What A Machine™

Worth Watching: The Town

2011-01-05T16:44:00.000-08:00

Watched "The Town" on the plane recently. Starring and directed by Ben Afleck with "Hurt Locker's" star, Jeremy Renner, in a supporting role. Blake Lively of "Gossip Girl" fame is here as well and she definitely is trying to not get typecasted by playing a gritty role - good effort.

The movie is about a rough Irish-American neighourbood in Boston called Charlestowne, which is infamous for producing the most number of bank and armored car robbers the country. Sort of like a father and son tradition. Typical Ben Affleck stuff, being that he is from this fair city. Gotta love the thick Boston accent.

Great acting with romance and fast paced action, sort of like a newer version of "Heat" (Val Kilmer, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino). Very American gangland genre. Worth watching.

**** ½ (I'll give it four stars and a half)

R33 GTR Progress Update - Apexi Power FC & Hand Controller Time!

2011-01-05T16:42:00.000-08:00

Back in KL after a long hiatus.

The car has reached a stage where nearly all outside-the-engine upgrades have been carried out. The last work that was done to the car was to replace the oil and water pumps, followed by all the timing belts. The Greddy Oil Cooler (with relocation kit) was also installed during this time. Further soundproofing and sealant work was done throughout the car to remove some annoying rattles. Lastly, the gearshift and handbrake leather trims (gaiter / boots) were also changed as they were getting pretty worn out:

So whats next? Well, its time to install the Apexi Power FC and Hand Controller unit. That means the E-Manage that came with the car will have to go.

Apexi Power FC (ECU)

Hand Controller

Now the question is, should I mount it on the dashboard with velcro or keep it hidden in the glove compartment? Decisions, decisions!

Save The Ring!

2011-01-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

Save the ring! Its one of those online petitions thing but it only takes 30 seconds and its to rescue one of the world's most well known race circuit!

From 2007 - 2009 the German government built a huge Leisure Park at the Nürburgring. It is based on fake visitor numbers, over sized and badly executed. Most of the time it is an empty ghost town. Once promised as private investment, it is now based on a debt of 350+ million EUR public money.

Instead of pulling the plug they rented the park, including both race tracks to exactly the same privateers who were driving forces behind the Leisure Park's initial private setup.

Without Racing experience they are since experimenting with events completely unrelated to Motor-sport all under the iconic "Nürburgring" brand name.

They now want Nordschleife to pay for the huge losses. Tourist drives are at a record high, plus a 5 times increase in rent for the automotive industry for their prototype testing sessions.

What Needs To Be Done?

Separate Nordschleife from ring°park.
Let Nürburgring be Motor-sport.
Value the great heritage and tradition, rather than Roller Coasters.
Let the Ring be run by Motor-sport experts.

Sign the petition here: http://www.gopetition.com/petition/41698.html

To learn more, refer to this Jalopnik entry:

Save The Nürburgring!

Germany's Nürburgring is the world's automotive playground. A public park for gearheads. Sadly, it's been handed over to privateers who've put the entire 'Ring at risk. Michael Frison of 20832.com explains why we need to save the Nürburgring! — Ed.

You might be surprised by reading this headline and I'm aware the subject has not gained much awareness abroad, but there's currently a serious threat to the Nürburgring.

Since it's opening in 1927, the Nurburgring has been under complete public ownership and administration, but in May of this year the complete Nurburgring race track and park was rented out to two privateers (Kai Richter, Jörg Lindner). They have no motorsports background whatsoever, but are the driving forces behind the makeover, which includes the addition of a theme park with a new roller coaster that doesn't work, more hotel capacity than the area needs, a 3,000-seat event arena, and a shopping mall. Everything appears to be far too big and remains empty most of the time.

They promised private financing, but this soon turned out to be a fake. The Minister of Finance had to resign as a consequence. Despite lack of funding completion of the project continued.
The heavy burden now sitting on Nordschleife's shoulder is the debt of approximately 400 Million Euros, which seems completely unnecessary considering complete race tracks have been constructed for a fraction of this amount.

The issue is complex and has kept fans of the 'Ring busy, but I want to share with you what just happend last week: Nürburgring officials always claim a total of two million visitors per year, but in true Wikileaks style we got ahold of an older internal document (PDF) telling a different story. Promoters always engage in number polishing, but this is of different quality. It appears there's double bookkeeping for real vs. published visitors for all events held at the Ring. Have a look at the graph summarizing the figures:

Who would dare to claim two million spectators while only 370,000 actually turned up? The Nürburgring did and they based the business plan of the new leisure park on these numbers.

You don't believe me? Ask Sabine next time you meet her. Several investigations have already been triggered by the Department of Public Prosecution, a governmental board of inquiry and the competition department of the European Commission.

