Test Drive: Honda CR-Z

I have a friend who had been looking for a Honda CR-Z for quite some time. He had been having a hard time finding a suitable one due to his requirement which is hard to to fulfill. He has to get a 2013 and above, facelift model, has to be a manual transmission, has to have low mileage and most importantly, cheap. Let me explain to those who might not understand why it is that difficult. The first reason is when the CR-Z was first launched in Malaysia, only the manual transmission variant was available and auto transmission came in months later. Second reason is back when it was launched, Malaysia had a tax exemption for all hybrid cars with engine lower than 2 liters. So the official selling price was RM 120,000 when first launched but selling at RM 180,000 after the exemption was over. Thus, automatic CR-Z grew in number and sales went down when tax exemption was removed. He shared with me how used manual units whether pre-facelift or facelift, is selling like hot cakes. Whenever one appear on the website for used cars, it would be sold within 1 week.

Previously, I went to view a 2013 manual unit with him. It had very high mileage, the clutch pedal sank, it was a horrible violet color and was on higher price range. Despite all that, he wanted to view the car and test drive. After viewing, he went back to proceed with car loan arrangement and I thought he had decided on this unit but last week he called me and asked me to view another unit with him. This time, it is a 2013 manual with lower mileage of 20000 km, a striking red color and cheaper than the violet one. Best of all, this unit is lightly modded. It has 17" rims, Adjustable High/Low Soft/Hard suspension kit and straight pipe all the way to the muffler by J's Racing. On the day of the test, I was surprised when the owner allowed me and my friend test drove the car without his presence. I, of course took the chance to drive it around the block just to get a feel of how a CR-Z drives. First 2 things that were on my mind before it was my turn to drive was the fact the car is lowered and straight pipes are noisy. I keep thinking, it has been a long time since I drove a car with stiff setting and lowered car.

Very low stance and big side skirts

When I sat on the driver seat, I realized that the seating position is similar to a regular car rather than a coupe. Usually the first thing I would try is the clutch pedal and I find the CR-Z's feels very light and comfortable and the engine does not stall easily. Getting the car to move was easy but the test ground has a lot of bumps, which is not so good for a car that is lowered and has stiff suspension. I ended up scratching the side skirts once and jumped at a bump. Guess I have to retrain myself for the 350Z. The other problem was the loud exhaust note. When the engine starts, you would hear a loud note but it goes down while idling. When driving, it gets loud around 3000 rpm and I know my friend would get rid of the straight pipes, the first thing if he gets this unit. Overall, I have to say the Honda CR-Z is a car suitable to be a daily drive that has a sporty look to it but to gain the sportiness, it has to be the 6 speed manual variant. I heard that the owner still has some original parts including the original exhaust system. So, my friend does not need to spend extra to get some quiet driving time.

2017 seems like a good year for buying cars. I bought one, my father bought one and now this friend too. I hope he settles for one soon. Not that I am complaining about the test drives but I hope he could get his ride soon.

My favorite angle. Love the rear skirt

Test Drive: Nissan Fairlady Z, The 1000 km Drive

It started with a spontaneous idea and soon I was cruising in my Mazda 6 heading north with my friend, just to go view the Nismo 350Z. The journey was long and tiring, spanning over 5 states. Luckily, I was travelling in the Mazda 6 which provides some comfort and I decided to sleep a night before viewing the car. 10 am next morning, I found myself waiting at the meeting place anxiously for the seller to appear with the 350Z. I waited for more than 30 minutes and finally the owner texted me but I could not see a 350Z. Then a guy waved at me from a Toyota sports sedan and asked me to follow him. After 5 minutes, I drove into a housing area and I saw the 350Z right in front of me. The moment of truth is upon me. I parked my car and took out a list that I prepared. Yes, I prepared a list for all the mods or problem that I find and make a record of it.

So I started looking around from the rear for the titanium exhaust. I could not see much because of how low the car is but I manage to have an idea how the muffler is. The rear boot's absorber has already given away which is expected given the age of the car. Next I went over to the engine bay to take a look and found the titanium intake pipe and ARC Super Induction Box. It looks great but the engine bay is really dirty. Could use a good wash. I could see the coilovers are Tein but wihout a pillow ball mount. The carbon hood is a good addition but without proper latch, I worried it might fly off. The rims are 2 piece 19" Volks Racing rims but I am not sure of the model and size of tires used.
The biggest issue I have with the car is actually the interior. Most of the silver plastics are scratched or faded but again expected.

