The Good: Opulence, space
The Bad: Limited availability, maintenance costs
The Say: A popular model is a better buy.
Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: None
Price Range: P170,000-P200,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Car Profiles - Nissan Cedric (1994-1998)
The Good: Opulence, space
The Bad: Limited availability, maintenance costs
The Say: A popular model is a better buy.
Go For: Any well maintained unit
Avoid: None
Price Range: P170,000-P200,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Monday, May 12, 2014
Used Car Review - Toyota Crown (1988-1998)
Lets have a throwback this Monday with Myk Belmonte featuring a popular vehicle back then.
1988-1998 Toyota Crown
History
Back when the luxury car market was totally flooded with Benzes and the occasional Ford Cortinas and Granadas, Toyota was selling the high end Crown which is the highest in the hierarchy and slotted above the Cressida. Times had changed for the automotive landscape where the Camry is the top end model and Lexus had arrived, the Crown was an influential vehicle of its own and has a special spot among motorists.
This particular model that we are reviewing is the eighth generation model under the platform name S130 which was made available in 1987 in sedan, hardtop, and wagon models. In 1991, the hardtop became the S140 model while the other variants retained the S130 designation. The Crown Majesta was launched under the S140 platform as a much expensive model with more gadgetry thrown inside. Production ended sometime in the late 90s.
With Toyota's return to the Philippine market in 1988, one of the models that were first offered was the Crown. It was definitely a class of its own, especially that market leader Mitsubishi and Nissan had no counterpart models to it. As European competitors came to the scene, the Crown's relevance declined and Toyota dropped the model in 1998. Available variants include the Deluxe (sold until 1992), Super Saloon, and top end Royal Saloon.
Value and Costs
Crown prices do vary and buyers do get a wide range of models to choose from given its long production run. Older models can be obtained for less than six figures while later ones are priced in the P400,000 range. We advise you to get a 1992 and later model since old ones have a carburetor engine which is a pain to maintain.
As with age on these types of cars, maintenance costs would be surely on the expensive side. But unlike its European rivals, the Crown isn't that much crowded with electronic doodads and advanced engine technology which can break down after years of usage which makes this sedan a somewhat affordable (but not to Corolla levels) to keep. Check the wear and tear parts when buying and inspecting especially this is one bulletproof car
Exterior and Interior
Unlike today's luxury sedans which looks OA, the Crown's profile is discreet and low profile but elegant. Clean lines dominate the vehicle plus the grille is imposing in a way that it does not shout attention that much. Although this is an eighth generation model, past and succeeding models have styling similarities which makes it distinctively Crown. Saloon suffixed models get mud guards, extended bumpers, and fog lamps to differentiate themselves from the Deluxe.
It is always a Throwback Thursday inside the Crown especially the interior is dominated with flat panels in a black finishing. Covering the thickly padded seats are either fabric or leather upholstery which provides the passengers comfort for their daily routine. Combined with a low acquisition price and the famed Toyota reliability, it is one of the cheapest ways to get a power seats which recline in the rear, rear climate controls, and a beverage cooler which competitors copied.
Engine
Throughout its production life, each generation has a wide range of engines to choose from including diesels and for later models, hybrids. The S130 model had two sets of engines during its Philippine run, so lets discuss them one by one. Early models can be had with a 2.2 4-cylinder carrying 97hp and uses a carburetor fuel system or a 5M 2,759cc I6 having 116hp at 4,800rpm and 196Nm at 3,600rpm. Later models do gain (all of them are I6) either a 1G-FE 1,988cc with 135hp at 5,600rpm and 176Nm at 4,400rpm or 6M-GE 2,954cc having 190hp at 5,600rpm and 260Nm at 4,400rpm. We shall give the engines a rundown: the 2.2 is best avoided since it is weak, the 2.8 is decent, the 2.0 will have its engine strained when pushed hard, while the 3.0 is one heck faster. If you were to ask us, we'd bet our money towards either the 2.0 or 3.0 present in the updated models.
Driving Impressions
For those who are expecting something exciting, please find something else as the Crown does its best in one aspect: pampering the passengers. Giving the car some push will require some effort but you wouldn't mind it after all. Handling is decent for a car this size with the predictable body roll.
Verdict
Throwback Thursdays would let you remember some things of the past, and one of them is the Crown. Sure, we do have the Camry that offers the similar space but more technologically advanced and carries more kit but this vehicle has a special spot on our roads. It carried executives and presidents in style without being brand snobs.
1988-1998 Toyota Crown
History
Back when the luxury car market was totally flooded with Benzes and the occasional Ford Cortinas and Granadas, Toyota was selling the high end Crown which is the highest in the hierarchy and slotted above the Cressida. Times had changed for the automotive landscape where the Camry is the top end model and Lexus had arrived, the Crown was an influential vehicle of its own and has a special spot among motorists.
