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!

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.

250th POST: PRESENTING Otoreview's 15 Best NEW cars for...

Jeff’s 15 best NEW cars for 1st half 2010…

A lot of my relatives and friends asked, what is the NEW Car you recommend?  Well, here's my answer...  I came up with 15 Best NEW CAR Recommendations.  My HOT Favourite being the Mazda 6 2.5SVT.  Enjoy!

1) Mazda 6 2.5i SVT (Favourite car).  RM178,000OTR. Made in Japan at CKD Camry 2.4/CKD Accord 2.4 Price. My favourite car.  This is the NEW CAR I WILL BUY NOW if I have the money.  FULLY LOADED with GOODIES such as 6 Airbags, ABS+EBD+BA, Traction Control, 5 speed activematic, Elec Sunroof, BOSE 6 in-dash MP3/WMA CD-Changer Sound System with 8 speakers + Amplifier, Elec Adj Front seats with driver 3 way memory, Leather, 2 zone Climate Control, Trip Computer, 18" Mazdaspeed Rims, Xenon headlights, 60:40 one touch split folding rear seats.  And the lists of TOYS goes on and on...

2) BMW 320d SPORT (A) (Best Diesel).  RM255,800. Indisputably the BEST DIESEL Available.  60L fuel good for 900km average (mixed City Highway).

3) Mercedes New E-class (Premium Executive car).  RM372,000 onwards. My Dream car.  Go for the middle Child E250CGI  (RM403,000 est).  Same 1796cc turbocharged engine as E200CGI but with more horsepower/torque = better performance.  Better specs too... 

4) Honda City 1.5 iVTEC (Compact family).  RM81,800 onwards.  Nothing much to comment except it LOOKS WAY BETTER than the New "DUGONG" Vios.

5) Honda Stream 1.8 RSZ (Mid size MPV). RM158,000. Best looking MPV further enhanced with RSZ Bodykits.  Fully LOADED.  CBU from Japan.  Worth the asking price.

6) Audi A4 1.8T (Compact exec). RM235,000 omwards. Loved the trendsetting LED Daylights, Economical, Very stylish car...

7) Lexus RX350 (Best Premium SUV).  FIRST CLASS LEXUS Aftersales.  Credit to Lexus Malaysia.  On sale in Malaysia SHORTLY after WORLD PREMIERE (4 months only). Price: RM373,000.

8) Mitsubishi Triton 4x4 (TD) (Best pickup).  Most stylish pickup.  5 yrs warranty.RM58,000 (LITE) to RM110,000 (3.2 Petrol Auto).

9) Toyota Prius (Best Hybrid). RM175,000 OTR. Best Fuel Economy at 3.9L/100km according to recent Mudah/Asianauto Fuel Efficiency test.  FULLY LOADED with LOTS OF Gadgets.  Still A GREAT BUY despite the recent recall.

 

 

10) Perodua Viva (City car).  Kancil Replacement model.  Cheapest car in Malaysia (Applicable to 660 and 850 only).  1.0 is LOADED with features which includes Dual Airbags, ABS.  Price: RM24,800 to RM45,000.

11) Porsche 911 Turbo PDK (Supercar).  My Ultimate Dream Car.  Most practical Everyday Supercar.  Price RM1,300,000 onwards depending on Specifications.

12) Ford Escape 2.3 (A) Best SUV).  RM139,900.  Same price as when 1st launched back in 2001.  Defying inflation.  Value for money.  Loved the XL Elec Sunroof.

13) Renault Grand Espace (A)(Best LARGE/Luxury MPV).  Very SPACIOUS, Loved the Majestic XXXL Panoramic Elec Sunroof.  RM220,000 est.

14) Peugeot 308 VTI (RM96,800), Turbo Panoramic (RM113,800) / GT (RM155,000) (Best Hatchback / Hot Hatch).  These cars shared engine with  "Mini Cooper / Cooper S".  Think of it as BARGAIN Mini Cooper / Cooper S.  Folks at Naza Group have done a GOOD JOB Bringing down the price.   Now here's hoping they provide GOOD Aftersales service.

