tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66244145937786961282024-03-08T03:55:31.260-08:00Garage36Chronicling the (mis)adventures of E36 ownershipLouis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.comBlogger500125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-47062165894670283072015-01-04T18:58:00.001-08:002015-01-04T19:05:43.139-08:00Goodbye 2014, Goodbye Blogspot. 5 years ago, i set off for my first ever (and i imagined back then, only) automotive centric holiday to Tokyo Japan and upon returned started up this blog with the intention of documenting my holiday and some posts of all the trials and tribulations i encountered with ownership of my E36. Slowly but surely, as i (or rather my mechanic) sorted out more and more issues with the car, i had less to write about.
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Eventually, i pretty much stopped writing about my car and instead, focused my attention towards our small local car scene in Singapore and pretty much everything else that i thought was interesting. I'm still very happy whenever someone tells me they visit my little blog as i never really intended for it to have much of a reach since there are so many bigger and more established automotive sites and writers out there. But big thanks to everyone for giving me these little bits of your time. <br><br>
Now, it seems, is time to close my blogspot account and this bring my 500th post is probably a nice way to end it. But the end of updating this blogspot account does not mean the end of <a href="https://garage36.wordpress.com/">Garage36</a>. Quite the opposite, for a number of reasons, i have decided to migrate over to <a href="https://garage36.wordpress.com/">wordpress</a> and all new write ups will be featured on my new site: <a href="https://garage36.wordpress.com/">Garage36.wordpress.com</a> . <a href="https://garage36.wordpress.com/">So please do visit my new site when you have the time</a>. <br><br>
Next stop? <a href="https://garage36.wordpress.com/">Tokyo, Japan.</a>.Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-90674794491764348252014-12-18T20:03:00.001-08:002014-12-18T20:03:33.864-08:00Liberty Walk heads to SEMA 2014<iframe width="500" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/bLV4O283tP4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Gotta love Kato-san's spirit. Maintaining that smile even when things go wrong.
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Bonus video: Liberty Walk goes racing!
<iframe width="500" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/7wwcaDyP9P0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-58384478689602246932014-12-11T18:32:00.003-08:002014-12-11T18:57:35.086-08:00Gran Designs: Driving the BMW 435i Gran Coupe<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F36%20435i%20Gran%20Coupe/500/DSC05060.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05060.jpg"/>
When you think about it, the launch of the BMW 435i Coupe presents itself a rather perplexing proposition, here is a 4-door Coupe derived from a 2-door Coupe which itself derived from a 4-door sedan that can trace its family lineage all the way back to the original, a 2-door Coupe. Confused yet? Don't be, because despite the Germans strange use of language when describing cars, the 4 Series Coupe is pretty good.
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I'll admit i was a skeptic when it first arrived on the scene. The biggest question on my (and i suspect many other) mind was why don't people buy the already excellent 3 Series sedan? That was of course before my eyes glazed over the svelte bodywork of the Gran Coupe, at once familiar and new at the same time.
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With the elongated bonnet, side vents and panel surfacing carried over from the 4-Series Coupe, the Gran Coupe takes the best bits of the Coupe and mixes it in with 2 extra doors and a long elegant roof-line that tapers into a large tailgate reminiscent of the GT. Looking more sophisticated than sporty and easily best looking of all the 4-door "3" variants, the 435i Gran Coupe sits lower, wider and longer than its 3-Series counterparts. Come to think of it, this is probably what the designers at BMW really wanted the new 3-Series to look like. It also comes with frame-less windows which everyone knows, oozes cool.
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Enhancing the already pleasing aesthetics on our shiny silver test car are tasty bits of M-Sport trim featuring meaner looking bumpers, high-gloss black trim, 19s all around and shiny twin chrome pipes shooting out rearwards.
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Our test car came spec-ed up with a red and black interior on a silver body. They could not have picked a better color combination as it looks a treat and really makes the interior pop.
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For those up front, the excellent driving position and overall layout have been carried over from the Coupe. Textures and surfaces feels well put together and the soft but supportive seats have adjustments to clamp you into the leather like a baseball in a glove. Like the Coupe, eager drivers will easily find their perfect driving position with ease and the very lovely to hold and behold M-Steering wheel makes an appearance in the Gran Coupe after being strangely absent from the Cabriolet. They should really keep it standard issue in all 435i's. (Actually, i think they should make it standard issue in every new BMW.)
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Rear seat passengers are decently catered for with adequate shoulder and legroom. The rear seats are set low into the cabin and two full sized male adults will fit comfortably while 3 might find it a little bit cozy. Unfortunately headroom for taller individuals might be a bit tight due to the elegantly sloping roof.
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Speaking of which, with the inclusion of a lift-back style tailgate, boot access is now through a larger aperture earlier seen on the 3-Series GT. While luggage space remains the same as normal sedan, the inclusion of the rear hatch does make it appear bigger and makes it easier to load or unload daily necessities, golf bags for instance.
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We'd only be covering half the story if we didn't sneak in some mention of the driving dynamics. Hallmarks of every BMW and rarely do they disappoint. The 435i Gran Coupe is no exception when it comes to performance figures, we've seen this Twin-scroll turbo-ed 3-litre and ZF 8-speed combination in many other applications across the BMW range and the numbers here remain largely the same, 306 horses and 400Nm of torque. The century mark comes up in 5.2 seconds and the meaty power-plant will continue the charge from license busting speeds into jail-time territory all day without breaking a sweat. Big brakes tasked with hauling this silver bullet down from triple digit speeds do the job well and unless drivers head to the tracks, will probably not experience any semblance of brake fade.
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Interestingly, i find that the damping characteristics of the Gran Coupe while being more athletic in feel than the Sedan (maybe due to the lower ride height and seating position), also seems to ride slightly better than the 2-door Coupe. Especially so when i thumb the adaptive M dampers into "Comfort" mode. Could the inclusion of a B-pillar actually help to iron out additional bumps from the road or was my bum feeling extra sensitive when i was out driving the Coupe? Regardless, on comfort mode, it still drives very well and manages to flatten out all but the most uneven of roads. Making point to point journeys enjoyably comfortable while an underlying firmness keeps the car feeling planted to the tarmac. With a juicy reserve of power nestled below your right foot, the 435i Gran Coupe allows for really quick progress once called upon.
