Friday, January 31, 2014

Car Profiles - Renault Laguna (1996-2002)

1996-2002 Renault Laguna

The Good: Comfortable ride, hatchback configuration

The Bad: Dull to drive and expensive to maintain

The Say: Unique but very impractical to own.

Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: Well, what shall you skip?

Price Range: P150,000-P160,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Car Profiles - Audi A4 Sedan (2005-2008)

2005-2008 Audi A4 Sedan

The Good: Elegant, powerful diesels

The Bad: Still misses the mark of a Bimmer

The Say: The understated German compact.

Go For: 2.0 TDi
Avoid: 

Price Range: P710,000-P890,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Audi A4

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz C Class (1993-2000)

1993-2000 Mercedes Benz C Class

The Good: Comfortable, panache

The Bad: Will kill you when it comes to maintenance costs

The Say: One of the wonders of the 90s that is reasonably priced.

Go For: C230
Avoid: Anything that has been abused

Price Range: P390,000-P500,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mercedes Benz C Class

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Car Profiles - BMW 3 Series (1994-1998)

1994-1998 BMW 3 Series

The Good: Excitement behind the wheel

The Bad: Poor build quality, expensive to maintain

The Say: Still holds a candle against modern rivals.

Go For: 320i
Avoid: Anything that has been modified

Price Range: P280,000-P350,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - BMW 3 Series (1994-1998)

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1994-1998

Monday, January 27, 2014

Used Car Review - BMW 3 Series (1994-1998)

Before we leave the month of January, Myk Belmonte assesses a German car popular during the 90s which is a steal.

1994-1998 BMW 3 Series

History
Mention the word "German car" to a Filipino and there are two vehicles that comes to mind: Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen. We can't blame then for this, but with the proliferation of Porsches and BMWs during the late 80s that resulted to the addition of these vehicles to the vehicle vocabulary. With the liberalization of the automobile industry, more brands entered.

The third of the 3 Series lineage, with development started in 1983 and the approval of the final design in 1988. The E36 was first launched in late 1990 for the European market and April 1991 for North America. It is available in sedan, coupe, wagon, convertible, and hatchback, with the latter gave way to the BMW 3 Series Compact. So successful that some body configurations were sold longer and overlapped with the E30 for some time.

Asian Carmakers Corporation started the assembly of the E36 3 Series in late 1994. The 316i was first made available and since the economy was picking up, many those in the executive ladder bought one. In fact, BMW overtook Mercedes Benz in passenger car sales (check page 27 of the pdf file). It was followed by the 320i in 1996. The lineage had a follow up in the form of the E46 3 Series in late 1998.

Value and Costs
Choosing the E36 3 Series will cost you between P280,000-P350,000 which covers all body styles of the platform. Do remember to choose the best unit whose condition is the best than something beat up.

Even the 316i which carries a 1.6 is no match to a Japanese one when it comes to maintenance costs. It is definitely pricey to keep, even though it is a second hand unit. Common problems lie with the radiator which is not tuned to our harsh climate, the water pump, and some interior trim. Expect prices of parts to be on the high side, though. Oh, M3 imitations are definitely a big no-no since they have questionable maintenance.

Exterior and Interior
Called as the "dolphin shape" due to its sharp styling and low stance, a disadvantage especially the underchassis will be prone to scratches. Do take note the 316i has black bumpers, door handles, and mirrors and the mag wheels are the mesh type which makes cleaning hard. On the other hand, the 320i can be distinguished by its color coded bumpers, door handles, and mirrors and a 10 spoke wheel. Rear disc brakes come standard across the board with some early 316i's having drum brakes.

Inside, the interior is a black affair but looks nice and appropriate for a driver's machine (it is angled towards the driver). Climate controls are a button party, with mastery a requirement to know each function. The rear seat might be tight for some people. Do remember that early 316i models have fabric seats with leather standard on later units; 320i have leather seats as a standard equipment.

Engine
Starting off the 3 Series engine list is the M43B16 1,596 inline 4 with 102hp at 5,500rpm and 150Nm at 3,900rpm which engine suits the city dweller especially acceleration isn't breathtaking. The cream of the crop is the M52B20 1,991cc pumping out 150hp at 5,900rpm and 190Nm at 4,200rpm. Going to the top gives you strong acceleration and tons of fun behind the wheel. How does it drive? Let us proceed to the next paragraph.

