My Citroen Xsara reminded me that I have matured.
And I don’t mean the physical signs or the constant aches from too much sports or fatigue from only 3 hours of sleep last night.
Maturity does not come with age. Wrinkles and fatigue do. My 4 year old Citroen is maturing and the tell tale signs are the constant problems of overheating, wearing out of tyres, starter motor not working, jump starting the car for the past one week etc.
All in all, this car is giving me far too much problems that you think its pointless to keep reviving it all the time.
The new Citroen C4 is cool. Refrigerated glove compartment, dual air con control, rain and light sensor, digital display, cruise control, speed limiter but quite a rough engine although i must say they had improved from the old citroen engine- $73,000 car before the trade in and discount.
Now the down side- High fuel consumption, no more iconic suspension, very expensive spare parts and maintenence. One good example is the wiper, which is like any other toyota wipers, costs a whopping $60!
When I bought a car 4 years ago, I went for a continental one coz my parents think Jap cars are not safe. Continental cars are more prestigious and definitely safer.
4 years later, although I am very tempted by the bimbotic features of the new C4, I am more rational. I could come to terms with my needs- namely, my finance, function and I could see the long-term plan.
I love sporty models and the C4 has got a really sporty look- sporting a hatchback and very good-looking bodykit with fog lamps.
When I sit down and think to myself- I need a car namely to get from Point A to B and I would like to spend as little money and trouble on it as possible. A common Jap car serves my needs. That’s right. So I bought a Jap car on 16th December 2006. Rational and wise choice.
True enuff. My Citroen died on me again. When the Tow Truck Uncle came- he told me he tows more french cars than jap cars. Toyota is very fuel efficient (its no wonder- they’re so light! That’s not a good point coz I doubt the car has superb handling and thick body to protect the driver) and Mazda is a good car tho more fuel consuming. Nothing drinks more fuel than a stupid french car.
I was one of those suckers 4 years ago who thinks people who own continental cars are of another class. And I am glad that when i got a car again, I was able to rationalise that all I need in a small small country like Singapore is a basic car that is reliable, cheap and fuel efficient.
Similarly- If a Braun Buffel purse can hold my cards and money as well, why do I need a prada? I am quite proud of myself when my frens, Ang mohs included, comment ‘ you’re quite low maintenence huh?’
Ain’t need a LV or Gucci. When it comes to choosing my partner, I could apply the same theory. Just happy with a comfortable life. Ain’t need a luxurious one. Debt-free life is what I sought.
Happy and thus I feel lucky. 
Tho the past week’s been bothered with my stupid french car- I must say it has served me well for the past 4 years -coming 5, well. Thank you my dear Xsara.
