Why are new cars expensive, he asked? Is that a joke or is that a serious question?
New cars are expensive in Malaysia because of the high duty imposed on the imported parts and cars. If people don't already know that already.
Another reason is probably that there are enough gearheads who are willing to pay the exorbitant asking price of the dealers. My opinion.
Back to the original question. Expensive original price leads to expensive resale value. That's the only reason and only plausible explanation.
Not entirely accurate on the part of why new cars are expensive.
Even if one is willing to pay the high duty imposed, you are unable to bring a car into Malaysia without the mighty AP.
Like the TS said, used RX-8 is only RM25,000. Even after 100% duty, its only RM50,000. Still selling for RM90k recon. Thats RM40,000 profit for holding an AP, better than being a car manufacturer, lol.
What is AP? A piece of paper that grants you the power to import a car legally to be on the roads of Malaysia. Without this piece of paper any car imported is reduced to track/show car duties only.
Who can get AP? They say its objective is for promoting and providing opportunities for bumiputera entrepreneurs. However not every Bumiputera entrepreneur can waltz in and get one, sadly. You probably have to be somebody or know somebody.