Stock Engine

Arc Super Induction Box

Now that I am done inspecting, it is time for an important question. Can I test drive ? It is really important to have a test because engine and transmission condition cannot be known by just looking at it. Since I drove all the way here for 500 km just to see the car, if he does not let me drive it, I would have hurt him real bad. Luckily not only did he let me test the car, he did not even get into the car when I tested it. Being the gentleman that I am, I did not drive it out on the open road. Instead I just drove around the housing area a few times. Before driving, I stepped on the clutch while gear is in neutral and find out that the clutch is quite hard. So, when I reversed the car, I tried not to rev and to my surprise I could drive easily. Once the gear is in, it does not feel hard at all. However, I realized the original Japanese screen has cracked and could not access the reverse camera.

Manual Interior with Nismo 300 km/h Meter

Nismo Semi Bucket

During the test, I loved the semi bucket seat. When I hit the accelerator, the sound from exhaust could be heard but it was not that loud. I could also feel the great torque from the engine and coupled with the exhaust note, I thought I was revving high but when I looked at the meter, it was only 3,000 rpm. The car is definitely in good condition and powerful. There is a sense of familiarity but at the same time something new. I definitely was grinning but I had to hide it from the seller. After all that, I returned the keys to the seller and told him I will contact him later.

Carbon Hood

Test Drive: Honda HR-V

After much persuasion from my friend, who recently quit her job as a Nissan sales person and joined Honda, I went to visit her. Since I was around her sales office and had some free time, I went to take a look. I was looking around at the models on display and making small talks with my friend. The showroom looks large at sight but there were only a few models on display. I told my friend that I would love to look at the Honda HR-V but it is not on display. She then point out that they have a test unit instead and I thought to myself, a test drive sounds good to me. Once I entered the car she told me to go nuts with the car and test it in any way I wanted without much restriction. I was near my university and I decided to bring it over there to test it the only way I know how: a winding road full of s-turns test. I was anticipating a good run.

The first thing I notice after entering the car was the seat because it feels absolutely like sitting on a semi bucket seat like the one I used to have in my Celica. The side cushion is very large and gives me great support, barely 1 cm of space to my sides. Not suitable for people with bigger body frame though but I like it and another thing I like about the seats is the sides are leather and the center part is fabric (normally people prefer full leather that is more luxurious). Moving to the dashboard, I notice the cluster meter has a center ambient meter that changes color. According to the brochure, there are 7 colors to choose from but I only saw orange when I was driving roughly and quick, and green when it's cruising which should be indicating I am driving efficiently. Another thing that I was looking into is the special compartment space under the gear shifter where all the connectivity ports such as USD and AUX are located. I heard that although Honda say it is more convenient, I realized that only when your seat is at the lowest position and with short hands and legs, you could access it easily. Also, the armrest storage area is hard to access due to the large cushions on the side of your seat and the armrest is located quite farther to the rear.

After fidgeting around to get the right driving postition, I tested the electronic parking brake that everyone is "so" fascinated about. The electronic parking brake button is located conveniently below the gear shifter and you pressed it to engage the brake. You pull the button up to release the parking brake but the interesting feature is if you forgot to release the brake, just step on the accelerator and it releases itself. However, problem is the parking brake light only comes up on your meter after 2 seconds and like all things electronic and new, there will be some disadvantage similar to the laggy electronic throttle. People will accept it after a while and although it sounds very high tech but for someone like me, I prefer the mechanical one where you imagine drifting every time you pull at it at a corner. So, off I went for my test drive and once I reached the intentional test area, I released the beast within. Since it was a winding road, my goal was to test the stability and stiffness of the suspension and I was surprised that I could not feel any body roll or any understeer. The HR-V is a B-segment crossover SUV that looks like a SUV but sits low and drives like its cousin the Honda City and Honda Jazz. Thus, the lack of body roll that you would usually get from a SUV. It was surprising that I could maneuver with speed up to 110 km/h.

