Auto Enthusiasts/gear Heads

[Rooo]

I wonder if you can help me with this.I have a ford XR8 in australia,regardless of import duty,just out of curiosity,how can I run it there,if it runs on 98 premium octane unleaded here.It's a V8 based on 302 fuel injected.Anu suggestions will be appreciated.

[TizMe]

Talking about utes.

This is from The Sun-Herald

HSV Maloo R8

By Joshua Dowling

The Sun-Herald

Monday May 3 2004

Holden's fire-breathing SS ute is an impressive take on the sports-ute phenomenon. HSV's Maloo R8 version -- unofficially, the world's fastest ute -- launches the concept into another realm.

Pigeonhole: Ute-opia.

Philosophy: The ute as a sports car.

Trivia: Maloo is an Aboriginal word for storm. The ute is the second-biggest-selling HSV model.

Who's buying it: Young, cashed-up males and tradesmen who have become the boss or made too much money from the housing boom.

Why you'd buy it: It is, unofficially, the world's fastest ute. It stands out from the sea of SS utes on which it is based.

Why you wouldn't: People who don't understand the concept will want to put something in the tray. Not everyone is a fan of the jigsaw-puzzle-style body cladding and the front bumper that looks like it has struck a wombat. The price, $60,000, for a ute is hard to stomach.

Standard equipment: Sports leather seats, six-disc CD player with steering-wheel-mounted controls, climate-controlled air-conditioning. The list goes on. Only one notable omission: no map-reading lights (standard in even the most basic Commodore).

Safety: Massive, race-bred discs are finally part of the package. Previously, HSV charged extra for decent stoppers. Dual air bags and anti-lock brakes are standard, and well-sorted suspension helps it stick to the road. But side air bags and traction control are not available.

Cabin: A fancier HSV instrument cluster, HSV seats, a superb leather steering wheel, a centre console light and extra gauges separate it from the SS ute. Carbon-fibre highlights in the cabin don't look very convincing. I prefer the base model's rubber-covered bin in the console behind the gearshift (which easily conceals a phone or loose change) to the hard plastic lid in the Maloo. It would be nice to have a central locking button.

Engine: The Chevrolet Corvette-sourced 5.7-litre V8 had a big power rise late last year from 260kW to 285kW, a move that upset owners of the previous model who had grown accustomed to 5kW increases with each new model. It sounds great but, more importantly, it's more driveable than the standard V8. You can now use sixth gear at 60kmh.

Transmission: Six-speed manual (with a shorter shifter than the standard car) or four-speed auto. We tested the manual. The shift movements are short but require more effort because of the reduced leverage. I prefer the standard shifter.

Steering: Unique wheel alignment settings from the standard car and excellent tyres provide a sharper response. The meaty leather wheel looks and feels great. Steering wheel controls illuminate at night

Ride: Contrary to perception, the HSV shock absorbers and springs make the Maloo ride better than an SS. Hard to believe it's a ute.

Handling: The Bridgestone S03 tyres grip like a cat on carpet. At $400-plus a corner, they'd want to.

Fuel: About 11 to 12 litres/100 kilometres on the open road and 20-plus if driven enthusiastically.

Brakes: Strong performance, especially at slowing the car down from freeway speeds. But the pedal feels a tad too hard at low speeds for my liking. I prefer a sharper bite.

Build: This may sound pedantic, but the dual exhaust tips on the test car weren't symmetrical and there was some paint missing from the rear number plate fascia. Little things, but annoying if you'd just paid $60,000.

Warranty: Three years/100,000 kilometres.

Security: Data dots (tiny dots which have the car's ID number stamped on them) sprayed under the car are intended to discourage theft for professional rebirthing. Double deadlocks mean the doors can't be opened from inside even if a window is smashed. But there could be more tiny flashing lights to deter thieves.

Audio: Below-average sound from an AM/FM six-CD player.

Cost: There are two models: Maloo ($52,400) and Maloo R8 ($59,600). Autos are easy to find and are regularly discounted; the hard-to-find manuals command full price.

VErdict: The HSV Maloo R8 takes a good car and makes it even better.

Prices and details correct at publication date.

[Guest chingy]

is that an EL CAMENO, i think we call it EL CAMENO back in the state

[350torana]

Wow, sweet ride . I think Aussie utes would really turn heads in the kingdom. Can't see a blue heeler in the back though.

