While car collectors usually dream of owning rare Italian supercars or classic British roadsters, one car enthusiast in the United Kingdom (UK) has won the hearts of Malaysian netizens by dedicating his passion to an unexpected brand: Proton!
In a viral post on Threads, UK resident Jon Coupland introduced himself to the internet with a proud confession about his unique car collection.
“Hi, I’m Jon, and I’m a Protonholic. If you are new here, i collect cars. (Mainly Protons) – i currently have 34 cars in my ever growing collection of ‘stuff people forgot about’,” Jon wrote in his Threads post.
Started collecting in 2018 out of love for obscure cars
Speaking to WORLD OF BUZZ, Jon shared how his unique obsession with Malaysia’s national car brand first began back in 2018.
“I first started buying Protons in 2018, I liked the fact that they were obscure and almost forgotten about here in the UK,” Jon told WORLD OF BUZZ.
Jon explained that every single vehicle in his massive fleet was purchased second-hand. Over the years, he has meticulously tracked down and preserved these hidden gems, giving them a second life on British roads.
Among his growing fleet, Jon recently fulfilled a personal milestone by acquiring one model he had been eyeing for a very long time: the Proton Jumbuck (famously known as the Proton Arena in Malaysia).
“I have always wanted a Proton Jumbuck (Arena) and now I have managed to buy one, I am really enjoying using it,” Jon shared enthusiastically.
Recognised by locals on British roads
Jon’s unique garage setup in Boston, Lincolnshire has made him somewhat of a local legend in his town. Driving around in various vintage Proton models certainly makes him stand out on UK roads!
“Lots of people know it’s me when they see a Proton and wave, or they message me on social media to say they have seen me,” Jon revealed with a smile.
How cool is it to see old-school Malaysian Protons cruising through the streets of the UK? Which classic Proton model was your family’s favorite growing up? Let us know in the comments below!
