Issue 06 | Winter 2010
PUBLIC TRANSPORT REFORM Will it really work at last?
THINGS TO DIGEST
Climate warming and Car Emissions
THE BMW X1
Ideal Compromise
FINALLY IT’S OVER F1 Past Year Review
ISSUE 6 / WINTER 2010
EDITOR’S NOTE
Fleur Balzan
PUBLISHERS b.Right new media Ltd. 19, Paris Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3361, Malta EDITOR Fleur Balzan fbalzan@b.rightnewmedia.com CONTRIBUTORS Pierre Vella Gerald Fenech Mark Attard Jan Karl Farrugia Annabel Sammut ICC GRAPHIC DESIGN Lab1977 www.lab1977.com HAIR Cut Coiffeur MAKE UP Shasha ADVERTISING & SALES Fleur Balzan (+356) 2157 6154 / (+356) 9980 5763
So here it is, the first issue of Wheelspin magazine for 2010. This is the 6th issue which I’m sure will run out just as fast as any of the previous issues. The first year for the magazine has gone by in a flash and I’m very pleased to note that readers and motoring enthusiasts alike have had only positive comments about it. The Motoring Industry has been making headlines over the past year. The recession has hit many a big name and several brands have literally been striving to keep their heads above water! Manufacturers have been investing in cleaner and greener cars to combat the ever growing environmental issues and governments worldwide have introduced incentives to both manufacturers and customers in order to help the industry whilst at the same time reducing the countries respective CO2 emissions left by vehicles. I would like to say that our country has followed suit yet this is far from being the case. The motoring industry has been in the news locally yet most times for the wrong reasons! In past issues we have written about the condition of our roads, the Transport Authority and new regulations introduced exactly a year ago, the second hand car imports as well as emission testing of reported vehicles. In this issue we continue bringing more info about present motoring matters such as the new public transport system as well as the removal of registration tax on commercial vehicles. I could also not resist writing about the little being done to reduce car emissions in Malta mainly because I believe that a lot more can be done by removing ageing cars through ‘fair priced’ incentive offers on new ‘clean’ cars. I guess the near failure of the Copenhagen Summit had a lot to do as a matter of inspiration for this article! On a more positive note we take a look at the new cars introduced in Detroit this January as well as other new cars introduced both locally and abroad. Our centre fold pull out page is also something to look out for and this features the new Peugeot 3008, a beauty to look at and a pleasure to drive! Enjoy the read!
PRE-PRESS & PRINTING Impressions Ltd., Marsa
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SUBARU LEGACY
OPEL ASTRA - ONE TO LOOK OUT FOR
Latest News
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features
test drives
snippets
Page 7
Page 28
Page 35
Page 15
Page 10
REGISTRATION TAX & COMMERCIAL VEHICLES
THE PORSCHE MONOLOGUES Part 1
NO MOUNTAIN TO0 STEEP, NO VALLEY TOO DEEP
THE BMW X1
DETROIT MOTOR SHOW
Page 11
Page 30
GLOBAL WARMING & EMISSIONS
CAR RESTORATION Part 2
Page 21 PUBLIC TRANSPORT REFORM
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Page 26 CARS TO LOOK OUT FOR THIS YEAR
regulars CENTRE PAGE PULL OUT POSTER Including Feb 10 - Apr 10 Calendar LAUNCHES The cars that recently arrived in Malta NEWS Latest from the Motoring World
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Fleur, I am writing for the first time about your magazine. Really well done for a local magazine it’s well organised and well presented both in quantity and even in quality of the magazine. The restoration corner is very interesting, I own an American car and I can assure you that it’s a very challenging job but worth it. Maybe in the future you will include stories from various owners around the island of classic/modified cars. Well done and keep up the good work.
Hi, First of all you’re doing a wonderful piece of art, because it’s not a common magazine but a piece of art! Thanks and keep it up and looking forward for the next issue. Thanks and keep it up
J. Bianchi Zurrieq
REMOVAL of tax registration on Commercial Vehicles by Gerald Fenech
C.Mercieca Pembroke
Dear Editor, I would like to take part in the Citroen celebration competition and the answer is 90 (ninety) years. Let me also take this opportunity to congratulate you on both the WHEELSPIN magazine and programme, they are very informative and credible. Keep up the good work, Charmaine Scicluna Mosta
Dear Fleur, I have been reading your magazine as of the first issue and I must say how good it is to have a local magazine of such quality and one which has original stories to read. I have collected every issue and I will anxiously wait for the issue 6 to be out too. I suggest you try publishing the magazine more often than just 4 times a year. Give us more such quality magazines please, R. Deguara, Floriana
Hello, Wanted to send a note to say how much we look forward for the magazine to come out. I love car magazines and yours compares very well with foreign ones plus we get it for free. Thank you for the interesting articles and keep it up. Joseph, Swieqi
Dear Fleur, ‘Wheelspin’ is great It’s well worth the wait Elegant, descriptive and neat You feel like in a driving seat To read from cover to cover And with each page discover The wonders that make up a car The power that makes it go far So thank you dear Fleur Hope I’ve made that quite clear. Michael Mifsud Hamrun
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ieq att. nchi, Zurr , Orietta G smond Bia e Winners: J e g a ina Fenech ck a m P o R m , ly ia Auto G Kurt Cach winners: mpetition o C n e ro Cit
After last year’s fracas in the vehicle tax registration reform with a supposed system which benefits smaller cars, it appears (at least at first hand) that the government has not learnt any lessons with its new system for commercial vehicles licenses or taxes or call it what you like. At face value, the announcement which was made with much fanfare that registration tax will be abolished on all commercial vehicles was quite a positive thing. But as usual, one has to read the fine print to see what is actually going to happen and this is what we did! So how will the new system work? Registration tax has been abolished on Euro 4 and Euro 5 commercial vehicles only thus hopefully promoting the purchasing of cleaner cars. Less than Euro 4 vehicles will have a new method of calculation of the registration tax calculated on length and power of the vehicle in question. In some cases, according to some importers with which this magazine spoke to, the tax will go up rather dramatically as the formula with which it will be calculated will actually be almost wholly dependent on weight thus creating a quandary for several owners or prospective purchasers of such vehicles.
