in this BLOG... Otherwise, I'll just add "I" to my "Kekerapan" Statistics to be published on 30 November. Please refer to my earlier post on 16 November to understand what I'm talking about. So far THE TOP 12 leaderboard from 15 to 20 November.

1) Perodua MYVI: 22 (1/2 consisted of "P" sticker driver)
2) Toyota Vios: 19
3) Proton Wira family: 18 (15 Wira :3 Satria
4) Taxi: 12
5) Honda City: 11
5) Proton Waja: 11
7) Perdana V6: 10
8) Toyota Avanza: 9
9) Toyota Altis: 8
9) Proton Iswara: 8
9) Nissan Vanette: 8
12) Proton BLM: 8

AGAIN, WHO IS THE BIG BULLY? Definitely NOT BIG CARS... There were ONLY 1 "BIG" car there, ie. PERDANA V6 out of 12 cars. Rather, it's MYVI, Vios, TAXIs and Wiralution & CO.

Jeff Lim signing off... Thanks for having the time and patience to read this... MY ORIGINAL WORK...

RM10,000. What car can you buy?

In this blog entry, I'll be covering "What car can you buy with RM10,000 budget?"

Why I blog about this topic?
It's all because many of my College going students, fresh graduates friends always asked me this question...

A NEW CAR is IMPOSSIBLE with this Budget. BUT the options are WIDE if it's a USED CAR. Without further ado, let's proceed to the lists of USED cars you can buy with JUST RM10,000. Arranged from "NEW" to "OLD" in years of make... RM10,000 unless stated...

2002:
1) Perodua Kancil 660 EX (Manual)
2) Proton Iswara 1.3 Aeroback (M)
3) Proton Iswara 1.5(M) Sedan Taxi Spec

2001:
1) Perodua Kancil 660EZ(A)
2) Proton Iswara 1.3(M) Sedan

2000:
1) Kia Sephia 1.5(A) RM9,800
2) Proton Tiara 1.1GL RM7,800 (Last batch, try to buy AS NEW AS POSSIBLE)
3) Perodua Kancil 850(M)
4) Fiat PUNTO Selecta 1.3
1999:

1) Perodua Kancil 850(A)
2) Proton Satria 1.3(M)
3) Proton Iswara 1.5(A) Sedan

1998:
1) Proton Iswara 1.5(A) Aeroback
2) Citroen ZX 2.0i Volcane (M)

1997:
1) Proton Satria 1.6(M)
2) Citroen ZX 1.8i Stationwagon
3) Citroen ZX 2.0i (A)
3) Fiat Brava 1.6A/1.8ELX
4) Fiat MAREA 1.8ELX (M)
5) Kia Sportage 2.0i
6) Proton Wira 1.3(M) Sedan
7) Peugeot 306 1.8ST Sedan (M/A)

1996:
1) Proton Wira 1.3(M) A/back / 1.5(M) Sedan
2) Proton Satria 1.5(M) UK-spec / Satria 1.6 (A)
3) Alfa Romeo 146 1.7i
4) Fiat Marea 1.6(A)
5) Citroen Xantia Diesel
6) Hyundai Sonata 1.8GLSi (see picture below)

1995:
1) Proton Wira 1.5(A) Aeroback UK-spec
2) Nissan Sunny 130Y Extra II Big-bumper RM9800
(NOTE: 1992' 6.5k, 93' 7.8k, 94' 8.8k)


3) Alfa Romeo 145 1.7i
4) Alfa Romeo 155 1.8i
5) Citroen Xantia 2.0i(A) Petrol
6) Daihatsu Espri (11k)
7) Ford Telstar 2.0i4 Ghia V6 body (A)/(M)
8) Hyundai Elantra 1.6/1.8GLS
9) Peugeot 405SR (M/A) / 405SRi(A)
10) Jeep Cherokee 2.5i(M)
11) Daihatsu FEROZA 1.6 4x4

1994:
1) Proton Wira 1.6(M) Aeroback / Wira 1.6(A) Sedan
2) Alfa Romeo 155 2.0i Twinspark (RM11k)
3) Citroen ZX 2.0i 16v 3dr (M)
4) Rover 416SLI(A) 4dr/5dr
5) Jeep Cherokee 4.0V8
6) Renault 19RT Injection (RM8,000 average)

1993:
1) Proton Wira 1.6(A) Aeroback
2) Volvo 240SE(A)
3) Volvo 940GL Soft turbo
4) Audi 100 2.0i / 100 2.3i (A6 Body) 10k to 12k
5) Daihatsu Aura 1.0CX Limited RM9k
6) Rover 820SLI(A) Saloon / Sterling 5dr
7) Citroen XM 3.0i
8) Peugeot 405 GTI (M)
9) Alfa 33 1.5 / 1.7

1992:
1) Proton Saga 1.5I(A) 12v (A/b OR Sedan RM6,800 average)
2) Alfa Romeo 164 3.0i
3) Toyota Liteace 1.5(M) Mock-up RM9,800)
4) Citroen XM 2.0i
5) Ford Telstar 2.0iV6
6) Mazda 626 V6 2.0i
7) Ford Econovan (RM9,000)
8) Mazda 323 Astina 5dr / Familia 4dr (A): RM9,800
9) Ford Laser 1.3 16v Sedan / 1.6 (M) Sedan/Hatchback
10) Suzuki Jimny SJ410 / SJ413 (RM12,000)
11) Suzuki Swift 1.0i (RM8,800)
12) Daihatsu Aura 1.3 16v Limited (RM9,000)

1991:
1) BMW 7-series E32 (728i (91)/ 730i (91)/ 735i (90)/ 740iL (89))
2) Mazda Bongo 1.8 (M) RM9,000)
3) Mazda 929 2.2L(A) Limited RM9,800)
4) Mazda MPV 3.0iL V6
5) Mazda 626 2.0i 12v GLX Sedan/Hatchback
6) Isuzu Trooper 2.6 4x4 (M)
7) Nissan Sentra B13 1.6iM 1st batch (Genting Taxi model) RM11,000
8) Suzuki Vitara 1.6JLX(M) 3dr (1st batch)
9) Peugeot 505GTI (RM8,800 average)
10) Subaru 1800GL Stationwagon

