Used Car Review Compilation (10/29/2012 Update)

NOW UPDATED WITH LINKS TO NEW ARTICLES. LIST WOULD BE UPDATED ONCE IN A MONTH.

UPDATE AS OF OCTOBER 29, 2012.

I've started creating used car reviews since December 2011 in a weekly basis and it would be very hard for several of my blog visitors to wade around my blogsite. So, to simplify your life, I would be compiling all used car reviews done by me and this list would be updated once a month and you'll see the possible vehicles that I would be making a used car review in the future, and the existing ones. You may also suggest a car that you want to see in this page by commenting. Do take note I would not be reviewing all used vehicles locally, only those that are desirable as a used car purchase, or cars that demand as collectors items. All existing models are not included.

So, here are the cars. Links are provided for available articles.

Car Features - Best Selling Car Nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2011

Curious on what nameplates were popular in the Philippines in the last 16 years? Well, your Ultimate Used Car Guide reveals the 20 most successful nameplates in the country.

Top 20 most successful nameplates in the Philippines from 1995-2011

Pos.	Model	Volume	Year
1	Toyota Corolla	17,686	1996
2	Honda Civic	15,899	1996
3	Toyota Tamaraw FX	15,661	1995
4	Toyota Vios	15,391	2010
5	Mitsubishi Lancer	13,119	1996
6	Nissan Sentra	12,658	1995
7	Toyota Innova	12,608	2010
8	Mitsubishi Montero Sport	12,247	2010
9	Toyota Revo	12,001	2003
10	Honda CR-V	9,708	2003
11	Mitsubishi L300 CC/FB	9,078	1996
12	Honda City	8,914	2010
13	Isuzu Crosswind	8,901	2003
14	Mitsubishi Adventure	7,778	2002
15	Toyota Fortuner	7,548	2010
16	Kia Pride	6,490	1995
17	Toyota Avanza	6,257	2007
18	Isuzu Hilander	5,526	1997
19	Kia Besta	4,947	1997
20	Mitsubishi L300 Versa Van	4,647	1995

Sources: 

• http://www.topgear.com.ph/features/columns/all-will-drive/the-best-selling-cars-in-the-philippines-from-1995-to-2010
• http://www.topgear.com.ph/news/the-two-best-selling-vehicles-in-the-philippines-are-locally-made

Used Car Review - Opel Astra (2000-2004)

Desiring an affordable German car without draining your wallet? Myk Belmonte finds this vehicle that suits your needs. And this car would fit our last wave to the month of October.

2000-2004 Opel Astra

History
Who can recall the Opel Kadett from their childhood days? Nostalgia aside, but why am I writing about the Kadett? The Astra replaced the Kadett since the former is the topic of this used car review. But, the Astra name itself came from GM's subsidiary who built the car that the Astra replaced.

Called the Astra G when it was introduced in 1998 (care to guess what the previous model was called?) for the European markets. A long line of body styles and engines are available to the public since launch. You'll be shocked if I said that the Astra had a V8 engine offered. But, that particular engine was utilized in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters series throughout production days. While most markets gave way to the Astra H in 2005, this old body called as the Astra Classic II was offered in 2004-2009 and until 2011 in Brazil.

GM Automobiles Philippines brought in the Opel marque in 1997 and three years later, the Astra was made available to the general public. The good thing was, it competed with its Japanese and American competitors price and feature wise. And another advantage is that the wagon version is offered since the only competing model during that time was Suzuki Esteem (that's if you consider prices as a main factor). With the expansion of the Chevrolet brand in the mid-2000's and the poor after-sales service that the distributor faced, the Opel Astra (and the whole brand) was put out to pasture in 2005. There is no direct successor to the vehicle locally up to now.

Value and Costs
Desiring an affordable but true German car? The good news is that, second hand Astra prices fall in the range of P120,000-P200,000. A true bargain since the low resale value is because of the reputation that the local distributor gave. Just make sure the unit you are getting is decently maintained.

How many times that people discourage you not to buy an Opel due to parts scarcity? Fear not anymore, there are numerous parts stores as well as the support of several clubs and online buying sites which you can procure parts abroad. There are no general problems on the Astra, but these include various issues surrounding the steering system, brake discs, and the twist-beam axle. Just make sure you have the patience and know where to buy parts and waiting for them.