Driving Impressions
Choose either engine and you'll be treated to top levels of handling and comfort that BMW's are known for. Even the 316i will make you do ways on extracting its available power. Driving feel isn't expressed through a lengthy paragraph, it is done behind the wheel. Before I leave, make sure you're driving it and not your chauffeur.

Verdict
It may be old but the traits of driving fun is still evident on older BMWs. The pedigree continues on to modern Bimmers despite going larger. Want an old European car that is fun to drive and at the same time cheap to maintain? You'll never go wrong with a E36 3 Series. 


Saturday, January 25, 2014

Car Features - We Rate the Vehicle Introductions During Corazon Aquino's Term

It was during her time that car manufacturers are returning to the Philippines after the country had disposed a dictator. And if she was still alive, Tita Cory would have been 80 years old today.

So let us revisit the vehicle launches during her term, which was filled with coup d'etat's around the corner and brownouts everywhere.

We would rate the vehicle launches between February 26, 1986 to June 30, 1992 by their success and significance in their market. Some vehicles paved way to future trends in the market while some were regarded as future classics and collectibles.

Shown below are the vehicles, date of introduction (those after June 1992 are excluded), short introduction, and significance rating (out of five) with some commentary.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Car Profiles - Mazda 323 (1993-1998)

1993-1998 Mazda 323

The Good: Fully equipped, easy to maintain

The Bad: Plain interior, carburetor engines

The Say: Cheap but not cheerful.

Go For: 1.6 SE
Avoid: Ex-taxis

Price Range: P45,000-P120,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1993-1998

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Car Profiles - Lifan 520

LIFAN 520

Corolla spaciousness at Vios prices (or shall we say Wigo), the 520 concerns budget prices with equipment and space levels of cars a category up. Don't expect excellent performance levels or Benz interiors, this is a budget car best avoided.

The Good: Space for the price
The Bad: Plasticky interior

Price Range: P498,000-P598,000
Our Rating: *

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Car Profiles - Fiat Uno (1992-1998)

1992-1998 Fiat Uno

The Good: Compact to drive, tons of headroom, available diesel engine

The Bad: Limited parts availability, bare interior

The Say: You're better off with a Kia Pride.

Go For: 1.0 gasoline
Avoid: 1.3 diesel

Price Range: P55,000-P90,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1992-1998

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Car Profiles - Honda Civic (1991-1992)

1991-1992 Honda Civic

The Good: Fun driving dynamics

The Bad: Old age means impractical to own

The Say: Go for something modern that is fun to drive.

Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: All others

Price Range: P85,000-P100,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Civic

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Used Car Review - Honda Civic Sedan (1993-1995)

Myk Belmonte now features the sedan derivative of a popular vehicle back then.

1993-1995 Honda Civic

History
Honda entered to the local scene in 1991 through their EF Civic. It battled it out with old rivals from Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Toyota as well as from Kia, Fiat, Daihatsu, and Daewoo. Almost years later, Honda captured the top spot when it comes to passenger car sales. A feat which a new entrant had done in a few years.

Together with the hatchback that I featured nearly a year ago, it was launched to the Japanese market in September 1991. Available in a myriad of engines of varying displacements that can be paired to a sedan, hatchback, and coupe body styles. The same items applicable to the sedan have been said in the hatchback review.

March 1993 saw the introduction of the Civic sedan, 11 months later after the hatchback. Unlike the two door version which participated in the People's Car Category (or Class One), the sedan entered the general Class Two that battled various rivals from Japan. Just like the hatch, it became a favorite of tuners and modifiers due to its unlimited possibilities of tuning. November 1995 saw the introduction of the EK Civic which sold more and a vastly better product. You can buy one back then in either LX or ESi trim levels.

Value and Costs
With age, Civic EG prices have been falling but not below the six digit figures, which the other three rivals had done. From P105,000 to P150,000, one can get a Civic sedan in varying state of condition. Do remember a stock unit in good condition is a better buy than something beat up and carrying a cheap price.