1990:
1) Ford TX3 1.8i DOHC 16v EFI 3dr Dolphin (RM9,800 average)
2) Nissan Sentra B12 1.6(A) RM9,800)
3) Mitsubishi Pajero L047 2.6(M) Petrol
4) Toyota Corolla 1.3 SE (1990)
5) Toyota CORONA 2.0i(M) / 2.0i(A) (RM9,800)
6) Volvo 740 Turbo (Averaged RM9,000 depending condition)

1989:
1) Honda Accord EX 2.0i / CA Series
2a) Honda Civic 1.5EX(M) / (A) ('88)
2b) Honda Civic 1.5DX 3dr H/b (M)

3) Toyota Corolla 1.6SE (M)/(A) (1989 / 1988)
4) Toyota Corolla 1.6SE Limited Hatchback (1988-89)
5) Toyota MasterAce SURF Royal Lounge (A)

1988:
1) Mitsubishi Galant SuperSaloon 2.0 4G63 Stock (1st batch)
2) Toyota CROWN 3.0i ROYAL SALOON

1987:
1) Honda Prelude 2.0i 4WS (1st batch)
2) Saab 900S Turbo

1986:
1) Mercedes Benz 190E (A) 2.0
2) Honda Prelude 1.8XX (RM8,800 avg)

1985:
1) BMW 3-series E30: 318i / 320i / 323i / 325i
2) BMW 5-series E28: 520i, 525i(A)
3) Mercedes W123 200 (RM9,800 avg)
4) Mitsubishi TREDIA 1.4/1.6 (RM6,000 avg)

1984 and older:
1) Mercedes W123 230E(A)
2) Mercedes 280SE/L (A)
3) Mercedes 300SEL / 420SEL
4) Mini Clubman 1.0 (last batch 1975-79) RM10k avg
5) Mitsubishi LANCER 1.8GSR Turbo (Mostly Modified) 1980-82,
RM8k-15k depend condition

6) Volkswagen Beetle 1200 (Either unfinished project or Bad condition. Don't expect much from RM10,000).

OTHERS... Eg. RARE models such as Mazda RX7 1st generation, Toyota Celica XT (Early 80s), Alfa 75, Volkswagen Golf MK1 (late 70s), Those modified Levin-engined Corolla GL (AE80), Isuzu JJ 1.8 (mid-80s), Mitsubishi Cordia ('84), Mitsubishi STARION TURBO (1983), Audi 90 Quattro (mid-80s) and the lists goes on...

NOTE:
1) Pre-1997 cars are NEAR-impossible to obtain LOAN ie. 12 years for Local and Japanese cars. Pre-1999, (ie. 10 years) for Korean and Conti-cars. So it's ONE WAY: CASH ONLY. As an alternative, perhaps you can try "PERSONAL LOAN" (try those from Banks NOT Ah Long/Loan Sharks)?

2) As you can see, Newest NON-NATIONAL CAR is Fiat PUNTO 1.3 Selecta and KIA SEPHIA ie. year 2000. Followed by Citroen ZX 1998. Newest Japanese car at this budget is 1995 in the form of Nissan Sunny 130Y Extra II. Try to get the one with "Big Bumper".

HAPPY HUNTING... That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this BLOG Entry. It took me 3 hours to COMPILE this LISTS... You should thank me for this...

SOURCES:
1) The Star Metro Classifieds (1 November to 19 November 2009)
2) Motortrader Magazines (issue 451 to 458, ie. Last 8 issues)

3) Random Call to Used Car dealers.

AN ORIGINAL JEFF LIM PRODUCTION. 100% HARD WORK NOT COPIED FROM ANYWHERE...

Ban on import of used car parts illogical

SOURCE: THE STAR: OPINIONS: LETTERS:
Thursday November 19, 2009


Ban on import of used car parts illogical

I REFER to the news report in Sunday Star and I support the Johor Used Car Spare Parts Dealers Association on their protest. What they said makes a lot of sense.

Many people are unhappy with the govern­ment ban on the import of used car parts in 2011. They complained to me since I am the legal adviser of Fomca.

I feel that this is a rash move by the Govern­ment. No statistics or studies have been furnished to show that the use of second-hand parts are the cause of the rising accident rate – if that is the reason for such a move.

Actually, no one knows the actual reason for the ruling and as such, I think the Government owes the people an explanation in order to avoid speculation and confusion.

Lower and middle-income groups are the most affected, especially the kampung and rural folks where second-hand parts are still being purchased and used for very obvious reasons, i.e. new parts are no longer available for old cars.

Forcing these folks to buy new parts for old cars does not make any sense since firstly, these folks can’t afford it as they are expensive and obviously when new parts are not available, they will be forced to scrap their cars. Even pensioners are affected by the move.

To get them to buy new parts is an unnecessary burden on most of them. Owners of old cars are already not eligible for third party insurance and are forced to take up comprehensive insurance which cost much more and now this?

If the Government wants to encourage people to buy local cars, then prices must go down and quality must improve. The Government can’t force people to purchase local cars by putting in place rash policies like this – if again that is the reason for imposing the ban. Why must the Government burden the people?

In Europe, the use of reconditioned car parts and second-hand car parts is encouraged as they are environment-friendly. Maybe the Government should look into this aspect. The Pensioners Association and Cuepacs should raise their objections to the Government.

The Government did the right thing in withdrawing mandatory inspection for cars of more than 15 years old. I urge the Government to do the same on second-hand parts too.

