đŽ Vehicle System Overview
My Winter Car features a realistic vehicle simulation where every car has unique characteristics, maintenance needs, and purposes. Understanding each vehicle's role is crucial for survival and progress in the harsh Finnish winter of 1999.
Vehicle Categories
| Category |
Purpose |
Examples |
Key Features |
| Project Car |
Build from scratch, racing, main gameplay focus |
Corris Rivett |
200+ parts, customizable, no rev limiter |
| Daily Driver |
Transportation while building project car |
Sorbett 1600 LTD |
Owned from start, FWD, reliable |
| Work Vehicles |
Jobs, hauling, special tasks |
Kekmet, Gifu |
Utility focused, weather resistant |
| Job Vehicles |
Income generation |
Machtwagen (Taxi) |
Job-specific features, temporary access |
| Loaner Cars |
Temporary use during repairs |
Bachglotz |
Available from Fleetari's shop |
đ Player-Drivable Vehicles
Real-world basis: Ford Taunus TC1 (1971-1976)
How to acquire: Call 08609553 (no dashes), drive to marked location, pay 500 mk
Total build cost: 15,000-30,000 mk for complete build (parts only)
Stock Power
98 hp @ 5,500 RPM
Stock Torque
155 Nm @ 3,700 RPM
Max Tuned Power
~215 hp @ 8,000 RPM
Transmission Options
4-spd / 5-spd / 3-spd Auto
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Top Speed
~220 km/h (tuned)
â ī¸ CRITICAL: No Rev Limiter!
Unlike modern cars, the Rivett has NO electronic rev limiter. Over-revving will cause catastrophic engine damage. This is especially dangerous with tuned engines reaching 8,000+ RPM.
- Always install and watch the tachometer
- Avoid "money shifting" (accidentally downshifting at high RPM)
- Stock engine safely revs to ~6,500 RPM max
- Tuned engines require disciplined shifting
Acquisition Process
- Find the phone number: Check PSK gas station bulletin board or use 08609553
- Call the seller: Use numpad, NO dashes. Let him finish talking (do not hang up early)
- Check map: "Car for sale" marker should appear after successful call
- Visit during daytime: Seller unavailable at night
- Pay 500 mk: Purchase the bare shell with 10-12 random parts
- Transport home: Use Kekmet tractor to haul body (recommended) or Gifu truck
Build Overview
Building the Rivett is the game's main challenge, requiring 200+ individual parts sourced from multiple locations:
- Fleetari's Repair Shop: Primary parts supplier, engine components, suspension
- Flea Market: Used parts, varying condition and prices
- Classifieds Magazine: Order via phone, 2-day delivery to PSK mailbox
- Random spawns: Some parts found around the map
đ§ Unique Parts (Cannot Re-Purchase)
These parts are IRREPLACEABLE if damaged:
- Engine Block: Core of engine, catastrophic if damaged
- Cylinder Head: Warps if overheated, extremely expensive issue
- Steering Column: Unique to each car
All other parts can be purchased as spares (budget permitting).