Modern Interior. Basic but Full with Necessity 

Next on the test agenda: power and acceleration on a straight line. The first thing that was in my mind is to test for V-TEC effect. You know, the increase acceleration from around 5500 rpm all the way to the red line or perhaps you are more familiar with the phrase, "V-TEC just kick in, yo!" and its meme. Sadly, all you can get is just a slight change in the engine's tune (from volume level 3 to 4) and there will be no needle jump on your rpm meter like what you would get from a Type R engine but I guess that is the standard for its general passenger models. As disappointing as it is, the acceleration from this 1.8 liter SOHC engine is very smooth and it definitely delivers. I was taken aback because you would have heard many complaints why would Honda replace most of its DOHC engine with SOHC engines. There are many haters that say Honda sacrificed power for fuel efficiency and it is a step backward. Although only with 172 Nm of torque, 0-100 feels quick and does not seem to run out of breath, contrary to public opinions. The brakes can definitely handle its speed during my winding drive and drag test but could bite too much and slow down the car during the winding section but it does its job well. On my way back to the showroom, I enjoy the HR-V with a slow drive in midst of traffic. After all, it is a passenger car that is made to transport people comfortably on a daily basis.

Ambient meter: Orange = Harsh Driving, Green = Efficient Driving

The slow drive lets me notice some other features of the HR-V such as its aircond system. Not only does it have a one of its kind, touch screen aircond control (which is kind of cool but not too sure of its practicality) and the 3 vents on the passenger side. The passenger vents gets me thinkning that the passenger would surely freeze and its hard for the rear passengers to feel cold. The interior does look cheap with its hard plastic but there are small bits that is soft plastic too (quite up class). I also notice the buttons on the steering wheel are similar to my Mazda 6 with left buttons for entertainment and right buttons for cruise control. I think Honda is very generous by equipping a car like the HR-V with cruise control at such a price. The sound proofing in this car is not bad even during my quick driving but I am not sure whether is it because the engine itself does not roar. When I reached the showroom, I went to the back and was surprise with the leg room it provides even with my driving position that accommodates my longer legs. However, the rear seat and headrest is too low for someone my height. Lastly, I check its boot and could see that it has a decent storage area but I find it too low to reach the floor. I like the low stance of the HR-V but I am definitely too tall to use its boot comfortably and I am only 175 cm tall.

Touch Screen with Navi and Entertainment and Touch Auto Aircond  controls

Overall, the CVT gearbox does well for city drive without much but when you try to drive it fast, it always downshift. I think a paddle shift with virtual gear might be the solution. In the end, I was satisfied with smiles by the test drive and my verdict would be the Honda HR-V is a good buy but you have to get the highest, V spec which I tested to get all the good stuffs. Luckily, the price of the V spec is not that high. I remember 3 years ago, when my brother was looking to buy a new car there were not many choices for SUVs and he likes SUVs. If this was available back then, I would definitely ask my brother to consider the HR-V. However, you still can not compare this with its big brother, the CR-V or the Mazda CX-5 but at this price and the way it drives, the HR-V is absolutely one to consider. Its closest competitor from Japan would be the Mitsubishi ASX and I test driven the ASX before but not intensively. I can say I am not at all impressed other than its low stance. Do take note that I am not paid to advertise for Honda and the HR-V. It is just a good car in my humble opinion.

1.8L SOHC i-VTEC engine with 142 PS and 172 Nm

Test Drive: Veloster Turbo Launch

Last Sunday, I went over to my buddy's place to begin a convoy that consist of 3 Hyundai Velosters, 1 Celica and my Mazda 6. It has been a long time since my last convoy, about 2 years I think. While driving, I was surprised and questioning their convoy method because they were making unnecessary moves and forced me to whack my engine to keep up with them. I was also surprised at how my buddy's girlfriend maneuvered her Veloster during the whole convoy. They certainly showed me that a Veloster could go fast if they wanted to and I am not as skillful as I was when I drove my Celica. I found out later that my buddy installed a throttle controller for better power, which is cheating and the Veloster can also handle a corner despite its shape. We went to a Hyundai branch in Setia Alam which is bloody far just to test out the new Hyundai Veloster Turbo. I was told that we had to come all the way here because the Veloster Club knew a guy who could make this event happen and there would be more room to test the car out. I was at the Hyundai Branch with more than 10 Veloster owners and did I mention, that there were around 8 Celicas participating too ? It sure was an exciting event.

