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Thursday, September 30, 2010

LOTUS vs PROTON: Long-drawn fight expected.

The Star: Thursday September 30, 2010

SOURCE:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/30/nation/7131281&sec=nation 

Long-drawn fight expected


PETALING JAYA: The cordial-turned-sour relationship between Lotus Racing Formula One team and Proton Holdings Bhd is not likely to be patched up any time soon.

Their fight over who owns the ‘Team Lotus’ rights, which has reached the British courts, is set to continue with Proton-owned Group Lotus insisting that former British racing driver David Hunt did not have the rights to the Team Lotus company.

It claimed that Group Lotus did not sign a deed to effect the transfer of the company after Hunt bought Team Lotus from a liquidator in 1994. Proton claimed it had lodged a lawsuit on that matter to secure the rights to use Team Lotus and its brand, said a source.

“The brand is about the company and the car,” the source said yesterday.

Hunt had recently sold his Team Lotus Ventures Ltd and the rights to the Team Lotus name to locally-backed Lotus Racing. Team Lotus is an iconic name in the motorsport world.

The privately-funded Lotus Racing team is jointly-owned by Tune Group founder and AirAsia group chief executive officer Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes, Tune Group co-owner Datuk Kamarudin Meranun and Naza Group chief executive officer SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin.
Fernandes, who is Lotus Racing team principal, announced last week that its team would be known as Team Lotus from next year’s Formula One season after buying Team Lotus Ventures from Hunt.

Proton then announced on Monday that it was terminating the Lotus Racing licence it gave to 1Malaysia Racing Team to race in Formula One. The relationship between Lotus Racing and Proton became more tense during the team’s maiden F1 season.

Lotus Racing on Tuesday had filed an application with the English High Court to declare that Team Lotus Ventures, which was now owned by Tune Group, was the rightful owner to the Team Lotus brand.
The court documents stated that the purpose for the declaration proceeding was to “establish the validity of Team Lotus Ventures’ position as the true owner of the name Team Lotus”.

Group Lotus owns the car-making and engineering companies under the Lotus banner while Team Lotus historically is the owner of the racing team.

Both companies were separated by Lotus’ original owner Colin Chapman to distinigush its functions in his company.

RELATED ARTICLES (All from The Star online):

1) Lotus-Proton saga: 
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/29/nation/7123869&sec=nation

2) Battle over Team Lotus goes to English Court
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/28/nation/20100928095849&sec=nation

3) More than a brand at stake in Lotus-Proton saga 

http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/30/business/7129434&sec=business  

 THAT'S ALL FOLKS, Thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry.



PRODUCT REVIEW: KYOTO Oil AFR

On 1 September, I spotted this Product in ENEOS Bukit Tinggi, Klang.  It's called "KYOTO Oil AFR".  AFR stands for "Advance Fuel Reformulator".  It's claimed to be made in Japan and costs RM36 for 4 bottles (1 bottle's good for 60Litres of fuel.  (Ie. 6 times application).  As at 29 September, I'm using my 3rd bottle poured into my Fuel Tank.


The result?

1) Better, more stable idling (previously Idling goes up and down 800 to 1100rpm, NOW steady at 900rpm).
2) Slightly better midrange Acceleration
3) 10% more fuel economical (at the moment)
4) Smoother and quieter engine. (Less vibration)

Well, there's a saying a picture's worth 1000 words.  Here's some pictures:

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

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

LONGTERMER #1: Update 27, Sept 2010: Ford Telstar 2.0i4 Ghia Auto

In this blog entry, I'm updating my ride. The Ford Telstar 2.0i4 Ghia Auto. This is the 27th Update. What happened in the month of September?

This month, I tried adding an addictive called "KYOTO OIL" to the fuel tank.  So far, I'm on the 3rd bottle.  The result?  See next post.

Also, on the 2nd week of September, my front left tyre punctured again.
  I drove to the nearest tyre shop and change to the spare tyre. 
The next day, I bought a set of EXORA M-line Steel Rims + Hubcaps for RM130 from an EXORACLUB member.
I then proceeded to TEIK MENG Sunway again to source for used tyres.  Lo and behold, I spotted a set of used 60% thread left CONTINENTAL ComfortContact1 (CC1) for RM75/piece (total RM300). 
After that, I drove to Brothers Kelana Jaya to buy black stickers to cover the PROTON logo.  The result? 


Over the past few days, my car suddenly STEERING became heavier and heavier (especially parking and cornering) until it's unbearable.  I drove to the nearest mechanic, he discovered that my POWER STEERING PUMP's LEAKING.  He managed to find a used part for RM480 + workmanship.

This month, I covered a total of 1138km.  One of the highest mileage covered per month I personally covered.

