Welcome to AutoFreaks’s new feature, namely the “Weekly Poll”, where we posted a question in Lowyat.net’s automotive car forum, in the Fast and Furious section. We raised an automotive related question by creating a thread at the Fast and Furious section, and the feedback from the forum post will be gathered to create this weekly poll.
To start with our first ever poll, we asked “What is Malaysia’s best National car?“. Based from the feedback gathered, we compiled a top five list of Malaysia’s best national car according to the forumers. I personally think this should be an easy one, and you’ll be surprised none of them voted the current best selling national car here! Anyhow let’s roll down the list…
5. Proton Preve
Proton’s first ever turbocharged saloon may sound like a magnet to attract bashing from keyboard warriors but honestly two years after its launch, it isn’t that bad. Admitedlly, until the new Global Small Car (GSC) is launched, the Preve is the best modern Proton built to date.
From the words of “kadajawi”:
Technically the best, most modern car Proton/Perodua have ever made. Maybe not as exciting as the Satria GTI, but easily more modern. And it’s not just badge engineered.
“VagueConcerns” makes a good point too:
Was torn between the Preve and Satria GTi.
Now I choose Preve.
It’s more local than the GTi, and it is Proton’s attempt at making decent cars using many of their own components. It has all the right stuff; 4 doors and sporty looks with handling to back it up, good gearbox, decent engine, ample mount of equipment stuffed in, and disregarding the tax structure it is very well priced.Yes it’s not the best thing out there but as far as being a Proton goes it is in my opinion the best, and among local cars as well.
4. Proton Satria Neo
The successor to the ever popular Satria still going strong after almost 8 years. The two-door hatchback may be aged, but still desirable to many young Malaysians. The Satria Neo is a capable track performer and rally machine as demonstrated by Proton R3 team. But the yellow nimble S2000 rally machine is the one we craved the most.
3. Proton Wira 1.8L C99
A surprise entry on our list is perhaps one of the best Wira saloons ever built. Built as a homologated entry to the World Rally Championship (WRC) was basically a souped-up Wira saloon which is ready to attack dirt on the rally stages – after only adding the compulsory roll cage that is. Packed with goodies from Momo and Recaro and having a peppy 1.8L 4G93 engine mean this is the fastest Proton Wira ever built by the manufacturer. At only 2500 units made, spotting one now could be a challenge.
“AmEiRuLl” posted this on the page
If today still offer 70k like that. I would opt for this instead of the vios
2. Proton Putra
The first and second place cars were neck-to-neck, but it looks like the Proton Putra will become a bridesmaid this time. The only coupe car Proton ever produced is also a subject of desirability for petrolheads in Malaysia. Based on the Mirage Asti, and with tons of Mitsubishi half-cuts to play around with, the Putra is unquestionably one of the best ‘modders’ car around. Not to forget it is quite handsome to look at too, provided the 14 inch stock rims are ditched.
1. Proton Satria Gti
The undisputed champion, and agreed by the majority, is the Proton Satria GTi. As the car that still on the thief’s wanted list after 15 years does says a lot, right? (I knew the Satria GTi would be crowned numero uno. I bought one of the first units produced in 1998, it still remains the best Proton I’ve ever owned, and I’ve owned 7 different Protons at one time or other. – Chris Wee)
“OC4/3” mentioned this:
Satria GTi no doubt. Julian Thompson penned the design which still looks awesome even today. My colleague has one in pristine condition, so jealous of that guy. Recaro seats, side bolster have no wear & clocked under 100k km only
“wc5599” said this:
the only malaysian car i would buy.. satria gti
With that concludes our first ever weekly poll. Do visit the Fast & Furious forums section when we will post the next weekly poll question!