Exterior and Interior
Kids, listen to me. Whenever you see the Opel Astra infront of you, don't get scared. It possess a friendly face and a tightly screwed body, which explains why this car is very solid and possess no gaps. Have a side view and you'll say that it looks distinctive and clean. Suffice to say, this vehicle carries clutter free angles and you won't laugh with this styling so elegant.

Hold the steering wheel and notice something silver, yes, the top and bottom parts have silver plastic trims, but a disadvantage if you have clammy hands since it could get hard to hold and non-absorbent. Placing your abubot in the glovebox? Sorry no chance, since the space that should be for the glove box was hogged by the CD player. A tacky mix of silver, beige, and black plastics is what the Astra's dashboard is about. Good for four occupants, but five is a tight squeeze

Engine
Among the eight engine choices for public consumption offered in various parts of the world, only an Ecotec 1,598cc engine which has 110hp at 6,000rpm and 150Nm at 3,600rpm. To tell the truth, this engine is nothing special to write about. If you are doing city duties, this is adequate but plan to take it on the highways, you'll complain for the lack of power which I will explain further in the next paragraph.

Driving Impressions
As I expound more of the slow part of the vehicle, I have to tell this especially that the slushbox is very slow from a standstill. The sport mode isn't much of a help, so better leave it on D then. If you attempt to do your 0-100km/h speed runs, it would take you an eternity to achieve that. In that case, get a manual transmission Astra if possible. The driving experience would be a mixed bag, unwanted road thingos would be transmitted to the occupants, and tire noise is very evident.

Verdict
You wouldn't mind the deficiencies that the Astra has, but if you are after owning a German car (the other car that I'm referring to is the Volkswagen Polo Classic sold previously and it is a Spanish car - a SEAT to be particular - so it's German in the badge) the Astra would be a left choice. Make sure you are patient and accept the flaws, just like in a relationship.

Used Car Review - Porsche Cayenne (2004-2009)

The German experience wouldn't be complete if a drive in Autobahn is lacking. Myk Belmonte invites you to speed up in this super car dominated road with a SUV. But what should we pick? The answer, an icon of the rich and from the man who built the people's car.

2004-2009 Porsche Cayenne

History

Risking or gambling for something good is not a bad thing, unless violence or blood is involved. There are numerous risks that ended up in triumph. An example is Sony introducing the Walkman to much phenomenal success while there are risks or attempts that should never be done, just like what the Catwoman film that starred Halle Berry. It flopped and thus, a risk not worth dying for. But, the story for Porsche (known for legendary sports cars and cabriolets) to introduce a sport utility vehicle was a commercial success for the company.

Sharing the platform with the Volkswagen Touareg and the Audi Q7, the Cayenne was Porsche's first entry to the then booming SUV market. The first generation model had mixed reviews in the beginning but proved that it was the performance oriented vehicle among the SUV's available for sale and applauded for its impressive handling and monstrous engines. Just like other Porsches, 10 engine configurations are available. Production and marketing ended in 2010, with the second generation model introduced in that year.

PGA Cars - the distributor of Porsche, Audi, and Lamborghini vehicles in the Philippines - brought in the Cayenne in 2004 after the engine displacement taxation basis was abolished. It was a success for the company, having several prominent celebrities, business people, and some filthy rich politicians (assuming that their pork barrel money went to). The first generation model had seen roads until 2010, with the second generation model launched in the same year.

Value and Costs

A second hand Porsche Cayenne would cost half of the brand new price, which ranges from P2,500,000-P5,000,000. It includes various engine models of V6, V8, turbocharged, and naturally aspired. A word of warning, you would encounter imported units from countries that do used car exporting as a source of income. With that in mind, better avoid these units if possible. Pick up a certified pre-owned unit from PGA Cars is the call of the day.

There are numerous issues to remember if you are considering a pre-loved Cayenne. First are numerous build issues since Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi vehicles are notorious when it comes to quality reports published by JD Power, Consumer Reports, and others. Issues that surround the Cayenne include the functionality of the air-controlled suspension, if the turbo gets shot by the previous owner, and various electronic niggles. Remember, do have a keen eye before purchasing since problems in a luxury vehicle is a nightmare.

Exterior and Interior

If I were to sum up the Cayenne's exterior, it won't win any Ms. Universe awards for car designs or any prestigious car exterior looks awards. The exterior shape resembles a turtle shell and thus, looks fierce especially on the open tarmac. You won't be buying the Cayenne for the looks right?

