Proton

The Proton 1.3 and 1.5 models were the first cars sold by Proton in Britain. They are basically old Mitsubishi Lancers in Malaysian clothes and offer cheap and simple motoring. There were several different trims GLS and SE to name but a few. There was also choice of hatchback (Aeroback as Proton call it)or saloon. I think the aeroback looks a little better than the saloon (but thats not saying much for the looks). Mine was originally about £9000 brand new and I bought it for £550. The original Protons had 8-valve engines but these were replaced by the more reliable 12 valve engines. By late ... more

I bought my Proton 1.3 Special (P reg, 97) 2 years ago for £600. It had about 95K miles on the clock and since then I have put on 20K miles and spent around 300 pounds on maintenance. The car starts first time every morning, so no problems there. It is mechanically pretty good, although is now starting to fall apart a bit. Protons require servicing every 6000 miles (oil change, coolant etc) which will puch the cost of servicing up. Engine : Not bad, it is a Japanese engine so should last. not very refined at the best of times, but it makes the car go forwards. I get about 30-35 MPG from mine ... more

I have had my Proton 1.5 ML hatchback for two years now, having bought it out of necessity when my Volvo packed up unexpectedly. It is by no means the most stylish car in the world, and I would say that the trim and finish does leave something to be desired. Having said this, I must say that this is the most reliable car I have ever owned, having never had a mechanical fault in the time I have owned it. The service carried out once a year does not come cheap, however for a further year's trouble free motoring it is well worth it, as apart from the usual top up of water, oil, air etc. I have ... more

I have had this for car four years,It has 117000 miles on the clock. And in all that time that I have had the car has never been serviced. I just check the oil and water once a week ( I say that if its running then leave it alone ) The only things I have had to do is two tyres, and the front disc pads. The car is parked on the drive out in all weathers and starts first time every time.It passes the mot with no problems at all. The tester were I take the car says that he hardly failes a proton. The body has no rust I have seen newer cars that have started to rust The only thing I do not like is ... more