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I would like to at this point go into detail about it's amazing handling through tight bends and windy back-roads but i cannot, not because it's so very anti-social nowadays but more because i never actually took it through tight bends and windy back-roads. For most of the time i had the 435i Gran Coupe i drove it like how potential owners probably would, on highways and byways, through the city and back again with the occasional blast through some long high-speed bends where the car remained positively poised while the electric steering stayed accurate and direct. No where near any of the handling limits of the car i reckon, but throughout the time i had with the Gran Coupe, i never once had a frown. It looks beautiful, the interior is gorgeous and is really a nice place to be in. It drives well and there is no wanting for additional power. Priced very close to the 2-Door variant, those looking at the 335i Sedans will have to decide if the added style is worth the added cash, but those already looking at a 435i Coupe but have needs for an extra 2 rear doors will be presented with a dilemma, but what a very pleasant problem it will be.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F36%20435i%20Gran%20Coupe/500/DSC05157.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05157.jpg"/>Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-26344122696038198112014-12-07T07:21:00.001-08:002014-12-07T07:35:12.844-08:00Singapore's 1st RWB. Built.<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/RWB%20Singapore01/500/DSC05699.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05699.jpg"/>
By the time you read this post, Nakai-san would have already boarded his flight back to Japan and Singapore's 1st ever RWB would have been completed and let loose on our streets.
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But let's rewind back a couple of days (before the weekend) to build day 3. With most of the work completed the night before, i pretty much figured the final day of the build would be a short one, so instead of dropping by after work, i drove over during my lunch break to have a final peek at the build process.
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As you can see from the above pictures, the car was already pretty much complete by the time i got there, they even washed it!
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The lucky and very brave owner even got his very own RWB Singapore T-shirt for the occasion.
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Cameo photobomb by Sasha Grey the E36 behind a visibly focused Nakai.
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Nakai-san carefully working on some minor finishing touches.
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Windscreen decal backing pulled off, Singapore very 1st RWB is good to go!
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RED meets red.
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As the owner of the car also runs his very own bicycle shop/cafe, he brought along a custom made matching two-wheeler which received a RWB-lite treatment shortly after i left.
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Some light buffing by the master builder.
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With some last photos taken i said my goodbyes to both Nakai-san and the very friendly owner for sharing and letting us in on the entire build process of his RWB. If you ever see a bright red 911 with "Rauh Welt" emblazoned on the windscreen, be sure to give a friendly wave!
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-39490109408434665232014-12-04T18:48:00.000-08:002014-12-04T18:58:57.949-08:00Singapore's 1st RWB. Build Night 2: Passion for Speed. Passion for Rough. <img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/RWB%20Singapore01/500/DSC05644.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05644.jpg"/>
Passion, focus, dedication and as it turns out, speed. Such is the level of experience the Grand Meister of RWB has, that by the time i arrived straight after a day of work, Nakai-san and the team of people helping out at the shop have already begun packing up for the day and as you can see from the opening shot, Singapore's RWB #01 is almost complete.
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With the majority of work already accomplished by the end of the first day, subsequent build days allowed Nakai-san the time to fine tune the details of the car.
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For those who know, the beauty of RWBs lie in the details.
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The finishing touches to some very wide rubber.
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With most of the work done for the day, Nakai-san got to chill out.
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Plenty of pictures were taken...
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...And the lucky owner fired up the car for some early seat time. Looks like Christmas has come early for him!
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Leftovers?
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As everyone called it a day, it looks like Build Day 3 will be a rather quick one and i'm guessing by the time you're reading this, Singapore's very first RWB will be pretty much done!
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-24880798946039147392014-12-03T20:47:00.000-08:002014-12-03T20:47:25.861-08:00Singapore's 1st RWB. Build Night 1: It's a Rough World, we shoot rough, we shoot B/W.<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/RWB%20Singapore01/500/DSC05363.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05363.jpg"/>
"The internets is srs biznass". Jokes aside, the World wide web has really transformed the way everyone around the World interacts with one another, allowing each and everyone of us access to all sorts of data with just a few keystrokes and a click of the mouse. This hyper highway of information has also meant that localized car cultures no longer stay within the confines of communities nor countries, and in the past few years, have allowed sharing of automotive cultural ideas and ideologies across all continents. Non more so than the cult of Rauh Welt Begriff (RWB) and the man behind it, Akira Nakai.
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After years of visiting other countries to catch glimpses of RWBs, the day has finally come for us to welcome Nakai-san to our local shores where a build has been commissioned by one brave individual.
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Taking an electric powered saw to the fenders of a pristine 964 will probably shatter the hearts and minds of many a purist (especially in Singapore where air-cooleds are quite rare with prices reflecting this fact) but for the converts, it's the process of realizing a dream.
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I managed to drop by after work on build night 1, to take a peek at RWB's cult artisan at work and to document what i can of Singapore's very first RWB build. And since it's a Rough World build, let's document it in rough monochrome style.
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Nakai-san was already deep into his "zone" and fully focused when i arrived.
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No one disturbs the man when he's working in his element.
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Tools of the trade.
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Settling the car down for the night as RWB-SG #01 gets pushed back into the shop and Nakai-san takes a breather, finishing up early for Day 1.
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Classic.
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Some time off for the owner and the builder.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/RWB%20Singapore01/500/DSC05441.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC05441.jpg"/>
Working on his stance.
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A last look before closing shop and heading out for dinner.
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Build day (and night) 2 beckons.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-63036121081695229882014-12-01T21:45:00.001-08:002014-12-01T21:45:10.809-08:00Roots of Liberty Walk<iframe width="500" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/YiYshkIqbqQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
What a character!Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-24994114238510228492014-11-26T18:38:00.001-08:002014-11-30T22:56:03.449-08:00Choose Life: Driving the BMW 435i Cabriolet<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F33%20435i%20Cabriolet/500/P1180398.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180398.jpg"/>
Choices, we are inundated with them every single day. From the moment you choose to wake up to when you go back to bed at night, you would have already made hundreds or even thousands of decisions. This is something the folks over at BMW have understood as they have created an array of models from the basis of the (excellent) 3 Series chassis.
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You can now have your F30 derived BMWs in an array of flavors in either 3 Series or 4 Series guise and in the 4 Series range, you can have a Coupe, a Gran Coupe and for those who choose to have a mix of open and closed top motoring, our test car for today, the 435i Cabriolet.
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Stylistically, it's pretty much the same as the Coupe up to where the roof starts and although i really love the red, it is slightly less elegant than the Coupe when viewed from behind.