Without further ado, let's proceed to logbook:



Mileage last month: 156,897km
Mileage used last month: 991km

Mileage now: 158,035km
Mileage used in September 2010: 1138km



Fuel consumption so far:


Best 10.2km/L (8 June 2010) (80% Highway Driving)
Worst: 5.9km/L (September 14,2009) 90% City driving

This month:

Best: 9km/L (Ron 95, EssoMobil, Kyoto Oil) 27/9/2010
Worst: 6.95km/L (Ron 95, Shell, Kyoto Oil) 3/9/2010

0-100km/h: 10.2 seconds (20/9/2010)


Today, as at 29 September 2010,

Expenses this month:

1) Exora Steel Rims + hubcaps  = RM130
2) Used Continental CC1 tyres  = RM300
3) Power steering pump    = RM480
4) Fuel: RM180
5) Others: RM100
TOTAL: RM1190.

Before I go, here's some parting shots:


Above: Before the Proton Logo cover up.  Below: after covering up the Proton Logo.

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry.  An original Jeff Lim's Production.  Ie. My Original Work.  See you on October 30 2010 for the 28th update.

Monday, September 27, 2010

RM40,000, What car can you get? (Updated 27/9/2010)

 NOTE: This article is 1st published back in 2006 (4 years ago), I merely updated it due to popular demand.

A lot of people most of which are YOUNG Grads asked me, "What NEW car choices do I have if I got RM40,000 budget. I told them, for NEW car, the choices are VERY VERY LIMITED. It's limited to:  PERODUA Viva, Myvi 1.0, Hyundai i10, SAVVY, Saga BLM, Naza Sutera, Chana CM8 MPV, Chana CV6 Hatchback, Chevrolet Spark. IN SHORT, There's LESS than 10 choices available.

Now the Picture is very different if you are considering USED cars. Suddenly, you are SPOILED for Choices. For RM40,000, there's MORE THAN 80 Varieties of vehicles to Choose from in any forms...

But if you are getting LOANs (I'm sure FEW will have the money to PAY CASH RM40k!), I'm afraid you can only buy UP TO 12 yrs old cars (typically) with Lowish interest rates (Below 5%). Ie. Oldest 1998. After 12 years, YOU typically HAVE TO PAY CASH or ended up paying HIGHER interest rates (as high as 6%)! In this scenario, LUXURY cars such as BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Jaguar IS OUT as these cars will be too old by that time it Reaches the RM40k mark.

Case Example 1, I saw an ad in Lelong someone wanted to sell 1981 PORSCHE 924 for RM25,000!!! He is the 1st OWNER!, BUT CASH ONLY!!! If you have the CASH and the money to Maintain and Insure the car, then it's a good buy...

Case Example 2: This friend of mine was VERY EXCITED knowing that He can owned a 1992 MERCEDES 230E W124 (with AMG 17" rims, "77" no plate, bodykit, Automatic, Sunroof etc) for RM23,000. Ie. within his budget (Initially he thought). BUT he was disappointed, CANNOT GET LOAN as the car was too OLD... This means that he HAD to PAY CASH! Having ONLY 2 yrs work experience and still working as a TRAINEE, obviously he cannot afford... What a waste...

All is not LOST, depends on your criteria, RM40k still have LOTS and LOTS of "CLASSY" and/or RESPECTABLE Japanese and "COLD European" cars which is below 11 yrs old and can still obtain Loan... Here are some of My recommendations: (BOLD = Highly recommended)


NEWISH (below 5 years old) CARS: 

 1) Proton Waja 1.6 CAMPRO Enhanced 2007

2) Perodua MYVI 1.3SXI/EZI 2008/2009, RM38,800/RM39,800

3) HYUNDAI ELANTRA 1.8iGLS(A) 2007(!), RM39,000(!). Wonder why RESALE value so LOW. Note that brand new: RM88,000. Within 3 yrs value dropped so MUCH! Bad news for 1st owner BUT GOOD NEWS for YOU!

4) Mazda Fighter 2.5 Turbodiesel 2006 RM39,000
5) Naza Citra 2006: RM40,000
6) Kia Optima 2.0 2006 (RM36,800)
7) Kia Spectra5 2007 (RM40,000)
8) Proton Persona 1.6 2008 (RM37,000 Manual, RM39,000 Auto)
9) Proton Satria Neo 1.6 M/A 2009 (RM39,000/41,000)
10) Hyundai Accent 1.5 RX-S 2007, RM37,000
11) Naza Bestari 206 (RM37,000) 2007
12) Chevrolet Optra 1.6/1.8 (2006/2005) RM36,000
13) Chevrolet Aveo5 2007, RM39,000
14) Hyundai Matrix: 2006: RM36,000
15) Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6 GLX (2006) RM42,000.
16) Kia Rio 1.5 (2007) RM38,800
17) Hyundai GETZ 1.4 (2007) RM39,000
18) Renault Kangoo 1.4 Sportiv/NEVO (2007) RM37,000

EXECUTIVE LOCAL/Japanese/Korean Car:


1) Honda Accord 2.0 VTI (2000) = RM40k
2) Nissan Cefiro V6 3.0i 2001 = RM32,000 (This is the BEST V6 engine, surprisingly Economical for a 3.0L car, But Road tax RM2000!). A 2.0iV6 model is RM5-7k more and Road tax RM391.00.
3) Toyota Camry 2.2GX 2000. RM40,000.
4) PROTON Perdana V6 2.0 2003 Enhanced Facelift RM39,000
5) Hyundai Sonata GOLD 2.4i (2004) / 2.0i (2005)  (RM37,000 / RM38,000)

Executive "COLD" Continental car (ie. Weaker demand) which still can obtain loan easily.