This particular model that we are reviewing is the eighth generation model under the platform name S130 which was made available in 1987 in sedan, hardtop, and wagon models. In 1991, the hardtop became the S140 model while the other variants retained the S130 designation. The Crown Majesta was launched under the S140 platform as a much expensive model with more gadgetry thrown inside. Production ended sometime in the late 90s.
With Toyota's return to the Philippine market in 1988, one of the models that were first offered was the Crown. It was definitely a class of its own, especially that market leader Mitsubishi and Nissan had no counterpart models to it. As European competitors came to the scene, the Crown's relevance declined and Toyota dropped the model in 1998. Available variants include the Deluxe (sold until 1992), Super Saloon, and top end Royal Saloon.
Value and Costs
Crown prices do vary and buyers do get a wide range of models to choose from given its long production run. Older models can be obtained for less than six figures while later ones are priced in the P400,000 range. We advise you to get a 1992 and later model since old ones have a carburetor engine which is a pain to maintain.
As with age on these types of cars, maintenance costs would be surely on the expensive side. But unlike its European rivals, the Crown isn't that much crowded with electronic doodads and advanced engine technology which can break down after years of usage which makes this sedan a somewhat affordable (but not to Corolla levels) to keep. Check the wear and tear parts when buying and inspecting especially this is one bulletproof car
Exterior and Interior
Unlike today's luxury sedans which looks OA, the Crown's profile is discreet and low profile but elegant. Clean lines dominate the vehicle plus the grille is imposing in a way that it does not shout attention that much. Although this is an eighth generation model, past and succeeding models have styling similarities which makes it distinctively Crown. Saloon suffixed models get mud guards, extended bumpers, and fog lamps to differentiate themselves from the Deluxe.
It is always a Throwback Thursday inside the Crown especially the interior is dominated with flat panels in a black finishing. Covering the thickly padded seats are either fabric or leather upholstery which provides the passengers comfort for their daily routine. Combined with a low acquisition price and the famed Toyota reliability, it is one of the cheapest ways to get a power seats which recline in the rear, rear climate controls, and a beverage cooler which competitors copied.
Engine
Throughout its production life, each generation has a wide range of engines to choose from including diesels and for later models, hybrids. The S130 model had two sets of engines during its Philippine run, so lets discuss them one by one. Early models can be had with a 2.2 4-cylinder carrying 97hp and uses a carburetor fuel system or a 5M 2,759cc I6 having 116hp at 4,800rpm and 196Nm at 3,600rpm. Later models do gain (all of them are I6) either a 1G-FE 1,988cc with 135hp at 5,600rpm and 176Nm at 4,400rpm or 6M-GE 2,954cc having 190hp at 5,600rpm and 260Nm at 4,400rpm. We shall give the engines a rundown: the 2.2 is best avoided since it is weak, the 2.8 is decent, the 2.0 will have its engine strained when pushed hard, while the 3.0 is one heck faster. If you were to ask us, we'd bet our money towards either the 2.0 or 3.0 present in the updated models.
Driving Impressions
For those who are expecting something exciting, please find something else as the Crown does its best in one aspect: pampering the passengers. Giving the car some push will require some effort but you wouldn't mind it after all. Handling is decent for a car this size with the predictable body roll.
Verdict
Throwback Thursdays would let you remember some things of the past, and one of them is the Crown. Sure, we do have the Camry that offers the similar space but more technologically advanced and carries more kit but this vehicle has a special spot on our roads. It carried executives and presidents in style without being brand snobs.
Friday, May 9, 2014
Car Profiles - Ford Ranger (1999-2006)
The Good: Tough partner for business or personal use
The Bad: But you have to live with a tight rear bench
The Say: One of the durable trucks out there.
Go For: 4x2 Trekker
Avoid: Any beat up unit
Price Range: P310,000-P440,000
Our Rating: ***
Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Ford Ranger Non-Wildtrak/Wildtrak
See the different versions of this vehicle:
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Car Profiles - Nissan Frontier (1998-2014)
The Good: Low maintenance costs, equipment for money
The Bad: Unrefined, weak engine
The Say: Other than durability, you can do better.
Go For: 4x2 Titanium
Avoid:
Price Range: P300,000-P600,000
Our Rating: **
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Nissan Frontier Navara
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1998-2002
2003-2014
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Car Profiles - Chevrolet Silverado (2000-2004)
The Good: Strong V8 engine, roomy cabin
The Bad: Inconsistent build quality, maintenance costs
The Say: Close but no cigar.