Just curious if any Aussies/Kiwis know about Holdens here. Seen a few Kingswoods/Belmonts around Bkk . Are the fitted with 253 or 302 , or 6 cylinders ?

Really clutching at straws...how about any Torries in the LOS ???

[Pepe']

60 Gs. OK. Am I missing something.

Now back down to earth.

First, is this a Thailand price or other.

Second how about the pricing of regular 4 cylinder diesel pickups are they the same as US counterparts???

Chingy.

My neighbor has a I believe 1973 El Camino with a 502 at 502 bhp...

No better place to see classic muscle cars than southen California

[350torana]

Not quite sure about El Caminos. I am Australian so my knowledege is not the best . I think the early models where based on Impalas, Chevelle/Malibu ? . I have heard rumours that the Holden Maloo is being consdired to be rebadged as an El Camino and sold in the states in 2005 . Only rumours mind you

[Pepe']

Can someone who is in Thailand go over the cost of pickups compared to other vehicels?

I believe someone said they are the best buy...

[TizMe]

Just found this on the Holden Website.

Anybody seen a new Commodore (Chev Lumina) in Thailand?

I would imagine the the sky rocketting Aussie Dollar wouldn't be doing any favours to exporters.

WEDNESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2003:

THAILAND ADDED TO HOLDEN EXPORT DESTINATIONS

Thailand today joined Holden's growing export strategy with General Motors announcing a program for Holden Commodores to be sold in Thailand as Chevrolet Lumina.

The cars will have an immediate starring role in their newest home country, being used as the official vehicles for the APEC CEO Summit meeting in Bangkok from October 18 to 21.

Two models of the Chevrolet Lumina will be exported initially in right hand drive configuration - Lumina LTZ, equivalent to Holden Berlina; and Lumina S, equivalent to Commodore S.

Chevrolet Sales Thailand launched the vehicles today and will market them under the theme "The Luxury Of Power".  Both vehicles will be powered by the 152 kilowatt, 3.8-litre ECOTEC engine which will be the largest powertrain offered by Chevrolet in Thailand.

Holden Export Director, Megan Stooke, said the Thailand program initially allowed for small volumes in 2003 with significant potential for growth.  Negotiations were advanced on an Australia-Thailand free trade agreement which could encourage far greater sales in future years.

"Thailand is another important part of Holden's ASEAN strategy and the FTA discussions could deliver substantial opportunities for General Motors in the region," Ms Stooke said.

Holden remains on track for a record year of vehicle exports, with about 38,000 forecast compared with the 1973 record of 36,861.

Last month, Holden confirmed Malaysia as an export destination joining the Middle East (Chevrolet), United States (Pontiac), South Africa (Chevrolet), Brazil (Chevrolet) and

New Zealand (Holden) as current active markets.

Singapore remains under active consideration, a low-volume coupe program to the United Kingdom is being negotiated and new programs are being investigated to China, Korea and other parts of the ASEAN region.

[TizMe]

60 Gs. OK. Am I missing something.

Now back down to earth.

First, is this a Thailand price or other.

Aussie price in Aussie dollars.

Currently about USD 40,000

[Rooo]

Peppe,I'm buying a maxda 4x4 diesel turbo crew cab when I get to Thailand.That is because on Samui.the roads are not the best & access to my property is on unmade roads.Of what I can gather,for that type of vehicle around BHT 780,000.00

for a 4 cylinder sedan the cost is dearer I think 1 million plus.

You can go go to expat motors site in Bangkok,that will give you an indication of prices of used & new vehicles.

[davethailand]

the mazda/ford 4x4 double cab is around 800000bht fully loaded, same as mitsibushi and toyota, top model truck and top spec for around 900000bht max.

[Pepe']

Dave & Rooo,

OK now we're tawkin'. That's about the same if not a little better than prices here in the US.

Thanx guys...

[Pepe']

Tizme,

Gee 40,000 that's alot better but I guess this one is just my cup of tea.

Another 10 Gs and your in a brand new M3 at 360 bhp 6 speed techtrnic transmission?

The other would probably hold up better inThailand though.

[TizMe]

The other would probably hold up better inThailand though.

For sure.