The interior is made up of high quality materials and the LCD screen serves as the main projector that shows the music tracks, radio stations, a GPS navigation, the call function, and other related media. You can link your phone via bluetooth function or insert your SIM card and vola, hands free driving! You can bring along four of your friends for a road trip with the Cayenne, with adequate room for everyone.

Engine

Two different sets of engines had been offered throughout the years. From 2004-2006, a 4.5 V8 engine in both natural and turbo flavors are made options. The naturally aspired 4.5 liter engine has 340hp and 420Nm while the turbo one carries 450hp and 620Nm. An update in 2007 added the following engines: A 3,598cc V6 that possess 290hp at 6,200rpm and 385Nm at 3,000rpm; the 4,806cc V8 is offered in different trims and in different horsepower and torque figures which includes a 385hp at 6,500rpm and 500Nm at 3,500rpm for the S line, GTS models get a 405hp at 6,500rpm and 500Nm at 3,500rpm, and lastly, Turbo S variants have 550hp at 6,000rpm and 750Nm at 2,250-4,500rpm. The V8 (whether turbo or not) has fast acceleration that leaves you breathless, honestly. The V6, although decent, does not do justice with the Cayenne's prestige and performance.

Driving Impressions

A clear and clutter free road is the order of the day for a Cayenne. Start the ignition, shift to drive (or push the clutch and go to first gear if you bought a manual transmission version), and give the accelerator a push and enjoy the ride. The ride is not bouncy as what sports cars are guilty of, so the speed junkie father can take the missus and their children for a adrenaline rush road trip. Just remember to buckle up and drive safely.

Verdict

Any car enthusiast would love to dream to own a Porsche someday right? The Panamera would be a better choice but you want something big, a pre-owned Cayenne is a wiser pick. Besides, anything old but that is good is good right? And there is the support of the certified market, which alleviates fears of owning a luxury car.

What You Should Know About: New Plates for Vehicles Starting 2013

You have been hearing the news of new car owners receiving their license plates late. You have been hearing cases of stolen plates and transferred to another vehicle. These problems will be put to rest as the Land Transportation Office plans to release a new license plate format which would be effective next year. While a bidding process had not yet commenced (as of now), let's discuss about the new format which you will see in the future.

Starting in January 2013, a new design format with a new font and a barcode that contains vehicle and owner information are standard. Etched below is the region where the vehicle was registered. A one way screw comes standard so when one attempts to remove the plate, it would be damaged and cannot be used again. Private vehicles get a license plate similar to those being used by the Singaporeans, which has three letters and four numbers.

For public vehicles, they would get the same format but situated under is the route service of the vehicle. This alone is to avoid the "colorum" problem.

Motorcycles too would get the new plates but they would have two (both in front and at the back) and will sport five numbers rather than the four of the older ones. The font used for the numbers would be larger than previous ones.

While this is a developing story, let's wait for the official release by the agency in the later months.

For more information about this, watch this news clip below.

Used Car Review - Mercedes Benz C Class (2000-2006)

As we travel to the Berlin Wall and the numerous castles Germany has to offer, Myk Belmonte thinks about this car that could be a perfect road trip companion. And if you want to ride in comfort, this could be the next car you've wanted to sit your bum on.

2000-2006 Mercedes Benz C Class

History
A hint of trivia: The Mercedes Benz W201 aka the "Baby Benz" and the C Class that preceded it were the smallest and entry level Benzes that you can buy until the arrival of the very small A Class in 1997. Buying entry level models of premium marques are not a crime especially if you are after the badge right? But the experience and level of respect is a different matter. With that in mind, a sedan which is offered in exorbitant prices is a good to go for luxury brands.

With the naming nomenclature changed in 1993, the Benz 190E was renamed as the C Class starting with the W202 model. But let's discuss about the W203 model that was made available in March 2000. Bet you didn't know that development started as early as 1994, followed with the approval of the design in April 1998 and March 1999, testing of prototypes was conducted in the late 90s, and a final development made in late 1999. They may start earlier but the results were worth it, especially with the multitude of engine choices, transmission options, and body styles. Throughout the W203's life, more than two million units had been sold worldwide. The W204 C Class replaced this in 2007 internationally.

The W203 C Class arrived at the Philippines together with the world market in year 2000. At first, it had the 2.0 engine but with an update in 2004 ditched the dos litros engine in favor of a 1.8 powerplant. Sales shouldered until 2007, with the W204 being offered to Benz buyers.

