At WapCar.my, we like to take things a step further when we evaluate cars by subjecting them through objective tests and measurements. We then compile the data and put a score on them accordingly.
But there are certain aspects that spec sheets or test results from a paper (perhaps screen may be more relevant in this age) can’t convey – how the car feels, which we would like to express as reviewers. After all, we don’t drive on paper.
It's all about the feel details.
So, on one hand we have objective data and on the other, subjective impressions. Our solution is to have an objective evaluation of cars and publish them in the form of Ratings, and leave the subjective aspects to Reviews.
The main difference between Ratings and Reviews is quantification. In Ratings, every parameter is given a number to quantify how “good” it is, and the final result is a radar chart to provide visualisation for a car’s strengths and weaknesses. All in relevance to the specific car’s segment.
In Reviews, it’s based on personal experience and judgement to tell if something is “good” or “bad.” How good is good? And such is the human nature, opinions tend to differ, so what’s “good” to one may not necessarily be the case for another. You can disagree with reviews but data is irrefutable.
Data collected will be put on a spreadsheet as shown above, which shows one of the aspects - average paint thickness (in mm) for each panel.
That being said, there are overlaps between the two. As we mentioned previously, there are subjective inputs in the Ratings articles as we give a score to each parameter, some of which are items such as steering and braking feel. But those aspects make up a smaller percentage compared to the majority of the objective scores.
In our Reviews, we do include some objective data as passing mentions as well, such as 0-100 km/h times, noise level readings, and fuel consumption test. We believe these are important information to include in the Reviews. Though the numbers rarely affect our opinions on the car as we dive into how the car feels.
Here’s the kicker - despite having objective data, some of us at the WapCar office would still argue against it, very much like the comments section on the internet.
One example would be the 2020 Honda Accord 1.5 TC-P that recorded an average noise level reading of 69 dB at 110 km/h (same as a Toyota Vios, mind you), done on the same stretch of road we’ve tested for many other cars. And yet, most of us would swear that it is quieter than the number suggests.
One of the longest rear seat base we've measured so far. Subjective comfort is another matter.
We have contemplated on combining the two for the sake of efficiency but because of discrepancies like these, we believe that subjective impressions of a car still need to be conveyed. Hence the distinction between Ratings and Reviews.
Numbers only tell you part of the story. Jason would know, as his BRZ doesn't exactly shine on paper. But the smile says it all.
In short, Ratings can be used as a tool for comparison purposes since every aspect is quantified accordingly. Reviews on the other hand, give readers subjective point of view from the reviewers. One is data-driven, the other is opinion-driven.
The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