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Whereas the 4 Series Coupe has a very lovely taper towards the rear, the Cabriolet has to make do with a more upright C-pillar design because of the folding roof. The new car is also slightly larger than the car it replaces. Sitting 1 inch longer with 2 more inches added to the wheelbase and is 1.7 inches wider while height drops 0.4 inches. While it might not have as elegant a rear end, this scarlet drop-top is still an attractive looking machine.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F33%20435i%20Cabriolet/500/DSC04686.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04686.jpg"/>
Dropping the roof (in a traffic-lights friendly 20 seconds) however, does much to increase the 4's visual appeal. As the slightly bulky rear windscreen treatment disappears under the boot, the lines of the 435i Cabriolet starts to show more prominently, especially in this beautiful shade of rouge. Our 435i comes in M-sport trim which means dark trim for the Bimmerangs, window surrounds, front bumper intakes, rear exhaust and some nice big 19-inch shoes all around.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F33%20435i%20Cabriolet/500/P1180402.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180402.jpg"/>
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Inside, those familiar with the German marque's ergonomics will be right at home as BMW's excellence in this field ensures all switchgear falls into place and within easy reach of the driver. The all leather seats are supportive, comfortable and on the Cabriolet, have belts that are integrated into the seat backs. Unfortunately the very tactile M steering wheel is not standard equipment but perhaps a friendly chat with your sales representative can change that (no promises!).
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Space inside is generous for a Cabriolet with easy access to the backseats. Although those getting into the back might want to tie their hair up when the top is dropped. Front seat occupants get to enjoy a relatively wind-free ride as careful aerodynamic considerations in the design means wind buffeting is kept to a minimal. Though the same cannot be said for those seated in the rear. You can attach a diffuser should you choose to do so. But once in place, the rear seats become redundant. Which also sort of makes the availability of a diffuser somewhat strange as you cancel out the passenger space for the very people who need it.
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Access to luggage storage is quite limited to just a small aperture once the roof is stowed away. BMW's solution comes in the form of a lifting mechanism which, with the trunk lid raised, electronically raises the folded top (and boot lid) up and out of the way via a button. It looks rather dramatic but how practical it will be remains something for future owners to decide.
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Thumbing the starter button brings the Twin-Power-Turbo 3 liter to life and awakening slightly over 300 horses from their slumber with a muffled rumble. With a persuasive push of the throttle, 400Nm of torque is churned out just above idle (1,200rpm) and is twisted out the rear axles, easily lighting up the driving wheels as they claw for grip. Once the rubber stops spinning and digs into the tarmac, 100km/h arrives in 5.9 seconds and helped by the brilliant ZF 8 speeder, rapidly slots in new cogs as the 435i headbutts the (thanks to a now dropped roof) vast panoramic horizon. It might take 0.4 seconds more than the equivalent Coupe on paper, but on the move, you'd hardly notice a difference.
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With such performance readily available from the get-go, you'd think we would be spending most of our time going all <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4DMs262vr4">Ferris-Bueller</a> on our scarlet drop-top but it turns out to be quite the opposite. We just never felt right ragging it out. Yes i know the chassis is more than capable to take on what my clumsy hands and feet can ask of it and yes even with the roof hidden away, the car remains as stiff as ever, laughing in the face of what some might call "chassis flex". But, it just feels wrong to drive it hard, or for lack of a better word, "hooning" it.
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It's not the weight of the car too, it might be slightly heavier and have a higher center of gravity with it's folding tin-top, but i reckon most drivers won't really notice. And for those who do and insist it makes a difference when it comes to "handling", point them towards the Coupe. <br><br>
For the rest of us, we most likely won't be driving it hard enough for that extra weight to make much of a difference. So what is holding me back from stomping on the loud pedal once the road opens up? I think it's the essence of the car, the way the car flows and communicates with you. Some cars egg you on and push you to go harder and faster, some prefer to slosh about, the 435i Cabriolet? I think it feels better engaging in a bit of grand touring and cruising.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F33%20435i%20Cabriolet/500/DSC04722.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04722.jpg"/>
Slot the driving mode into Comfort and bringing the frenzied pace down a notch allows one to enjoy all the sights, sounds and sensations that envelope you and your senses when the roof is removed. Sure, the firepower to splash most other cars on the road is there, but you choose not to use it. You choose to be a gentleman, cruising the open road in your topless red machine and just for that moment, life is good. Who cares if the roof adds a few kilos, it's not heavy, it's cool.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F33%20435i%20Cabriolet/500/DSC04800.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04800.jpg"/>
The question now is, is the 435i Cabriolet worth it's asking price? Personally, if someone was in the market for one of these, I'd recommend saving almost S$60,000 and point him or her towards the 328i variant. Unless you really have the need for speed and want all the grunt of the Twin-Power Turbo'd 3 liter, the 328i has more than ample performance under the bonnet to satisfy the occasional jaunt and with a nice amount of cash in the pocket leftover, the 328i Cabriolet is (to me at lest) the pick of the drop-top crop.
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Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-41568337167925750692014-11-04T19:45:00.002-08:002014-11-04T19:45:42.006-08:00Japan is car crazy<iframe width="500" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/s0MDY9fl-IA" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
It doesn't get any better than this. Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-67275606797052556432014-10-30T22:56:00.001-07:002014-11-25T18:58:12.788-08:00Eco-Progression: Driving the BMW 320i ED<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20F30%20320i%20ED/P1180353_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180353_500.jpg"/>
So it seems the price of crude oil has been falling steadily for the past few months as US oil outputs hit their highest point in decades. With so much of the black stuff swirling around, you'd sort of imagine that prices of pump gas would be going down to their lowest point in decades too right? Unfortunately while that may be true for some countries, here in sunny Singapore, after a whole mish-mash of number crunching and plenty of fairy-dust, prices for premium unleaded still sit around levels when black was gold and politicians were running around telling everyone planet Earth was almost depleted of vintage dinosaur juice.
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If fuel economy (and what was mentioned above) is of concern, than it looks like one of BMW's latest offerings in the 3-Series stable is tailored just for you. It's called the 320i ED and no, this car is not called Edward. ED here stands for Efficient Dynamics, BMW speak for well, efficiency and dynamism. Featuring a selection of little tweaks to give you more go for your dough. The 320i ED sits 10mm lower that standard cars, comes with some "streamline style" wheels that even though look somewhat small, help to move air around better and is shod with reduced rolling resistance (runflat) tires.
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Coupling those tweaks with additional engine management optimization means ED starts of each drive in ECO-PRO mode where urgency gives way to frugality. Throttle response is dulled and gear shift points adjusted for maximum efficiency. These changes combined help make the 320i ED the most efficient premium car of its class<br><br>
BMW claims each liter of fuel will move you 18.5 kilometers and even after we discount 20% off the manufacturer's claims (to 14.8km/liter), it remains a rather impressive number.