1) VOLVO S40 2.0T 2001. RM40,000. But beware of the High maintenance costs and reliability.
2) Peugeot 406 2.0 Deluxe 2003 (Last batch, facelift, RM36,000.
3) Ford FOCUS 1.8(M) Hatchback 2001, RM37,000
4) Volkswagon Jetta/Bora 1.6 2002 (RM40,000)
5) Volkswagen Passat 1.8T (2001) RM42,000)
6) Peugeot 307XSi Hatchback 2004 RM38,000
7) Citroen C5 2.0 2005 (RM37,000)
8) Alfa 147 1.6M 2002 (RM43,000)
9) Skoda Octavia 1.6i 2003 (RM41,000)
10) Skoda Fabia 1.4i 2003 (RM38,000)
11) Peugeot 206 1.6 CBU 2003 (RM40,000)
12) Audi A4 1.8 Non-Turbo B5 (2000) RM39,000

Other 4 door cars:

1) Mazda 323 BJ Sedan/Hatchback 2003 RM32,000.

2) HONDA Civic EK 1.6i VTEC (Last batch) 1999(M)/2000(A), RM42,000. Another HOT Demand car, Very HIGH resale value and ENDLESS Modification OPTIONS...

3) Toyota Corolla AE111 SEG 1.6 2000, RM35,000. This 8th Generation Corolla, economical yet good looking (applicable to 98-01 facelift only). HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

4) BMW 525i E34 1996 (Last Batch) RM33,000

5) Mercedes E220 Masterpiece 1995: RM38,000 (E280 Masterpiece RM33,000)
6) Nissan Sentra 1.6XE 2001 (RM36000),b
8) Mercedes C220 1996: RM40,000
9) Honda City Type Z/VTEC LEV 2002/2002: RM31,000/34,000



Can RM40k buy you a LIMOUSINE?  Sure, Why Not?  

Here's the list (if you can afford the maintenance):

1) Mercedes S320 1997: RM39000
2) BMW 728i(A)/730iL E38 1996 (RM38,000)
3) Proton Perdana EXECUTIVE 2001 (RM35,000)
4) Lexus LS400 V8 1992: RM40,000
5) Honda Legend 3.5RL 1996: RM43,000.
6) Audi A6 2.4 1998 (1st batch), RM42,000
7) Jaguar/Daimler XJ6 1995: RM40,000
8) Ssangyong Chairman 2.8/3.2 2003 (RM40,000)

IF YOU WANT FAST car for RM40k, there's the following choices:

1) VOLVO V70 T5 2.3i WAGON. 2000 model priced RM40,000 only. This TURBOCHARGED car has a Top speed of 230km/h and 0-100km/h in 7.3 SECS!!! It's so fast that our POLIS used as Chase car. Though Maintenence is HIGH and Reliability is BAD. But if it's in GREAT Condition with low mileage and Service record or 1 owner, then GRAB IT!

2) PROTON SATRIA GTI 1.8i DOHC 2003 model RM35,000. This is, in my opinion ONE OF THE BEST PROTON, losing out only to Proton Putra (better looking and more practical - better rear legroom + bigger boot)!  0-100km/h below 9 seconds and top speed 210 km/h. VERY WORTH THE MONEY!

3) BMW 328i E36 1998 (Last batch). RM38,000. ANOTHER POWERFUL car, Just missed the cut for Lowish Interest rate loans (more difficult as oldest recommended year to obtain LOAN is 11 yrs old). But If you CAN GET LOAN, this is the ULTIMATE DRIVING MACHINE. FUN car. The IT CAR (Very CLASSY). Rock solid Resale value. Maintenence and Spare parts costs are not an issue as there's MANY Units on the road and TONS of "CHOP SHOPS" and spare part shops...

4) Fiat Coupe:20v Turbo 1999 (RM40,000)


5) Volvo V40 T4 turbo. 2000,  RM39,000.  Like the V70 but smaller and more economical and slightly more powerful.