Value and Costs
Despite nearly 10 years old, you can get a W203 C Class for P850,000-P950,000, more expensive than the equivalent year model of a E46 3 Series. If possible, hunt for a unit in the pre-owned section of CATS since they are inspected and backed-up with a warranty. Avoid second hand units from Japan without saying, since problems may boom one by one.

Taking care of a Benz is more expensive than your ordinary Japanese sedan. Keep a keen eye on worn leather trim, since the culprit here is the usage of strong solvent when cleaning by the previous owner. Oil and coolant changes must be done religiously, seeing them break (both the engine and radiator) would be costly to fix and as I said in my previous articles, it would be embarrassing to see a luxury car break down due to a lazy owner.

Exterior and Interior
If there is one strength of the brand as a whole, it would be their designs. The W203 evolved from the predecessors cornered sides to possessing curves. The headlights of this model used the double-ovoid design and ditched the pizza-like taillights. See the slightly swept-back grille with the hood mounted ornament? It does give the Benz tradition. Never an awkward line can be seen or too much funny a design cue is evident.

You will feel at home with the W203's interior, especially if you own any previous model Benzes. Ergonomics are taken into consideration while designing the car, and this is a plus point. The information display screen would take time to master especially in switching screens. The IR security key fob comes standard as it does not necessitate the need to insert the key when opening the doors or trunk, a press of a button does that although you have to insert it and treat the key as an ordinary one. Room for everyone is aplenty and you can sit on the front seat or the back seat.

Engine
We didn't get to have a V6 option due to the taxation systems we had regarding engine displacements. Two four cylinder engines with supercharging are the choices. From 2000-2003, a M111.940 1,998cc which has 160hp at 5,300rpm and 224Nm at 2,500-4,800rpm was the sole choice. If you bought your W203 brand new between 2004 to 2006, you might have the E18ML 1,796cc that has 141hp at 5,200rpm and 220Nm at 2,500-4,200rpm under the hood of your unit. Both engines have wide torque ranges which translates to a just responsive cruise that befits the theme of the vehicle.

Driving Impressions
Fire up the ignition of the C Class and you'll be pampered with the silent sound of the supercharged four pot engine. Give the accelerator some push and you'll be treated with the sudden surge, similar to an eagle catching its prey. Ride comfort is superb except when hitting the crater size hole in the middle of the road, as with all Chedengs. Drive it on the open road and get the maximum satisfaction but do it prudently, or it may damage the suspension system.

Verdict
Are you the type of person who wants to be behind the front seats all the time? Or the type of person who want to get behind the wheel? The C Class in W203 platform is a good package. If you want one, go buy one. Besides, old or new, it is still a Benz!

Used Car Review - Audi A4 (1998-2004)

The second week of October starts with this feature used German car. Not all wants to be dragged in the spotlight, right? Myk Belmonte finds one low profile vehicle that you can acquire thanks tot he power of depreciation. Care for German Franks for this conversation?

1998-2004 Audi A4

History 
The Audi A4 could be called as the vehicle that saved Audi's sales due to the 80/90 series (the cars that the A4 replaced back in 1994) having some unintended acceleration issues. It had to work out since this was a new model back then, and it successfully did the goal. And rather the four-year model life cycle of the forefathers, the first generation A4 had a much longer life from 1994 to 2001.

With the platform name B5 (and known as the Typ 8D inside Audi-Volkswagen offices) which is shared with the fourth generation Volkswagen Passat, the Audi A4 was much to the success of the company. It saw many firsts which include forced induction and the Tiptronic transmission, which saw different Audi vehicles. For different consumers around the world, nine different engine choices of different combinations are made standard.

Auto Prominence (who used to distribute Audi, Alfa Romeo, Volkswagen, and Proton vehicles back then) brought in the Audi A4 (we get the facelifted model) in 1998 since they are thrown in the towel with their Proton venture. It was good of the distributor that the sedan, turbo, and avant (wagon in Audi speak) are brought in but rather having the B6 A4 in 2001, we had this one until 2004 (rumor has it that they are pre-owned units from the Middle East and Germany and not genuine new models, which irked Audi's head office in Ingolstadt and caused their deal to be cut, with PGA Cars taking care of Audi from 2005 onwards) with the B7 model introduced by PGA Cars in 2005.