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Inside the car, all the familiar 3 Series bits are here. Everything is where it should be and with BMW's signature ergonomics in play, getting in, setting up your optimal driving position and moving off becomes second nature.
With the keys of ED handed to me for a day, i used it how it would most likely be used by potential owners. Driving from home to work in the mornings and back home thereafter. Mostly because it was a work day and spending an afternoon out hooning the car is frowned upon.
<br><br>A short disclaimer first, i was given the keys prior to reading any of the press material, which meant i did not know what was under the bonnet. I pretty much assumed it was either a 2.0 or maybe a 1.8 by looking at the badge, initial driving impressions also did not make me think otherwise. So a bit hat tip to the engineers at BMW when i finally read the spec sheets and learned what sat under the bonnet was in fact, a 1.6. Twin-scroll charged to deliver 170hp and 250Nm of torques from just above idle at 1,500rpms through to 4,500rpms. 0-100 comes up in 7.6 seconds.
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For a car that is "resolutely oriented towards a highly-consistent reduction in fuel consumption", those are pretty good numbers. Numbers that just one generation ago, required a 2.5 6 cylinder-ed 323i to achieve. Such is progress. Unfortunately the trade of for this engineering excellence is that again, due to our strange local regulations, having a high power output from a small engine means it gets bumped up into a higher taxation bracket.
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Through high speed bends at moderately enthusiastic speeds, the car remains balanced, composed and controllable, if a little vague in feel from the still direct steering. The car might have been tuned for comfort and economy but it retains BMW's underlying driver-oriented damping under layers of bump absorbing suspension travel. Selecting Sport mode allows for a slightly sharper throttle and keeps the engine in the power-band, allowing for a nice bit of poke on the exits. You can sense the limits are slightly lower due to the economy-biased tires, they do a overall good job of keeping the car feeling neutral most of the time but i suspect will scrub wide when pushed into territory that owners will probably not venture into.
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Discounting our local regulation and taxation bugbears, the release of the 320i ED has shown that one doesn't need to be a heavy drinker to have a little bit of fun.<br><br> The new BMW 320i EfficientDynamics is available for viewing at Performance Motors’ showroom.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-84722896768908705422014-10-27T07:38:00.002-07:002014-10-27T08:16:30.919-07:00Cookies For Breakfast<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/October%202014/500/DSC04460.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04460.jpg"/>
We had another casual Saturday morning breakfast meet over the weekend and on that morning, it was ze Germans that dominated the small kopitiam gathering. And by Ze Germans, i mean, Ze Porsches.
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Though i might have (so so sadly) missed the old school 911 boat a couple of years ago (still kicking myself), not being able to buy one today does not mean my appreciation for these German Fräuleins has abated.
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Especially not one that wears some funky Cookie cutters! Funny how these now look cool after being ignored for so many years.
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I know <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEt52UzGpds">Magnus Walker says the perfect starter 911 is an SC</a>, but i'm pretty sure Magnus hasn't see Singapore's car prices yet.
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Although you can insert his voice here, "Patina".
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The early green 911 we previously drooled over at Cars & Kopi a few weeks back.
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Fo'sure.
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With a Copen parked up in front, it's amazing how close in external dimensions they are. The Copen's still smaller of course, but only slightly.
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Beautifully rebuilt 930.
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The colors of our weekend morning.
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Generational gap.
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Badass GT2 dripping with red hot attitude.
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A well rounded curvaceous rear end. She's all about that bass 'Bout that bass, no treble.
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JDMs were clearly outnumbered this morning but no fooling around with the President in attendance.
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Still such a good looker.
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And finishing off with a borrowed 435i droptop.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-15631316152166545152014-10-22T23:53:00.001-07:002014-10-22T23:53:42.982-07:00Random Shot: Svelte Series I<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/option/lotii.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo lotii.jpg"/>
Spotted this lovely in white Series I Elise whilst picking up a car from Performance Motors. Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-28137280648522571372014-10-19T08:04:00.001-07:002014-10-19T19:48:49.288-07:00Return of the Phoenix: Driving the BMW M4<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180290.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180290.jpg"/>
For all its innumerable firsts, the new BMW M4 also marks the return of 2 key elements i am sure most of you would have already heard of or seen by now. The return of the Straight-Six (albeit now equipped with Twin Turbochargers), and <i>that</i> color. In BMW speak, it is now called Austin Yellow and although there might be some slight variances to its makeup, this shade is unmistakably reminiscent of BMW's fabled Phoenix Yellow. Like the mythical creature that reignites itself back to life, this new M-car rises up from the foundations of its predecessor with more youthful vigor and power than ever before, and in the process, is proudly christened with the M4 badge for the very first time.
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Although re-badging the M3 Coupe might at first sound sacrilegious to fans of the marque, this move sits in line with BMW's recent shift in naming policy. What has not changed though is this remains BMW M's most popular sports coupe, and it comes with the credentials to prove it. 425 angry horses and 550Nm of torques lie dormant under the cover of a "down sized" 3-liter Straight-Six, keen to spool up its Twin-Turbos and so very eager to lay waste to some very expensive rubber.
