You should look at this from the average car buyer's mindset... See, people like Raththaran have the means and knowledge to identify a mechanical mishap just by a faint rattling noise from the engine bay, they have resources and contacts to source spare parts for cheap; in other words they can maintain a car for peanuts. Moreover they're very knowledgeable in cars and their mechanical systems. So obviously finding best used cars and avoiding abused cars is their second nature. They obviously can find a Jap in pristine condition for 2.2mil, they get the most car for money.
But the average car buyer without mechanical knowhow and basic knowledge in cars may end up buying an abused car or a car with serious mechanical issues; he has to rely on local mechanics or agents to source spare parts; he will have to spend an exorbitant amount on spares and running repairs because let's face it, most of the mechanics and all the agents for particular car brands are freaking rip-offs. Ultimately he will end up spending through the nose and eventually the car will be a money pit.
Buying a brand new Indian the buyer is covered from a warranty, spares are dirt cheap compared to Japanese cars (if they source the spares directly from the agents), running costs will be relatively low. So for the peace of mind they sacrifice Safety, comfort and driving pleasure. Doesn't look like a fair trade but that's how it works...
If there was a BN Jap counterpart for a reasonable price I'm sure they would choose it over BN Indian cars any day but that's not the case.
So let's just quit bashing fellow Elakirians over their choices in life and move on.
jayawewa India