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To put our readers in the picture, the reform states the following:
For N1 vehicles: Up to and including EURO II vehicles: A formula which takes the total weight and goes up in 300kg steps from 130 to 140 per cent x EUR 1 Up to and including EURO III vehicles: A formula which takes the total weight and goes up in 300 kg steps from a minimum of 1.3 tonnes from 110 to 120 per cent x EUR 1 EURO IV or more: A formula which takes the total weight and goes up in 300 kg steps from a minimum of 1.3 tonnes from 50 to 65 per cent x EUR 1
For N2 vehicles: Euro 2/3: A formula from 3.5 to 12 tonnes ranging from 60 to 25 percent x 75 per cent x EUR 1 Euro 4: - Nil
For N 3 vehicles: Euro 2/3: A formula ranging from 10 to 35 per cent up to 12 tonnes x 40 per cent x EUR 1 Euro 4 and over: - Nil
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Now although these may seem to be slightly complex formulas it does not take a rocket scientist to note that EUR II vehicles and less will suffer a drastic increase in circulation tax fees which will almost make them worth scrapping instead of using. It also does not take much grey matter to observe that a large proportion of the commercial vehicles currently plying our roads come from this category. Some may argue that it is a good thing that these exhaust belchers will be removed from the road but still some consultation could have been in order especially in these difficult economic times. On the plus side, commercial vehicles such as tractors and those used in enclosed areas such as ports and airports will not have to pay any registraton tax. Ambulances which are new will also not pay any registration tax whilst older ones will have a 21 per cent rate with new hearses suffering a 30 per cent registration tax rate. Going back to commercial vehicles that are already on the road, the situation gets worse if the owners don’t have a certificate of emission compliance standards when renewing the circulation tax as the system puts all vehicles manufactured before 2001 as Euro 2, those between 2001 and 2005 as Euro 3 and only those after 2006 as Euro 4. So it is amply clear that several road licences or circulation tax, call it as you please, will be drastically increased especially for those
vehicles coming from heavy duty industries such as the construction industry, the waste disposal industry and other transport sectors although the latter seems to have improved somewhat in the quality of its vehicles over the past few years. In fact sources from within the commercial vehicle ownership community told this magazine that they are at their wits end when making the calculations on how much circulation tax they will have to pay as from next year. In fact a quick look at the tables providing the values payable for commercial vehicles used as trailers for the transport of merchandise shows that a 5 axle trailer weighing over 32 tonnes will cost a whopping EUR 740 annually however only for those vehicles registered after 1st January 2010. The whole system will apply to all vehicles from 1st January 2010 where in some cases for vehicles over 32 tonnes, the circulation tax will go up to as much as EUR 1497 per year, surely a prohibitive and huge cost. New vehicles will obviously be affected as the formula is totally dependent on weight so the heavier the truck, the more circulation tax is payable. Sources from within the commercial vehicle importers told this magazine that some of their models will have to go up by a considerable margin in price as from next year when this system becomes applicable. To add to the quandary, second hand commercial vehicle importers which are EUR 2 or EUR 3
will have to face whopping cost increases to register these vehicles which will make the price go up pretty sharply when compared to the current registration tax regime. Yet again it appears that the commercial community has been kept in the dark with regards to this proposed tax reform on this type of vehicle which is only creating considerable uncertainty amongst business owners who will be facing considerable costs rises as from this year when the added cloud of an increase in water and electricity rates is to come into force. We have not seen much of a reaction from the business community either with several importers contacted telling us that they are still studying these new rates. We hope that this will not be another patchwork exercise which will eventually be covered over by some rebate system or the eventual scrapping of the system altogether as this only creates further uncertainty in what is already a highly unstable and fragile market.
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global SUBARU ADVERT
WARMING AND CAR EMISSIONS by Fleur Balzan
I had been thinking hard about this next article. Well, yes I am one that thinks a little too much and I do lose a lot of sleep simply because my mind refuses to rest! That’s me and I doubt whether I’ll ever change! Anyways, to get straight to the point, December was a month that should have left us all thinking and not about New Year resolutions! Yet, the reality is that I very much doubt how many actually bothered to have a look at the world out there and the events that have been making the news. It may not be that obvious to many but I’m actually thinking about the recent summit in Copenhagen nicknamed Hopenhagen as well as the Summit in which several leaders were gathered in Brussels. So what, you may ask, has this got to do with motoring? Well it does and that is why several delegates participating in the summit, the one in Copenhagen concerning global warming, led by example and travelled to the city in the CO2 neutral climate express train instead of
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cars, and why several brands chose to make available their new electric vehicles for use during the summit. By nature I am one that is normally very positive. The glass is always half full for me so the nickname ‘Hope’nhagen would normally appeal to me. So why is it, this time, there is a trace of anger instead of hope running through my veins? A few years back I followed a few speeches by Al Gore, then the Democrat presidential nominee and former vice president of the USA. This man had a lot to teach the world yet I’m afraid very few people actually listened. But then what’s new? Very rarely do politicians have the guts to say it how it is and even less are actually men/ women enough to take action to ‘fix’ what’s wrong no matter the consequences. This man did! Al Gore actually tried to tell us what we would expect if we continued being too selfish, as nations and in our everyday lives
but how many actually listened? Back to motoring and its effect on global warming (yes this is the topic of the argument). What is really being done by world leaders and, in our case, what is being done by our leaders to combat the situation? Only recently we have started recycling items we use at home. We have heard about several new schemes to promote alternative energy in households. We are being told that research is being done for the provision of wind farms and solar energy in public buildings, but is this enough? What about the reduction of emissions from the use of vehicles? What about schemes and incentives to have cleaner cars on our roads? The motoring industry in Malta provides the government, be it which it is, with a hefty sum from high registrations and road circulation taxes. We pay so much more than our European counterparts when it comes to buying vehicles, so most are forced to hang
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on to their car for several years beyond its actual ‘shelf life’. The result is that we have a nation covered from head to toe, with cars that should have been scrapped years ago. I cannot blame the owners really, they have no choice! Sure regulations have changed slightly since early 2009 but, in my opinion the introduction of the 2009 guidelines were: 1. Way too late after practically ruining an industry 2. Decisions taken by people who are either ignorant on the subject or who have an alternate agenda. 3. The governments’ way of laughing straight in our face! Instead of creating some incentive to remove old, high emission cars and making new, smaller, cleaner cars cheap therefore encouraging the use of small ‘clean’ vehicles, the registration system that commenced in 2009 was nothing short of a farce. This system simply encouraged the purchasing and importation of older, used vehicles for the same price of new cars when bought in other European countries. But then what’s new? The governments in Malta, again I say whoever they may be, want to leave us as a country of hand me downs! Does this make me angry? You bet it does!