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Visually, there is no mistaking it for any other car in BMW's stable when painted in this hue. Unfortunately, this color remains a love/hate affair for me. Stunning to look at in pictures and dazzling under the showroom floors, it might be distinctive, but at times, it does come across as a little bit flash. Our test car also came accented with some dark chrome wheels which upped the visual aggression factor by quite a notch. If you are the sort of person who doesn't mind the attention at traffic stops, then perfect. But i'm not sure if this is the color i'd go for if i was to drop a big chunk of my hard earned coin for.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180269.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180269.jpg"/>
Apart from the bright paint, the rest of the bodywork has received the standard modern day M-Division cosmetic enhancements, with bulges and arches pulled aggressively over the generously sized wheels and M badges liberally applied both on the exterior as well as the interior. Along the sides, the 4-Series' Beemerangs have been replaced by a set of deeper cut outlet vents that swipe across along the entire length of the car aft of the doors.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180266.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180266.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180263.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180263.jpg"/>
With cooling becoming a higher priority due to the nature of forced induction engines, large intake gaps now feature prominently up front and the end effect is a game face that easily parts traffic. Presence, this car has it. On the M3 Sedans, the widened stance is even more pronounced.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180256.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180256.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180277.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180277.jpg"/>
Though the M4 might look imposing and hunkered down, extensive use of lightweight materials have brought overall weight down 80kgs from the M3s that came before. Even the boot lid uses SMC plastic over a carbon frame as part of the weight saving program.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04376.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04376.jpg"/>
Inside, the first thing that you will first notice is, yes, the seat emblems light up.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180272.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180272.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04310.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04310.jpg"/>
Apart from the blingy seats which are in fact, extremely comfortable and supportive, everything else inside is of a high-spec leather-wrapped BMW no nonsense business class standard. Controls fall into place logically and the most important bits of information will be relayed to you via the lovely heads-up display.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04440.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04440.jpg"/>
The most noticeable difference here is of course along the central tunnel where the stubby gear knob sits, flanked by a series of buttons and switches controlling throttle response, suspension setups, steering weight and how aggressive would Sir like his gearshifts to be. These life-altering settings can also be saved into 2 preset "M" mode settings which can then be brought back online with some very easy to reach buttons on the squishy steering wheel.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180270.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180270.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04433.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04433.jpg"/>
Thumb the starter button and the engine erupts into life with a cackling bark before settling into a baritone idle. There might no longer be a rumbling V8 under the bonnet, those who fear the M3 and M4 duo might have lost bits of their soul in the pursuit of turbo-charged power can rest easy. This car can sing it's own tune loud and proud. Thumbing either of the M buttons on the steering opens up some trick valves in the exhaust system and brings up the volume up to 11, for those times when you just want to wake up the neighbours.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180281.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180281.jpg"/>
On the move in regular traffic with the suspension in comfort, the M4 soaks up road imperfections well while maintaining a firm but comfortable ride characteristic. Coupled with a juicy amount of torque available down the rev range makes the car very drivable in everyday traffic. The gearbox might feel a little clunky in stop-start traffic but it's response and speed in swapping cogs once on the move alleviates any previous thoughts of it being inadequate in any way. <br><br>
Initial thoughts after a drive point to the new M4 being a more refined and maybe even, relaxed car to drive around town in. Granted the steering might be a little bit heavy at times but overall, it feels slightly less high-strung than it's V8 predecessor. This is no cause for worry because once you come across a series of empty tight twisty roads and bring up either of 2 preset M modes, that M could very well mean magic.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04374.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04374.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04387.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04387.jpg"/>
With the hammer dropped, the century sprint arrives in a scant 4.1 seconds. And through long high speed curves, the M4 remains composed and planted eager to push harder and faster. The absolute limits of this car are easily out of reach for mere mortals like me but the joy of driving the M4 is how playful and balanced the car is when responding to driver inputs and directional changes at levels that sit well within the capabilities of normal drivers like yours truly. <br><br>
Big CCBs (Carbon Ceramic Brakes) shave of speed without fuss nor fade and with a wide spread of power at your disposal, each new corner arrives as quickly as the previous gets dispatched. It gets very addictive and you start gaining the confidence to put down the power earlier through each bend until the traction control systems kick in to hold the car steadfastly on the line, saving you (and the machine) from yourself and a massively embarrassing situation. <br><br>
This car inspires one to just keep pushing on and while it might feel a little sedated in traffic, totally comes alive when freed from the confines of the concrete jungles.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04368.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04368.jpg"/>
There have been many youtube videos showing this car thrown through corners with smoke billowing from the rear wheels and the drivers peering out at the road through the side windows. While that does make for a very entertaining show, the reality is that for most of us who value the safety of our license and the car, turning off traction control on public roads is not a particularly wise thing to do. But if or when you do find a nice big empty piece of tarmac to wander beyond the limits of grip, it comes as a pleasant surprise how not-very-difficult it is to man-handle over 400 sliding horses. <br><br>
The mechanical magic here comes in the form of BMW's trick Active M Differential, which when hooked up to gobfuls of torque from the engine, allows one to adjust the pivoting angle of the car by applying varying degrees of throttle movement. This car just wants to dance and it lets you have fun leaning on it while learning to control its rhythm, balance and poise.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04365.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04365.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180245.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180245.jpg"/>
Absolutely mega in execution, beautiful to drive under control and uncanny in how well behaved it remains when that control is breached. This Phoenix is reborn, and ready to reign once again.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-62264321555778471062014-10-16T19:24:00.000-07:002014-10-19T08:07:37.582-07:00Another Saturday Morning Breakfast Jaunt<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/P1180294.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180294.jpg"/>
Another weekend went by and what better way to unwind than to head out early morning with some friends for an early Saturday morning drive. Of course, having a BMW M4 to play with sure made breakfast that little bit tastier.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04333.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04333.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04330.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04330.jpg"/>
The morning posse.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04315.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04315.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04357.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04357.jpg"/>
Morning drive regulars sans M4 of course.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04349.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04349.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04330.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04330.jpg"/>
That color. So striking. So love/hate.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20M4/500/DSC04379.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04379.jpg"/>
Wasn't part of the group but this rather rare Clio RS197 sure looked good. Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-46657608071921606842014-10-12T19:51:00.002-07:002014-10-12T20:05:24.480-07:00Random Shot: A Legendary SpotChanced upon another rare piece of Japanese metal while i was returning a car to M-car dealership, Munich Automobiles.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/option/Legend_55.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo Legend_55.jpg"/>
For those not in the know, Munich Automobiles sits in the same compound as the local dealerships for Alfa Romeo, Lamborghini and previously, Lotus. So it's actually quite a daily occurrence to see exotics parked all over, if you looked at the wondiwo reflection, there's a Huracan just in front. (+ There's even a Disco Volante in the Alfa showroom). This Honda sitting quietly by itself might not have the same visual pow-wow as the Italians nearby but it is probably one of the rarest cars on our local roads. I've only seen it one other time and that was probably over 10 years ago. Fun fact, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=honda+legend+harrison+ford">Harrison Ford shilled for these in Japan over 20 years ago</a>. Legend.Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-77015081926704235662014-10-10T03:57:00.001-07:002014-10-12T19:42:43.110-07:00Little Joys of Car Life<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/DSC01766.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC01766.jpg"/>
Ah diecast, the little 'joys' for car enthusiast the World over. I say 'joys' because even though most of us really love these little models and have probably one time or another bought one or two (or ten), this little hobby of building our little dream mini garages can go from harmless little fun to a full blown and very expensive hobby! Made much worse if you have a case if the OCDs.
<br><br>
I should know, i started young, receiving 1/24 Bburagos as presents and eventually graduating to buying my own 1/18 Maistos as a student. When i started working a few years later, i discovered the World of UT Models, Autoarts, Kyoshos, Minichamps and eventually, Exotos and CMCs amongst many other brands.
