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Virtual Mechanic

Car and bike questions? We have the answers

I would like to know if you recommend premium petrol for Bajaj Pulsar 150. My vehicle has run around 3,000 km. If yes, how will it be of advantage to me?

Vipul Kamdar

While a premium fuel will do the Pulsar no harm, the bike is designed to run on ordinary fuel (which is cheaper) using which it will offer the same performance and mileage.

I want to buy a new car within Rs 4 lakh. The vehicle will be used sparingly - initially, I might employ a driver to drop my daughter to school and back. After a few months, if my wife feels confident enough, she will drive the vehicle. I am afraid of diesel vehicles, as I fear they it may give frequent problems. Please advice.

C R Sadasivam

We suggest you try the Santro. Assuming the car will be used largely as a city runabout, diesels can be omitted from the equation. The Santro makes for a very good city car as it is fuel-efficient and easy to drive. It is popular with lady drivers, and so your wife should also hopefully be comfortable in it. Additionally, the car has good residual value, which means when you do sell later, you are assured of some return on your investment.

I want to upgrade to a large car with a boot. I drive frequently to the rural areas of Tamilnadu andKarnataka and have set aside Rs 10 lakh for my purchase. I have shortlisted the Maruti Esteem VXI and the Honda City ZX. I hear the Esteem is much cheaper to run and maintain. However, the City seems a better car to drive and ride in. I am now quite confused and would appreciate your advice on the matter. Should I buy a car now or wait for newer and better models ?

Vinod Bose

Consider the Verna or Fiesta diesels first. Both the Esteem and City are not great for the highway. The Esteem is cramped and has low ground clearance, while the City is more suited to an urban environment. Both cars are fuel-efficient but the Esteem is cheaper to own and maintain. But with a budget of Rs 10 lakh, look at the Toyota Corolla Executive and the Mitsubishi Lancer Cedia, both cars being well built, good to drive and better on the highway.

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