Here is the main attraction of the day : The Hyundai Veloster Turbo in the flesh. The first thing you will notice is how it has a different exterior compared to the standard model. I personally like the big hexagon grill and round fog lights in the front fascia. At the back, the changes to the rear bumper is interesting and the twin pipe in the middle really brings out the sportiness out of the Veloster. It has a longer spoiler than the standard model and rims remain the same size but with a different design. I wish that this would be how the standard model should look like and the Turbo should have an even fiercer exterior to really make it shine. Since I am not the designer of Hyundai there is not I could say and if I am a Veloster owner, I would just change my Veloster to look like its Turbo sibling on the outside especially the rear. Another thing that is only available for the Turbo model is the color selection. Although, the standard model has many bright colors to choose from and you can get matching rims and interior color to go with it, I heard that there is a special matt grey and matt yellow reserved only for the Turbo model. I am a sucker for grey cars these days and a matt grey that is sprayed on and not a wrap is refreshing. 

Here we have the heart of the Hyundai Veloster Turbo. It is powered by a 1.6 liter Turbo engine which produces 186 PS and torque figure of 265 Nm. This is certainly much, much more than the 130 PS and 157 Nm figures that standard models have. Although that is a severe increase in engine output, enthusiasts are not happy that the Korean Domestic version that produces 204 PS with the same torque could not make it into Malaysia and that the Veloster Turbo is only available in its 7 speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) without a manual variant sending power to its front wheels. Some of them might even think that luckily we still have Peugeot's 208 GTi and, Ford's Fiesta ST and Focus ST that are available only with manual transmission. There were many that were present on that day mentioned that they could feel some turbo lag even just by revving the engine on standstill. It feels like the engine does not climb aggressively when the turbo supposed to kick in and had to wait a while. From the engine bay, you could not help but wonder, was the engine mounting done properly ? This is because I could see the engine shaking too much and when the engine revs down, you could see it jerking when it hit 2000 rpm. 

On the inside, you could see that it looks the same as the standard model but in my opinion, slightly duller compared to the standard model. I said it is duller because in the standard model, you get a 2-tone interior such as a black and red combination but you only get all black inside the Turbo model. Even the gearknob looks the same although the standard has a 6 speed automatic transmission which is not the same as the 7 speed Dual Clutch. However, the main differences between the 2 models, is the Turbo's more "racy" feeling cluster meter and the slightly more supportive seats. I am sorry but you don't get the blue and black combination which you might have seen online somewhere. Hyundai uses a patterned design on its dashboard plastic that resembles a little like carbon print but it is hard plastic which always feels cheap. If you look carefully on the steering wheel, you might not see it but this car does come with its own flappy, cheap and light plastic made, paddle shifters. It is very short and feels super unreliable. I am someone who uses their paddle shifters often but I would refrain from using it if I drive the Veloster Turbo because I fear I would break it in 2 months. I am also sure that there will be many "Turbo" wordings that could be found in the interior that I have missed.

Everyone was excited to test out the Turbo model and waited patiently for their turn. I too was excited and waited until lunch time and still it was not my turn yet. At the end of the day, I was disappointed because I was the only one that did not test the car due to time constraints. However, I managed to ride back seat while my friend tested the car. Before my ride, I heard from others that you don't feel it is quick from inside the car but from another car's view, it is quick. Also, the very noticeable turbo lag. Having all the feedbacks, I went into the ride expecting. It was exactly as the others have said and I noticed that it had a heavy start. Either the car is too heavy or the power from the engine to the front wheels is not enough. However, there was something else that I did not expect to happen. My friend actually drove the Veloster Turbo until the Electronic Control Program (ESC) or the Hyundai's stability control came up. He was cornering hard and fast and we were sliding with the tires screeching. I thought we were going to hit the curb and with just inches away, the car suddenly went straight. It is the trend right now where people are safety conscious and safety features like this makes a car much more considered. I for one, am thankful that the Velester Turbo has it because of what happened.  I was also very surprised that my friend who usually would not drive above 90 km/h in his limited edition TRD Sports M Celica, drove like a madman that afternoon.  