Value and Costs
Find the prices of the 3 Series and C Class expensive? Then jump for joy that the A4's prices are much more cheaper than the two, you can have the B5 for P300,000-P400,000 as opposed for the Bimmer's starting price of 450 grand and double for the Benz's. That's a good thing if you desire a German car and you are not that type of a badge snob. This price range encompasses different models and variants, parallel imports and local dealer releases.

Maintaining one is at par with its German compatriots, and parts support are wide and strong since a number of Audi enthusiasts exist. Among the things to watch out for are the worn out interior trim due to the tropical climate, fluids which must be filled up, the mass airflow meter is not broken since replacing one is friggin expensive, and the radiator is in good condition.

Exterior and Interior
Some say that the B5 A4 looks vanilla and plain, while a different group shouts that it is Audi classic. Squint hard and you can tell that it resembles the Audi 80/90 and looks like the 90s interpretation of the vehicle. It is sleek and aggressive at the same time, with the grille having enough space to let the engine breathe. While the greenhouse space is tall that fools other people.

Functionality rules with the A4's interior, starting with the cabin's layout which is subtle. And the layout of controls which is easy for the driver to reach without any fuss or distractions. Since it targets the driver, a digital multifunction panel - which contains fuel consumption and other related data - and a 'foot on brake before shifting into gear' reminder are nice touches, especially the latter, which I feel it must be standard with vehicles that have an automatic transmission. Room for five people is exemplary, but avoid sitting behind the driver's seat especially if the one operating the car is tall, since you will suffer limited space.

Engine
Honestly speaking, the engine that moves the A4 isn't anything home to write about. It is decent enough for daily driving and capable for highway cruising. But not enough if speed and punch is what you seek, which is lacking naturally aspired or turbo charged. Care to know the engine? It is a 1,781cc gasoline (while competitors have more displacement liters) engine and if you plan to get a normal version, you'll have 125hp at 5,800rpm and 173Nm at 3,950rpm. Desiring a turbo A4? You get 150hp at 5,700rpm and 210Nm at 1,750-4,600rpm to play with. Do take note that getting a turbo version would mean a bundle with the Quattro, an AWD system by Audi.

Driving Impressions
Enter the A4 and what greets you is a expanse wood trim, and leather textures. Ready to drive? You'll be rewarded with a feeling of rapid forward motion. If you plan to beat zero to 80 records, better plan it ahead since reaching that speed would take time but bring it on the mountains, the A4 exhibits its fun side. Handling is ok as long as you conserve momentum and not speed up while taking corners. The suspension absorbs all bumps our roads have.

Verdict
Apart from an SUV, we middle income folks dream of owning a European vehicle (a sedan comes to the picture) at lesser prices. They said less is more but owning one must have the support since a car is one major investment. The Audi A4 is an entry ticket for that Euro-dream since the price is right, has the balance between driving behavior and comfort. If the latter is a high priority, then this is the car for you.

Car Features - Cars That Filipinos Bought In 2008

For the second time, we'll feature car sales figures on this site. With October supposedly being the "eighth" month of the year, let's pick out 2008 simply this year has 8 on the end. In that year, a crisis that affected rice  and gasoline supply loomed, plus the financial crisis that crippled the largest economic powerhouse, United States. With figures from Top Gear Philippines and Best Selling Cars Blog, here are the top 10 best selling vehicles of 2008.

10 years ago, the industry sold cars below the 100,000 mark, but it has been rebounded later on to 124,449 cars being driven off dealership floors. This was 10 years (again) that vehicle sales returned to the six digit figures, with 2007 being the first year for this decade. With people getting fuel conscious during that year, fuel efficient sedans and vehicles with a diesel option made up this list.

After 3 years that the Toyota Innova took control of the sales charts, the Vios wrestles the top spot selling 12,020 units, up 38%. Filipino car buyers had been feeling the pinch of weekly gas price increases as well as taxi operators had been looking to replenish their fleet.

Down 5% and having 10,000 flat sales, the Toyota Innova is now the second best selling car in the country. Despite a minor model change later that year, this didn't help any further.

A casualty of high gas prices, despite the availability of two diesel engines, is the Toyota Fortuner having sold 5,588 units and saw a 23% decrease. The arrival of the second gen Mitsubishi Montero Sport was a threat to an otherwise aging model.

The fourth Toyota on the top 4 is the Toyota Avanza, with 5,515 driving off Toyota dealers and a 12% decline.

Let's refresh ourselves for the meantime with a car not wearing a Toyota badge. At fifth spot is the Isuzu Crosswind which saw 5,264 being sold inside Isuzu showrooms but down 2%. I have one explanation why this sold well, the standard diesel engine especially that Filipinos want something fuel efficient.