<a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20060219025742/http://louiscars.com"><img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/louis-cars.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo louis-cars.jpg"/></a>
I even started my very first blog writing about diecast, it's gone now but thanks to sites like <a href="http://web.archive.org/web/*/www.louiscars.com">Wayback Machine</a>, it's been nicely archived on the interwebs. (<a href="http://web.archive.org/web/20060219025742/http://louiscars.com/">Click to view it here</a>) Maybe, that was kind of the precursor to <a href="http://garage36.blogspot.com/">Garage36</a>. ;)<br><br>
This also means that with limited space, my collection of miniatures progressed from this nicely curated fleet:
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/DSC01184.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC01184.jpg"/>
To something like this (x4 corners of the room):
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/DSC00910.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC00910.jpg"/>
Of course this took a big toll on my wallet but i guess i was lucky as i started collecting back when the 3 big brands in 1/18s, Autoart, Kyosho and Minichamps, were still relatively affordable. Standard Autoarts could be hard for SGD$80-120 and the higher end Millennium cars were going for about SGD$130-$150, Kyoshos came in somewhere in between with Minichamps sliding just under the Kyoshos. I guess one could say that was the golden age for us diecasters. <br><br>
My diecast collecting story eventually paused when i sold almost every car off (keeping only 7) to fund the down-payment of a real car. Not a bad trade i think.<br><br>
So years have passed and i have watched as prices of 1/18s soared and i instead got my mini car fix from some much more wallet friendly Hotwheels. Once in a while i do get tempted (Rubystone 964 RS, i'm looking at you), but so far, i've not strayed back into the addictive World of 1/18s. That is, until i found myself in a little shop tucked away in a little corner of this little city, <a href="http://www.f1.com.sg/">Motorsports</a>.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180228_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180228_500.jpg"/>
It all began a few weeks earlier where i was innocently browsing through diecast on ebay (don't we all), looking through an inventory of models from a relatively new (at least to me) company, OTTO. I've been slowly following the cars they release and boy do they have good taste in their subject matter. Their previously release E36 M3 Coupes have been sold out for months and though i see some pop out online once in a while, i just couldn't bring myself to pay the inflated prices being asked. Interestingly, OTTO have made the decision to re-release another batch of E36 M3 Coupes, but this time in LTW form. Not wanting to miss out this time, i scanned through the ads and found that one of them was located in Singapore and it was a shop! Calls made, messages sent, car reserved, it was time to head over and collect.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180209_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180209_500.jpg"/>
To be honest, i have visited Motorsports years back when i was still in diecast collecting mode, back then they were hidden inside the shopping recesses of a 5-star hotel and if my memory serves me correct, featured mostly F1 and motorsport-related cars, hence the name i guess.
<br><br>
This time though, oh my, the shop might not be the biggest out there but what a selection of cars they have.
<a href="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180209.jpg~original"><img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180211_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180211_500.jpg"/></a>
Quality not quantity is key here. I spotted so many desirable cars, reminds me of those smaller stores in Japan full of interesting little cars.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180214_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180214_500.jpg"/>
Though prices of most 1/43s are not exactly what you'll call "cheap", they seem to be a much more viable alternative to 1/18s. Looking at this F40, I'm sure modelling techniques and construction methods have also improved alot over the years.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180217_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180217_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180218_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180218_500.jpg"/>
That G-nose. Need one badly in my life (in 1/1 scale of course :P ).
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180221_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180221_500.jpg"/>
Perhaps also, since living spaces have shrunk, many have started turning to 1/43s.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180219_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180219_500.jpg"/>
Can't blame them as you just can't beat the sheer variety of cars in 1/43 form.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180224_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180224_500.jpg"/>
If you're on a slightly tighter budget, how about these Hotwheels? Sure don't look like the ones i see in the department stores.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180226_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180226_500.jpg"/>
So much want, so little money. It's really awesome that a local store is bringing in all these "non-mainstream" brands. They hands-down win it on subject matter alone.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/118/Motorsports/P1180208_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo P1180208_500.jpg"/>
I came, i collected, i went home happy. So next time you are in the area, do drop by Jacky's little automotive treasure trove and tell them this little blog sent you there. Just try to keep calm and remember you need some money for food and daily necessities too! Motorsports can be found in the basement of The Adelphi, 1 Coleman Street, Singapore 179803 (closed on Sundays). Have fun!
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-11453017838545471512014-10-08T23:36:00.002-07:002014-10-08T23:36:41.289-07:00Random Shot: Speedhunting on the streets<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/option/alfetta_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo alfetta_500.jpg"/>
Excuse me while i fawn over this fine example of an Alfetta.Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-54778381438881280752014-10-07T07:20:00.003-07:002014-10-07T16:31:34.746-07:00Cars & Kopi - The Autumn Edition<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03960.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03960.jpg"/>
With the last Cars & Kopi meet a couple of months behind us, we thought maybe it was time to have another one. What we didn't think of though, was how great a turnout it was going to be! We had hoped and wished such a turnout would happen one day, but never really expected it to flourish so quickly! Great successs! Big thanks to everyone for taking their time out and swinging by! The variety of cars was lovely!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04190.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04190.jpg"/>
I think the above picture pretty much sums up what it's all about.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03985.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03985.jpg"/>
Really liking the green 911
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03969.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03969.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03969_2.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03969_2.jpg"/>
Rear deck with gold lettering. Choice!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03974.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03974.jpg"/>
That gearknob!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03976.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03976.jpg"/>
Lovely NA not looking out of place at all.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03905.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03905.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03908.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03908.jpg"/>
There seemed to be an even match of German and Japanese cars this time. No Italians in attendence this time. Maybe they get cranky on public holiday mornings.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03990.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03990.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03980.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03980.jpg"/>
Since we're on Audis.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03896.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03896.jpg"/>
The Vorsprung is strong with this one.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04052.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04052.jpg"/>
If P-cars are more your flavor.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04027.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04027.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04046.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04046.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04150.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04150.jpg"/>
Looks like this is no ordinary 911.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04038.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04038.jpg"/>
Ruf Ruf!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04141.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04141.jpg"/>
B-road warriors these 2.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03893.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03893.jpg"/>
Hip shot!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03862.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03862.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04161.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04161.jpg"/>
Maybe something mid engined?
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04134.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04134.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04131.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04131.jpg"/>
Or is this 993RS more your taste?