Holdens are buily pretty tough for Aussie conditions. Should survive Thailand OK.

[Pepe']

Tiz me,

I want to make sure I understand when you say right hand drive. Do you mean the way all other cars are in Thailand.

When you are looking at the car from the front the sterring wheel is on your left,

correct?

[TizMe]

Thats right. I know that Holden have been exporting heaps of left hand drive cars to the middle east for years.

They are even exporting to the U.S.A now.

Have a look at the new Pontiac GTO, there should be a green and gold, "Made in Oz" sticker somewhere on it.

[KevinN]

PEPE; Thats right,Brit influence,after they raped Thailand and took all the rain Forrest and teak trees,they got the Thai to drive on the wrong side of the road.So here you DRIVE LEFT.

[350torana]

Don't know about the Lumina(Commodore) in Thailand. I do know plenty of them in United Arab Emirates with the 5.7 Chevy. Instead of Bazza and Shazza cruising it is Abdul and Mohammed

[Pepe']

Anyone know if by law you have to convert a right sided steering to left side on a car that you might export from the US?

[zappa]

Bit slow on this one, but then I do like to drive Land Rovers, the older the better. Last one was a 101' mmmmmm! Juicy V8, when in England only cost a fiver to turn it round.

Quick question, just got back from Laos and there's shit loads of cheap (60,000 baht) four wheel drives for sale. Had an idea of getting one and keeping it registered in Laos, then just taking it out of the country once every 6-8 months or so. Will this get round the horrendous import tax?

[Pepe']

Bit slow on this one, but then I do like to drive Land Rovers, the older the better. Last one was a 101' mmmmmm! Juicy V8, when in England only cost a fiver to turn it round.

Quick question, just got back from Laos and there's shit loads of cheap (60,000 baht) four wheel drives for sale. Had an idea of getting one and keeping it registered in Laos, then just taking it out of the country once every 6-8 months or so. Will this get round the horrendous import tax?

zappa,

Wow. this is an important question. I hope you can get around the import tax. and I hope someone here has experience with this and can answer the question.

Mabey some of the guys from Issan are may know

[shadscat]

does anyone here own a honda jazz, if so how much and what are they like.

cheers

I bought one in UK earlier this year, and I really liked it. Live in london so speed bump and camera situation makes performance irrelevant these days. Huge amounts of legroom even 4 up ( i'm over 6ft and wide n heavy )

In thai they are 25% cheaper for same spec, I plan on buying a second one here soon.

Put a nice set of 17 + rims on and they look damned handsome :-)

[Pepe']

does anyone here own a honda jazz, if so how much and what are they like.

cheers

I bought one in UK earlier this year, and I really liked it. Live in london so speed bump and camera situation makes performance irrelevant these days. Huge amounts of legroom even 4 up ( i'm over 6ft and wide n heavy )

In thai they are 25% cheaper for same spec, I plan on buying a second one here soon.

Put a nice set of 17 + rims on and they look damned handsome :-)

Shadscat,

Did I get that right 25% cheaper? What is the cost? Can you give some specs.

Thanx

[Pepe']

Back In the Garage...

Anticipating moving to Bangkok by the end of the year at the latest. I keep thinking about doing an automotive center as a side business.

Parts and service. Standard stuff and high performance mods.

Any input much appreciated as allways.

[Rooo]

Pepe,

Talk about importing cars , I was going to buy a mazda RX7 series 1 or 3 to bring with me to Samui.Still thinking about it ,it is an old classic in my view.

Import duty is very high on new or used vehicles,depending on age.

I checked the Thai customs site ,if a car is over 10 years old, I think there is hardly any duty.That is my understanding correct me if I'm wrong.Hope you can interpret the rule better then me.

Cheers.

George.

[Pepe']

Rooo,

Actually not interested in importing cars right now although almost no tax on cars over ten years old can be interesting.

I was thinking more of a parts and service center for automobiles and possibly larger trucks.

Also been thinking about a gas station?

[Pepe']

Come on gear heads what do ya think about an automotive center...

[Pepe']

Should I rephrase the question?

[Rooo]

Pepe,I don't know enough about the current costs in Thailand.But I think you might find it hard trying to compete with local prices in general.

[Rooo]

But then if you are going into a niche market,high performance well?I think you have to check what's available first.