6) Alfa Romeo 156 Selespeed RM40k (2001) / 2.5 V6 (1999)

7) Honda Prelude H22A 2.2 DOHC VTEC 1996 (RM36,000)

SUV/Truck Options:

1) Toyota RAV4 2.0i 5dr. 1999. RM40,000.
2) Ford Ranger Pickup 2.5i Turbodiesel 2005 (M). RM39,000. Auto add another RM2-4k)
3) Mazda Fighter 2.5 Turbodiesel 2006 RM39,000
4) Toyota Hilux Diesel Pick-up 1997 RM39,000
5) Ford Escape 2.0XLT 2002 RM40,000
6) Nissan Frontier 4x4 2005 RM40,000
7) Honda CRV 1st generation (PERFORMA150ps) 2000 CBU: RM36,000
(2001 Kah Motor spec same price)
8) Kia Sportage 2.0 2005 RM34,000
9) Ssangyong REXTON Petrol/Diesel 2003: RM39,000
10) Hyundai Santa Fe 2002 (RM40,000)
11) Isuzu Rodeo Pickup 2000 (RM40,000)
12) Isuzu Bighorn 3.1 Diesel/Citation 3.2 Petrol 1999/2000, RM40,000
13) Land Rover Range Rover 4.6 V8/2.5 DSE 1996/1995 (RM38,000)
14) Mitsubishi Pajero V31V 2.4, 2000 (RM36,000)
15) Mitsubishi STORM 2.5 Turbo-Diesel Pick-up 2003 RM40,000
16) Land Rover Discovery 1998 (RM34,000)
17) Mazda Tribute 2.0 2003 (RM40,000)

MPV/Vans

1) Naza Ria 2005: RM38,000 

2) Naza Citra 2006: RM40,000 

3) Hyundai Trajet 2003: RM40,000

4) Hyundai Matrix: 2006: RM36,000

5) Fiat Ulysse MPV 2002: RM32,000

6) Nissan Serena 2.0 MPV 2000. RM38,000

7) Toyota Unser 2002 (A) RM38,800

8) KIA PERGIO 2005, RM35,000 

9) Opel Zafira 1.8 2002, RM38,000

10) Chevrolet Nabira 1.8 2005 (RM40,000)

11) Toyota Estima Emina/Lucida (1999) RM40,000

12) Toyota Avanza 1.3 2005 (M/A) RM37,000/RM39,000

13) Citroen Xsara Picasso 2004 (RM43,000)

14) Citroen Evasion MPV 2.0i 2002 (RM35,000)

15) Toyota Ipsum / Picnic 2.0 MPV (1998) RM42,000

16) Renault Kangoo 1.4 Sportiv/NEVO (2007) RM37,000

17) Mitsubishi Space Gear MPV L400 2.4 (2000) RM38,000

18) Mitsubishi Chariot Grandis MPV (1999 recond)  RM40,000

19) Nissan C22 Vanette 2005 (Window van) / 2007 (Panel van) RM40,000

20) Toyota Hiace (1999 Window van/2001 Panel van) RM39,000

Other cars:

- See motortrader, for "abnormal National car" such as "Wira EVO, Satria 1.8 GSR, Waja Mivec, Perdana V6 Twin Turbo. Ie. "Modified MILOTINS". Not recommended as the BODY and CHASSIS can't cope with the power, unless you reinforced it (think "ULTRA RACING" bars). But few will bother to do that because it's EXPENSIVE. Also, some have no JPJ approval.

- In motortrader, There's FTOs, RX7 FC, Levin AE86, Silvia 180SX, Original EVOII, MR2 (Ferrari like version) within the 40k budget... BUT MOST ARE OVER 12 yrs old and DIFFICULT TO GET LOAN. But If you are lucky and able to get loan, then your choice will be even wider...

That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry.  MY (Jeff Lim's) ORIGINAL WORK!


Thursday, September 23, 2010

VIDEOS++ Reviews: Peugeot 205GTI

VIDEOS+Specifications+Owner's Review: Peugeot 205GTI


In this blog entry, I'm reviewing the Peugeot 205 GTI Hot Hatch.  This car's RARE in Malaysia.  Over the past 3 years, I only managed to spot 1 unit on Malaysian Road.  Hence, the Value of 205 GTI in Malaysia's unknown. 

Like my Porsche 993 Turbo review earlier, this is going to be a similar review.  Yup, it's another VIDEOS+Specifications.  This time, I came up with 6 VIDEOS, Specifications.

So sit back, enjoy and relax...

Wheeler Dealers Peugeot 205 GTI part 1




Wheeler Dealers Peugeot 205 GTI part 2



Wheeler Dealers Peugeot 205 GTI part 3



Wheeler Dealers Peugeot 205 GTI part 4




Wheeler Dealers Peugeot 205 GTI part 5



Peugeot 205GTI review by Jeremy Clarkson




Peugeot 205 GTI advertisement




Peugeot 205 buying guide




Peugeot 205GTI 1.9 Roadtest



peugeot 205 gti 1.9 topaz blue



END OF VIDEOS REVIEWS...
 
Let's proceed to SPECIFICATIONS:
 
Engine location Front


Engine alignment Transverse

Drive FWD

Bore × stroke 83.00 mm × 88.00 mm

Cylinders in-line 4

Displacement 1.9 litre (1905 cc)

Type: SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, 8 valves in total

Compression ratio 9.60:1

Fuel system Bosch L-Jet fuel inj.