And anyone who criticizes the current direction of the 'Ring is answered with force. Wilhelm Hahne — the oldest of the racing Hahne brothers (his brother Armin finished 6th last weekend at the track) — had his house searched in June of last year and as recent as last week received again a warning letter from the Nürburgring lawyers for speaking the truth.

It really hurts to get sucked into politics and to witness how they treat the heritage we all love. The worst that could happen is enthusiasts be forced to pay the price of a privateer's blunder in the form of higher prices or worse. Threats to the track include reduced maintenance of the track to reduce costs, less motorsports, and restrictions on small clubs running events in the area. Enthusiasts could also be required to book at the new hotels to race at the track.

Please spread the word if you care about Nordschleife and its heritage. Follow ringumbau.de (the documentary community site accompanying the development) and question the information shared by officials.

Michael Frison founded the 20832.com Nurburgring site 10 years ago (ever seen the red-and-white-N logo when at the 'Ring?). He's also the person behind the renn.tv movies (you have probably seen Hans Stuck / BMW M3 GTR / Nordschleife Onboard), and donated the engine/idea of the Gixxerkart. He wears a Che Geuvara T-Shirt when he drives the 'Ring.

Skyline GT-R Documentaries

2011-01-02T09:11:00.001-08:00

For those of you who are not familiar with the Skyline story or would like to know more about the legend behind Nissan's halo cars, watch the following videos.

1. Nissan Skyline GT-R (Duke Videos)

Official Description: The original ‘beast from the east’, the Nissan Skyline GT-R is an icon for power, speed and advanced Japanese automotive technology. With straight-6 engines capable of being tuned to over 1000bhp, 4WD, intelligent torque-splitting differentials, rear-wheel steering and enough electronics to keep a space station going, the R-32, R-33 and most recent R-34 models are mechanical ‘tour de forces’.

But what do they go like and what speeds are they really capable of? Our new Duke DVD traces the GT-R’s technical development and tuning options, and then puts you in the hot seat for several memorable rides. How about a lap of the old Nurburging with ‘ringmeister’ Dirk Schoysman at up to 190 mph with drifting at 160mph? Or a ride on a GP track in the ultimate racing Skyline – the Falken Tyres R34? If that’s not scared you, an Autobahn blast at well over 200 mph in a 600 bhp Prospec-NISMO R34 should do the trick! If you thought only ground-hugging 2-seater sportscars with names like Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche could be called 'supercars', think again!

2. National Geographic: Inside Supercar - Nissan R35 GTR

Official Description: Nissan’s iconic GT-R, Japan’s hit car from the 60s to the 80s, is re-launched at the Tokyo Motor Show for international sales. This cult car has a PlayStation video game of its own (Gran Turismo IV), is a character in an anime series, has starred in a Hollywood movie and is about to be the basis of a Manga comic. Gain exclusive access to the story behind the car during its final 12 months of production. In a first for the company, Nissan’s top executives – including CEO Carlos Ghosn and Senior VP of Design Shiro Nakamura – reveal the creative, manufacturing, engineering and marketing challenges of updating the GT-R and rolling it out worldwide as they prepare for the Tokyo Motor Show.

Enjoy the videos folks!

Top Gear America

2010-12-30T04:47:00.000-08:00

Anyone watched it yet?

If you take the Yankee stuff with a grain of salt, a good effort and it makes the Australian version look a bit amateurish... Still, the budget is probably 100 times bigger. Nice skids as well.

Another plus point, one of the hosts is Tanner Faust - who knows his stuff and the man can drive. And no, I'm not a drift junky.

Definitely worth a look.

No youtube copy of Episode 1, so you'll have to view it on HD at streetfire.net:

Top Gear America - [01x01] - 2010.11.21

1992 R32 GTR Skyline Going For RM85,000

2010-12-29T10:12:00.000-08:00

This car came up for sale in the Zerotohundred Skyline Club forum.

This BNR32 is being imported into Malaysia, from the UK, on a student AP. As such, ownership is not transferable until two years has lapsed starting from the time the car is registered.

Note: If the student were to die, the new owner has to make sure that a signed transfer application to a relative of the student is ready - not to mention the transfer of ownership form signed by the relative to the new owner as well. Talk about complicated but here is a chance for someone to own an old school Godzilla.

Mileage:
80,xxx kms

Description:
import car from uk. use student AP.
cash buyer only. tiptop condition.

Contact:
Efendi - 0104265404 / 0192128085

BBC Top Gear Australia: A scientific look into what kind of cars attract women

2010-12-28T07:52:00.000-08:00

The R33 GTR appealed the most to the ladies - beating other cars like the Porsche 911 GT3 and the MGB Roadster.