I wished I could have tested the Turbo too for a better write up but beggars can't be choosers, can they ? Well, based on what I have seen and experienced today, I definitely would not buy the Veloster Turbo. I could easily get another faster, more well equipped and fiercer looking, used cars for either slightly a little more or cheaper than the Turbo's RM 149,000 price tag. In terms of engine, I think the engine is decent because despite being only 1.6 liters, the twin-scroll turbo enables an output of 186 PS and torque figure is more than your average 2.5 liter car. I heard that the brakes were good too and it has good fuel efficiency. So, why am I not liking it ? Mainly, I just don't like the price and from what I gathered, it is under powered and something feels amiss without a manual transmission. 7 speeds is just too much for me and I am not entirely convinced with the reliability of a dual clutch setup. Thus, the verdict is a no. You can also read about the standard model that I wrote about in the past by clicking here.

Test Drive: Mazda 6, Sealed the Deal

I sneaked out one afternoon and went to a nearby Mazda showroom to look at the brand new Mazda 6. This particular showroom is a small one and I remember my previous experience here where it is difficult to get a test drive unit due to the lack of units available. I found the showroom unit and the moment I lay my eyes on it, I was mesmerized. I have seen the car on brochures and the internet but when you see it physically, it gives an entirely different feeling to it. I tried my luck, knowing that it will not be possible and asked for a test drive. The sales representative told me each unit they have there is sold but he could arrange one the next day if I could confirm about the test drive. So, I just took a brochure and left. Then, I was told that a friend of a friend owns a Mazda 6 and could arrange for me to meet and get a test drive.

I hesitate at my dad's decision to buy a large/executive/luxury sedan for my next car because these cars always give me the impression that it suits older gentleman that prefers a comfortable ride. As for me, I do not want any of those luxuries and instead, I want a powerful, road hugging, handling machine. So, finding one that fulfills my requirement is a very long shot. Having that in mind, I did not have much expectation when I went for the test drive. During the test drive, I was grinning and smiling from ear to ear as I did not expect the kind of ride the Mazda 6 gave me. In short, the test drive sealed the deal. I was set on getting one despite not testing other cars. The next day, I gave my dad the thumbs up approval for the Mazda 6 and he ordered one.

I will tell you why it sealed the deal. First of all, it is already obvious the looks inside and outside is sporty and an eye candy. First I tested the power of the Mazda 6's 2.5 L SkyActiv engine. It is a 4 cylinder engine that produces 185 hp and 250 Nm of torque. Bear in mind that I tested the 2.5 L V6 from the Lexus IS 250 and to my surprise the Mazda 6 seems faster than the Lexus. The torque can be felt when stepping on full throttle and it is responsive even at wrong gear. Next I tried its manual mode with the gear lever shifting and the paddle shift on the steering. I had bad experience with my dad's Benz' manual mode and nowadays it is a trend to have it so not many are refined enough. The Mazda 6 have nice gear ratio and the shifting is smooth for a large sedan with 6 speed.

After that, I tested the suspension setting of the Mazda 6. It is promoted to have sporty setting for a car of its class. I quickly steered left and right on a straight road and a big flyover u-turn to test its handling. You can tell there is a slight stiffness that I like but still not enough. However, considering a car in this segment to have the slight stiffness, it is better than nothing. The brakes seem to be able to stop the car at most speed. It is no 4 pot like my Celica but I guess it does its job. Overall built seems good and its spacious. A little too big in overall width and length. All of the above points made me smile like a young boy at a candy store while driving the car. Definitely, a good car. Can't wait for mine to arrive.

Test Drive: Lexus IS250, My Poison

Sad news have arrived while the Celica is getting repaired. My dad being the old fashioned type has gone against keeping a car that was involved in an accident. I too share his view but my Celica is not damage to dad point only having one absorber issue. My dad has decided to sell my precious Celica. I felt sad as the time between me and my Celica is just a short of 3 years. I feel there are more that we both could achieve together. I did not know that my sports car days would come to an end so soon. So, I have no motivation to work on the Celica anymore. The time to look for a replacement has come and once again my dad will lay down some rules in looking for a new car.

My mum thinks that a sports car is the source of all problem and thus banning all sports car includes any 4 door sports car such as the Evolution Lancer or the Impreza. My dad on the other hand bans all grey imports and used car, leaving me with not much choice. The bright side is the very high budget available but coupled with all the bans, I actually have not much car choices left. The decision would be tough. Hearing all the conditions, 1 particular car popped into my mind. One that I have eyed for quite some time. The 2005-2012 Lexus IS250. It seems perfect. Luxurious sedan with a lovely 2.5l V6 engine with just enough JDM sprit. However, the new model which looks hideous to me, just launched making me unable to buy it new even if I want to.

One day, my dad surprised me with a call and said he found an IS250 and said I am going to love it. When I reached I saw this beauty and indeed I was in love but I should not show it. I was told that the current owner did some mod here and there. Some were to my liking some were not. I loved the front lip, suspension and exhaust change and the spoiler. Not loving the huge but plain 19" rims. I could see that the car has low mileage and is well kept such as no kids, parking under roof all the time and daily wash. It even have all sort of tinting of the lights to prevent stone chips. I had to take it for a spin. On the inside I did not like that it is a local spec without the touch screen from Japan and no famous Mark Levinson sound system.  

On the test drive I like the hum of the aftermarket mufflers and low and hard ride. It kind of reminds me of my Celica. I do love the metal paddle shifters on the steering and the gear indicator on the console. Both high tech and sporty. I expected great torque from the V6 but it felt heavy maybe due to the large rims (stock is 17"). It was just a short spin and I could not test it all out like I wanted to but I could tell where the luxurious and sporty side of the car is and how both come well together. I was settle because of the mods it has saving me from all the trouble of modding myself but being an used car really concerns me. It is also very short with short wheelbase and small boot. Rear passenger would definitely suffer from legroom issue. I gotta think properly but I am really bias towards this Lexus.

Test Drive: Toyota Celica Blitz Supercharger, Unexpected Try

After months focusing on my assignments, studies and exams, I finally got some time to do what I did not have time during that period. This includes meeting up with my mechanic friend for a nice chat and taking my parts that I left there last year. When I was there, I was surprised that I saw this red beast at his place. The last time I saw this car was at a financing website because it was repossessed and my friend must have bought it. I knew the previous owner so the spec was already known but there is one thing that I am very interested in. It is how this beast drives.

Custom front bumper based on rare C-One Ver.II

Carbon Carnard 

4 pot ST205 Celica Brake with cross drilled rotors and Tein Suspension behind 18" Rim

Let's talk more about what is not observable just from looking at these photos or from the outside. The thing that is controlling the awesome, rare Blitz supercharged Celica is a standalone management, the Apexi Power FC. It is said to have great tuning capabilities and could push the 2ZZ-GE engine further to extract more power than other management systems. I had always wanted one of this for my own Celica and the fact that it is well equipped makes it more tempting for me to test it. I asked my friend for the key and took a drive. I did not have too much road to test it so I could only test the power in a straight line. 

Vortex Generator

ER34 spoiler with loud exhaust

The first thing I noticed when I got in the car is the facelift cluster that is a surprise because it is not a facelift model and the many meters that monitored many things about the engine. The clutch was light and easy to handle. As I drove the car, I realized that the brake although same with mine, does not bite well and it feels soft without much response. I was told it is because of the racing brake pads. These pads can withstand high temperature for races but requires some warming up. It does not work efficiently when cold and will feel like there is no brakes. In addition, the gear is difficult to engage especially the 2nd gear and I had difficulty doing so.

Facelift Cluster & Blitz horn button

Greddy Oil & Water Temp. meters

Greddy Boost & unknown meters

Temp. meter

For those who are not familiar, a supercharger increases the power in lower rpm region making the power curve more linear. I used the 3rd gear (high gear) at a low speed to test the power at low rpm. Usually there would be a power lag but the car pulls easily proving that the Blitz is working and does increase power but there was sadly, no sign of the famous roaring sound from the Blitz, as if broken. I was thrown into another surprise when I hit above 5k rpm. The supercharger pulls the car with high torque but at 5k rpm car suddenly pulls out of no where making me lose control over the steering. As a Celica driver, I quickly realized the sudden pull is the "lift" mechanism. It really scared me. The "lift" usually comes at 6.3k rpm on stock but the Power FC does have the ability to lower the "lift" timing.

Blitz Sonic Power Air Filter

Rare and much sort after Blitz Supercharger with Intercooler

In conclusion, it was not a very good drive. Do not get me wrong. The Blitz Supercharger works wonderfully at low rpm and the engine still has the "lift". What is not right in my mind is how the supercharger and "lift" get along at a lowered 5k rpm. The whole power band is not smooth at all making it a difficult car to drive especially as a daily drive. If I were the owner, I would get it to fine tune to make it smooth and get more power. I can handle driving a Turbo Celica and this should be an easy job but it is not.