Unlike the Accord, parts are common but slightly expensive than a Corolla Big Body or Lancer Itlog of the same time. Choosing the EFi engine is a much better choice than the carburetor, especially the Civic was the only vehicle in the line-up to have that type of engine. One main problem of the vehicle are body problems that mainly involves rust which affected this generation. If you'll be buying one for personal usage, modified units are a big no-no.

Exterior and Interior
Just like its hatchback sibling, it has some curved lines which makes it a standout. The front makes a low hoodline, thanks to the headlamps.

In contrast to the economy focused hatch, there are touches of fabric upholstery and, at least on the ESi model, available power amenities like power mirrors and power windows. Space is decent enough for four people while do not expect niceties (such as airbags) since the interior is devoid of them.

Engine
A good thing is you get to choose between two engines whose fuel distribution system are through a carbureted system or EFi. The first engine available is a carbureted D15B2 1,493cc which gives out 92hp at 6,000rpm and 119Nm at 4,700rpm. This engine offers nothing significant when it comes to performance but gives you cheaper costs of maintenance. The one to get is the D16Z9 1,590cc carrying 130hp at 6,600rpm and 144Nm at 4,200rpm especially it is fast in terms of acceleration. No VTEC technology present here but you get that smile on your face.

Driving Impressions
Thanks to its close gear ratios and light steering, this is one fun to drive machine. You would want to cherish every moment behind the wheel, engine choice notwithstanding. No suspension modifications, please, since it tends to spoil the driving fun and cutting the stock suspension is one dangerous attempt since it will endanger you and your passengers.

Verdict
There is a reason why this car sold well and still a sought after in the second hand market. The Civic EG Sedan is a fun to drive vehicle but with the influx of more practical rivals, we'd give them a second look especially they are friendly to the pocket to own and maintain. We admit, the Honda is a rocket pocket which is marred with aging problems.


Friday, January 17, 2014

Car Profiles - Mercedes Benz C Class Wagon (2001-2004)

2001-2004 Mercedes Benz C Class Wagon

The Good: Practical without losing the prestige of a Benz

The Bad: Very pricey to maintain

The Say: Easy to live with without sacrificing practicality.

Go For: C240 Avantgarde
Avoid: C200 Kompressor

Price Range: P1,100,000-P1,200,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2004

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Car Profiles - Audi A4 Avant (2005-2008)

2005-2008 Audi A4 Avant

The Good: Practicality and stylish

The Bad: Limited units in the market

The Say: Want an Audi while remaining practical? This is it.

Go For: 2.0 TDi Avant
Avoid: 

Price Range: P775,000-P800,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2005-2008

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Car Profiles - Volvo 850 Wagon (1994-1997)

1994-1997 Volvo 850 Wagon

The Good: More room, more versatility

The Bad: Some find it boring and plain, expensive maintenance costs

The Say: One of the great products from Sweden

Go For: 2.5 GLT
Avoid: Something unloved

Price Range: P150,000-P195,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1994-1997

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Car Profiles - Subaru Legacy (1996-1999)

1996-1999 Subaru Legacy

The Good: Versatile, available AWD

The Bad: Poor built quality

The Say: One of the sensible low cost wagons available

Go For: GL
Avoid: Japan converted units

Price Range: P145,000-P265,000
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: Used Car Review - Subaru Legacy (1996-1999)
Latest vehicle profile: Subaru Legacy

See the different versions of this vehicle:
1996-1999

Monday, January 13, 2014

Used Car Review - Subaru Legacy (1996-1999)

Myk Belmonte is giving out our second 90s vehicle feature in the form of a wagon, which now is a bargain nowadays.

1996-1999 Subaru Legacy

History
Subaru made a reputation of making quirky vehicles which were equipped with all wheel drive and at the same time, sturdy. They look pale, until the SVX coupe came along which prompted the brand to make some changes in the vehicle's design.

The second generation Legacy was available in either sedan (both low and high raised, with the latter called the SUS or Sports Utility Sedan) or wagon (this generation gave birth to the Outback) versions. Sales started in October 7, 1993 in Japan with the rest of the world having it the following year. Do take note that the chassis codes differ by body style: BD for sedans, BG for standard wagons, and BK for flat roof wagon.