By A. JEYASEELEN,

Legal adviser, Fomca.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

CAR FOR SALE: Vol 1: Mitsubishi Galant SuperSaloon (A) 1991

Another TWIST to my blog... I'll be RANDOMLY Visiting Used car dealers. I will see if there's any Cheap, Beautiful and Gorgeous (translated from Cantonese, Pheng, Leng, Jeng) used cars. I'll then snap some pictures, test drive it (if they allow) and share it with all of you. Will post 1 used car a week. Let's proceed to Volume 1:

Last weekend, I spotted this Grey Beauty at "SOON MENG" AUTO located at Kayu Ara (Beside a Chop Shop, shared LOT side by side with "PLATINUM AUTOS")...

It's no other than Mitsubishi Galant SuperSaloon 1991 model imported by Cycle and Carriage (NOT PARALLEL Importers). The car is 100% STOCK STANDARD, original 4G63 Naturally Aspirated (NA) Mitsubishi engine with 4 speed Automatic. The mileage is Ridiculously low at 145,000km. It's a 1 owner car. Asking price: RM15,000 ONO.

Well, a Picture's worth 1000 words... Here's some pictures...








Check this out: 4x Power windows. A luxury feature back in 1991


Check out the "Joystick Gear grip handle", Reminds me of Perdana SEI/V6.





Check out the HUGE DEEP and WIDE BOOT...

End of photos...

If you are interested to buy, please contact:
1) Mr Phor: 012-3322122, 2) Vick: 010-255-0328. Don't forget to mention Jeff Lim introduced (the one father always working overseas).

Address of Dealer:
Soon Meng Platinum Cars
Lot 920a, Kampung Kayu Ara, Jalan Damansara
Petaling Jaya , 47400
Selangor
Malaysia

Job losses from New Automotive Policy compensated in long term: Mustapa


SOURCE: The Star: Monday November 16, 2009
Miti wants industry to look at NAP in the long run


SINGAPORE: Jobs lost due to the implementation of the New Automotive Policy (NAP), which will ban imported used car spare parts, will be compensated in the medium- and long-term.

International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed said the policy was in place to ensure safety and develop the country’s own automotive components industry.

“We are aware of the business interest but all this has been explained when we discussed it with industry players.


Above: Discussion: Mustapa talking with Singapore’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Lim Hwee Hua during a breakfast meeting with the Singapore Business Federation on the sidelines of the Apec Summit in Singapore yesterday.

“Anyway, this policy does not take effect immediately and there is still room for people to improve,” he said, adding that the country needed more companies to set up base in Malaysia in order to develop the local automotive components industry.


“Once this develops, all the short-term job losses can be compensated in the long run.

“Yes, there will be glitches here and there but with some adjustments, this will benefit the country,” he said.

He added that he did not believe that 100,000 jobs would be lost when the NAP ruling came into effect in 2011.

Asked if the Government might reconsider the decision, he said the implementation of the policy would be carried out gradually.

On Saturday, Johor Used Car Spare-Part Dealers Association committee member Ng Keng Heng had said the ban would cause major problems to both dealers and owners of old cars.

He had claimed that there were more than 5,000 used car spare-part dealers around the country and the ruling could cause the loss of about 100,000 jobs.
Malaysian Industrial Development Authority director-general Datuk Jalilah Baba said it was still too premature to talk about job losses as the NAP’s main objective was to improve services.

References:
1) http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/11/16/nation/5118017&sec=nation

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry...

Monday, November 16, 2009

NST Article: Classic owners in the lurch

New Straits Times: CBT: CARS.BIKES.TRUCKS

Classic owners in the lurch


Submitted by yani on Fri, 13/11/2009 - 7:49pm



Nine days after the new National Automotive Policy (NAP) was announced on Oct 29, the government withdrew the controversial mandatory 15-year-vehicle inspection measure due to overwhelming public displeasure.

It was indeed a huge relief for many but are old car owners actually free to enjoy their right of ownership of such vehicles?
The other NAP measure - ban on import of used car parts and components effective June 2011 - will affect them.

Automotive chop-shops are alternative used vehicle spares hyper-markets existent globally to enable motorists to keep their cars on the road at affordable costs.
These shops offer parts which are generally in good condition, reasonably priced and available at an instant.

A ban on used parts would eventually force owners to dispose of their old cars for new ones.

Even if one can afford to purchase new parts, what if the particular make is out of
production?

Should parts be available abroad, the waiting period and high costs of purchase will frustrate the car owner.

"Our low exchange rate would make it difficult for us to purchase parts via e-Bay or online and I urge the government to reconsider this ban on imported used parts," said 25-year-old Kevin Lee from Kampar, Perak.

"Some of us still prefer our old cars and see absolutely no reason or rhyme to own a new one, so please give that freedom of choice," said Naseer Rafick, who uses his old continental make of 30 years on a daily basis without any problems.

Old car owners could be loosely categorised as low income earners, non-believers of new car price structures, sentimental motorists, students, retirees, rural folk, motor financing rejects and vintage and classic car owners.

In this country, cars are technically deemed as falling into the "old vehicle category" after 10 years since the date of production based on the policies established by the finance and insurance industry.

Gone are the days when finance or credit companies would offer hire-purchase schemes for motorists seeking to buy cars of this age. Even if a loan is offered for a car of 10 years and above, the offering of such a package would depend entirely on the credit standing of the hirer and not on the value of the vehicle.

The bankers call this "character financing". Those who cannot afford to pay cash for such purchases would have to worry about their financial creditworthiness in the eyes of the financiers when applying for loans. In line with this general financing guidelines by these finance companies, motor insurance companies have also maintained a general practice of not offering the preferred comprehensive (first party) motor insurance policies for cars above 10 years old.

In the alternative, motorists are allowed to purchase third party policies to ensure the continuous usage of these old cars. The Road Transport Act empowers insurance companies to offer this minimum form of insurance coverage to enable old car owners to enjoy the right of usage of these vehicles.

However, some time in December 2008, the majority of insurance companies in the country jointly decided to scale back on issuance of third party policies as most of them were allegedly recording losses which they claim were due to high third party bodily injury claims.