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03993.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03993.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03994.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03994.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04000.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04000.jpg"/>
Unmistakable silhouette in the background.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04007.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04007.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04145.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04145.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04149.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04149.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03891.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03891.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03894.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03894.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04018.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04018.jpg"/>
This R San-yon wasn't alone.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04166.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04166.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04158.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04158.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03938.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03938.jpg"/>
Away at another corner, older sibling San-ni sits with a Sunny.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03940.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03940.jpg"/>
San-ni and Sunny, geddit? :P
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03928.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03928.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03934.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03934.jpg"/>
How do you like your Datsuns?
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03951.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03951.jpg"/>
If the Skylines and Sunny wasn't enough, the President dropped by as well.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03920.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03920.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03916.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03916.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03912.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03912.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03954.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03954.jpg"/>
Toyota Crown and Nissan President. Like a gangsta Boss!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03887.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03887.jpg"/>
The police must have caught on that the president was around.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04036.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04036.jpg"/>
Miata's from 2 different generations.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04062.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04062.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04057.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04057.jpg"/>
Rarely seen sleeper MPS6 sitting quietly.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03946.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03946.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03924.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03924.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03866.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03866.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03876.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03876.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04180.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04180.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04187.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04187.jpg"/>
Or do you prefer some high revving VTEC Power?
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03881.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03881.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC03883.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03883.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04073.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04073.jpg"/>
King of lightweights the Lotus Super 7.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04081.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04081.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04089.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04089.jpg"/>
MG and Jag E-type joining forces and proudly representing the British.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04084.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04084.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04085.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04085.jpg"/>
A strong contingent of Swedes also landed early. +1 for Gryffindor!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04103.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04103.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04095.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04095.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04092.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04092.jpg"/>
Probably the newest car in the carpark, this fresh new M3 punching hard for Germany!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04014.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04014.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04126.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04126.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04124.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04124.jpg"/>
Z3 has aged pretty well.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04108.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04108.jpg"/>
Not really part of the group but might as well grab some pics. It's an SLS!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04115.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04115.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04177.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04177.jpg"/>
What's better than an SLS? How about 2 of them?
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04054.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04054.jpg"/>
Don't see as many W201s as we used to. Shame.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04182.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04182.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04183.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04183.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04185.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04185.jpg"/>
As the afternoon drew nearer, it was time to start heading home. I think it's going to be difficult to top this morning's turnout.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04155.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04155.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/Cars%20And%20Kopi%20-%20October%202014/500/DSC04157.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC04157.jpg"/>
Here's hoping! E36 jalop signing off!
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-22394690417735362512014-09-30T23:44:00.000-07:002014-09-30T23:44:32.580-07:00Tokyo Auto Salon 2015 website updated
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/option/tas_2015_500tease.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo tas_2015_500tease.jpg"/>
TAS2015's website has just been updated with lots more info on the event and most importantly, details on advance tickets!
<br><br><a href="http://www.tokyoautosalon.jp/">Japanese site »</a>
<br><a href="http://www.tokyoautosalon.jp/2015/en/">English site » </a>Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-46415486577922275862014-09-26T00:26:00.001-07:002014-10-18T18:35:07.901-07:00Tri-Diesel Power: Driving the BMW X5 M50d<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03567_500.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03567_500.jpg"/>
It's not hard to imagine why diesel cars have not really caught on locally, just years ago, these oil burners were the reserve of commercial vehicles and taxis, and with a rather "image conscious" pool of buyers, such an association is proving somewhat hard to shake off. Couple that with a heavier (and <a href="http://www.lta.gov.sg/content/ltaweb/en/roads-and-motoring/owning-a-vehicle/costs-of-owning-a-vehicle/tax-structure-for-cars.html">rather confusing</a>) set of taxes, you can't really fault our local motoring community for passing on these diesel alternatives.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03596_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03596_500.jpg"/>
Yet, on countless articles and tv shows, we are shown that diesel <i>is</i> one of the ways forward if range and fuel saving is a priority. The thing is though, fuel savings and range is not very sexy. And in our local motoring context at least, sex sells. In a battle of badge snobbery, a "D" stuck onto your boot is about as exciting as the last Transformers movie.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03458_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03458_500.jpg"/>
But what if we moved the game up a little, what if, we sprinkle that "D" with a touch of "M"? We might have ended up with one of the longest model designations known to mankind but at the same time, it does change your perception a little doesn't it? No longer is it a hum-drum oil burner built to pound it's life away thinking it's latest achievement was gaining an extra kilometer. No, it's become something more purposeful, it's now an M(lite) and it's got gained proper street cred.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03493_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03493_500.jpg"/>
Will this be enough to sway potential buyers though? Here are the numbers. The 3 liter (Euro V compliant) diesel straight six unit in the, X5 M50d (yes i know, 3 liters, not 5), is by far BMW's most powerful diesel engine ever produced. Force fed with not one, not two, but three turbochargers, this equates to an impressive output of 381 horses at 4400rpm and an even more impressive tire squishing 740Nm of torque which come on full song between 2000-3000rpm. If that doesn't pique your interest, i don't know what will.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03508_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03508_500.jpg"/>
Putting those specs into perspective and at risk of cannibalizing sales from "normal" BMW X5s, the X5 M50d doesn't just outgun the similarly priced xDrive35i variant but comes within striking distance of it's more vocal big brother, the xDrive50i. That big twin-charged V8 might have a power advantage with 444 horses, but with 90Nm less torque, there is just 0.3 seconds separating these two cars to the century sprint (5.3seconds vs 5 seconds). And, according to BMW, the M50d will give you 14.9km's per liter if you are ginger with the throttle. (We got about 11, which is still pretty good for something that tips the scales at just over 2.2 tons)
<br><br>
Both cars are limited to 250km/h so top speed comparisons are rather moot but one thing is for certain, the xDrive50i cost almost another 90 grand more. Food for thought.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03553_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03553_500.jpg"/>
Aesthetically, the "M Performance" bits on our test car makes it a far better and sportier looking SUV (or SAV in BMW speak) than it's brethren. Although the basic shape remains, it's enhancements have nipped and tucked it into a more toned body shod with massive 20-inch shoes and equally generous tail pipes.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03534_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03534_500.jpg"/>
As expected, space inside is vast and with the massive sunroof, gives a very generous feeling of space. Swathes of dark leather wrapping around the very comfortable and supportive seats and door trims give the interior a rather muted and understated atmosphere broken up with strips of aluminum highlights.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03562_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03562_500.jpg"/>
Seating for 5 remains comfortable and although the rear packs 2 extra seats that can be raised from the boot floor, space way out back is best reserved for either short journeys, children, or friends who are into yoga.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03455_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03455_500.jpg"/>
There are some details which set this interior apart from "normal" X5s though, the lovely to hold M steering wheel, the gearknob, those door sills, and the digital speedometer readouts all trumpet the most powerful alphabet <i>in the World</i>.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03485_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03485_500.jpg"/>
Stomp on the loud pedal and if by any chance you're not overcome by all 740Nm of torque, you will be treated to a rather interesting soundtrack. Yes everyone, like most modern BMWs, the M50d comes with a digital soundtrack. Though in this instance, i'm not going to fault BMW. Diesels as we all know, suffer from a rather, how shall we say, a set of rather uninspiring vocal chords. Those pipes exiting the rear bumpers might be big enough to stuff melons in but most of the car's sound comes from the engine up front. It might churn out enough power to dig roads up, but aurally, remains rather agricultural. Which is why, it's best to keep the windows up and indulge in some "Active Sound Design".