With anything Top Gear related, take it with a pinch of salt but a funny episode nonetheless ;).

R33 GTR Upgrades: N1 Oil Pump, N1 Water Pump, Greddy Oil Cooler and Pitwork Timing Belts

2010-12-21T02:41:00.000-08:00

The GTR is having these parts installed while I'm out of the country:

Nissan N1 Oil Pump

Nissan N1 Water Pump

Pitwork BCNR33 Service Kit (Belts)

Greddy Oil Cooler

Once these items are installed, the car will undergo internal engine upgrades sometime in the first half of 2011. After that, the R33 will go in for painting.

In the meantime, I'd like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and Merry Christmas from where I am!

R33 GTR Upgrades: Nissan Factory R33 GTR Series III Xenon Headlights

2010-12-14T09:33:00.000-08:00

The Nissan Skyline GT-R R33, codenamed BCNR33, was first launched in 1995. The car went through three stages or three series of variations before production ended in 1998. My BCNR33 is a Series II according to it's build plate and tell tale exterior features.

In February 1997, the Series III adopted xenon headlights. Now as you might already well know, most car nowadays feature this lighting technology as it makes things easier to see in the dark. It also makes the car appear "cooler" what with the clean and crisp white lights. Hence, I wanted to get a set of Series III headlights for my Series II.

Unfortunately, they aren't easy to source but fortunately, thanks to Eu Jin from JDM Auto Link, I was able to get my hands on a set. Wasn't cheap though but these are rare as hens teeth. Had to wait for a month plus but here they are (thanks Eu Jin!):

Here they are being installed and its almost plug & play

So from that ...

... to this!

Definitely money well spent and it totally changes the way the car looks. Somewhat more refreshed and updated. Not to mention the brightness and clarity of the xenons are really night and day from the old halogens (something I've experienced with my other cars), hence this improves safety and motoring vision.

Very happy with how this upgrade turned out.

Skyline Club of Malaysia's Family Day BBQ

2010-12-11T06:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the efforts of Azmir Zainuddin, PIMPIN and Feedzya, Malaysian Skyline owners (myself included) had an awesome day today in Janda Baik. The trio had organised a BBQ for the club and it was a great way to end the year in the company of like minded people & friends.

At last count, there were:

1 x R33 GTR

2 x R32 GTR

3 x R34 GTR

3 x R33 GTS

4 x R32 GTS

6 x R34 GTT

The Petronas station after the Karak Highway Toll (where I met up with the convoy, some 18 Skylines in a pack!)

The convoy making our way to Janda Baik (I was third from the front by this time)

The road got a little bit twisty as we got nearer to the BBQ venue

Then it got a little bit more smaller as we got closer to our destination

It was a very scenic drive as the lush greenery around us made it not so much a journey but more of an adventure

Finally arrived at the venue and being welcomed by our generous host hehe!

The boys slowly getting their cars parked as we prepared to head on down to the BBQ area and the river - it was awesome to see so many Skylines together

Holy Skylines Batman!

Everyone parked and we slowly made our way into the house

We were greeted with this sight - a great BBQ chill out area and a lovely river in which the kids (there were some 'big' ones mind you) to swim in

The lovely venue which is a private home of one of the club members - it was very kind of him to open it up and made arrangements for the BBQ

The food that Azmir and the boys had brought with them were being cooked - smelled heavenly!

There was more awesome food being cooked but this was my only shot of the feast as I was too busy eating to take more pictures!

It was Azmir's birthday today and so his wife along with PIMPIN surprised him with a birthday cake! :) Happy birthday again dude!

All good things must come to an end and we slowly started to line up as a convoy for the drive back to KL

... not before an impromptu night run along the twisty b-roads of Janda Baik! Felt really good to be doing it with other Skylines!

Thanks again boys! Was a great day that ended well and looking forward to the next event!

R33 GT-R Upgrades: Recent mods in pictures

2010-12-10T08:46:00.000-08:00

A lot of changes have taken place in recent weeks and the car is better for it.

So without futher ado, lets list down what has been done so far with pictures (was unable to take a picture of the Goodridge Braided Brake Hose):

Installed: The Tomei Fuel Regulator Type L and the Cusco Oil Catch Tank

A closer look at the Tomei Fuel Regulator - both the regulator, along with the Tomei Fuel Pump, have made a major positive contribution to how the car accelerates

The Cusco Oil Catch Tank - only time will tell if it really helps the engine

The Nismo Aluminium Shift Knob - feels so much better now when shifting

The Whiteline swaybars and bushings installed - the car feels really planted and the suspension well dampened - almost feels like a brand new car!