Go For: LS 4x4
Avoid:
Price Range: P350,000-P600,000
Our Rating: **
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Car Profiles - Dodge Dakota (2001-2004)
The Good: Roomy cabin, off-road performance
The Bad: Expensive maintenance costs, rarity
The Say: Other trucks are better choices.
Go For: Quad Cab
Avoid: Anything else
Price Range: P400,000-P450,000
Our Rating: *
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2001-2004
Monday, May 5, 2014
Used Car Review - Ford F150 (1998-2004)
Having this bad boy in your garage is attainable. Let Myk Belmonte walk to you the details.
1998-2004 Ford F150
History
Probably beating the Toyota Corolla for the vehicle with the most number of generations (the F150 has 12 compared to the Toyota's 11 as of 2014), the F150 had been in existence in 1948 which replaced the car based pick-up truck line sold in 1942. Since then, it has been sold in a raft of configurations from two to four doors and regular and extended length versions to regular engined one to the powerful (think of the SVT and Raptor). It is still kicking on 66 years after it was first released.
The tenth generation F150 first debuted in 1995 as a 1997 model and featured more curves than the model it replaced, which made Ford selling the previous model alongside since they had predicted it would not be a hit among consumers (trucks are meant to be boxy and handsome, you know). But alas, it sold well and another feature is the separation of the F250 and F350 were split while a Lincoln version called the Blackwood that was a market flop. Production ended in 2009 in Mexico while early as 2004 for the other markets.
Ford made a comeback in 1998 and one of the products is the F150 pickup, which made the Japanese rivals dwarf in size. Gasoline was very very cheap back then and the crisis was just a word when the truck arrived to the shores. Dwindling interest towards pick-up trucks with gasoline engines (the last one to be sold was the Hilux G with a 2.7 lifted from the Fortuner) caused the F150 to be discontinued, leaving the Ranger in the truck range. One can get the F150 through a local Ford dealer in Styleside 4x2, Flareside 4x4, and Supercrew 4x4 while succeeding versions through the grey market. Supercrew versions remained until its 2004 dropping, with the other models had it early in 2003.
Value and Costs
American trucks and cars with large engine displacements have poor resale values, and one can get an F150 for the price equivalent of a 2001-2011 model Honda Civic. One can get a Chevrolet Silverado of the same period but Ford has the edge on dealer support. Just prepare to read the next paragraph if you really want one.
Planning to get one would necessitate to pay more at the pump, since fuel consumption is not a huge forte (but then that's the reason for the low resale values) plus maintenance costs are expensive for such an old car. One deficiency to look for are the electrical components which may conk out especially if the unit you are checking is very old.
Exterior and Interior
One may choose between a two door plus two hidden door available in the Styleside and Flareside or a crew cab Supercrew. Parking and maneuvering one can be a chore, especially for the first time driver but the stares and pride in driving one is priceless.
If you intend to transport people, then get a 4-door version since the low end models have a tight rear bench. Owners of the first generation Expedition would have some comments that they are similar to each other, and they are from the automatic shift knob (manual models have them floor mounted) to the radio. One good trait are the adjustable pedals that can give the driver a comfortable seating position.
Engine
Rocking your world (or in this case, your drive) are two gasoline engines in the form of the following: an Essex 4,195cc V6 having 205 at 4,750rpm and 345Nm at 3,000rpm and a Triton 4,601cc V8 carrying 220hp at4 4,500rpm and 398Nm at 3,250rpm. Both engines provide sufficient power when it comes to acceleration (the V8 has more than enough) plus a sports car growl comes bonus when driven hard.
Driving Impression
Those who want something fun to drive are advised to look elsewhere, since steering precision is lacking and going to potholes gives you a bouncy feeling. Although driving and maneuvering one isn't a strength, the added height gives you security during the rainy season or traversing in rough roads.
Verdict
Desiring a pick-up truck without the diesel engine noise and lingering at the price range of a sedan is a reality thanks to the F150. Being low priced means it has some drawbacks such as its fuel efficiency and pricey maintenance costs but then, the Ford is a better pick among the American trucks.
1998-2004 Ford F150
History
Probably beating the Toyota Corolla for the vehicle with the most number of generations (the F150 has 12 compared to the Toyota's 11 as of 2014), the F150 had been in existence in 1948 which replaced the car based pick-up truck line sold in 1942. Since then, it has been sold in a raft of configurations from two to four doors and regular and extended length versions to regular engined one to the powerful (think of the SVT and Raptor). It is still kicking on 66 years after it was first released.