At sixth place with 5,174 sales and a decline of 32% is the Honda Civic. I'm pretty sure it has something to do with the price increases as well as an aging platform. The smaller City overtook this car in 2009 and sold in the 3,000 unit range.

In contrast to the Crosswind's sales decline, the Mitsubishi Adventure managed to post an increase of 2% and selling 5,164 units. The upward trend for this vehicle continued until 2010, with the Isuzu having a decrease in 2009 but went up the following year.

Visiting the top 10 is the Toyota Corolla Altis, redesigned in 2008 and having 4,360 sales for its first year. It had overtaken the Civic in the compact class the following year and didn't have the Civic threaten this sedan ever since.

Selling well despite its expiration date is the Honda City, up 7% with 4,197 units being driven off Honda dealers. The following year, it sold double than the figures set in 2008.

Also having a 7% increase is the business favorite Mitsubishi L300 Crew Cab, having 4,049 units driven to businessmen. Why did it weathered the fuel and economic crisis? Simple answers, a diesel engine under the hood comes standard and the cost of maintaining one does not dent their wallets.

These vehicles sold well during the turbulent times that 2008 offered to the consumers. I think they sold well because they deserve it, fitting to the situation.

Car Buying Tips - Buying A Car For A Senior Citizen

There is a point in our lives that all of us grow old. And since our requirements change, let's devote an article for them. Especially if a senior member of our family is getting a car or if you are planning to have one, and grandpa or grandma is part of the daily entourage, read this article and remember these tips when buying.

IF GRANDPA/GRANDMA WILL BE DRIVING

• Try the ingress/egress if he or she can go in and out without complaints.
• Let him/her feel the controls for the air-conditioning, radio, and some handles for opening the trunk, gas lid, doors, and hood. Thick ones are ideal and must be tactile feeling.
• Room and space is a must. Head and leg room is much appreciated by them especially in the driver's cockpit. 
• Adjustable driver seats is an excellent option, and also a must for them. Remember at least 10 inches from the wheel.
• Make sure that the steering wheel can tilt or adjust.
• Gadgets such as a blue tooth system, back up camera, reverse sensors, and large screens are much appreciated.
• It must be easy to maneuver and rear visibility is excellent. If reverse sensors and camera come standard (or as an option), this is an advantage. 
• And lastly, maintaining one (including gasoline, insurance, registration, and parts) must be friendly to the pocket.

IF GRANDPA/GRANDMA WOULD BE DRIVEN

• A soft but comfortable ride would be appreciated. Which means truck based vehicles are out of the picture.
• Low egress/ingress is a plus. High clearance vehicles can be a trouble for them.
• Sliding doors are a good addition, hinged doors is a bad idea.
• Easy to touch window switches, reachable door handles and locks must come standard.
• Additional niceties including a cold air-conditioning system, TV screens, and other convenience features would make the grandpa/grandma happy.
• If that member is riding in a wheelchair, getting a van (i.e Urvan Estate, Hiace Super Grandia, Grand Starex, Kia Carnival, Toyota Alphard, and others) would be a better option and fitting it with a lifter that goes in the rear would be the best option.
• If sedans are in the order, make sure the rear legroom is excellent and their wheelchair (if they have one) would fit in the trunk.

LAST SAY:

To sum this up, make sure that comfort, and ease of use are top priorities for buying a car with a/or for a senior citizen. A test drive done by themselves or make sure you tag them along in the test drive. Besides, let's show how we love them.

Sources:

http://www.carsdirect.com/car-buying/the-4-best-cars-for-elderly-drivers-autos-for-senior-citizens

http://tsikot.com/forums/car-comparisons-72/comfortable-ride-lola-88510/

Used Car Review - BMW 5 Series (2003-2009)

Myk Belmonte invites you to have bottles of beers with him as the German month of October starts. Let's start this month by featuring a car that has been a benchmark from the Deutsche land. Want to go cruising on the country side? Jump in to this car and enjoy the drive.