15) Mazda New MX5 2.0. Best Open top car.   Price: RM220,000 estimate.  Officially Import by Bermaz (Prima Merdu) with 3 years warranty.  A great ride and handling car with more than enough power.  Now with Elec folding Hard Top. 

That's all folks...  Thanks for having the time and patience to read this blog entry of mine.  Remember, you READ it 1st in This Blog what NEW CAR to Buy...

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...

RM60,000, what car can you buy?

In this blog entry, I'm covering another "What can you buy with this budget?". I got some questions by few of my friends asking me "What can I buy with RM60,000?."

Without further ado, here's my lists of cars you can buy with this budget. Note that you have limited choices (ONLY 11) if you are buying a new car. Think "used cars" and suddenly YOU HAVE 43 CHOICES. Yes, 43 different cars from different categories (More on that later).

NEW CAR/S:

1) Proton Persona SE
2) Proton WAJA CPS (M)
3) Proton Gen-2 CPS
4) Perodua MyVi SE (with this budget)
5) Naza Suria (Picanto)
6) Mitsubishi TRITON Lite 2.5D
7) Hyundai Getz 1.4
8) Hyundai i10 (RM48,000)
9) Proton Satria Neo 1.6 Hi-line
10) Toyota Avanza 1.3 (M)
11) Perodua Viva EZi(A) (RM44,000)

USED CAR/S:

As I mentioned earlier, we have 43 different options if you are buying used cars. The choices are so wide that I have to categorise it into the following:

1) German cars
2) Malaysian cars
3) Japanese cars
4) Other continental cars
5) MPV
6) SUV and truck
7) Korean cars

Here's the used car options lists:

1) German cars (RM60k unless stated):

i) Audi A4 B5 1.8T, 2002.
ii) BMW 318i(A) E36 1998 (est RM48k)
iii) BMW 523i(A) 1998
iv) Audi A6 2.4iV6 1999
v) BMW 730i(A), 1996
vi) Mercedes E230, W210, 1996
vii) Mercedes C200 (A), 1997

2) Malaysian cars (RM60k unless stated):

i) Proton Perdana V6 2006.
ii) Proton Satria R3 2005. RM55k

3) Japanese cars (RM60k unless stated):

i) Honda Accord 2.3VTi LEV, 2002
ii) Honda City IDSI/VTEC 05'. RM56k/RM60k
iii) Honda Civic 1.7VTEC (A) 03'
iv) Honda Jazz 1.5IDSI / VTEC 04' RM58k/ RM62k
v) Nissan Cefiro 2.0V6 / 3.0V6. 2002 / 2003
vi) Nissan Sentra 1.6 2005, 1.8 2004.
vii)Suzuki Swift 1.5VVT 2006
viii)Toyota Altis 1.6 2003/1.8 2002
ix) Toyota Camry 2.2GX 01' RM49,800
x) Toyota Vios 1.5E 2006/G 2005
xi) Mitsubishi Lancer 1.6GLX(A) CBU (Evo 8 Body) 2005 RM59,000
xii) Ford Lynx RS (A) 2005 (Japanese car, American Brand)

4) Other Continental cars (RM60k unless stated):

i) Alfa Romeo 156 Selespeed 2002
ii) Peugeot 307 1.6XS 2003, RM46k
iii) Volvo S40 2.0T 2003/V40 2002
iv) Volvo S60 2.0T 2001. RM59,000
v) Volvo S80 2.0T 2001 RM59,800
vi) Fiat Coupe 20v Turbo 2001

5) MPV (RM60k unless stated):
i) Chevrolet Nabira (Zafira) 2005, RM55k
ii) Naza Citra 2007. RM59k
iii) Naza Ria 2.5i 2006
iv) Mitsubishi Chariot Grandis @ Spacewagon 2.4i 2000, RM58k
v) Toyota Estima 2.5 Supercharged 1998