New Apexi Power Intake Pod Filters - engine runs smoother

BCNR33 4 Pot Front Brembos (with new brake pads and rotors skimmed) - amazing stopping power

BCNR33 Rear 2 Pot Brembos (with new brake pads and rotors skimmed)

New parts for the R33 GTR: Okuyama Carbing, Nismo, Apexi, Volk Racing

2010-12-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

I was overseas these past few days and I've just returned from the airport.

Was fortunate enough to find time in between meetings to go out and grab the following parts:

- Okuyama Carbing Pedal Set (silver).
- Okuyama Carbing Air Diversion Plate Aluminium
- Apexi Power Intake Replacement Pod Filters
- Nismo Aluminium Shift Knob (10mm 5 speed)
- Volk Racing GT Center Caps for the RE30s (4 pieces - low)

I'll put these on as soon as possible.

Now, let's recap what my mechanic has installed over the weekend (pictures to follow once I get the car back tomorrow):

- BCNR33 4 and 2 Pot Brembo Calipers
- Tomei Fuel Pump (output 590PS 276 L/h)
- Tomei Fuel Regulator Type L
- Cusco Oil Catch Tank
- Goodridge Brake Hose (6 PCS)
- Whiteline Swaybar-h/duty Blade adjustable
- Whiteline Camber adj kit - upper c/arm x 2
- Whiteline Arm-adj upper radius-camber/toe
- Whiteline Swaybar-x h/duty Blade adjustable
- Superpro Castor Rod Bushes

Can't wait to see the car!

R33 GTR Upgrades: Whiteline Suspension Parts, Tomei Fuel Pump, Tomei Fuel Regulator Type L and Cusco Oil Catch Tank Being Installed

2010-12-02T19:36:00.000-08:00

The Whiteline R33 GTR suspension parts have been fitted.

Pictures to follow as I'm busy with work and will be flying out of the country in a couple of hours.

My mechanic will be installing the Tomei Fuel Pump (output 590PS 276 L/h), Tomei Fuel Regulator Type L and the Cusco Oil Catch Tank over the weekend.

Stayed tuned!

R33 GTR Upgrades: Nismo Engine and Gearbox Mounts Installed

2010-12-01T05:26:00.000-08:00

Lets be honest. The R33 GTR is a 13 year old car. Over time, parts on the vehicle will get worn out. When this happens, you lose performance and drivability. Which leads us to the problem of tired engine mounts. What tends to happen is clutch judder when moving the car from rest and shifting is less precise at higher RPMs. Not to mention its discomforting as a vehicle owner, to sit in a car that shakes (slightly). Enter the Nismo mount.

"Upgrade tired and beat up OEM engine and transmission mounts with the units from Nismo. Nismo mounts are 30-40% stiffer which makes motor shake less at idle and the Nismo transmission mount provides precise shifting at high rpm from reduced motor/transmission movement"

With that official Nengun brief out of the way, it should be said its worth upgrading / refreshing your mounts if you are looking to increase your car's engine power (well torque really). This is paramount if you harbor plans on doing any track work in the future, as the engine tends to rock during heavy usage and worn engine mounts can cause other serious problems (like a broken front differential). Plus nice new, stiff mounts will give you the added benefit of extra response as normally when you mash the throttle, some of that instant torque is lost in deflecting the engine mounts. With stiffer mounts, the torque travels through the drive train instead.

I was fortunate enough to source Nismo engine and gearbox mounts last month and had them lying around ready to be installed. Here they are, nicely packed up:

Definitely noticed a difference after the installation. The car idles better and there is less vibration when driving at higher speeds. The new mounts are stiffer than the original units. Launches are smoother, whether you are accelerating casually or aggressively. And lets face it, 13 year old mounts are not going to cut it. They need replacing and rather get OEM mounts, I decided to swap in Nismo ones for long term security. Lastly, Nismo mounts are solid compared to the liquid / gel filled center on the OEM mounts, so in that sense, the Nismo parts are superior.

The car at my mechanic's workshop

The old engine mount still in place

A clearly very tired engine mount that was taken out

Compare the old and the new (the Nismo engine mount is on the right)

Clearly compressed and the exterior is flaking off

The Nismo engine mount installed

The gearbox mount out and it too is clearly worn out

The Nismo gearbox mount, ready to go in

All done! Till the next mod! Whiteline suspension parts!

R33 GTR Upgrades: Splitfire Super Direct DI Ignition System Installed

2010-11-29T20:45:00.000-08:00

Due to excessive engine heat, RB26DETT coilpacks tend to get faulty over time. As a preventive measure, some owners make the upgrade to the Splitfire Super Direct DI Ignition System and this is what I have just done recently. The system replaces the original coil pack and ignition wires with a direct ignition coil on plug system. Not only does the upgrade give me peace of mind but the coilpacks also increase ignition performance.