Trim Levels (VIN System)
Each Rivett has a randomized VIN determining factory specification. Check the VIN plate in engine bay and decode at www.amistech.com/mwc
- L: Base trim - basic interior, manual brakes, standard suspension
- LX: Premium trim - upgraded interior, power-assisted brakes
- SLX: Sport/Luxury - sport seats, performance springs, LSD differential
- GT: Rare sporty trim - tachometer, sport steering wheel, quick ratio steering
Performance Tuning Potential
Developer testing confirms properly built engines can reach ~215 hp @ 8,000 RPM without nitrous:
- Racing camshaft: High-lift profile, reduces low-end torque
- Performance carburetor: Two-barrel upgrade (standard on SLX/GT)
- Electronic ignition: Better cold starts, improved reliability
- Racing exhaust: Headers + performance muffler
- Aftermarket radiator: Prevents overheating in tuned builds
đĄ Build Tips from the Community
- Work in heated space: Parents' garage recommended for easier assembly
- Follow VIN spec for historical registration: 30+ years old, factory-correct parts = longer inspection intervals
- Use Kekmet front lift: Easier undercarriage access than jack stands
- Check torque specs: In-game manual shows correct bolt torque values
- Budget 20,000+ mk: For complete, reliable build with decent parts
- Stock tune drives easier in snow: High-performance builds = twitchy handling
Related guides: Complete Rivett Build Guide | Parts Acquisition Guide | Racing & Performance
Real-world basis: Talbot 1510 (1980s French hatchback)
How to acquire: Owned from game start, parked outside your apartment
Cost: Free (pre-owned)
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
5-Door Hatchback
Color
Light Metallic Blue (default)
Key Features
- Front-wheel drive: Better traction in snow compared to RWD Rivett
- Block heater: ESSENTIAL - plug in overnight or engine won't start
- Foldable rear seats: Cargo flexibility for parts hauling
- Window heater button: Defrosts windshield quickly
- Interior heater: Temperature dial + blower + directional vents
- Reliable mechanically: Minimal maintenance needs in Early Access
Critical Winter Starting Procedure
âī¸ ALWAYS Use Block Heater
The block heater is NOT optional in Finnish winter. Failure to plug in = frozen oil = impossible to start.
- When parking: Find block heater cord at front bumper, plug into outlet
- Before driving: UNPLUG cord (dragging it damages socket and cord)
- Starting cold engine: Pull choke (left of steering wheel), hold ignition + give gas
- Defrost windshield: Click window heater button (square icon), set blower to max (click twice)
- Wait 1-2 minutes: Let engine warm before driving, heater won't work when cold
Dashboard Controls
- Speedometer: 0-200 km/h scale
- Fuel gauge: Monitor closely, running dry in winter = death risk
- Temperature gauge: Engine should warm to mid-range
- Heater controls (right side):
- Temperature dial (mouse scroll)
- Blower button (click once = low, twice = high)
- Window heater button (square icon)
- Directional vent toggle (aim at windshield for defrost)
đĄ Daily Driver Tips
- Always plug in at home: Make it muscle memory - park, plug in, done
- Fuel economy: Approximately 165 km range per tank (based on player data)
- Use for all errands: Futufon job, PSK shopping, town trips while building Rivett
- FWD advantage: Much easier to control on icy roads than RWD vehicles
- Cargo capacity: Fold rear seats to fit engine parts, small components
- Avoid off-road: Will get stuck in snow immediately - stick to paved roads
Maintenance Notes
The Sorbett requires minimal maintenance in Early Access:
- Battery: Can die from cold - keep charged by driving regularly
- Fuel: Keep tank above 1/4 to avoid fuel pump issues
- Tires: All-season road tires (adequate for paved winter driving)
- No engine work needed: Reliable daily driver for entire playthrough
Related guides: Winter Survival Guide | Beginner's Guide
Real-world basis: Valmet 502 agricultural tractor (Finnish, 1971-1982)
Location: Woodshed at parents' house
Cost: Free (you own it)
Engine Type
3-Cylinder Diesel
Engine Power
54 hp @ 2,300 RPM
Displacement
2.7 L (163.8 ci)
Transmission
6 Forward / 2 Reverse
Drive Type
2-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Weight
2,494 kg (5,500 lbs)
âī¸ ONLY Vehicle for Off-Road/Deep Snow
Developer quote: "Yes you can drive off-road, only with tractor. With rest of the vehicles, you get stuck."
The Kekmet is the ONLY vehicle that can reliably drive through deep snow and off-road terrain. This makes it irreplaceable for certain tasks like hauling the Rivett body from the seller's location.