6) SUV and Truck (RM60k unless stated)

i) Subaru Forester 1999 2.0XT
ii) Ford Escape 2003 RM53k
iii) Honda CRV 150hp 2001 RM59k)
iv) Land Rover Freelander 2001, RM59k
v) Ford Ranger XLT 2.5i 2006
vi) Nissan Frontier 2.5TDI 2005
vii)Toyota Hilux 2.5D4D Turbo 2004
viii) Naza Sorento 2.5DI 2004
ix) Toyota RAV4 2000 RM62k


7) Korean Cars (RM60k unless stated):

i) Hyundai Sonata 2.0/2.4 2004 RM43k to RM47k
ii) Hyundai Coupe 2.0 2003
iii) Kia Optima 2005 RM46000

NOTE: All the above are models available "OFFICIALLY" in Malaysia. There's others such as Mazda RX7, Nissan Silvia S13, S14, EVO III and Subaru WRX Version 4. But they are personally/parallel or grey importers available in LIMITED Units. If you found 1, it's going to be "buyers' market", ie. Value determined by buyer. Another category also belongs to "Buyer's market", NICHE and/or RARE brand/s, they are cars such as: Saab, Opel, TVR, Lotus, Jaguar, Maserati and Porsche.

I would like to end this blog entry by saying that in the end it's up to your individual needs and requirements. Different people have different taste, that's why in this blog entry, I don't specifically recommend any car here. Instead, I just list out the lists of cars you can buy for RM60,000 most of them in alphabetically order.

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

References:
1) Motor Trader issue 412 to 416. Last 5 issue. Issue 416 being the latest issue 15 Jan to 21 Jan 2009.

RM20k Budget. What car can you buy?

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 (25+ 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)

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

2006: Perodua Kancil 660

2005:
1) Perodua Kancil 850 (Manual)
2) 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).

2004:
1) Hyundai Atos 1.0 (Auto/Manual)
2) Perodua Kancil 850 (Auto) (RECOMMENDED)

2003:
1) Proton Satria 1.3i
2) Proton Wira 1.5 Sedan (Recommended)
3)

4) Proton Wira 1.3

2002:
1) Perodua Kembara
2) Wira 1.5 Aeroback (Recommended)

2001:
1) Citroen Xsara 1.6i RM19k (RECOMMENDED)
2) Kia Sephia 1.5 (RM15k)
3) Fiat Marea Sedan (A)
4) Fiat Punto 1.3ELX Speedgear RM19,800 (RECOMMENDED)

2000:
1) Peugeot 306 1.8i (RECOMMENDED)
2) Kia Sportage
3) Proton Wira A/b 1.6 Millenium Edition and 1.6 Sedan (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
4) Citroen Xantia (RM17,000)

1999:
1)Alfa 146 1.6/2.0
2) Nissan AD-Resort 1.6

1998:
Ford Telstar 2.0i4 (v6 body) (RECOMMENDED)
Renault Scenic 1.6 (RM19k)

1997:
1) Mazda Lantis 1.6/1.8i 1995 (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
2) Ford Lynx 1.8/1.6 (RECOMMENDED)
3) Volvo 850SE RM18k / GLE 20v RM20k
4) Honda City 1.5

1996:
1) Proton Perdana 2.0SEI (RECOMMENDED)
2) Proton Wira 1.8 DOHC Sedan (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
3) Ford LYNX TX3 1.8i (RECOMMENDED)
4) Mazda 626 V6 (RECOMMENDED)
5) Nissan Sentra 1.6 RM20k (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
6) Nissan Altima 2.0i
7) Volvo 940 Turbo

1995 or older
1) Toyota Corolla SEG 1.6 (1992) (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
2) Ford Telstar V6 (95) (RECOMMENDED)
3) Honda Civic EG (93) (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
4) Mercedes Benz W124 230E/260E/300E. 1988/89/89 (RM20k)
5) Honda Accord SM4 (1993) (RECOMMENDED)
6) TOyota Camry 2.2i ABS (1995) RM20k (RECOMMENDED)
7) BMW E34 525i / 520i 24v 1991-92 RM20k (RECOMMENDED)
8) BMW E30 318i 1990 RM19,000. (RECOMMENDED)
9) Honda Legend 3.2L 1994 EM20k
10)Mitsubishi Pajero 1993 V32 RM20k
11)Suzuki Vitara 1.6JLX 3 door(1996), 5 door(1995) (RECOMMENDED)
11)Mercedes 190E (1991/92) (RECOMMENDED)

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

RM40,000. What CAR can you buy?