Motorists were only made aware of the non-issuance of such policies when they applied for renewal. Many were left in the lurch as they were not able to renew their road tax due to failure in obtaining insurance coverage for their vehicles.
The rejected motorists were directed to try their luck with the Malaysian Motor Insurance Pools (MMIP), a high risk insurance pool collectively run by the insurance industry and deemed as the insurer of last resort.

Due to the overwhelming surge of applications, MMIP and Pos Malaysia formed a strategic partnership to enable the public to purchase such policies at any one of the latter's 684 outlets.

Sounds great but the truth of the matter is that now motorists were not only required to comply with stringent requirements like obtaining a vehicle inspection certificate prior to issuance of policies but had also to fork out extra cash due to the doubling and tripling of the loading and premiums compared with that of the year before!

Some have also complained of delays in purchasing policies from these outlets.
"Naturally with a population of 2.7 million cars on the road that are 10 years or older and only one establishment to handle all insurance renewal applications, many other operational issues like claims and repairs would be also a cause for concern in the near future," said a senior insurance agent.

Sadly, due to these stringent requirements, many motorists have resorted to driving or riding their vehicles without valid insurance and road tax coverage nowadays.
Legal implications, if this trend continues, would be disastrous.

As far as these insurance woes are concerned, the grievances of the general motoring public have yet to be resolved by the relevant authorities.
Some see this as another way of curtailing one's right of enjoyment of an old vehicle!

It is apparent from these issues that implementation of policies are done almost all the time with minimal cross section consultation and the voice of the Malaysian motoring public is clearly not loud enough.

Maybe, the time has come for motorists to establish a strong body, like a Federation of Automotive Clubs, to represent their cause to the relevant governing bodies to ensure consultation is effected before implementation and not vice versa.

By Andrew Suresh

END OF SOURCE:

References:
1)
http://cbt.com.my/091113/classic-owners-lurch


AGAIN, PLEASE DEAR GOVERNMENT, Do spare a thought for the Rural/POOR/Retiree and Classic Enthusiasts... Don't BAN KERETA POTONG... Otherwise, 5000 registered Kereta Potong Countrywide will be shut down and all its workers will be JOBLESS.

WHAT'S YOUR PROBLEM MY DEAR MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT and/or whoever behind the NEW NAP Decisionsn? WHAT'S WRONG with CHOP SHOPS? EVEN DEVELOPED COUNTRIES SUCH AS HONG KONG, THE UK, Australia, New Zealand, Netherlands and UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (called JUNKYARDS) have them...

Before I signed off, here's a Parting shot: My best friend's "LOW MILEAGE", Tip top, 1979 Datsun 120Y. Queuing up for scrapping (Waiting list) in exchange for a Proton since August...


That’s all folks! Thanks for having the time and Patience to read this Wonderfully Written Article…

Check this out: TASTEFULLY DONE-UP Old-Skool Car...

CHECK THIS OUT... Spotted parked outside my Office somewhere in Petaling Jaya. Very Nicely DONE-UP Early-80s (1981) Old School Toyota Corona 1.8 Hatchback. The owner's Done a VERY GOOD JOB Modernised the car. Nicely sculptured Bodykits (with integrated bumpers). Nice Old-school 13" sport rims complete with spacer... Nice... Original Engine (According to the Roadtax "1770cc"). Still, it's REAR WHEEL DRIVE BABY... Great for LEARNING DRIFTING...

Aiya... Everything Nice... "LOVED IT... LOVED IT... LOVED IT... LOVED IT VERY MUCH!!!" - Paula Abdul fave quote.

Hmmm... Wonder how's the Engine, Boot and Interior looks like... Can the "OWNER" of this CAR PLEASE e-mail & meet me... I want to know more about your TASTEFULLY DONE UP CAR...

Pictures worth 1000 words... Without further ado, lets check out the Pictures...


Photo 1: Side view. Check out the side skirting with integrated front and rear bumpers.


Photo 2: "GARANG" (menacing) front view...


Photo 3: Nice Old-skool Rims with Spacer...


Photo 4: Nice 3-quarter Rear-A-pillar windows view...


Photo 5: Front 3-D view...


LASTLY: PARTING SHOT. Classic Rear View...

That's all folks... Thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry... My ORIGINAL WORK... JEFF LIM'S PRODUCTION...

MOST RECKLESS cars Count by Make/model (1st half Nov 09) + HALL OF SHAME

NEW TWIST of my blog... Every 2 weeks, I'll drive around random places (minding my own business, doing my everyday travel needs at the same time), looking for BULLY AND/OR RECKLESS drivers. I'll then count the occurence (kekerapan) of MAKE/MODEL driven by those bully. The following occurence would result NO PLATE being published AND/OR PHOTOS TAKEN:

A) REPEATED/More than 2 occurence reckless driving (same no plate)
B) MULTIPLE OFFENCES (Eg. Tailgating, Zigzagging, Hi-beam, Using Handphone ALL WITHIN SAY 3 MINUTES...)
C) SERIOUS OFFENCES. (Eg. Almost cause accident/harm)

Q: WHY I DID THIS?

A: Firstly, to proof to lots of my MYVI/KELISA/VIOS/KANCIL owning friends complaining "BIG CARS BULLYING THEM" AND on the other side, BIG CARS drivers/owners Complaining "SMALL CARS" Zigzagging, ie. bullying them... So who is CORRECT? Let's find out by doing this simple research...

Without further ado, here's how I "Compiled" my AHEM! statistics...


Photo 1... Using "Kekerapan" methods...


Photo 2... How I jot down the No. plates...