Maximum power 131.8 PS (130 bhp) (96.9 kW) @ 6000 rpm

Specific output 68.2 bhp/litre

Maximum torque 161.0 Nm (119 ft·lb) (16.4 kgm) @ 4750 rpm


DIMENSIONS:

Wheelbase 2420 mm (95.3 in )
Track front 1382 mm (54.4 in )
rear 1339 mm (52.7 in )
Length 3705 mm (145.9 in )
Width 1572 mm (61.9 in )
Height 1372 mm (54 in )
Kerb weight 875 kg (1929 lb )


Suspension:

 Front Independent MacPherson Struts,Lower wishbone Coil springs.Anti-roll Bar.

Rear Independent Trailing arms,torsion beams, Anti-roll bar.

BRAKES: Fr/RR: Ventilated Discs/Discs Servo-assisted

Transmission:

5 Speed Manual /4 Speed Automatic (RARE, officially available in Hong Kong market only)


OTHERS:

Luggage space: 216-1200 l
Fuel tank: 50 l
Average comsumption: 7.8 l/100km
Average comsumption kms: (12.8km/l)


PERFORMANCE:

0-60 mph 7.6 s (0-96 km/h)
0-100 mph 22.60 s (0-160km/h)
80-120 km/h (50-70 mph) in top

Standing ¼mile 16.30 s

Top speed 198 km/h (123 mph)
Power-to-weight 148.57 bhp/ton

END OF SPECIFICATIONS;



"Maybe not the fastest car, but must be one of the best cars ever made in fun for money value ever"


"Arguably The Best Hothatch ever"





BEFORE I GO, Here's some parting shots:
 
The 205GTI's also available in stylish Pininfarina Designed Cabriolet form. 
 
REFERENCES:
 
1) www.youtube.com/  (Search "205GTI")
 
2) http://www.cars-data.com/en/peugeot-205-gti-19-122hp-26689/specs.html 
(For Specifications)
 
That's all folks, thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry...

ARTICLE: Malaysia's Proton commits to turning around Lotus

By Agence France-Presse, Updated: 9/23/2010


Malaysia's Proton commits to turning around Lotus

Malaysian national carmaker Proton said Thursday it was committed to turning around its loss-making subsidiary Lotus by 2015, and that it had no plans to sell off the British marque.



State-owned Proton bought a controlling stake in the British sports and racing car maker in October 1996, but it has remained debt-ridden since then.



In June, Proton unveiled a five-year transformation blueprint for Lotus, including a new management team and ambitious plans to launch new models and boost production.



"It's our responsibility to turn around any subsidiaries within the group," Proton chairman Mohamad Nadzmi Mohamad Salleh said after the company's annual general meeting.



"With the new management, we have better prospects of turning around the company. They have a robust five-year business plan," he said, adding that Proton will gain from the Lotus branding and its engineering capability.



"By having these two benefits, it will strengthen our position as an automobile manufacturer. There is no intention to dispose of Lotus at this point of time."



Proton said recently it will partner with Lotus to manufacture a small, five-door model to tap into the Asia and the Middle East markets.



In a previous bid to restructure Lotus in 2007, Proton waived debts of up to 16.5 million pounds (25.9 million dollars) racked by up the British subsidiary under a recapitalisation exercise.



"We believe we should give an opportunity to the management to prove itself," Proton managing director Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamad Tahir said.



Proton also said it will launch a new model in collaboration with Japan's Mitsubishi Motors by year-end.



"Hopefully this model will be launched in November," Syed Zainal Abidin said, but declined to divulge details. The vehicle is said to be based on Mitsubishi's Lancer.



Proton was formed in 1983 by then-premier Mahathir Mohamad as part of an ambitious national industrialisation plan, but it has suffered from a reputation for unimaginative models and poor quality.



However, Proton's net profit for the three months to August jumped 55.13 percent to 84.7 million ringgit (27.08 million dollars), on the back of rising vehicle sales and improved profit margins.

END OF ARTICLE...
 
SOURCE:
http://news.malaysia.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=4353142

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

The Star: Car registration plates bearing ‘MCA’ can’t be reserved

Read this for laugh!  After reading this article, I laughed till I fell off my chair!  Here goes:




The Star: Wednesday September 22, 2010

Car registration plates bearing ‘MCA’ can’t be reserved


PUTRAJAYA: Car registrations bearing the letters “MCA” are open for public tender and they are not reserved for MCA members only, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha.

“Nobody can reserve any number for ‘MCA.’ It’s part of the sequence that RTD issues the registration number,” he said.  He was commenting on a “directive” from certain quarters that the Malacca registration should be reserved for MCA members only.

It was reported in a newspaper yesterday that a letter written by the senior private secretary of former Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat, had asked for tenders for the registration beginning from MCA 1 to MCA 9999 to be exempted.

Speaking to reporters after his ministry’s Hari Raya Aidifiltri open house here yesterday, Kong said the instruction to Road Transport Department (RTD) director-general Datuk Solah Mat Hassan to exempt the numbers MCA 1 to MCA 9999 had been recinded.