The tenth generation F150 first debuted in 1995 as a 1997 model and featured more curves than the model it replaced, which made Ford selling the previous model alongside since they had predicted it would not be a hit among consumers (trucks are meant to be boxy and handsome, you know). But alas, it sold well and another feature is the separation of the F250 and F350 were split while a Lincoln version called the Blackwood that was a market flop. Production ended in 2009 in Mexico while early as 2004 for the other markets.
Ford made a comeback in 1998 and one of the products is the F150 pickup, which made the Japanese rivals dwarf in size. Gasoline was very very cheap back then and the crisis was just a word when the truck arrived to the shores. Dwindling interest towards pick-up trucks with gasoline engines (the last one to be sold was the Hilux G with a 2.7 lifted from the Fortuner) caused the F150 to be discontinued, leaving the Ranger in the truck range. One can get the F150 through a local Ford dealer in Styleside 4x2, Flareside 4x4, and Supercrew 4x4 while succeeding versions through the grey market. Supercrew versions remained until its 2004 dropping, with the other models had it early in 2003.
Value and Costs
American trucks and cars with large engine displacements have poor resale values, and one can get an F150 for the price equivalent of a 2001-2011 model Honda Civic. One can get a Chevrolet Silverado of the same period but Ford has the edge on dealer support. Just prepare to read the next paragraph if you really want one.
Planning to get one would necessitate to pay more at the pump, since fuel consumption is not a huge forte (but then that's the reason for the low resale values) plus maintenance costs are expensive for such an old car. One deficiency to look for are the electrical components which may conk out especially if the unit you are checking is very old.
Exterior and Interior
One may choose between a two door plus two hidden door available in the Styleside and Flareside or a crew cab Supercrew. Parking and maneuvering one can be a chore, especially for the first time driver but the stares and pride in driving one is priceless.
If you intend to transport people, then get a 4-door version since the low end models have a tight rear bench. Owners of the first generation Expedition would have some comments that they are similar to each other, and they are from the automatic shift knob (manual models have them floor mounted) to the radio. One good trait are the adjustable pedals that can give the driver a comfortable seating position.
Engine
Rocking your world (or in this case, your drive) are two gasoline engines in the form of the following: an Essex 4,195cc V6 having 205 at 4,750rpm and 345Nm at 3,000rpm and a Triton 4,601cc V8 carrying 220hp at4 4,500rpm and 398Nm at 3,250rpm. Both engines provide sufficient power when it comes to acceleration (the V8 has more than enough) plus a sports car growl comes bonus when driven hard.
Driving Impression
Those who want something fun to drive are advised to look elsewhere, since steering precision is lacking and going to potholes gives you a bouncy feeling. Although driving and maneuvering one isn't a strength, the added height gives you security during the rainy season or traversing in rough roads.
Verdict
Desiring a pick-up truck without the diesel engine noise and lingering at the price range of a sedan is a reality thanks to the F150. Being low priced means it has some drawbacks such as its fuel efficiency and pricey maintenance costs but then, the Ford is a better pick among the American trucks.
Saturday, May 3, 2014
Car Features - Si Clio, Primo, at Verno
Pardon the title, you might think that Clio, Primo, and Verno are names of people, members of a band, or drug syndicates. No, these are the names of Honda's dealership networks in Japan in which various vehicles are sold there.
According to everyone's best friend on the web named Wikipedia, Honda chose to diversify its dealership networks by first launching the Verno in 1978. Due to some competition from Nissan and Toyota, they had added the Clio and Primo in the 80s. However, the dealership channels were merged to one in 2006.
Six years later, this similar concept was revived with the launch of the Honda Cars Small Store that sold compacts and kei cars.
So, lets go to each detail one by one.
According to everyone's best friend on the web named Wikipedia, Honda chose to diversify its dealership networks by first launching the Verno in 1978. Due to some competition from Nissan and Toyota, they had added the Clio and Primo in the 80s. However, the dealership channels were merged to one in 2006.
Six years later, this similar concept was revived with the launch of the Honda Cars Small Store that sold compacts and kei cars.
So, lets go to each detail one by one.
Friday, May 2, 2014
Car Profiles - Kia Pregio (1996-2005)
The Good: Smooth ride, cheap to buy
The Bad: Questionable built quality, ergonomics
The Say: Other than its buttery ride, there are more better vans out there.
Go For: LS
Avoid: Units which look tired
Price Range: P120,000-P360,000
Our Rating: *
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Car Profiles - Mitsubishi L300 (1987-2012)
The Good: Cheap to maintain, practicality
The Bad: Unrefined, fuel thirsty gasoline engine
The Say: Something that keeps on chugging despite its age.
Go For: 2.5 diesel
Avoid: 2.0 gasoline
Price Range: P85,000-P400,000
Our Rating: *
Related Review: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
1987-2012
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)