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Reducing emissions should be the main factor to consider when looking at the motoring situation in Malta. Just increasing circulation tax on older cars is not the solution to solving an ever growing problem. If someone cannot afford to buy a new car, even a small one for that matter, then they have no choice other than to keep their old car or to purchase a second hand vehicle. And in a country were public transport is a mess, people really have no other option. Maybe a scrapping scheme would have cost the country too much, but wouldn’t it have been more ‘environment friendly’ to make small, clean cars worth buying? Wouldn’t the government have achieved more from the quantity sales of small vehicles than it does from the increase in circulation tax from older cars? And even if the return from car sales would have been less than in previous year, wouldn’t the money have gone towards the prevention of a problem which is otherwise growing into a nightmare? I am no economist but even if I do not have my maths right, does the government have a right to charge more for something simply because he makes it legal to do so? I will not be the one to answer this question! So climate change is on the Agenda, a couple of decades too late and the world leaders are offering ‘promises’ of how to reduce
emissions obviously without reducing their Country’s income! The Maltese government is offering approximately 800,000 euros towards climate change, funds which were probably collected from the registration tax we were forced to pay on our elsewhere much cheaper vehicles! How much more will we be paying in future years, supposedly to solve the problems we are ourselves creating NOW by allowing older cars on our roads? What happened to prevention rather than cure?
for wet weather and cause chaos, water levels increase by several metres so practically ‘drowning’ entire cities and countries. But then, maybe, yes maybe, our country will not have anything to worry about in the future. At the rate the world is going, it won’t be long until a country like ours is under water. Maybe we will not be alive and the problem will be left to the people governing then! Ye, that’s right! So what was it Nostradamus had once said? “There was once an island called Melita”…… and it is being left for divers to enjoy, and wow how many ancient cars were left to sit beneath the ocean!
Climate change is costing governments worldwide more today than it would have way back had decisions been taken sooner. And it will cost them more in the coming years simply because certain decisions are not taken today. Yet the world continues to have the wrong priorities. Ice cubes the size of an island continue to float in warmer waters, floods invade countries normally equipped
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www.citroen.com.mt
VISIODRIVE
the new
BMW X1 one hell of a compromise! by Fleur Balzan
NEW CITROËN C3 ELEGANT AND BOLD - AND THEN THERE’S THE AMAZING PANORAMIC ZENITH WINDSCREEN*. Starting from €13,995 Standard features include: Air Conditioning, ABS, Adjustable Power Steering, Front Power Windows, Height Adjustable Driver’s Seat, Remote Central Locking, Radio CD/MP3 with Steering Controls, Front/Side Air Bags. *Standard on level n2.
Autumn brings with it a number of new vehicles being presented by different brands especially in Europe and this year was no exception. With smaller and cleaner cars being on practically every brands agenda, it is no surprise that many are looking to present a good compromise between performance and fun vehicles which are smaller and cleaner. The popularity of MPV’s and SUV’s had been growing steadily in the last years however, with larger cars becoming more costly, many people were considering looking at other alternatives. Although we have known for a while that larger cars left behind higher emissions and therefore had a more negative effect on the atmosphere and climate warming, I believe it is only since the running cost of these cars has been effecting our pockets that people have started looking to compromise for smaller vehicles. As sad as it may be, the environment does not interest us as much as our pockets do!
New C3 1.1i 8V 61hp - Fuel Consumption: Economy Litres/100km (mpg) Urban Cycle 7.9 [35.8], Extra Urban 4.9 [57.6], Combined 5.9 [47.9]. CO2 Emissions 137 (g/km). New C3 1.4i 8V 75hp - Fuel Consumption: Economy Litres/100km (mpg) Urban Cycle 8.0 [35.3], Extra Urban 5.0 [56.5], Combined 6.1 [46.3]. CO2 Emissions 140 (g/km). New C3 1.4HDi 8V 70hp - Fuel Consumption: Economy Litres/100km (mpg) Urban Cycle 5.3 [53.3], Extra Urban 3.8 [74.3], Combined 4.3 [65.7]. CO2 Emissions 113 (g/km). New C3 1.6HDi 16V 90hp - Fuel Consumption: Economy Litres/100km (mpg) Urban Cycle 5.3 [53.3], Extra Urban 3.7 [76.3], Combined 4.3 [65.7]. CO2 Emissions 99 (g/km).
Different brands have chosen to invest in smaller vehicles which are environmentally friendly yet many are those companies that have forgotten a very important issue. This is that, there are many people who find it difficult to drive ‘small’ cars and would not, no matter the cost, consider a small car as an alternative to their roomy 4x4.
MUSCATS MOTORS, Rue D’Argens, Gzira GZR 1368 Tel: 2326 4583/4/5 Fax: 2326 4592 E-mail: info@mml.mizzi.com.mt Mizzi Motors Showroom, Mgarr Road, Għajnsielem, GSM 9016 Tel: 2155 6942 E-mail: joecurmi@mizzimotors.com.mt 14
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Well, I’m glad to say that some brands have realised that to survive in this competitive world, one must create new ‘products’ to satisfy every client requirement. In my opinion, BMW have managed to do just that with their new model, the BMW X1. BMW have for a while been introducing smaller cars which, in reality, are not that small after all! The engines may be smaller but the power is there. The space may be less, but more than adequate for any long ride with a family in tow, whilst the emissions are definitely less even on the larger cars when compared to previous editions of the same models and when compared to similar segments of competing brands! The BMW X1 may be the younger sister to the X3, the X5 and the X6 yet one only has to drive it to realise that it is a very good alternative to these larger cars and definitely suits the same purpose of these larger vehicles, especially in a small country like ours. I was lucky enough to be present for the international Media launch held in Leipzig in October and I must say that this car is a pleasure to drive. Let us have a look at what this car is all about! The BMW X1 is a ‘small’ SUV or urban crossover which comes as either rear wheel drive or in all wheel drive. The choice of models is between the sClass (rear wheel drive) and the xClass (all wheel drive) models with the smallest engine in the sClass leaving behind only 136g/km of CO2 emissions. With this vehicle BMW have truly given the driver a choice of car depending on the individual needs. If one just wants an SUV simply for size and convenience without the wish of taking the car off road or without the need of the All Wheel Drive system, then this car is available offering the same or better running costs then several other smaller cars on the market at present. If, on the other hand, one wishes to have the space and also the drive of a proper All Wheel Drive then the choice is there with the xDrive models with a choice of engines that are still ‘cleaner’ when compared to other models which fall under the compact SUV category. The model I drove in Leipzig is the xDrive 23d, a diesel engine model which offers 204bhp and a maximum speed of 205km/hr. With a 1995cc engine, this car weighs 1,670kgs and can load up to 550kgs. The car is 4454mm long, 1798mm wide and 1545mm in height. Although when compared to other SUV’s, the size is smaller, this in no way affects the space within the vehicle itself. In fact the car is quite spacious inside both for driver, front
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passenger and back passengers whilst the boot space is adequate for carrying sports equipment or family related ‘outing’ gear. And what about the drive you may ask? Well soon as I got into the car I knew I was going to have a great time driving. The weather was cold yet the sun was out, the day was clear and the roads, well the roads were all that every driver would wish for! Smooth and appropriate to try out any car to the limit! The car I drove had automatic transmission which, as many may know, is not my favourite when trying out a new model vehicle. However, when driving on international roads, this fact did prove to be very convenient and enjoyable. The acceleration of the car is excellent. The automatic gear may create a split second delay yet this particular engine reaches from 0 to 100km in just 7.2 seconds and once it gets started, there’s no stopping it. The speed limit of 205km/hr was reached without difficulty on the German highways and never once did the car feel unstable or unsteady at such speeds. On the contrary, the car was agile yet sturdy taking curves easily with great traction control and optimal suspension. We tried the car in all its glory on different roads, curved country roads and also on field roads to try out the all wheel drive system and all the while the car was sturdy as well as sporty with the driver always feeling in control of the vehicle. The raised seating position gives a good overview of the road ahead whilst it also provides easy use of the controls on the dashboard which, besides being clean and elegant, in this case also featured a navigation system in an 8.8 wide screen which also works with voice control. The interior design is simple with clear lines yet these reflect the quality material one expects from a brand like BMW.