Kong later showed a letter dated Feb 17 on the directive to Solah to the press.
He said there were other car registrations beginning with the letters DAP and PAS but it did not mean they were reserved for members from the opposition parties.

In another development, Kong, who is also MCA secretary-general, said the party was set for its annual general meeting in October.

On the outcome of the Ops Sikap 22 road safety operation held in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidifitri celebrations which ended on Friday, Kong said although there was a reduction in the number of accidents, the fatality rate was still high.

Under Ops Sikap 22, 16,817 accidents were reported compared with 17,335 last year.
The number of road fatalities was 244 compared with 265 last year.


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


Article Source:
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/22/nation/7077720&sec=nation

RM20k Budget. What car can you buy (UPDATED 22/9/2010)?

In this blog entry, I'm looking into the perspective of a Fresh graduate or College students (by popular demand). What car can you buy these days with RM20,000. Obviously, there won't be any new car to consider at this budget. All is not lost, I compiled a list of used car (55+ cars) which belongs to this category. You'll be surprised, what RM20,000 can get you. Yes, the options are very wide...


Here goes: (Sorted according to Year - Newest to Oldest)
Created this post exactly 2 years ago.  NOW UPDATE IT BY POPULAR DEMAND!

It's divided into 4 levels. Highest to lowest: "HIGHLY RECOMMENDED", "RECOMMENDED", Neutral = "blank", "NOT RECOMMENDED".  "BOLD NEWLY UPDATED"


2008:

Perodua Viva 660BX Manual

NAZA SUTERA/FORZA 1.1M (RM19,800)

(NOT RECOMMENDED, China Car!  HORRENDOUS BUILD QUALITY)



2007:

Proton Savvy 1.2 Manual  (Recommended, more involving and reliable than AMT, FUN CAR)
Proton Saga LMST (NOT RECOMMENDED)
(Why? E-mail me, I will tell you why! 1 of the criticism is that car have Almost ZERO Safety features (eg. bumper will drop in a minor collide, No side impact bars - NOT EVEN "SIDE BUMPERS" (old iswara has it)), AND many more).


2006:

Proton SAVVY 1.2 AMT  (RECOMMENDED, RENAULT CLIO 1.2 in DRAG, FUN CAR)

CHERY ALADO 1.6

Perodua Kancil 850 (Manual)

Hyundai Atos 1.0 (Auto/Manual)

Perodua Kancil 850 (Auto) (RECOMMENDED)


2005:

1) Proton Satria 1.3i

2) Proton Wira 1.5 Sedan (Recommended)

4) Proton Wira 1.3 Aeroback

5) KIA PICANTO 1.1

2004:

1) Perodua Kembara

2) Wira 1.5 Aeroback (Recommended)

3) PROTON JUARA (RM15,000)


2003:

1) Kia Spectra 1.6

2) Fiat Marea Sedan (A)

3) Fiat Punto 1.3ELX Speedgear RM20,800 (RECOMMENDED)

4) Perodua Kelisa 1.0 Manual

5) PROTON WAJA 1.8 Enhanced


6) Perodua Kembara GX Manual/EZ Auto

7) SUZUKI ERV 1.3 MPV

8) KIA CARENS 1.8 CBU



2002:

1) Kia Sportage
2) Perodua Kelisa 1.0 Auto EZi (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

3) Proton Waja 1.6 (M) (RECOMMENDED, Got 3 units owned by my Family, you say leh?)

4)  HYUNDAI ELANTRA 1.8GLS (A)




2001:

1) PROTON WAJA 1.6 (A) (RECOMMENDED)

2) HYUNDAI SONATA 2.0i


2000:

1)Alfa 146 1.6/2.0

2) Nissan AD-Resort 1.6 MILLENIUM EDITION
(RECOMMENDED, RARE, only 200 units ever made)

3) Ford Telstar 2.0i4(A) (v6 body) (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED).  PROUD owner of one of these...

4) Renault Scenic 1.6 (RM19k)

5) Kia Clarus (Optima) 2.0

6) Peugeot 406 ST 


1999:

1) Mazda Lantis 1.6/1.8i 1997 (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

2) Ford Lynx 1.8/1.6 (RECOMMENDED)

3) Volvo 850SE RM18k / GLE 20v RM20k

4) Honda City 1.5EXI-S (A)


1998:

1) Proton Perdana 2.0SEI (RECOMMENDED)

2) Proton Wira 1.8 DOHC Sedan (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
3) Nissan Sentra 1.6 RM20k (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

4) Nissan Altima 2.0i (Manual)



1997 or older

1) Toyota Corolla SEG 1.6 (1994) (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

2) Ford Telstar V6 (97) (RECOMMENDED)

3) Honda Civic EG (95) (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

4) Mercedes Benz W124 230E/260E/300E. 1992/91/91 (RM20k) (RECOMMENDED)

5) Honda Accord SV4 2.2i (1994 Auto/ 1995 Manual) 1st batch (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)

6) TOyota Camry 2.2i ABS (1997) RM20k (RECOMMENDED)

7) BMW E34 525i / 520i 24v 1993-94 RM20k (RECOMMENDED)

8) BMW E36 318i 1992 RM19,800. (RECOMMENDED)

9) Honda Legend 3.2L 1995 EM20k

10)Mitsubishi Pajero 1995 V32 RM20k

11)Suzuki Vitara 1.6JLX 3 door(1998), 5 door(1997) (RECOMMENDED)

12)Mercedes 190E (1993) (RECOMMENDED)

13) NISSAN CEFIRO 3.0 V6 Brougham (1996)


That's ALL Folks. Happy hunting for the IDEAL Car. Do advise me if I left out any other car RM20,000 budget.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Mazda 17" Rims + tyres for Sale. PRICE DROP!