You see, the Super Direct DI Ignition System is designed to provide a constant, stable voltage for the engine and will decrease ignition voltage loss at high RPM levels. With the Splitfire coilpacks installed, the following benefits can logically be gained :-

- Increased horsepower at the top end of the RPM band
- Ensures and maintains maximum energy supplied to the spark plugs
- Reduces incomplete combustion caused by misfire
- Eliminates RFI (radio frequency interference) by eliminating the need for a wire set

After the installation, there is major difference when I'm turning on the ignition. The engine starts up immediately, revs smoother and is far more responsive. Some people say that you are bound to feel all these things when replacing old and worn parts with something new. In fact, I did feel something similar when I replaced the old spark plugs with NGK Iridium IX units. Either way, I'm happy with my purchase as the car has responded well to the upgrades.

Next up, installation of Nismo engine and gearbox mounts. Followed by Whiteline suspension parts.

The Splitfire Super Direct DI Ignition System (Boxed)

The old coils which were probably in there since the time engine left the factory

Side by side comparison

The first Splitfire goes in

Joined by the others

Cables go back on before the engine's cover is closed

Italia Auto Ulu Yam Dawn Run

2010-11-27T22:44:00.000-08:00

Finally managed to have a shakedown run to get a feel of the new car. I guess theres no further need to hide the identity of the vehicle as its pretty obvious. Its a 1997 R33 Skyline GTR (BCNR33).

I invited Temujin, a member of the Skyline Club of Malaysia, to come along in his R32 GTR (BNR32) which had recently come out from GT Auto with a dyno figure of 380 bhp. He too wanted to have a shakedown session to get a 'feel' of the Angry Kermit (his car is green you see).

The meeting point for this weekend's run was at Petronas Batu Caves and as the title of this post clearly indicates, we were running with the Italia Auto boys (IA). I arrived at 7 am and it was a massive turnout. Nearly 40 cars, mostly Italians (Alfas and Fiats) but also some Frenchies, a Lotus and our JDMs (Temujin's R32 GTR, my R33 GTR and ToE's R35 GTR).

The weather was beautiful and the sun had just risen as we roared our way past the lake on the outskirts of Kampung Batang Batu (the settlement before Ulu Yam town). The car handled really well and is a testament to my foreman who serviced it after I had purchased the GTR. He made sure that the car was refreshed, not only in terms of consumables but also with parts that needed to be replaced due to wear and tear (long story). Although I do have to say that the twin turbo setup which makes quite a large amount of power, takes some getting used to especially when taking sharp corners (nearly did a drift at one stretch of the road). Gotta get used to braking early and ease off in the turn then power out.

From Ulu Yam, we then made our way to Gohtong Jaya to have breakfast at the mamak next to Hotel Seri Malaysia. Had a great time catching up with some of the IA guys and looking at each others' cars. Some Golf GTI buddies of mine from the Volkswagen Golf Club of Malaysia, who were in the area, dropped by to have a look at the GTR. Got to catch up with them as well before they headed down to GT Auto for a dyno day.

Here is footage taken by ognam of IA, which he edited into a video for our viewing pleasure. Especially liked that early bit of the silver car rolling into the Petronas station ;).

Till the next run which will take place in 2 weeks time - hehe - drive safe everyone.

The Alfa Romeo GTV 2000 Has Been Fully Restored

2010-11-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

Car was completed just in time for my dad's birthday (a month back).

Last minute prep at the workshop.

We surprised my dad on a bright, sunny Sunday morning. We gave him an excuse of early morning tennis - which we did end up doing - but it was the manner in which he got to the tennis court that would be the highlight of his birth day.

You can't put a price on the smile that lighted up his face as he saw the car. I'm so glad that me and my sister undertook this 6 month project.

The moment he got into the driver's seat, my dad reminisced about the picture that we took of me when I was five years old, seated in the driver's seat with my dad standing by the door (I still have that picture which is hanging from my living room wall). We quickly did a re-enactment of that picture but this time I'm clearly somewhat grown up.

True fact - my dad used to drive his GT Junior from KL to Muar every weekend in the late 70s - through winding rubber estate roads - taking naps along the way before reaching his parent's house. I was too young to follow but my sis still remembers the long drives in the red Alfa...

Even though my dad isn't as young as he used to be, the moment he started the engine, the years just shed off him. Everything came back. He knew how to shift the gears when it came time to go back to gear one (you have to shift to gear two before going to first). The lack of power steering did not at all affect his driving. He was taking turns with aplomb and gusto. Revved the engine to let the twin Alfa carbs howl as we made our way to the tennis courts. He was that happy.