The exterior design of the car is also quite attractive. The car is lower than any other SUV, a compact X model with a size that suits the urban crossover title! It has an attractive high waistline which ends in a curve towards the tail lights and has another curve line further down which rises over the wheel arches and makes it utterly attractive. The bonnet is long with distinctive curves and the front features an upright double grill immediately recognisable as BMW. The headlights, 3 on each side, are also very striking whilst the L shaped tail lights seem to widen the rear end of the vehicle.
BMW EfficientDynamics
www.bmw.com.mt
Sheer Driving Pleasure
The BMW X1 xDrive 23d features the world’s first four cylinder diesel engine with variable twin turbo. In this case two turbo chargers, which are different in size, are positioned sequentially to deliver power right across the rev range. The small turbo charger works on it’s own at low revs to provide instant throttle response. Other X1 models such as the sDrive 18d, the xDrive 18d, the sDrive 20d and the xDrive 20d have a third generation common rail power injection which assures great performance, up to 177bhp, whilst at the same time offering unbeatable fuel consumption which is as low as 5.2 litres per 100km. Lower consumption and therefore less emissions are also due to the BMW Efficient Dynamics which, on the manual models also include the start stop function, a first for X models. Our test drive in Leipzig passed in a jiffy yet lucky for you readers, the car has since arrived in Malta and can be tried by all those interested, although on roads less alluring than those we had in Germany. None the less, I think this compact car from the BMW X family will be a welcome option for local car users looking to compromise between an SUV and a normal family car.
JOY DEFINES THE FUTURE. Joy is ahead of its time. Meet the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics, the most dynamic expression of future efficiency. With 262 kW/356 hp, this concept car has the power of a high-performance sports car and pulses from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. With the same breathtaking speed it achieves new benchmarks in efficiency, consuming just 3.76 l/100 km* at 99 g CO2. Joy lives in the present but is already defining tomorrow’s driving. The story of Joy continues at www.bmw.com/vision or visit the BMW Showroom at MUSCATS MOTORS now!
JOY IS EFFICIENT DYNAMICS.
* According to the ECE combined driving cycle.
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launches Another hit from Peugeot Peugeot 3008! Well this is a car which is sure to be a hit locally.
A member of the Audi A5 family Another car from Audi arrives in Malta, a car from the A5 family, the Audi Sportback. This model is 36mm lower than the sedan version and has a longer wheelbase. Initially the car is being introduced in 3 petrol engines offering from 180 to 265bhp and 3 diesel engines offering 170 to 240bhp yet 2010 should also see the introduction of another 3 engines.
The Peugeot 3008 recently arrived in Malta and the local media launch was held at the Michael Attard Ltd. showroom in Blata L-Bajda. The 3008 is a crossover vehicle, meaning it is neither just a 5 door coupe nor an SUV. It may be called a compact SUV as it does have a lot of the features usually found in such a vehicle such as the high positioned seats, the space, as well as the sporty look. The insides of the car are quite elegant and seem similar to some extent to an aeroplane cock pit. The Peugeot 3008 comes in a choice of petrol and diesel engines with the smallest engine leaving behind just 130g/km of CO2 emissions.
Two wheels to look out for Malta recently saw the arrival of four new motorcycles from the make Aprilia. These motorcycles launched at the showroom in Valley Road, Msida include the dashing Aprilia RSV4R with a 16v 999.6cc engine producing 180bhp. The other motorcycles are the Aprilia Dorsoduro 750 with a 749.9cc engine and producing 95bhp, the Aprilia SXV 550 Motard with a 549cc engine producing 70bhp and the Aprilia RS125 with the small 124.8cc engine producing just 33bhp. Different sized motorcycles from well known brand Aprilia finally in Malta.
Gran Turismo from BMW The BMW 5 series Gran Turismo finally arrives in Malta. This popular vehicle offers the luxury of a saloon vehicle and the space, comfort and versatility of a sporty large vehicle. The car is elegant in design and has a coupe like rear end. The BMW 5 series comes in a choice of three engines the BMW530d, the BMW 535i and the BMW 550i with CO2 emissions ranging from 173g/km to 265g/km and with top speeds reaching 250km/hr.
London Taxi arrives in Malta Think about London and think about the London Taxi. Well now this kind of Taxi is also available in Malta and hopefully we will be seeing some on our roads soon. Muscats Motors have introduced these vehicles, known as TX4, locally and representatives from the London Taxi Company were present for the local launch. The TX4 is Euro 4 compliant and is also accessible to people with wheelchairs.
Ideally X1
We’ve seen it at the media Launch in Leipzig and now the car has finally arrived in Malta. This is the BMW X1, a compact SUV most suitable for a country like Malta.
3 new cars from Kia Recently Kia (Malta) Ltd launched some new vehicles locally. These were the New Kia Soul, the facelift of the Kia C’eed 5 door and the Kia C’eed Sport Wagon. The launch was held at the Portomaso tower at the Hilton Malta and the cars were unveiled in the presence of members of the media. The Kia Soul, long awaited locally, is a compact 4x4 with a very particular look to it. It is a road car with features of an offroad and comes in a choice of petrol and diesel engines offering between 115 and 128bhp and with CO2 emissions as low as 137g/km depending on the choice of gearbox. The New Kia C’eed and C’eed SW are built on the success of the previous models. The cars feature a new ‘face’ with touches of crome and elegant lines which make them extremely attractive whilst the material used on the inside of the vehicles have also been upgraded. What remains the same is the 7 year guarantee offered by Kia, something which continues to add on the attraction of the cars.