Here's my RESULTS:

Make/Model Nov 1st 1/2 //////Nov 2nd 1/2 //////Overall rank
(Units)
1) Proton Wira Family* 37

2) Perodua MYVI 27

3) TAXIS 22

4) Toyota VIOS 22

5) Proton WAJA 16

6) Proton Saga/Iswara 16
7) Perodua Kelisa 15
" Toyota Camry 15
" Perdana V6 15
" Honda Civic 15
11) BMW 3-series 12
12) Toyota Avanza 11
" Mercedes S-class/CLS 11
" Mercedes C-class/CLK 11
15) Volvo (All-model) 9
" Hyundai (All) 9
17) Perodua Kancil 8
" Audi (All) 8
19) Kia*1 7
" Ford (All) 7
" Toyota Hilux 7
" Proton Persona/Gen-2 7
" Proton Saga BLM 7
" Corolla/Altis 7
" BMW 7-series 7
" Mercedes E-class 7
27) Honda Accord 6
" Toyota Estima 6
" Naza*1 6
30) Perodua Kenari 5
" Perodua Kembara 5
" Honda City 5
" Nissan Vanette 5
" Nissan Sentra 5
" Honda CRV 5
" Toyota Alphard/Vellfire 5

GRAND TOTAL: 36 Cars...


NOTES:
1) * => WIRALUTION/SATRIA/PUTRA/ARENA (Ratio): 28:6:2:1
2) *1 => Badge specific. (Naza consists Naza Sutera, Ria, RONDO, otherwise = KIA)

CONCLUSION:

According to my "research", here's my summary:

1) "P" sticker drivers ARE PESTS... They are either RECKLESS (7/10) OR CRAWLING (3/10) (Ie. Too fast or Too Slow, no in between).

2) Apparently, Compact/"SMALLISH CARS" AND/OR "Cheap" MODIFIED CARS ARE THE REAL BULLY! As you can see, WIRALUTION & CO (consists of Wira/Wira EVO/Satria/Satria GSR/Putra/Arena) were THE CHAMPION, beating MYVI by a WHOOPING 10 occurences is STRONG #2, followed by TAXIS, then VIOS. There are only 2 "BIG" Cars in the top 10. Ie. Toyota Camry AND Perdana V6. SO, WHO IS THE BIG BULLY?


HERE's THE BEST PART:

HALL OR SHAME: No Plates Published (WITH SERIOUS AND/OR MULTIPLE OFFENCES only)...


1) WPS 5760 White MYVI Spotted in Jalan Duta. Tailgating, Zigzagging & Speeding. Friday 2300hrs on 6/11/2009

2) BJG 7750 Grey MYVI on 9/11/2009 0019hrs Jln Duta. Offences: Tailgating, Zigzagging, Speeding

3) WQV 90 White Civic on 5/11/2009 Speeding in Housing Area. Almost hit a Motorcycle

4) WJC 5353 Grey Iswara Aeroback Spotted in Sprint Highway on 12/11/2009, 2127hrs. Offences: Break Traffic Lights, High Beam, Speeding

5) XXX IDB 154. Black Perdana V6, on 11/11/2009, 2247hrs in LDP. Offences: Zigzagging, tailgating, no signal.

HERE's THE BEST WHICH I SAVE FOR LAST: 1st PICK OF THE MONTH (out of 3)...

6) MERCEDES E280 Masterpiece Black (See Picture), WCG 6868. Spotted on 6/11/2009, 6.06pm. From Sunwaymas to BU12 main road and finally Traffic light (in front of Ex-Sony Building).


Check out the lists of Offences:
i) Cut out of T-Junction w/o stopping and signalling
ii)Zigzagging w/o signalling + Speeding @ Residential Area Roads (BU12), Up to 110km/h!
iii) Almost hit a motorcycle
iv) Dark tinted windows...
v) ALL these "stunts" apparently committed using HANDPHONE WHILE DRIVING (W/o handsfree) (see Picture 2 and 3 below)


Picture 2

Picture 3

Picture 4.

NOTE PICTURE TO BE UPLOADED WHEN I FOUND MY DIGITAL CAMERA CABLE. Hopefully by 2 days time... Picture uploaded on 18/11/2009

NOTE: DO LOOK OUT FOR W** 1222, "B** 1222", another W** 1222 and "W** 3993" PATROLLING AT YOUR NEAREST NEIGHBOURHOODS... TO BE SAVE, BEHAVE YOURSELF, WHEN YOU SEE ANY *** 1222 No. PLATE CARS. More than 2 Reckless stunts = NO PLATE PUBLISHED IN THIS BLOG...

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry. My original post... Ie. An Original Jeff Lim Production...

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

FULL Review: Proton Satria GTI


FULL Review: Proton Satria GTI:



In this blog entry, I’m covering Proton Satria GTI. Production started late-1998 and soldiered on until 2004. Last 150 units of Satria GTI were known as Satria GTI R3 (in 2005). In Malaysia, the Satria is “THE CAR”, highly sought after by Enthusiasts as well as Thieves. The Good resale value reflects this. Here are the used values of Satria GTI as Compiled by yours truly (AS AT 1 SEPTEMBER 2008).

Year: 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 /R3 04/05 (R3)
Price (RM) 28k 30k 32K 34K 37K 41K 46K /55k 58k

Satria GTI Owners wanted. I need AT LEAST 2 Satria GTI owner to write a review on their car. I will publish your review here and give credit/s to you.

As I have no car to test drive and brag about, I dished out 2 Articles from Australia, 3 Owner reviews (from Malaysia, Australia and UK) and various comments from Non-owners. Enjoy.

ARTICLE 1: Source: www.drive.com.au
Proton Satria GTi 1999-2004




RATING: Three Star out of 5

By David Morley, January 19, 2006

Need to know • The Satria GTi appealed to a breed of buyer likely to drive the car pretty hard most of the time. A close mechanical check is a must.
• Same goes for crash damage. It can be hard to spot, so make sure you have the car inspected by somebody who knows their stuff.
• Suspension can get rattly over time. It might not affect handling but it could drive you insane.
• Interiors were never terribly well put together.
• Check all electrical equipment for proper function.

Hot hatch a truly good thing
Malaysian brand Proton's history in Australia has been a chequered one. False starts, changes of distributor, overpriced product and the naive statement that the marque was the Asian equivalent of BMW, have all helped obscure the truth of the matter. Which is that Proton is a maker of cars that should compete on price and quality with the likes of Kia and Hyundai.

Its small hatchbacks and sedans provide a similar sort of ownership experience to the products of those South Korean brands, which is fine if that's what you're after in a car.