And I have to say that the car drives like a dream. Its such a far cry from the one I drove up to Awana Genting during the Alfa Romeo Centennial Celebration Drive. Six months of hard work has turned it back into what GTV 2000 Bertone should be - classic awesomeness.

If your dad is a car nut and has always hankered for a particular car, get it for him and do it up. The best birthday gift a son or daughter could ever give to a parent and it doesn't cost a bomb if you plan it right!

At the tennis center

Had a good game and we finished with brunch

Safely tucked away till the next time my dad wants to take the bella out

New rims and tyres for the mystery car

2010-11-23T00:41:00.000-08:00

It came with stock 17" factory rims and that setup didn't do the car justice. Hence, I immediately set about rectifying this problem. And so, a few weekends back, I made my way to Hup Shun in Sunway PJS 11/7. According to local motoring afficianados, this particular shop sells genuine rims and tyres at lower prices when compared to other places in the Klang Valley.

While browsing through the selection of wheels that were on display, a Hup Shun employee asked me what was my poison. I explained that I was looking for 18" x 9.5" +12 rims. He replied that strangely enough, a R34 GTR had come in earlier in the week to get its Volks Racing RE30s replaced with Volks Racing TE37s (the former came in bronze). He also mentioned that the rims were up for sale and were barely used.

Some Hup Shun technical staff then carried the four rims in and I could see that he was speaking the truth - they looked almost brand new. For those who are not aware, RE30s are one of the lightest rims available on the market. The 18s for example, weigh only 8.10 kg. The TE37s on the other hand weigh in at 8.45 kg. So I'm not sure if the R34 owner was actually "upgrading" but rather the whole exercise was more for looks, as the TE37s are a better match for the sharp edges of the BNR34.

RE30

Needless to say I was pretty much sold the moment I lifted up one of these babies. They were so light. After checking all four for any signs of damage and finding none, I asked the Hop Shun employee what tyres they had in stock that could fit the RE30s. He said that they recently brought in 6 units of Bridgestone Potenza S001s. Now I knew that the S001s came on the market in early 2010 and were actually factory fitments for the Aston Martin Rapide and Ferrari 458 Italia. It was also going to be used in the soon to be released Lexus LFA as the car's factory fitted tyres.

Here is the product description by tiretrack.com on the major features of the S001:

The Potenza S001 is Bridgestone's Max Performance Summer tire developed as Original Equipment for premium high-performance sports cars, coupes and sedans. The Potenza S001 is designed to combine low rolling resistance efficiency with maximum sports performance in dry and wet conditions. However, like all summer tires, they are not intended to be driven in near freezing temperatures, through snow or on ice.

The Potenza S001 features an asymmetric design combining a large outboard shoulder, interlocking tread blocks and a central circumferential rib to enhance dry road steering response, high-speed stability and cornering precision. Notches in the shoulders expel water to the sides while high-angle lateral grooves in the intermediate ribs pump water into the wide circumferential grooves to help resist hydroplaning.

The tire's internal structure features a lightweight belt package consisting of twin steel belts supported by a spirally wrapped aramid/nylon cord reinforcement that reduces rolling resistance, enhances ride quality and ensures high-speed durability. Active rubber inserts in the sidewalls near the bead areas tune vertical sidewall stiffness to blend cornering grip with ride comfort, as well as increase longitudinal stiffness to generate straight-line braking forces.

To cut the story short, I purchased both the RE30s and the S001s (265/35/18) that very day and they are now on the mystery car. Very, very happy indeed with the results despite having to cough up some dough.

The RE30s being prepped

Shod with S001s and being loaded onto my workhorse Nissan X-Trail for fitment and alignment eslewhere at a family friend's shop

On the mystery car

Getting the alignment done the old fashioned way

I'm pretty sure people will be able to figure out what the mystery car is by this point in time ;). Till the next mod entry, readers...

Bought some performance parts for the RB26DETT

2010-11-22T08:41:00.000-08:00

Purchased the parts while I was in Melbourne a month back.

Currently waiting for the right time to install them onto the car ...