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03619_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03619_500.jpg"/>
Or you can sink the track and pump the track with it's stonking sound system.
<br><br>
There are again, multiple driving modes to choose from and depending on your mood, can go from comfortable, to slightly less comfortable. Some might have pointed out that Sport mode stiffens up the steering too much but personally i found it to provide the best level of resistance and feel with the sharpened throttle response that's befitting of the car's badge. Although the M50d stays planted through most road conditions, when it encounters a series of switchbacks, no amount of computers can hide how much it weighs.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03509_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03509_500.jpg"/>
You don't quite flow through the bends but rather, pulverize them into submission. The trick is to go hard on the brakes going into turns and use the X50d's juicy torque and traction for the exits. It might sound strange but i honestly mean it as a compliment when i say, it drives like a petrol. Such is the engine's willingness to move up the rev range even though it redlines just below 5500rpm. Over-steer antics on this car are still probably best left to professionals.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03615_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03615_500.jpg"/>
So how does the M50d stack up next to it's brethren in the X5 stable? Rather well i reckon. With enough firepower to claw at the heels of it's V8 brother and priced similarly to the xDrive35i (but better looking), the M50d now not only has the specs to prove why it's a viable alternative to it's petrol drinking brothers, but the figures as well. Next to the xDrive35i and xDrive50i, the M50d actually looks like pretty good value.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20X5%20M50D/DSC03477_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03477_500.jpg"/>
Blows your mind drastically, fantastically. It has to be, automatically. Pity it's a little disappointing phonetically.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-40265960370176147392014-09-17T01:12:00.001-07:002014-09-17T01:12:34.040-07:00Midnight Runner<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20318is/36-midnight_01.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo 36-midnight_01.jpg"/>
Taken during a short drive with some friends at night, i think these are prob the best shots i've ever had of ol' Sasha Grey on the move. Mucho credits to Abel Tan!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20318is/36-midnight_02.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo 36-midnight_02.jpg"/>
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-83668399682749500342014-09-14T08:09:00.003-07:002014-09-14T08:12:04.363-07:00Daily dose of Godzilla<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03309_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03309_500.jpg"/>
While it might not look as polished or as pristine as the other Gun-Metal grey GTR32 we featured <a href="http://garage36.blogspot.sg/2013/10/singapore-skylines-kaijus-in-rain.html">earlier</a>. This San-ni might be a litle rough around the edges aesthetically, but it doesn't sit idle for long as this is a daily driven Godzilla. (With a fully rebuilt engine of course.)
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03369_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03369_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03317_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03317_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03441_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03441_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03452_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03452_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03448_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03448_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03325_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03325_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03373_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03373_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03321_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03321_500.jpg"/>Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-31483692804539266342014-09-05T08:11:00.005-07:002014-09-05T08:15:48.579-07:00One EF'in clean Civic<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03434_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03434_500.jpg"/>
Could Gerald's EF be one of the cleanest and most unmolested Civics around? We wouldn't bet against it!
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03341_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03341_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03347_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03347_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03390_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03390_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03420_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03420_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03428_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03428_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03433_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03433_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03424_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03424_500.jpg"/>
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/TheOldCarThread/30th%20August%202014/DSC03356_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo DSC03356_500.jpg"/>Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-81314254275402783582014-09-04T19:14:00.000-07:002014-09-04T19:14:00.536-07:00ND Miata blows up the internetsBy now we're pretty sure you've seen pics or even the video of the new MX-5's unveiling (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Ze5GPxABcMs">+Duran Duran!</a>). Not much point for me to post 'em here. So instead, here are 2 photoshopped versions of Mazda's latest baby!
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Threw on some trick Watanabes and gave it a more purposeful stance.
<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/option/shooter_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo shooter_500.jpg"/>
Or maybe the same treatment but grafting on a Z3M Coupe rear end to create a Shooting Brake?
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6624414593778696128.post-61208973340463591742014-09-03T23:09:00.000-07:002014-09-03T23:13:38.022-07:00BMW i3 Part Deux: The Mobile App<img src="http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/mockngbrd4/BMW%20i3/500/i3_remote_500.jpg~original" border="0" alt=" photo i3_remote_500.jpg"/><br><br>
Released alongside the i3, the BMW i Remote app (available for both iOS/Android) allows you to stay connected with your i3 even when it is safely parked away or charging up at one of the few charging stations around the island.
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Once installed and paired up with your BMW i (password enabled), it keeps you informed of the battery / fuel level status of the vehicle and provides a real-time check on your car as it charges up. There are also tips and tutorials on hand for users to learn how to drive more efficiently. Taking it a step further in connectivity, the app also allows you to have some control over the car. Doors can be locked and unlocked, lights can be flickered and even the horn can be activated remotely.
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A cool feature of the i Remote is also being able to start up the car's climate control system before you get into the car, which is pretty helpful if you're parked outside most of the time. Can't find your car? Use the GPS finder and it will instantly pull up a map showing where your car is located. If your car is sitting outside of GPS' range (or hiding underground), it will show the location where it last communicated with the satellites in the skies.
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Need a charging station nearby? The app has got you covered with a list of charging pods pinned onto its map. <br><br>
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For those interested in data, the app also calculates how efficient you were on your previous journey. Easy to understand graphics show various aspects of your last drive and you can even see if you measure up with the community of i3 drivers. <br><br>
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Like the i3, this app shows how everything around the car has been thoroughly thought over. It might be a small app, but it presents a glimpse of the future with with clever integration of technology between the car and mobile devices. Marty Mcfly's going to be impressed next year when he sees what BMW has built.
Louis Soonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16772513635244242924noreply@blogger.com0