The BMW X1 comes with a choice of both petrol and diesel engines and in both rear wheel drive and all wheel drive. The smallest engine of the sDrive, meaning the rear wheel drive produces as little as 136g/km of CO2 emissions making this car an ideal choice in more ways than one! 18
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REFORM by Gerald Fenech
NISSAN CITY CARS
WELCOME TO SIMPLICITY Nissan Motor Sales Ltd.
1 Antonio Bosio Street Msida MSD1341 Tel: 2133 4196, Mob: 9940 7554, 9946 3750 Email: info-nissan@nissan.com.mt
Mizzi Motors Ltd.
Mgarr Road, Ghajnsielem GSM 9016 Tel: 2155 6942, Mobile: 9945 5699 Email: joecurmi@mizzimotors.com.mt
will it really work at last? October of 2009 finally saw the much awaited reform of the public transport sector being announced, a reform which will supposedly bring about a marked improvement in this sector which has consistently been blighted by unreliability and a generally abysmal quality of service. The reform is being made hand in hand by government with an operator who still has not been chosen but amongst the bidders there are several consortia formed between foreign and local companies. The operator is responsible for re-investment, public information and an efficient ticketing service whilst government will promote priority to public transport and provide the infrastructure which includes upgrading the road network as well as new termini and a substantial addition to the park and ride scheme. Government is also guaranteeing the first year of operation to the tune of EUR 0.47c per ticket to cover the risk of transition whilst from the second year, all risk is on the operator with government also fixing all ticket rates. The bidders will claim an operating subsidy from the government and will eventually offer a fee to government when the service becomes profitable. The fare structure proposed is rather complex but is basically a 2 hour ticket for all services priced at EUR 1.30 whilst a day ticket can be purchased for EUR 2.10. Considerable savings are made if one purchases 7, 30 or 90 day tickets which are priced at EUR 14, EUR 30 and EUR 85 respectively. There are also special rates for students, children and old age pensioners where the prices go down even further.
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Other interesting combinations include Feeder and Gozo Services which come at rates of EUR 0.65c for a 2 hour ticket and EUR 1.10 for a Day Ticket. According to a survey carried out by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Communications, the average decrease in price for a three month ticket will be around EUR 0.02c per day whilst if you buy a 1 month ticket, the increase will be around 4c. If one purchases a ticket which is discounted before 8am the average increase is 2c a day which in all fairness is quite negligible. Pensioners actually will benefit from a decrease of 7c daily whilst students will see a decrease of 3c per day if they purchase the three month ticket or no change if they go for the 1 month option. Occasional adult travelers will have the opportunity to use the service for more than one trip if they purchase the day ticket for EUR 2.10. The survey also compares usage of public transport to the price of a car both for the initial purchase as well as its maintenance. Total costs of differently graded cars varied from EUR 3021 to EUR 5543 per year which means a daily cost ranging from EUR 8.27 to EUR 15.18 per day for 365 day usage. At face value, the reform looks to be quite a good thing as the transport network which
has been published shows an intricate system with the concept of the Valletta terminus being eliminated. However much will depend on the actual implementation of the reform and if priority will be given to public transport vehicles when in traffic and on the road. The new system will obviously introduce new routes, some of which are definitely much needed. The new routes are substantially different from what one is used to today. For a start the bus terminus as a central focal point will no longer be Valletta as there are several termini being considered as hubs such as Sliema and Bugibba. The number of buses will be halved and hubs in different localities will take the bulk of buses away from the disorderly Valletta bus terminus, according to proposals to overhaul the public transport system. The idea is that not all buses will start and end up in Valletta but will be shared among nodes to be set up in Paola, Marsa, Rabat, Mosta Technopark, Birkirkara, Mater Dei Hospital, Luxol and Bugibba. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Communications, in order to achieve the proposed network the bus operations will
work with regular frequency throughout the islands between 6am and 11pm seven days a week. Night services will operate all week between 11pm and 6am. Bus drivers will work eight-hour shifts including breaks and real-time information will be available for commuters. The government is proposing that the present 508 buses be reduced to 270, with buses of various sizes and engines that are at least Euro III compliant, as well as electric and low-floor buses. This has caused some consternation among bus owners who are feeling that their livelihood is being threatened as several of the buses currently operating fail to meet Euro III standards. Public transport has seen a considerable decline in the past years as more and more people bought cars which in turn created huge traffic problems and similar parking issues. The patronage of 65 million passenger trips a year in the 1970s dropped to 32 million in recent years. Moreover, the present system did not take into account the urban development that had taken place over the years.
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The proposed network is divided into three types of services. The fast Crossline services
www.honda.com.mt ASSOCIATED MOTORS CO. LTD. Mriehel By- Pass, Mriehel. Tel: 22 781222 Fax: 21 480150. SB AUTOCENTRE - Mgarr Road, Xewkija, Gozo. Tel: 21 556773 e-mail: honda@zamgroup.com would operate at a frequency of 30 minutes. These connect with Mainline services which would operate at a frequency of between 10 and 30 minutes. At regional and local levels the Feederlines would serve villages and neighbouring areas at a frequency of 30 minutes. A major difference in the operation would be
photo: alexandra pace / lollipopstock.com
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that the buses will operate 75% of their time as compared to the current 25% usage. This will mean that buses will spend less time idle on a termini and more time carrying passengers to their destination.
a viable substitute to personal car usage for one and all. At least in certain locations which have otherwise become too traffic congested.
That’s the new system explained. It may take sometime getting used too once it’s implemented but let’s hope that it will be
photo: alexandra pace / lollipopstock.com
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Toyota unveils their new compact Yaris-sized hybrid compact by the name of Toyota FT-CH. The new Concept Hyundai Blue-Will Plug in Hybrid, a car featuring a panoramic glass roof with solar cells for recharging batteries.
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CARS Like any other year, 2010 will see the introduction of several new vehicles in the European Market as well as in the International Market. As usual the Wheelspin team continues to be on the look out for new models introduced by different brands, however which are the cars which will, this year reach our shores? Well, most of the cars being introduced in Malta this year may have already been launched in other markets weeks or months ago so let us have a look at the cars we expect to have a positive impact in the local market.
to look out for.
catcher and without a doubt will attract the young and young at heart! Sporty, vigorous and colourful are just three words that one can use to explain this vehicle and we just can’t wait to see it on our roads. Citroen will also be presenting the new Citroen C3. The previous model was extremely popular in recent years and, although different to the DS3, it will also attract young drivers, especially those with a family.
Opel may have been going through an undecided period over the last year but has
BMW will be introducing more vehicles this year too. The BMW X3 and the BMW 5 Series are also expected locally this year and for sure many simply can’t wait to get a glimpse of these popular, higher segment
this affected the production of their vehicles? It doesn’t seem so! With the introduction of the Opel Insignia, Car of the Year 2009, the company proved that it can continue to design beautiful vehicles that offer strong competition to other cars in the same segment. It has done so again with their new model, the New Opel Astra.
models. Yet one of the most awaited from the BMW group will definitely be the new MINI Crossover. With Mini vehicles growing ever the more popular in Malta, this new crossover is almost certainly going to be another hit as more people look out for small, economically and environmentally friendly cars which can still offer the oomph in driving.