April 1996 saw the addition of the Subaru brand by Columbian Motors Corporation and the first model to made available is the BG Legacy. It was the only available vehicle in the regular line-up, with the Impreza WRX being available on an indent order basis. Despite the firm having successfully selling the various Kia, Mazda, and even BMW vehicles, this didn't catch up the buyer's attention. It was discontinued in 2000 with the distribution rights handled to GM Automobiles Pilipinas and with Columbian's financial woes back then. There was only one variant available, the GL.

Value and Costs
For those interested in the Subaru Legacy, prices for a second hand unit falls between P145,000-P265,000. This is one practical wagon from the 90s, especially its Opel rivals face difficulty in sourcing parts. Do we see a 90s bargain here? Read on.

Despite being an old model, parts can be purchased at Motor Image in Greenhills. Regular maintenance can be done there, since they know even the oldest of Subarus. The boxer engine is bulletproof and the vehicle wouldn't give up on you if maintenance is done right. The AWD system may consume a little more gas but will give you stability at the worst situation. Paint fading is common, as with other vehicles done in Columbian's old plant in Bicutan.

Exterior and Interior
Even though this is a wagon, sporty touches such as the trademark frameless windows (water does not enter, definitely a good thing) are done to brighten up a dull vehicle. But overall, this is something that we would not discuss further.

Plastics that were used are very far of Subarus of today. Oddly, the controls for the air-conditioning is positioned above the radio but nevertheless, changing stations or temperature isn't hard since they are easy to reach. For more flicking fun, the knob for the AWD system is located beside the parking brake. Space for both people and cargo is adequate despite the propeller shaft tunnel passing through the middle portion. The rear bench can be folded to accommodate more items that are long in nature.

Engine
Only one engine reached Philippine shores in the form of an EJ20 1,994cc carrying 115hp at 5,600rpm and 170Nm at 4,400rpm. Call it conservative (the 626 has 118hp but the engine is fun to drive) but this one is a hoot to drive, that's if you know how to extract the power to enjoy every moment.

Driving Impressions
The standard AWD, less power from the engine, and a long body makes the vehicle something hard to drive for the newbie. With constant practice, driving one is just sisiw (easy).

Verdict
Want a 90s wagon that is easy to maintain? The Legacy is one great choice. With the added security of AWD, as well as good support for spare parts, owning one is easy.

Friday, January 10, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai XG (2003-2005)

2003-2005 Hyundai XG

The Good: Rides like a limo

The Bad: Drives like a boat

The Say: You could do better than this.

Go For: XG250
Avoid: 

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Hyundai XG

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2005

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Car Profiles - Honda Legend (1994-1998)

1994-1998 Honda Legend

The Good: Silky V6, comfortable

The Bad: Totally expensive to keep, anonymous looking

The Say: A Honda Accord of the same time is much better.

Go For: 3.5 V6
Avoid: Anything that looks spotty

Price Range: P230,000-P240,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Honda Legend

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Car Profiles - Hyundai Azera (2006-2011)

2006-2011 Hyundai Azera

The Good: Plush, comfortable

The Bad: Rare in the market

The Say: The same money can give you something powerful, comfortable, and most importantly, common.

Go For: 3.3 V6
Avoid: Is there any?

Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ***

Related Review: None as of the Moment

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2011

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Car Profiles - Nissan Bluebird (1991-1993)

1991-1993 Nissan Bluebird

The Good: Spacious, timeless looks

The Bad: Getting old means parts are hard to come by

The Say: Plush but our money dictates a modern model with the similar attributes.

Go For: 2.0
Avoid: Thrashed units

Price Range: P30,000-P95,000
Our Rating: **

Related Reviews:
None as of the Moment

Monday, January 6, 2014

Used Car Review - Mitsubishi Galant (1993-1997)

Let us start the year with a used car review. Myk Belmonte obliges you with a car that is a bargain nowadays.

1993-1997 Mitsubishi Galant

History
Among premium sedans, Filipinos have a soft spot for the Mitsubishi Galant. Why did I say so? Long before the Accords and the Camrys dotted the Philippine roads, executives had this one alongside with the Toyota Corona. One piece of trivia: during the 80s, several third and fourth generation Galants were used as patrol vehicles by Highway Patrol Group (which you know on whom they chase).