Proton's optimistic pricing policy is probably the main element that has stood in the way of its success over the years.
But along the way, it has thrown up a couple of gems that have deserved to be successes on their own merits.

The most recent of those was the Jumbuck utility, which sort of filled the gap left by the loveable little Subaru Brumby ute that disappeared from local showrooms many years ago.

But Proton's first truly good thing was launched here in 1999 in the form of the Satria GTi. While the meat-and-potatoes Satrias were a range of fairly uninspiring hatches, the GTi version was a much different proposition.

Based on the three-door hatchback body used by the entire Satria line-up, the GTi added all the elements necessary for it to emerge as a proper hot hatch.
While base-model versions of the Satria used a 1.3-litre engine with a 1.5-litre option for those who wanted more, the GTi ditched both those powerplants and went straight for a 1.8-litre unit with double overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder.

With 103 kW of power (compared with just 55 kW in the base model), the GTi was quite a performer with strong pulling power from relatively low down and the ability to rev hard when required.

It wasn't the smoothest engine around but it certainly did the job.
A five-speed manual was the only gearbox offered on the GTi, and fair enough, because it used well-chosen ratios and a shift action that was positive enough but lacked a little accuracy when you rushed it.

Bigger alloy wheels with much stickier tyres were also fitted to the GTi which, combined with firmer suspension settings meant that it was a tidy and generally entertaining handler.

The ride quality could fall away over rough surfaces but it was hardly on its own in that regard.
As well as the alloy wheels with their chunky, spoked design, the GTi can be spotted by a body kit that includes a rather tacky set of wheel-arch flares and an over-the-top, twin, square-section exhaust system.

Inside, you get a sporty look and feel with excellent, body-hugging seats, a better than average steering wheel and some rather in-your-face, fake metallic trim that's a fair bet to be looking pretty second-hand these days.

Standard equipment was surprisingly good with air-conditioning, adjustable steering column, central locking, fog-lamps, an immobiliser and a six-stack CD player. Safety equipment wasn't a real high point, though, with just anti-lock brakes and a single (driver's) airbag fitted.

ARTICLE 2: Source. GOAUTO Australia
Model release dates: October 1999 - January 2005

Overview

PROTON'S Satria GTi is the ultimate expression of what a modern hot-hatch should be. Powered by a gutsy 1.8-litre engine, it goes hard, corners like a go-kart and has plenty of boy-racer appeal - thanks to a body kit comprising spoilers, skirts and wheel arch flares. Perhaps best of all, the Malaysian-built pocket rocket is affordable, costing about $5000 less than its only genuine rival - Peugeot's 206 GTi - although the latter is slightly better equipped.

The Car


YOU can just imagine the brief given to the Proton style counsel before tarting up the tired old Satria. "Give 'em hell, boys!" It would be cruel to call the GTi a parts-bin special because the plethora of aggro add-ons from head to toe actually does the job. Well, sort of. Wheel arch flares with screw heads exposed, deep front airdam, side skirts, high-mounted rear wing, twin rectangular exhaust tips... Subtle, she isn't.

The Car - Seat Plan

FIVE seatbelts are provided but Guinness (records, not beer) should be notified if three adults were to fit comfortably across the rear bench. Proton itself acknowledges that emphasis is placed on the driver's requirements first. Rear head room is limited for taller passengers, while leg room is at the mercy of the driver. Cut-pile floor carpet is provided, with carpet mats with a 'GTi' imprint. A stainless steel scuff plate garnish is another neat little touch. Storage facilities in the passenger compartment include seven pockets for assorted items.

FAKE carbon-fibre spreads throughout the cabin, from the dash to the doors and does a reasonable job transforming the ageing, uninspiring Satria interior, which is overwhelmingly black. Access to the rear seat is via the front doors and folding seatbacks, but no memory feature complicates the return to the seat's original position. The black and white Recaro sports seats are nowhere near top of the range, but they still provide good side and under-thigh support. The front seats have fore and aft and backrest angle adjustment, with the driver's seat also adjustable for height.

The Car - Dash


THE exterior spruce-up may have succeeded, but the GTi's interior is lagging a bit by comparison. Blue on white instrument dials and fake carbon-fibre look unconvincing, as is the speedo's rating to an optimistic 260km/h. Modernity also suffers a setback with the old mechanical-style odometer and trip meter. The leather-wrapped four-spoke steering wheel has a driver's airbag as standard; a passenger airbag is unavailable. Brushed aluminium gear knob and foot pedals add to the silver, motor sport-inspired theme created outside.


The Car - Controls


THE climate switchgear looks old and tired. Rotary dials are provided for air distribution and temperature selection, with horizontal levers for the blower and air circulation. The stereo is difficult to reach and even harder to use - the plethora of fiddly, almost incomprehensible buttons makes channel surfing a nightmare. A comfortable driving position is made easy with a tilt-adjustable steering column and seat height adjustment. The gearshift is nicely positioned within easy reach of the driver. Levers next to the driver seat allow the rear hatch and fuel filler flap to be opened while seated in the car. Front windows are operated from switches on the door armrest. External mirrors are powered. The rear side windows are fixed, making the cramped conditions for adults more stifling.

The Car - Wheels/tyres


THE Satria GTi's intent is obvious from the five-spoke 16-inch alloys and the liquorice strap 205/45 R16 83V Pirelli P7000 tyres which are painted on to them. They also do the job in terms of tough hot-hatch looks. Always an important part of the equation.
Did you know?
Proton acquired 80 per cent of British sports car manufacturer Lotus in 1996

The Car - Luggage

ALL Satrias have a 50/50 split-fold rear seat. A luggage compartment cover keeps valuables away from prying eyes. The luggage area can hold 285 litres with the rear seatback upright, however the suspension towers intrude heavily into the floor space. The rear compartment is fully lined with black trim. Under the floor is a full-size steel spare wheel.
Did you know?
Lotus technology was incorporated into the GTi, vastly improving not only the Satria's handling but giving it street cred as well

The Car - Stand out features


THE huge number of big-ticket items on the GTi will keep modifications down to a bare minimum. The hot hatch looks are achieved with the aggressive front and rear airdam, brake cooling slots, wheel arch flares, side skirts and rear wing. The Lotus connection is milked for all it's worth - and why not? "Handling by Lotus" badge brings instant credibility. Body coloured bumpers appear front and rear. The dual square outlet sports exhaust tips are a striking feature of the rear end. An intermittent rear washer/wiper is standard, as is a bee-sting aerial. Front and rear fog lights are also standard.