Other vehicles also expected to arrive in Malta in 2010 are the Kia Venga, a small attractive vehicle built on the Kia 3 Concept presented in Geneva last year, the Fiat Punto Evo and hopefully also the Fiat 500C, a small convertible vehicle which, for an island like ours, is sure to be the most convenient open top car ever.
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The sixth generation Opel Astra was first introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show last September. It is a car that has been influenced a lot by the Insignia and has evolved beautifully from previous generation models. The design is attractive to say the least, sporty yet with a characteristic style which will certainly have eyes turning to look at it. It comes with a new set of engines including a 1.4 litre and a 1.6 litre turbocharged petrol engines and will certainly be one of the cars to attract several local drivers to it. The Chevrolet Spark is another vehicles expected in Malta early this year. This is a small city car which will surely ‘sparkle’ on our roads. The Spark is to replace the Chevrolet Matiz yet although these two vehicles are very similar in size, the Spark has a more ‘fresh’ design with swooping lines and stylish headlights. The Spark has also achieved a four star safety rating from the European New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP) achieving 69 out of the 100 points. The car is expected in a 1.0 litre and a 1.2 litre petrol engine. One Car which will surely have a warm welcome in Malta is the Citroen DS3. This ‘lively’ number will definitely be an eye
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the
monologues Rants from Stuttgart and beyond - Part 1 by Jan Karl Farrugia Porsche Panamera awarded the Golden Steering Wheel on the 3rd November 2009 The Panamera has been awarded the Golden Steering Wheel as the Best New Car of the Year in the Luxury Performance Class. Porsche’s Gran Turismo convinced the 50-man jury made up of racing drivers, engineers, journalists and celebrities among others. Michael Macht, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, received the trophy. Through the year 2010 with Porsche Stuttgart will once again be offering a wide range of calendars for 2010. There is a choice of three wall calendars and an appointments diary, which will give plenty of pleasure far beyond the year 2010. Available online from Driver’s Selection at porsche.com/shop New range of Lightweight Components from Tequipment A new range of goodies has just been launched for retrofitting motorsport accessories on all 987s and 997s particularly the GT3 and GT3RS, although most can be retrofitted on the less track-oriented Porsches. Using these special components, the enthusiast is able to further customise the exterior of his car with deliciously weight-optimising materials such as titanium and carbon fibre as used in motorsport. These include a new double tailpipe made of titanium, a solid carbon fibre
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ram air scoop for the rear lid and solid carbon fibre rear-view mirrors. Gemballa’s latest toys for the Cayenne The latest novelty from the Porsche-onsteroids tuner Gemballa is the GT550 Aero 3 package for the Cayenne Turbo. The Gemballa GT550 Aero 3 Cayenne Turbo package includes a new aerodynamics kit, a new front bonnet, new rear view mirrors with indicators and a logo kit. The GT550 Aero 3 comes with an electric lowering kit, 22 inch wheels, a complete interior makeover and SPC front seats. It delivers 550bhp via a modified exhaust system. The 911 Sport Classic for 250 very fortunate enthusiasts The 911 DNA has been refined a step further with what must be the most supreme standard of class and style. Porsche is bringing back the tradition of old school exclusive small series built in very small numbers with production of the 2010 911 Sport Classic, limited to just 250 cars. The unique character of this very special 911 comes out at very first sight from the newly developed double-dome roof; the wider rear body increased by 44mm combined with the wider track on the rear axle; the striking SportDesign front apron with its unique spoiler lip; the legendary rear fixed ducktail spoiler reminiscent of the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7 and the eye-wateringly gorgeous custom-made fuchs-evocative
19” black wheels with polished outer rim. Power comes from Porsche’s 3.8-litre flat six increased through the introduction of a newly developed resonance intake manifold with six vacuum-controlled switching flaps by 23bhp to 408bhp. TECHART programme for the 2010 generation Boxster & Cayman Leonberg’s TECHART Automobil GmbH has unveiled its new 2010 individualization options for the latest Boxster and Cayman models. Features include two different aerokits; daytime running lights; lowering sport springs as well as a full carbon fibre interior package. Additional accessories such as aluminium sport pedals and a fat 3-spoked sport steering wheel complete the styling potential. Their “automotive orchestrations” (as they call them) may be viewed here http:// tiny.cc/YQXoy
generations dream of speed, open roads and rebellious sentiments. Equipped with the new paddle shift PDK gearbox and the Sports Chrono Package, the Spyder, aided by Launch Control, will get to 60mph in a sensational 4.8 seconds and keep rocketing all the way to 166mph. Fuel economy is equally impressive, averaging 30.4 mpg, making this one of the most usable sports cars on the market, bar the make-shift ragtop which is its only impractical attribute. The Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-litre six-
cylinder with Direct Fuel Injection upfront of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 bhp, 10 bhp more than in the Boxster S. Market introduction of the new Porsche Boxster Spyder will start worldwide in February 2010. Porsche Club Malta going from strength to strength The Porsche Club Malta is growing in ranks regularly, making the events it is organising highly successful with regards to both participation and oomph factor.
Malta has been blessed with a number of events organised by the Club over the past few months, ranging from ‘coffee and chat’ style gatherings to static displays and even overland trips, which always serve as an eye candy display of Stuttgart technology. Follow these rants for future updates and events. Any fellow Porsche owners wishing to join the club can request to join the club through the Porsche Club Malta page on Facebook.