2003-2009 BMW 5 Series

History
Let's answer the question how did the 5 Series got its name. It was the fifth of the so-called "new series" cars after the V-8 and Isetta age. Predecessors include the 700, New Class, New Six, and the CS; with the 5 Series replacing the aging New Six (weird isn't it? Replacing something that has the word new on it). The first 5 Series sedan was launched in 1972 as the E12

31 years later, a newer version of the 5 Series with the platform code E60 had seen dealership floors and prospective owners. It featured a new design cue courtesy of the late BMW designer Davide Arcangeli and numerous on-board gadgetry that received mixed receptions. New for the 5 Series are the controversial "Bangle Butt" rear end, the much talked about iDrive interface, adaptive headlights, a hill start assist, and even a trailer stability program which is useful for towing. Production continued until 2010, with the F10 5 Series replacing it in that year.

Together with the world market, the Philippines had dibs on the E60 5 Series in the same year. It saw a first in the luxury car market, introducing a line of diesel engines for the class. Yeah, we could all remember the Isuzu Gemini and the B12 Nissan Sentra diesels, but, numerous sedans - whether luxury or mainstream - have diesel movers under their hood nowadays. Milestone recognition aside, the E60 stayed until 2009, with the next generation model seen the Filipino consumer hands in the following year.

Value and Costs
If you desire something larger than a 3 Series but something practical than the 7 Series, please to know that a pre-loved E60 5 Series - which is something in the middle - would cost you in the price range of P1,500,000-P2,000,000. The price range does count the regular four and six cylinder engines whether gasoline or diesel. And since there exists BMW Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, my advice is to check them out and if you decide to go for a E60, it would be a wise decision since you can get a limited warranty plus lessen the problems of purchasing a used car.

A common deficiency among European cars is the deteriorating interior quality no thanks to our climate. Plus, make sure that maintenance records are complete since if the owner missed one PMS schedule, expect problems to sprout one by one. A recall done by Asian Carmakers Corporation recently this year which involves the battery cable connector and not having it remedied would lead to the malfunction of the electrical system and the failure of the vehicle to start, make sure the previous owner had it fixed under the recall.

Exterior and Interior
The E60 5 Series utilized a new design direction the saw more curves than sharp edges, despite the usage of the much talked about Bangle Butt in the rear. But then, it featured a striking appearance and the design aged well, which is an advantage of the 5 Series from the past.

Inside, the interior was executed well and was money well spent, you get what you pay for. A huge LCD screen serves as the main screen for the iDrive function. Depending on who you ask, the media interface can be a hit or miss when it comes to user friendliness. Wood accents are present and they do not look tacky at all while the transmission resembles joysticks from gaming consoles that requires time to master it. Interior room is top-notch, since you can invite your friends for that ultimate driving experience. But if you are after the amenities, this is not the car for you.

Engine
Three gasoline and two coal powered engines are made options for Filipino buyers. So allow me to discuss them one by one. By default, the base engine is a 2,171cc (for 2003-2006 models) and a N43B20 1,995cc (standard among 2007-2009 units) with four cylinders and 156hp at 6,200rpm and 200Nm at 3,600rpm. The inline six engines include a M54B25 2,494cc (2003-2005), N52B25 2,497cc (2005-2007), and a N53B30 2,996cc that produces 218hp at 6,500rpm and 250Nm at 2,750-4,250rpm. Want more power? A B48 4,799 V8 that possess 367hp at 6,300rpm and 490Nm at 3,400rpm is the engine for you. If you are the budget and fuel conscious person, the diesel engines are just for you. From the start is a M47 1,995cc I4 with 163hp at 4,000rpm and 340Nm at 2,000rpm and go big time with a M57D30 2,993cc I6 that carries 231Nm at 4,000rpm and 500Nm at 1,750rpm. While the I4 and I6 gasoline motivators have decent power, the diesels are the good way to go if you love to have an E60 in your garage. The diesels would out sprint gasoline moved luxury sedans.

Driving Impressions
Jump in the drivers seat, buckle up, put the transmission in drive, and push the accelerator you're good to go. Steering would follow your commands, and the big body defies its skills, you feel that you are driving a small car even on the twisted roads that Antipolo or Compostela Valley has to offer. Numerous safety features such as the stability and traction control would help you if things get far. Keep on driving, and you'll forget the lack of equipment (such as the lack of a CD changer and an auxiliary signal boost) which people who prefer to be driven would complain about.

Verdict
BMWs - new or old - would offer the same driving experience for decades, and the E60 5 Series is one solid example despite the age. The 5 Series showcases the balance between sportiness and functionality, which explains the deprivation of several luxury items in trade for that excellent driving characteristics. Now you're thinking of getting one since prices are just in the one million range, good luck and remember these tips.