The Car - Sound system


WHILE many GTi owners will rip the standard Blaupunkt single-slot CD stereo out for a hardcore, heavy-bass system, others will do it out of sheer frustration. The stereo has a myriad of fiddly, not easily recognised buttons. The stereo's position also makes it difficult to reach for some drivers. Six speakers are provided throughout the cabin.

The Car - Security

THE desirable wheels, body kit and Recaro seats make this car a magnet for thieves. An engine immobiliser and alarm is provided to deter the hordes of thieves who target hot hatches. The immobiliser is linked to the remote keypad rather than a key transponder - so you must start the car within about 30 seconds of unlocking it. Remote central locking is standard.
Did you know?
The Old Bill has taken a liking to the GTi, using it as a pursuit and rapid-response car at Humberside Police in the UK

We like: Looks, performance, handling
We don’t: Harsh ride, silly stereo controls

Our Opinion

By GAUTAM SHARMA 17/04/2000


HOT-HATCH enthusiasts in Australia have not been as well catered for as their counterparts in Europe.

Apart from the Alfa Romeo Alfasud of the 1970s, there have been few affordable, performance-oriented hatchbacks on offer here.

The Suzuki Swift GTi was the most popular weapon of choice among hot-hatch enthusiasts during the '80s and early 90s, offering brisk performance for not a lot of money.

It appealed to enthusiastic young drivers across the country and even spawned a one-make race series that endowed it with additional "street cred".

Other contenders such as the Ford Laser TX3 Turbo, Nissan Pulsar SSS and the accomplished, if expensive, Peugeot 205GTi also made an impact, but not in the way the original Volkswagen Golf GTi did in Europe.

The local hot-hatch segment received a tremendous boost in 1999 with the launch of two modern-day pocket rockets - the Peugeot 206 GTi and Proton Satria GTi.

Both cars offer brisk performance, pin-sharp handling, aggressive styling and high levels of practicality.


Built around previous generation Mitsubishi Colt underpinnings, the swift Satria has been effectively updated by a number of mechanical and cosmetic enhancements.

At its heart lies a 1.8-litre, 16-valve engine that has been "warmed over" to deliver useful outputs of 103kW at 6000rpm and 164Nm at a lofty 5500rpm.

As indicated by these figures, the engine is a bit of a top-end screamer, delivering its best when given a solid caning - which is probably what most of them will receive anyway.

Working the engine hard results in a hard-edged - although not particularly sonorous - drone being emitted by the twin chromed-tipped tailpipes.

Keeping the engine on the boil is facilitated by the snappy five-speed transmission, which makes it a pleasure to row up and down through the gears as you attack your favourite twisting stretch of tarmac. The relative positioning of the brake and accelerator pedals makes heel-and-toe down changes a snap.

The Satria GTi cannot quite match the current Toyota Celica or Honda Integra Type R in a straight line, but it is capable of keeping a Peugeot 206 GTi honest.

Its powerplant does not feature variable-valve timing like the Celica and Integra but is still capable of spinning to 7000rpm and beyond (the redline starts at 7600rpm).

British sports car-maker Lotus - which is owned predominantly by Proton - had a hand in fettling the Satria's suspension and its contribution is discernible.

The GTi's chassis feels alive in a way that the Peugeot 206GTi does not and its steering faithfully relays what is happening at the front wheels to the fingertips of the driver.
While the Peugeot's driver feels somewhat removed from the action, the Satria feels like the proverbial extension of the body.

But not many hot-hatch buyers have a sublime ride quality as one of their primary selection criteria and Satria GTi sales are not likely to suffer as a result. In fact, buyers are more likely to be swayed by the GTi's go-kart-like handling.

Driving it fast is easy: just pick your line around a corner, bury the throttle on the way out and the Satria will take care of the rest. Forget about understeer and body roll - they have no place in this Proton.

There is no doubt the Satria GTi has the performance and dynamics to satisfy most hot-hatch enthusiasts and the manufacturer has ensured its appearance reflects its capabilities.

In view of the tastes of its target market, Proton has not held back in terms of the number of cosmetic add-ons that adorn the car.

Fortunately, the look-at-me body kit makes a positive statement without overstepping the bounds of good taste. The aggressive front spoiler is well complemented by side skirts and a prominent rear wing.

Even the bolt-on wheel arch flares do not look out of place, endowing the GTi with a squat, muscular stance. The rectangular tailpipe extensions are also an interesting touch.
The Audi-style six-spoke alloy wheels are wrapped in sticky 205/45R16 Michelin Pilots that perform an admirable job of keeping the Satria glued to the road.

Inside, hip-hugging Recaro seats, an aluminium gearknob and white-faced instruments set a distinctly sporting tone. Overall, the cabin is comfortable and reasonably well finished and there is enough rear-seat room for two adults - provided they are not too tall.

Also irritating is the fact the engine is automatically immobilised if you do not start the car within about 30 seconds of unlocking it. For example, if you unlock the car and then spend a minute loading the boot, you will have to re-mobilise it by again pressing the unlock button on the key fob.

These are relatively minor gripes about what is, on the whole, a very competent and rewarding car. It offers a useful blend of gutsy performance, eye-catching looks and practicality. Back this up with a nimble, well-balanced chassis and you have a car that rates high on the fun factor scale.

Perhaps the biggest challenge facing it is to overcome the lack of brand identity of the Proton marque.