The Boxster Spyder hits town Weighing just 1,275 kg at the scales, the Boxster Spyder is the lightest model throughout the entire range of Porsche cars. This new version of the ever-popular Boxster is described by the Stuttgart marketing chaps as “the true, purist form of the Porsche sports car – light, powerful, consistently open, and very efficient”. The idea behind it was naturally to evoke the James Dean ill-famed ‘lil Bastard of the 1950s, which made so many
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A SECOND CHANCE - Chapter 2
RESTORING A CLASSIC CAR by Mark Attard
In the last issue we started giving you hints of what to look for when choosing to buy a car for restoration. In this issue we continue giving you details of what to look out for and how to go about restoring a car to finally achieve the result you desire. Wherever they go, vintage cars are proudly displayed by their respective owners and admired by many, old and young alike. There is a double sense of pride for the collectors of older cars that have virtually brought back to life an otherwise old vehicle and performed the restoration themselves. In fact, a great deal of satisfaction also lies in the process, and passion for most, of stripping down the ageing marks and restoring the acquired project car to its original showroom glory. Classic vehicle restoration and simple rebuilding are two very different missions. When you just rebuild a car, alterations and adapted, relatively modern parts are usually deployed for a speedy and cheap execution, but you restore it only if you get as much authenticity into the automobile as possible, right down to the tyre thread! We all know that “pimping” a car is very popular nowadays but a restored car just takes us back in time and reveals to us how its respective drivers and passengers had to travel in it without availing 36
themselves of most of the innovations and comfort, evident in present cars. Automobile restoration process involves not just the visible parts of the car, but also the mechanical system components that have to be checked and restored to their original service condition. Before starting a restoration project, one should acquire as much knowledge as possible by investing in relevant books and reading articles, and why not, get inspirational pictures and videos from the net and dream about his/her finished job. A good resto always starts with the procedure of a careful and orderly disassembly of the entire car. Then thorough cleaning of every component and either replacing or repairing the original parts and finally painting and reassembly of the vehicle. Mastering of the Mechanical and body shop techniques is important but not essential. You can always get professional help on any item to be restored, especially painting, which cannot really be done at home, at least not legally without the appropriate gear and equipment which costs a real lot. Another important restoration success feature is the interior. Should you be lucky enough to purchase a project car with an interior which could be easily cleaned and repaired and just
looks fine without replacement, then you are just… lucky or you already paid enough for it! Otherwise you have to source out some replacement material, and work skill to match that done in the originating era. More to come on this subject in the next issue of this Mag! If you are bitten by the “love for restoration” bug, then you do not want to see vintage vehicles put to rest in a junk yard. This is an opportunity to give them a new life. One would have to sacrifice, time, space for work and for storage and money to buy parts and materials although this might drain up a good chunk of his/her savings.
Restoring vintage cars is an art form unto itself. Either if you plan to do this as a weekend project or a full time job, it is well worth it. There is nothing more rewarding like reviving up the car you love. Feedback and comments on classic car restoration are more than welcome and could be sent to mattard@b.rightnewmedia.com
There is another possibility for those who collect automobiles and do not have the time or inclination to work on the projects. They often send their cars to companies or individuals specializing in vintage car restoration. These businesses can generally restore an automobile for them for a considerable amount of money and a very unsure target date. But if you do want to do it yourself, once you have successfully completed one project, you may find that you want to have another go at it again and again. It is not unusual for people who restore automobiles to continue with this hobby throughout their lifetime. Some people even manage to yield quite a profit out of such an activity. 37
before the drive. On the 21st of November, The Badger Karting premises hosted an Island Car Club event that involved no driving whatsoever. On this occasion however, the ICC saw the introduction of a tailor made 1st Aid Course, a course which was received well by a good number of drivers & committee members.
FINALLY ... it’s OVER
A qualified professional instructor in the trade started out by explaining the basics of 1st aid with particular attention being given to car accidents and motorsport related scenarios given the nature of our sport.
text & photos by Pierre Vella
Of particular interest was the procedure on how to approach a person involved in a car crash, the removal of a crash helmet and creating a makeshift stretcher from a fire blanket, all of which can be applied to real life situations and not just during motor sport events. Fire fighting was also covered as well as CPR where the drivers, with some forced persuasion, helped the instructor with a few demonstrations carried out on a very realistic dummy. A sitting position with back to the wall for persons suffering with chest pain (possible heart attack or stroke) was also new. Instructions were given on why not to move a person and on the right way to make a person comfortable until professional help arrives. After a small break with refreshments a Q&A session commenced. This was appreciated by the instructor for the particular interest and attention of all present which shows that these type of courses should be held regularly from time to time. Towards the end of the day, the instructor shared some of his experiences and a few stories from his colleagues which made all present aware of the dangers and damage a person with good intentions but no know how in 1st Aid could do when faced with a critical situation. It is wise to mention that in certain cases, persons involved in an accident were eventually paralyzed when being pulled out of a car by untrained persons, This goes to prove that one must not always be too keen to help
Many were those within the F1 circus that were relieved that this turbulent year was done and over with. Few were those who knew about what the F1 scene had in store when the lights in Abu Dhabi were being switched off. The 2009 season has definitely triumphed on those that were well prepared and interpreted the 2009 rules well. As is customary prior to the beginning of the F1 season, I organize locally the F1 Forum and this year’s was exceptional having had over Andrew Alessi, (Maltese parents), head design of Red Bull F1 team who clearly explained that there will be two categories of racers, the ones that have understood the rules well and the failures.
who towards the closing laps crashed with Robert Kubica to promote Rubins Barrichello to second place. This was a dream for the new BRAWN GP team with a first double.
This was very true as we saw a team that this time last year was threading its path to oblivion. However a twitch of luck and a new team called BRAWN GP was on the grid in Melbourne for the inaugural Grand Prix. The team had just bought their proper clothing just a week before. A white F1 car draped sponsor less and hoping that they will have enough funds to make it back to Europe after the weekend.
On arrival in Europe after three exciting races, the major teams were in earnest trying to get the BRAWN diffuser onto their cars, however this was not something that could be fixed overnight. Another strong surprise competitor was Red Bull, with Adrian Newey showing off a new rear concept of suspension layout that was over twenty years old. However the Red Bull car was much more difficult to have a double diffuser due to its structural rear layout. It still was a force to reckon. After the first nine races it was clear that the battle was between these two teams. Only Rubins Barrichello, team mate of Jenson Button had not taken a win but both Red Bull drivers had
Then, an astonishing qualifying and an incredible race with Jenson Button heading for the team’s maiden win in the team’s maiden race; Following were Sebastian Vettel
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Everyone thought that this might be just a one off but Jenson Button continued to dominate for the first six races. The normal top teams were struggling big time, the list seems to have been reversed with the small teams demolishing the likes of Ferrari, McLaren & BMW. The lie scandal from McLaren and the double diffuser caused a stir. Top teams were pointing fingers towards Ross Brawn about the way he interpreted the rules and created a stunning advantage on the rest of the pact.
taken three wins between them with maiden victories for both the Red Bull team in China and Mark Webber’s in Germany. Up to race eight the third step of the podium was widely shared by both Toyota drivers Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli together with two world champions by the names of Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Raikkonen. After Germany, the ritual of the first few races was shattered, the tragic events of Felipe Massa, an unfortunate and unasked situation, thankfully resulting in a positive way. Lewis Hamilton rose to the occasion and drove an excellent drive to take the win showing that McLaren were out of the doldrums before Ferrari and BMW. However the situation at the time was still focussed on Felipe Massa and the concern of the accident. After Hungary, it was Rubins Barrichello to put up a serious challenge for the championship with two wins in Valencia and Monza producing some stunting drives arguing well towards the championship run. The Belgian Grand Prix brought back momentarily, in the race classification, Kimi Raikkonen who finding a competitive car and being in the mood to race, drove a stunning race. But the hero of the day was Giancarlo Fisichella who attained an excellent pole position and a well deserved second place
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for Force India. It was all an equivalent to winning the championship for the Indian owned team.