Talk about dipping into my savings! Modding is an expensive pursuit! :(

1. HKS Turbo Kit - GT-SS GTR Kit (To Suit BNR32,BCNR33,BNR34 11004-AN002)

2. Nismo Fuel Pump - (Nissan Skyline - BCNR33 17042-RR596)

3. Power Enterprise Injectors (NISSAN BNR32,BCNR33,BNR34 RB26DETT) 700cc - Top, Low Impedance, 1 Hole, Time 0.65msec 63500 (6 X 700cc)

4. Tomei Pon Camshafts + Pulley Set - Nissan BNR32/BCNR33 RB26DETT Duration IN 260, EX 252, Lift 9.15 (Pon Cam + Cam Pulley IN & EX) 143036 A Type + 153027 Cam Pulley

5. Koyo Radiator (Nissan BCNR33 RB26DETT, R33 ECR RB25DET Type Z BCNR33 ECR33 Type Z)

6. Tomei Fuel Pressure Regulator (Type L)

7. Nismo low temp thermostat

8. Nissan N1 Water Pump

9. Nissan N1 Oil Pump

10. Nismo Repair Gasket Kit (Nissan - BNCR33/BNR34 RB26DETT - t=1.2 Head Gasket + Gasket Set) 1010A-RR580 (includes turbine gasket, water pump gasket etc)

11. Z32 Bosch AFMs x 2 (BCNR33 compatible)

12. APEXi Power Intake (GTR Nissan BCN33/BNR34 RB26DETT 507-N011)

13. Greddy Oil Cooler Kit - (Nissan BCNR33 - Right Inner Fender - NS1610G 12024622)

14. Splitfire Super Direct DI Ignition System (Nissan BCNR33 - SF-DIS-001)

15. Whiteline Swaybar-h/duty Blade adjustable (BCNR33 - BNF27Z)

16. Whiteline Camber adj kit - upper c/arm (BCNR33 - KCA348)

17. Whiteline Camber adj kit - upper c/arm (BCNR33 - KCA347)

18. Whiteline Arm-adj upper radius-camber/toe (BCNR33 - KTA117)

19. Whiteline Swaybar-x h/duty Blade adjustable (BCNR33 - BNR11XZ)

20. Superpro Castor Rod Bushes (BCNR33 - SPF1202K)

21. Cusco Oil Catch Tank (BCNR33)

22. Goodridge Brake Hose (BCNR33 - 6 PCS)

Additional pics courtesy of Azmir :P

The mystery car's engine

2010-11-16T09:06:00.000-08:00

Near stock goodness. Hopefully it'll be pushing out close to 600 bhp in the near future. That is, once I'm done with it :).

The long search is over...

2010-11-15T11:31:00.000-08:00

Its been a long while since I've last posted. The main reason is because I've been busy looking for the right car to replace my old 350Z Track Spec. I was after a coupe that was turbo'ed, had an AWD system and most importantly, preferably rare but cheap!

Initially, I was looking at Subarus. A locally delivered (Motor Image) 2002 Subaru WRX was in the picture but I eventually realised that I wouldn't be happy with lower specced Subbie.

What came next was a 2001 Subaru S202. It was in mint condition, not modded to kingdom come and very well kept. Unfortunately, despite all these plus points (0-100 in 4.9 seconds), I didn't think it was worth RM130,000 and decided not to go ahead with the purchase. I wasn't looking to get shafted by Malaysia's car import tax and who can really afford paying RM100,000+ for a car nowadays?

Still sticking to JDMs, I came across a 1999 AP1 Honda S2000. It was equipped with a lot of tasteful aftermarket parts and the car drove like a superbike. I've always been a fan of this particular model but lets face it, convertibles aren't the most logical of cars to own in this part of the world and the AP1 was notorious for being very tail happy. Scratch that *sigh*.

I then entertained the idea of getting a manual E46 M3 (again a 2001 make). Sadly, I wasn't looking to own another rear-wheel drive NA coupe and you tend to have to be gentle (sayang) with Beemers. There was also the issue of E46 non-M3 coupes (318ci/325ci etc) masquerading as M3s in Malaysia, which most certainly put me off. The price was too high too.

After several more trials and errors, I think I've found the right car...

TO BE CONTINUED

Progress update on the Alfa Romeo GTV 2000's Restoration

2010-09-21T11:50:00.000-07:00

Went to see the car last week.

What has been done so far:

1. The engine was overhauled and the 105's twin carburettors replaced.
2. Brake system was overhauled, master cylinder replaced and new calipers installed.
3. The regeneration of the mechanical subassemblies was carried out. The gearbox, front and rear engine mountings and steering system were checked for any defects and those that were found were duly replaced.
4. The engine was dip chromed including the air filter housing as well as some exterior badges.

Next up:

1. Aircond system being overhauled as we speak, with new aircond hose being installed and the radiator + condenser replaced.
2. Replace any old or deteriorated engine bay parts (like that water reservoir)
3. Replace damaged or worn out electrical wires including spark plug cables / Replace insulation conductors, wiring harness / Resolder old electric wiring ends.
4. New exhaust system.
5. New springs as the old ones are pretty soft.
6. New wipers.
7. Thorough cleaning of the car especially the engine bay and the interior - not to mention recondition of the car's leather seats.
8. Exterior detailing.