Mechanicals


THE transversely mounted engine uses multi-point fuel-injection and operates on a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The under square bore to stroke ratio helps the engine respond well across a wide operating range, particularly the mid-range. Cold air intakes in the front bumper feed dense air to the intake system to further aid top-end performance.

Mechanical - Engine


THE Satria GTi is powered by a 1834cc, double overhead cam, 16-valve four-cylinder engine. An old Mitsubishi design, the engine musters 103kW at 6000rpm and 164Nm at 5500rpm, enough for Proton to claim a 0-100k/h time of 7.8 seconds. However, a number of independent tests put that time just under 10 seconds.
Mechanical - Suspension

HERE'S where the GTi story gets really interesting. No compromises have been made here - it's a hard-edged, involving Lotus-tuned design featuring a multi-link rear end and MacPherson struts up front (pictured). Proton says the UK engineers analysed every component of the chassis, and the result was a heavy bias toward handling rather than ride comfort.
Did you know?
Engineers focussed on providing better initial roll control and balance than the standard Satria package. Body roll is kept under wraps by heavy stabiliser bars front and rear

Mechanical - Transmission


A FIVE-speed manual gearbox - complete with a brushed aluminium gearstick - is the only transmission offered with the Satria GTi. The hot-hatch theme is maintained with closely spaced ratios and a positive, short-throw gearstick. The gearbox features synchromesh on all five forward gears and reverse, and the clutch action was designed to be positive and light.

Mechanical - Brakes

A SUITABLY large set of brakes is provided for such a performance-oriented car. The GTi has 355mm discs front (ventilated) and rear. A four-channel anti-lock braking system improves matters further.

Mechanical - Steering


THE GTi uses power-assisted rack and pinion steering. Enhancements to the system means the steering is sharp and responsive, but the strong bias toward holding its line through corners - like it's on rails - means the car also tends to follow road imperfections. On a race circuit bitumen irregularities aren't a factor, but on Australian roads... Turns lock to lock equal 3.3 and the turning circle is 10.2 metres.

Safety


A DRIVER'S airbag is provided as standard equipment, however a passenger airbag is unavailable at any price. Side intrusion bars are designed to provide occupant protection in a side impact. Pillar to pillar bracing is claimed to help provide a good occupant protection cage. The centre-rear seatbelt is a lap belt only, a design which does not provide good occupant restraint. The GTi has a good stopping arsenal with four-wheel discs and anti-lock brakes.

Specifications:

WARRANTY (In Australia):

* Three years/unlimited kilometres
* Service intervals: 10,000km

ENGINE:

* 1.834-litre, double overhead camshaft, 16-valve, in-line four-cylinder, fuel-injected
* Power: 103kW at 6500rpm
* Torque: 164Nm at 5500rpm
* Bore/stroke: 81.0mm/89.0mm
* Compression ratio: 10.5:1

TRANSMISSION:

• Five-speed manual. Ratios (Source Auto International Magazine)
1st: 3.080
2nd: 1.947
3rd: 1.285
4th: 0.939
5th: 0.780
Rev: 3.080
Final: 4.320

SUSPENSION:

* Front: Independent MacPherson struts with coil springs, Anti-roll bar
* Rear: Independent multi-link strut type with coil springs, Anti-roll bar

BRAKES:

The GTi has 355mm discs front (ventilated) and rear. A four-channel anti-lock braking system improves matters further.



STEERING:

* Power-assisted rack and pinion
* Turns lock to lock: 3.3
* Turning circle: 9.8 metres

DIMENSIONS:

* Length: 3950mm
* Width: 1710mm
* Height: 1365mm
* Wheelbase: 2440mm
* Track, front: 1450mm
* Track, rear: 1460mm
* Kerb weight: 1030kg

FUEL TANK capacity: 50L

Fuel consumption:
A) City 9.5km/l Highway 10.7km/l (unofficially Quoted by a Malaysian forummer)
B) City 7.8, Highway 6.0L/100 km (Australian Government official figure)
Anyone can challenge this?

Performance:
Top speed: 195km/h (Anyone can challenge this figure?)
0-100km/h: 9 seconds (Anyone can challenge this figure?)
¼ mile: (NA) – Anyone can contribute?
50-80km/h: 6.1 secs

[NOTE: 1st batch 1998-99 uses MMC ECU. It’s higher revving and more powerful. Max speed 212km/h, 0-100km/h: 7.8 seconds. Redline at 7500rpm. From 2000 to 2001 it uses SIEMENS ECU hence above quoted figures. WORSE, by 2002, Proton uses Locally made BOSCH EMS ECU the Satria were made even slower – at 9.7 seconds and redlined at 6500rpm instead of 7500rpm].

STANDARD EQUIPMENT:

* Blaupunkt six-speaker CD stereo
* Remote keyless entry
* Air-conditioning
* Alarm
* Power windows
* Sports suspension
* Body kit
* Alloy wheels
* Recaro seats
* Driver airbag
* Anti-lock brakes
* Leather steering wheel
* Split/fold rear seat
* Tilt adjustable steering wheel
* Cupholders


Without further ado, let’s proceed to OWNER’S REVIEW:

Owner’s review/opinions:




Source: www.dooyoo.co.uk

Advantages: none
Disadvantages: proton earns more

Well there is a 2 kinds of satria gti: 2 different ECUs MMC system and Bosch EMS system . With the MMC system you maybe able to get to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds but for the Bosch EMS nah...... the most you could get is 9 seconds .

Proton changed the system to earn more cause only they have the parts. Since 2002 all wiras , satrias and GTIs has been using Bosch EMS system . I own a satria gti myself and i changed the whole wiring , manifold , computer box , trottlebody etc ++ back to the MMC system . The bosch EMS system with a trottle sensor sucks . After change back to the MMC system i could go from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds

END OF OWNER'S REVIEW. Thanks for having the patience to read it.

References:
1) GOAUTO Australia. www.goauto.com.au
2) AUTO International (Malaysian) Magazine: BUYER’S GUIDE 2003.
3) www.dooyoo.co.uk
4) http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=10896