For sale: "Mazda 3 Sport" 17" PCD114.3, 5 holes rims with 215/45R17 tyres.



1x Front Falken ZE912 - Almost botak

2x Bridgestone MY-01 - 20% thread left.

1x Extra Silverstone Synergy M5 tyres (NEW). The other one Cut in Sidewall, thrown away.


Rims alone: RM800.


Rims + 4 tyres = RM900 only.

FREE: 16x quality Nuts + 4x SECURITY LOCK NUTS (Worth 48 and 60 respectively)...


COD within 15km radius from Section 17, PJ only. Eg. Sunway, Petaling Jaya, Mont Kiara, Bangsar, Jalan Ipoh, Segambut, SS15 Subang, Kepong only.

REASON SELLING: Downgraded to 15" STEEL RIMS + 195/60R15 tyres.  Why?

1) For Better fuel efficiency
2) Preparing to sell off my car by year End (this time it's SERIOUS)


PRICE DROP (13/10/2010): RM650 only.  FREE: 16x quality Nuts + 4x SECURITY LOCK NUTS (Worth 48 and 60 respectively)...

Pls call Jeff: 012-6852-718 for quick deal (10am to 10pm only).  NO SMS...



Saturday, September 18, 2010

The Star: Dr M resists entry of more foreign assemblers

The Star: Sat, Sep 18, 2010 at 10:45 am


Dr M resists entry of more foreign assemblers

Source: http://star-motoring.com/blog/permalink.asp?id=1530

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government should re-think allowing foreign carmakers to set up assembly plants in Malaysia as the move may not benefit the country, says Proton adviser Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

"We cannot have access to these countries that want to invest in Malaysia as they imposed a lot of restrictions to the extent that we cannot invest there, but they can invest here."
The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) said on Wednesday it was evaluating applications from five foreign carmakers keen to set up assembly plants in Malaysia to assemble cars below and above 1,800cc.

MIDA is expected to decide on the carmakers' entry in the next few months.

The agency said carmakers from India, China, Japan and South Korea had shown keen interest to manufacture hybrid and electric cars. With the revised National Automotive Policy, foreign carmakers can own manufacturing plants that produced luxury vehicles with an engine capacity above 1,800cc and costs more than RM150,000 a unit.

The Malaysian automotive industry is also seeing a surge in foreign interests this year, with two local firms - Naza Nasim Sdn Bhd and DRB-HICOM Bhd - securing production rights to rands such as Peugeot and Potenza.

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir also said the Government should ensure it does not get a raw deal when making deals with foreigners.

"When they don't open up but we open up, obviously we are not going to benefit from the deal," he told reporters after opening the First Sovereign Advisory Sdn Bhd, the first Islamic value-based financial advisory firm.

In a related development, Dr Mahathir said Proton was only keen to work with other companies and has no intention to merge with them as it was now on a sound financial footing.

"Financially Proton is okay," he told a media briefing here Friday.

Proton would be able to evaluate the value of its assets after a restructuring, he added.



END OF ARTICLE...

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



ARTICLE: Proton has no merger plans

THE STAR Business: Saturday September 18, 2010

SOURCE: http://biz.thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/9/18/business/7059760&sec=business


Proton has no merger plans

By DANNY YAP

danny@thestar.com.my
KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd has no plans to merge with other companies at this juncture, according to adviser Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Dr Mahathir said the national car manufacturer was a profitable company.
It was earlier reported that Proton was working on a deal to make DRB-HICOM Bhd an equity partner, but the deal may have hit a snag as neither party has confirmed their interest.
Dr Mahathir said Proton was now at the restructuring stage.


“After we restructure and when we are more able to assess the value of our assets, maybe then we will think of some simple cooperation with other companies, if they are interested,” he told reporters after the establishment and launch of the First Sovereign Advisory (FSA) company based on Islamic values yesterday.
FSA, a financial adviser firm, is licensed by Bank Negara and the Securities Commission to advise clients on various Islamic financial products provided by its selected partners.


Asked if Proton was still open to foreign companies having a stake in it, Dr Mahathir said the car manufacturer was open to talks with everyone.

“Over the past 25 years Proton has acquired the skills and capacity to design and build cars from A to Z almost. We have something to offer in terms of our cost competitiveness in car manufacturing, compared with places like Europe and Japan, which are four times more expensive,” he noted.