Inspected a Mercedes-Benz 600

2010-07-31T19:29:00.000-07:00

Inspected a Mercedes-Benz 600 (short-wheelbase version - SWB) in royal blue and its up for sale at a princely sum of RM400,000. The car is on display at Meguiars on Jalan Templar. According to certain tell-tale sticker on the windscreen, the car has been detailed by Darren of Autodetailer hehe. These are rare cars since only 2,190 SWB units were built - accounting for 82% of total production for all variants (2,677).

"The Mercedes-Benz 600 was a large luxury automobile, intended to represent the absolute pinnacle of automotive engineering. When introduced in September, 1963, it had few competitors, except Rolls-Royce, the Cadillac Fleetwood 75, the stretched Lehmann-Peterson Lincoln and the Crown Imperial Ghia. It was also at this time the most expensive car in the world. Generally intended to be a chauffeur-driven vehicle many 600s featured a central divider incorporating a power window between the front and rear compartments" .

"The 600 was so heavy that the largest engine of Mercedes at that time, the 6-cylinder 300, was inadequate. Instead a new engine with more than twice the capacity was specially developed to move the vehicle and its hydraulically powered amenities, the massive 6.3L V8 "M100" engine with single overhead camshafts, and Bosch mechanical fuel injection" [Wikipedia].

Nothing needs to be done to it. Owner has painstakingly restored the car, like ordering two rolls of cream leather from Mercedes Germany to reupholster the seats and sending the interior wood fittings refurbished in Australia. The only thing that needs to be done is to rechrome a few exterior parts.

The car is so over-engineered that its not funny. The hydraulics (doors, boot), the suspension, the truly amazing seats, the way it drives - I can understand why it was the Maybach of its day - hence all those famous owners that ranged from royalty, to movie stars, all the way down to petty dictators (and even Jeremy Clarkson hahaha)! Like it was back then, its not a cheap car own - the hubcaps alone cost 3,000 euros to replace!

"Apart from the Pope and governments, famous owners of the 600 include celebrities such as Coco Chanel, Hugh Hefner, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon, George Harrison, Jay Kay, Aristotle Onassis, Jack Nicholson, Simon Spies, Bob Jane, Frank Packer, Elvis Presley, Rowan Atkinson, and Jeremy Clarkson[2], Communist leaders include Nicolae Ceauşescu, Josip Broz-Tito, Fidel Castro, Pol Pot, Enver Hoxha, Leonid Brezhnev, Kim Il-sung, Kim Jong-Il also owns a landaulet (as seen on a parade in Pyongyang with Chinese prime minister, Oct. 2009) and religious leader Guru Maharaj Ji. African revolutionaries Idi Amin Dada, Jomo Kenyatta and the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos had four 600s including a Landaulet, a 1981 bulletproof and a six-door version. Iran royal court and Iran's Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi owned multiple 600 models that were used for official and personal use of the late Shah and his court. Some of them were sold after the 1979 islamic revolution and about a dozen of them are in the National Car Museum of Iran in Karaj" [Wikipedia].

In conclusion, I have to say that you'd make more of an impact, by pulling up to a function or major event, in this beauty, than arriving in say a Bentley Flying Spur. General upkeep / repair bills is the killer but what a car! Tempting!

Just because you drive a Koenigsegg CCXR and a Lamborghini Murcielago SuperVeloce...

2010-07-31T00:11:00.000-07:00

Qatari royal family's matching Koenigsegg CCXR and Lamborghini Murcielago SuperVeloce (Riviera Blue) got themselves clamped outside their new store (Harrods) on Brompton Rd (its a street in Knightsbridge, London).

The Swedish-built Koenigsegg CCXR puts out a staggering 1,018bhp – making it 20 times as powerful as a basic Ford Fiesta. With a price of around £1.5 million it’s also 180 times more expensive than the blue oval :).

At £350,000, the Lamborghini is a bit cheaper than the Koenigsegg but its matching Riviera Blue paintjob makes up for it :P.

FYI - The Qatari royal family bought Harrods from Mohamed Al Fayed in May for £1.5 billion under its company name Qatari Holding, becoming only the fifth owner of the store since its 1850 creation.

The funny thing is that the owners could have taken advantage of Harrods’ valet parking service which charges a £8 for the first hour or £40 for 8-9 hours with an additional £50 charge to store a car overnight. [Source: SWNS]

A buddy of mine just picked up his brand new Porsche Boxster Spyder

2010-07-29T04:04:00.000-07:00

Another reason to go down to Melbourne sometime soon! If only cars here were as affordable!