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: ANY PERODUA cars Except MyVi 1.3, Kembara, ATOS, SAVVY, Saga/Iswara, Picanto, Naza Sutera. 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 LOTS of Varieties of cars 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 UPTO 11 yrs old cars (typically) with Lowish interest rates (Below 5%). Ie. Oldest 1995. After 11 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 944 for RM29,000!!! 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 RM40,000. 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:

EXECUTIVE Japanese Car:

1) Honda Accord 2.0i (1998) OR 2.2i(A) 1997 = RM40k
2) Nissan Cefiro V6 3.0i 1998 = 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 1997. RM36,000. The 1994-97 old model.
4) Ford Telstar 2.0i Ghia. 2001 model: RM42,000. THIS is the Newest "2000cc" used NON-Proton your money can buy... 5 YRS OLD for RM42k, Note that BRAND NEW price is RM110,000! (It is actually Mazda 626 with Ford badge hence LOWER Maintenence and reasonable priced spare parts). I am a happy OWNER one of these...

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

1) Audi A4 1.8i Non-turbo, 1997 RM43,000.
2) VOLVO S40 2.0i Non-turbo 1999. RM48,000. But beware of the High maintenence costs and reliability.
3) Peugeot 406 2.0 Deluxe 2000, RM45,000.

Other 4 door cars:

1) Mazda Lantis 1.8i(A) Hatchback 1997, RM32,000. Stylish car with "Pillarless doors". In DEMAND, hence the Highish price (for the age).
2) HYUNDAI ELANTRA 1.8iGLS(A) 2003(!), RM38,000(!). Wonder why RESALE value so LOW. Note that brand new: RM90,000. Within 3 yrs value dropped so MUCH! Bad news for 1st owner BUT GOOD NEWS for YOU!
3) HONDA Civic EK 1.6i VTEC 1997, RM42,000. Another HOT Demand car, Very HIGH resale value and ENDLESS Modification OPTIONS...

4) Toyota Corolla AE101 SEG 1.6 1995, RM29,000. This 7th Generation Corolla, according to many IS THE BEST 1.6 Corolla. Known as "MINI LEXUS", better than AE111 and Altis 1.6. Why? AE111 (1996-2000 model) Corolla Shrunk in size, more cramped, boxier looking, designed and build in middle of recession=A STEP Backward in quality and refinement. BELIEVE IT OR NOT the AE101 SEG: 0-100km/h in 9.7 secs (M), 11 secs (A). That's faster than The newer AE111 SEG and ALTIS 1.6 (which is underpowered), lose out to Altis 1.8 VVTI though. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

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

1) VOLVO 850 T5 2.3i WAGON (97 onwards known as V70). 1997 model priced RM43,000 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 PUTRA 1.8i DOHC 2000 model RM34,000. This is, in my opinion THE BEST PROTON! Very stylish. 0-100km/h below 8 seconds and top speed 210+ km/h. VERY WORTH THE MONEY!
(I Recommend it over the Satria GTI as I feel it's More practical with Boot and more rear seat space, more exclusive (Rarer), AUTOMATIC Option, and slightly better Looking!).

3) BMW 325i E36 1994. RM40,000. 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...

SUV Options:

1) Toyota RAV4 2.0i 5dr. 1995. RM43,000.
2) Ford Ranger Pickup 2.5i Turbodiesel 2001 (M). RM41,000. Auto add another RM2-4k)

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. But few will bother to do that coz it's EXPENSIVE. Also, some have no JPJ approval.

- In motortrader, There's FTOs, RX7, Levin AE86, Silvia 180SX, Original EVO1, MR2 (Ferrari like version) within the 40k budget... BUT MOST ARE OVER 11 yrs old and DIFFICULT TO GET LOAN. But If you are lucky and able to get loan, then your choice will be even wider...

MPVs

I won't recommend as This "write-up" is meant for Young Grads or Below 30 yrs old with 40k budget to spend.