On the entry of foreign car assemblers, Mahathir said the Government should reconsider if the move was really useful.
“We don’t have to comply with what is recommended by the developed countries. We need to protect ourselves. If we open up our market and they don’t open up theirs, obviously we are not going to benefit,” he said.
On FSA, chief executive officer Annuar Shuib said the firm was looking to have more strategic partners to provide more Islamic products and services to satisfy its clients’ requirements.

“We are in talks with several other companies at the moment,” he said.




VIDEOS++ Reviews: Porsche 993 Turbo

Videos+Specifications+Owner's Reviews: Porsche 911 993 Turbo.


In this blog entry, I'm reviewing my one of my 2 ULTIMATE DREAM CARS (the other being the McLaren F1), the Porsche 993 Turbo. 

This 993 Turbo's the last of the air cooled 911's, it offers twin scroll turbocharged, 4-wheel drive, a computer controlled differential (passed on from the 959) and rock solid reliability which makes this an everyday supercar.
Is this the world's best all round usable supercar? The new 996 Turbo and subsequently 997 Turbo may have taken that crown but to many, this is the Best 911.


In Malaysia, I only managed to spot 1 unit of 993 Turbo for sale over the last 4 months.  It's a 1995 black unit UK Import with Service Record.  Asking RM380,000. 
As usual, I don't have a car to test and brag about.  All is not lost, I dished out 5 Videos review and 1 Specification.


VIDEO 1: TOP GEAR: best of the 90's - Porsche 993 Turbo. By Tiff Needell.



Video 2: PORSCHE 993 Turbo SPOT (In German)



Video 3: Porsche 993 Commercial:



Video 4: Porsche 993 turbo vs Nissan Skyline R33GTR vs Mitsubishi GTO. Battle of the 4WDs...
by BEST MOTORING.



Video 5: PORSCHE EXPERIENCE TV: Porsche 993 Carrera



END OF VIDEOS REVIEW.  Now's the turn for Specifications...
Specifications: Porsche 911 993 Turbo 1996-98

Above: In my opinion, the 911 993 Turbo looks THE BEST in this COLOUR. Met Red.
Specifications


Porsche 911 993 Turbo 1996-98

Source: http://vista.pca.org/stl/993turbo.htm

Engine:

Horizontally opposed 6-cylinder; SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder; lightweight aluminum-alloy block, heads and pistons

Bore and stroke: 98.5mm x 75.25mm
Displacement: 3.6L. or 3,600cc
Horsepower: 408bhp@5,750 rpm (300kw)
Torque: 400 lb-ft @4,500 rpm (540Nm)
Compression ratio: 8.0:1
Cd: 0.33

Fuel system: Motronic electronic fuel injection and single-plug ignition with knock control
Induction: Twin scroll intercooled turbochargers


Drivetrain:
Full-time all-wheel drive, limited-slip differential, ABD (automatic brake differential) traction system, 6 speed manual

Suspension:

FRONT: MacPherson struts, aluminum control arms, stabilizer bar

REAR: Independent multilink LSA axle with toe correcting characteristics, stabilizer bar


Body: Unit steel monocoque


Dimensions:

Curb weight: 3,307 lbs
Wheelbase 2271 mm (89.4 in )

Track:
 front 1411 mm (55.6 in)
rear 1504 mm (59.2 in )
Length 4245 mm (167.1 in )
Width 1795 mm (70.7 in )
Height 1285 mm (50.6 in )


Brakes and Wheels:

Dual-circuit, vented and cross-drilled discs, 4-piston aluminum-alloy fixed calipers, ABS


Wheels (F/R) 8 X 18/10 X 18 Cast Alloy

Tyres (F/R) 225/40 ZR18 / 285/30 ZR18


Fuel Economy (source:

http://www.cars-data.com/en/porsche-911-turbo-408hp-28794/specs.html):
Urban consumption: 23.5l/100km (4.3km/L)
Extra-urban consumption: 11.2l/100km (8.9km/L)
Average comsumption: 15.7l/100km (6.4km/L)


Performance:

0-60mph: 3.9 seconds
0-100mph: 9.2 secs
0-1/4 mile: 12.1s @ 116 mph
Top Speed: 184 mph (295km/h)


SAFETY AND SECURITY
ABS: Yes
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD): No
Brake assistant: No
Driver airbag: Yes
Pessenger airbag: Yes
Side airbags: No
Electronic Stability Program (ESP): No
Traction control: Yes
END OF SPECIFICATIONS.






Before I sign off, here's some parting shots:

This shows why this is the MOST USUABLE EVERYDAY SUPERCAR.  Rear seats (recommended for Kids under 8 years old only) which split folds, can carry 1 big luggage or grocery shopping.

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES:

1) http://www.autotrader.co.uk/ (for some Photos)
(VIDEO SOURCE:)
2) http://www.dailymotion.com/ (search: 993 Turbo).
3) http://www.youtube.com/ (search: 993 Turbo)


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