Leaving Europe, heading for Singapore for the second night race, this was my third GP appointment for 2009, having experienced the thrill attending the first ever night race just twelve months earlier, I just had to return and experience the unique atmosphere of Singapore. Three drivers were in the running for the championship. The only difference was that both Vettel and Barrichello had to win whilst Button had only to place. Lewis Hamilton did the honours in Singapore taking the second night race helping out Button in his quest for the championship run. Off track, things were heating up. Renault were shattered when it was disclosed that a year earlier Nelson Piquet had deliberately crashed his car to help out Fernando Alonso win the race. The FIA presidency run was in full swing with both Ari Vantanen and Jean Todt making their presence felt at each Grand Prix. The Japanese Grand Prix was a mastermind race for Sebastian Vettel, with Jarno Trulli taking the best ever result for Toyota on home ground. Little did we know that the Japanese team would be the second Japanese F1 team to exit the championship a few weeks later. Brazil was all hyped up for Rubins Barrichello who posed a serious threat to fellow team mate Jenson Button. The Brazilian claimed pole, but unfortunately he was hampered by bad luck plus a late puncture which relegated the Brazilian to eighth place. Fellow driver Jenson Button was on a charge, silencing critics by producing an incredible race with countless overtaking. The chequered flag came down crowning the Brit the 2009 world champion. Mark Webber was the winner in Brazil, with Pole Robert Kubica and Lewis Hamilton taking third spot on the podium, second time in succession showing that the Vodafone McLaren team was already advanced for their quest of 2010. The final race of the 2009 F1 season was staged in the magnificent Abu Dhabi Yas Marina. A spectacular sight where money was abundant with all the luxury available, yet the track was just a track, nothing really exciting. However all being equal, Sebastian Vettel took the win in the first twilight race and the last race of the FIA F1 championship.
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That concludes our 2009 review, here at Wheelspin we will keep you updated with all the preparations for the 2010 season.
D
uring the very hot, although very nice Maltese summer months, my partner Stefan and his brother Josef, locally more commonly known as the LROnly brothers,…together with their mates were contemplating a trip to Italy. Energy level is too low in summer so the dates debated were around the first week of December, thinking winter in Europe will be well on its way by that time. Excitement started building up by October, as everyone prepared their Land Rovers, whilst dreaming and fantasizing about the seven-day bliss planned ahead. Departure day was Monday 30th November and at the break of dawn eight Land Rovers and two Range Rovers were lined up at the Valletta ferry embarkation terminal, ready to go to Pozzallo, all armed with the finest equipment one can possibly source in Malta. Arriving in Pozzallo, everyone was eager to start off-roading, so we headed to Nebrodi, were our dream started to materialise. Nebrodi is a mountain range that runs along the north east of Sicily. Tuesday evening we drove to Messina from where we boarded the ferry to Villa San Giovanni, our destination in Reggio Calabria. Upon our arrival we were greeted by our Italian friend Piero from a local off-road club, who was to lead us throughout the rest of the week. After customary hugs and kisses all’italiana, we proceeded to our guesthouse, where our accommodation was booked. On Wednesday right after breakfast, Piero came to meet us and found all Land Rovers lined up and rearing to go, looking like a sometimes scene from the latest horror movie! The weather was not much cooler it was than ours back home, but the first glimpse of the rocky valley we p o u r i n g were heading into soon put smiles on everybody’s faces and all making progress were into the heat of the action even more difficult before long! due to the slipperiness
of the rocky terrain and Passengers had to support the driver’s skills in navigating adding some mud as a through the rocks and boulders. Proceedings were at bonus. a snail’s pace, one after the other with excellent teamwork, to avoid damage to the vehicles, On Saturday Piero and some of his After all we still had to drive them back home! friends from the Italian off-road club, Winching and trying out different tactics took us for a “raduno”, which literally on rocky trails and slopes as well using means “meeting”. A “raduno” is usually an an array of difflocks, strops, cables and event organised in their club where the members crawlers saw us through the week are given a map and a plan with co-ordinations at much the same pace everyday. and distances to set on a Terra-trip and it is actually a Post off road treatment consisted very long and beautiful drive. Considering the scenery in our Italian friend taking was beautiful with streams of clear mountain water and us for espresso coffee at a covering of golden autumn leaves on the paths along the a local cafeteria, even valley made for some breathtaking scenery. Days were passing though most of our by really fast for us of course, since we were all enjoying ourselves!! crew attacked the ice-cream freezer As time and days flew past, we all realized how the Land Rovers were instead. We did all superbly equipped and skills were quickly learnt. This translated into a have rainy trip with no major breakdowns, which, had it been otherwise, the espresso days and or rather the ice-cream at the end of the day would not have fixed. Sunday was to be our last day offroading since Monday was dedicated for the drive back across Sicily to Pozzallo to board the catamaran and return to Malta. So on Sunday we met other Italian offroaders from the club and they took us on the Aspromonte.
no valley too deep
Little did Giancarlo realize that his move to Ferrari replacing the injured Massa was going to relegate the Italian to the back of the field for the rest of the season with a car, he only dreamt of ever driving, but could never get to grips with.
A remarkable feat performed by the BRAWN GP team taking both driver’s and constructor’s championships and leaving behind the likes of McLaren and Ferrari. With the confetti still floating in the air, came the news that two teams will be leaving the circus namely BMW and Toyota, adding on a bit of spice with Bridgestone throwing in the towel in 2010.
by Annabel Sammut
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Aspromonte is a mountain massif in the province of Reggio Calabria in Southern Italy. The name means “rough mountains” and it overlooks the Strait of Messina. Monday morning, prior to departure we met Piero and some of his mates in order to say our heartfelt goodbyes and thank you. Heading back to Sicily, making our way down back home, I guess everyone looked a bit sad and gloomy that the time was up. From the next day it was usual everyday life and routine back to normal, but every time we look at the pictures all the adventures and noise of humming engines and winches come back to life in our heads. In the meantime… well…the guys are already talking about modifications to their Defenders, saving money and planning a next trip…. maybe next year!! Do you have your own motoring experience you want to tell us about? Write to us on wheelspin@b.rightnewmedia.com and yours could be the next adventure we feature.
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Alan Vella 3, Ghajn Tuffieha Road, Pwales St. Paul’s Bay SPB9093 - Malta Mobile: 00356 9942 6201 | Email: alvell@yahoo.com 42
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