The seventh generation Galant can be had in sedan, hatchback, and hardtop (exclusive for Japan) known as the Emeraude. It saw a change in suspension from struts and beam axles to a multi-link system all around that later on was used to several Mitsubishi vehicles. The Lancer Evo may be Mitsubishi's rally car but the Galant VR-4 was treated to a 2.0 V6 twin turbo to compensate on the loss. Production lasted until 1998 with the eighth generation model replacing it.

1993 was the year when Japanese premium sedans arrived to the Philippine market. The seventh generation Galant battled with industry stalwart Toyota Corona which was redesigned for that year, as well as new entrants Mazda 626 and Nissan Altima. This one held its candle against these vehicles and even with the successful Honda Accord and Nissan Cefiro. As they said, good things must come to an end and it was replaced with the eight generation model in late 1997. Available variants back then include the Super Saloon and VR.

Value and Costs
This 90s wonder can be yours for nearly less than 200k, since prices fall between P80,000-P170,000. At the same time, rivals of the same period can be had at these prices. Do not expect Corolla or Sentra fuel economy with this, the reason for the low resale prices.

Unlike the Honda Accord of the same period, parts for the Galant are widespread and on the cheap side. What you should look at are the suspension and its inner components since this is the weak point (you know the notorious kalampag issue of Mitsubishis of old) and can cost you more. Obviously, the VR which has a V6 engine is expensive to maintain. The V6 has spark plugs at the rear portion of the engine which costs more and requires the removal of the intake manifold and several coolant hoses.

Exterior and Interior
Called as the "Ray-ban" by enthusiasts due to its taillights, the seventh generation Galant is more streamed and elegant in a low fashion way. There is no need to deal with the styling since it invites you to see one for yourself. To distinguish the Super Saloon from the VR, the latter carries side skirts while later models of the SS have twin tail pipes and 15 inch wheels, which was not standard before.

Occupants, driving or not, will be treated to an expanse space of interior room without having the feeling of being claustrophobic or violating each other's personal space. To distinguish interiors from one another, SS do have a four spoke steering wheel and manual type climate control while VR gets a three spoke wheel and automatic climate control, a notable first back then.

Engine
Two engines are made available of varying cylinder outputs and the basic one is a 4G63 1,997cc 4-cylinder that carries 136hp at 6,000rpm and 180Nm at 3,000rpm. It offers enough grunt inside the city and the Beer na Beer of the Galant engine range. If you want more kick in power, the Colt 45 of all Galant engines is the 6A12 1,998cc V6 that pumps out 145hp at 6,000rpm and 179Nm at 4,000rpm will give you a smile on your face while driving. Neither engines will disappoint you but set aside your priorities on which do you prefer.

Driving Impressions
Being behind the wheel is a pleasurable experience, especially the Galant is something that is enjoyable to drive. Road noise is vindicated but passing through road ruts will give your suspension some trip to the repair shop. While the 4-cylinder is basically a normal engine, the V6 is a revelation: fun to drive and less stress from the engine plus push it hard to give the engine some noise which is a sound to one's ears.

Verdict
What used to be a car of the affluent is now a bargain for mere mortals like us. It had hidden gems which rivals current vehicles plus the timeless appeal, making it a future classic. The time for hunting is now.


Saturday, January 4, 2014

Car Profiles - Nissan Sentra (1987-1991)

1987-1991 Nissan Sentra

The Good: Available diesel engine and power features

The Bad: Some reliability quirks

The Say: A good pick but do some more research or stretch your budget.

Go For: 1.6 SGX
Avoid: Thrashed units

Price Range: P40,000-P80,000
Our Rating: *

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Sylphy

Friday, January 3, 2014

Car Profiles - Mitsubishi Lancer (1988-1992)

1988-1992 Mitsubishi Lancer

The Good: Can be bought in the cheap

The Bad: Very old

The Say: More affordable to buy, just do not complain.

Go For: 1.6 GLXi
Avoid: Tired units

Price Range: P45,000-P90,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Mitsubishi Lancer EX

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Car Profiles - Toyota Corolla (1988-1992)

1988-1992 Toyota Corolla

The Good: Reliable, roomy

The Bad: Safety or convenience features not present

The Say: A good choice for tight pockets if you are willing to compromise.

Go For: 1.6 GL
Avoid: 1.3 XL

Price Range: P70,000-P170,000
Our Rating: **

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Toyota Corolla Altis

See the different versions of this vehicle: