The Two-Door Domestic Classic Car, The Proton Putra Coupe
If you’re familiar with the Proton Wira and their family of cars, the Proton Putra remains a classic desirable by tuners. Essentially, the Putra is just a coupe version of the Wira. Other than that, nothing much has changed.
However, the Proton Putra can only be had with one engine – the 1.8L, four-cylinder engine sourced from Mitsubishi making 140 PS and 103 Nm. Choose from a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic to spice up your driving style.
Upon its release, the Putra was priced from RM68,887 (roughly RM188,000 adjusted to inflation). Prices today have depreciated down to less than RM45,000. More so if you can find one in good condition.
Like old Proton cars of yore, spare parts are a pain to find; all the more make stock conditions a classic car in unicorn form.
Why a Proton Perdana Will Be a Modern Classic Car Soon
Another Proton on this list, the second-generation Proton Perdana is a luxury model produced from 2013 to 2020 that might soon be a modern classic.
Essentially, it’s a rebadged eighth-generation Honda Accord with the bells and whistles from Proton. Just like its Japanese cousin, it can be had with a 2.0 or 2.4L four-cylinder engine with a five-speed automatic.
Look out for the 2.4L variant as it has the legendary Honda-sourced K24 engine that is highly sought after by tuners. Honda’s K-series of inline-four engines are known for their reliability, huge aftermarket support, and tuning potential. There are some workshops and owners managed to crank out up to a 1000hp from that tiny engine.
Read More: Dolphins, Coffins, Sharks and Crab Hondas? Where Do They Get These Names From?
The Swedish Brick, The Volvo 240 GL
Volvo cars and trucks have a rich history in establishing Malaysia’s automotive industry back in the 60s. The Volvo 240 GL was introduced in both sedan and station wagon variants in Malaysia way back from 1984 to 1996.
How many of you remember riding this car as a child?
As a classic car, 200 series Volvos go by many names around the world – Swedish tanks, turbo bricks, you name it. The Volvo 240s are also made famous due to their forced induction nature and their presence in motorsports. By the way, did you know these cars are rear-wheel drive?
Three variants are offered to the European market – sedan, coupe, and station wagon. All three can be had with a naturally aspirated engine (NA) or a turbocharged four-to-six cylinders.
Unfortunately for the Malaysian market, we are only blessed with the sedan and station wagon variants with no turbos. They can be had with a 2.0L four-cylinder and 2.3L five-cylinder engine.
Used units can still be had for under RM20,000 in running conditions. This author strongly recommends the station wagon variant with a five-speed manual for an exotic and practical choice.
Classic Jungle Crawlers, the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (First and Second Gen)
Before suburban utility vehicles (SUVs) were seen as luxurious street cruisers, they were built as workhorses during wartime. Early first and second-generation Toyota Land Cruisers are highly underrated as a classic SUV car in Malaysia.
Underneath the powertrain lies a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a 4×4 chassis followed by a four-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic. The powerful 1KZ-TE engine churns out a whopping 130-140 PS and 287-343 Nm across both generations.
Mint condition Land Cruisers can be bought for less than RM80,000 in cash with some even built with lift-up and snorkel kits ready for the jungle. These classic cars do not need to be babied around; they’re built to be pushed to the extreme.
Too Advanced for It’s Time, the Mercedes Benz W124
The 1980s was a glorious time. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back made its theatrical debut, Nintendo’s NES gaming console soared in popularity and John Lenon was shot dead.
That era also sparked a revolution amongst car engineers to build one with no holds barred. One such instance was the Mercedes Benz W124 generation.
Very few continental can emerge as classic cars as they age. But the Mercedes Benz W124 still holds up due to how the platform was overengineered for its time.
Both the four and six-cylinder engines are still kicking around and there’s a chance you might know an uncle that still drives one.
Plenty of used units in great condition can still be bought for less than RM10,000 and they would make a great project car for restoration or customization.
Sell Your Classic Car to CARSOME
Not all old cars are worthless. One man’s trash may just be another man’s classic car. However, if you’re still adamant about selling them, CARSOME can sell them for you! All you need to do is book an inspection here and we will set up an appointment to have your car appraised and paid out in 24 hours*.