Unique Capabilities
- Front hydraulic lift: Can raise Rivett chassis for easy underside access (like a car jack)
- PTO (Power Take-Off): Powers hydraulic firewood splitter for income generation
- Rear hitch: Attach included flatbed trailer for hauling
- Automatic heater: Heat based on engine temp - no manual control needed
- Cold-start capable: Unlike cars, tractor can ALWAYS start regardless of weather
- Heavy torque: Can tow stuck vehicles, transport heavy loads
Primary Uses
- Hauling Rivett Body: ESSENTIAL task - use front lift or trailer to transport from seller
- Firewood Delivery Job: Connect PTO to splitter, process wood, load trailer, deliver for income
- Parts Transport: Heavy/bulky Rivett components that don't fit in Sorbett
- Off-Road Access: Reach locations impassable for cars (snow-covered areas)
- Vehicle Recovery: Tow stuck cars, use as makeshift workshop with front lift
Controls & Operation
- Hand throttle: Lever next to steering wheel - pull to increase RPM (for PTO work)
- PTO engagement: Lever on left side - engages power to rear shaft for firewood splitter
- Hydraulic levers: Control front lift arms (raise/lower/tilt)
- Differential lock: May be available for extreme traction needs
- Steering: Power steering equipped (easy maneuverability despite weight)
đĄ Tractor Usage Tips
- Very slow: Plan 2-3x travel time vs Sorbett for same distance
- Hauling Rivett method: Insert front forks through rear (where trunk would be), tilt to secure
- Firewood income: Connect to splitter, set hand throttle to max, process logs, deliver full loads
- Fuel consumption: Higher than My Summer Car version - refuel regularly
- Not for commuting: Too slow for Futufon daily job or town errands
- Winter champion: Wide aggressive tires, heavy weight = unbeatable in snow
- Indestructible: Cannot be damaged in crashes (confirmed by developer)
Firewood Job Process
- Drive Kekmet to woodshed (found at parents' house)
- Position close to hydraulic log splitter
- Connect PTO shaft from splitter to rear of tractor
- Engage PTO lever (left side of steering wheel)
- Pull hand throttle to maximum (increases splitting speed)
- Process logs, load split wood onto trailer
- Deliver to firewood buyers (check map for delivery points)
- Earn income deposited to bank account
Related guides: Money Making Guide | Beginner's Guide
Real-world basis: Sisu M-162 vacuum truck (Finnish, 1982)
Location: Waste processing plant parking lot
Cost: Free (inherited from uncle in MSC story)
Engine Type
Turbocharged Diesel
Axles
3-Axle Configuration
Transmission
12-Speed (6L + 6H)
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Tank Purpose
Septic Vacuum
Fuel Tank
Large Diesel Tank
Odometer
400,000 km (worn)
â ī¸ Developer Note: May Be Replaced
The developer has stated the Gifu "might be replaced with something else" in future updates. It's confirmed to be in Early Access for now, but the septic job may receive a different vehicle later in development.
Primary Purpose: Septic Tank Pumping Job
The Gifu is used exclusively for the septic tank pumping job - one of the game's income-generating activities. While available in Early Access, its implementation may be limited or refined in future updates.
Key Features
- Automatic heater: Like Kekmet, heats based on engine temperature (no manual control)
- Vacuum pump: Hydraulic system for septic tank emptying
- 12-speed transmission: Unsynchronized (requires rev-matching or double-clutching)
- Range selector: Low (1L-6L) for starting/hills, High (1H-6H) for road speeds
- Differential lock: For off-road traction or getting unstuck
- Heavy-duty build: Can tow Rivett body as alternative to Kekmet
Transmission Operation
The Gifu's 12-speed unsynchronized transmission is challenging for new players:
- Low range (L): Gears 1L-6L for starting, climbing hills, low-speed work
- High range (H): Gears 1H-6H for highway speeds (essentially gears 7-12)
- Starting: Use 2L or 3L (1L too low for most situations)
- Efficient shifting: Skip gears (e.g., 2L â 2H) to save time and fuel
- Rev matching required: Match engine RPM to wheel speed or gears grind
- Typical RPM range: 1,000-1,500 RPM per gear
Septic Job Operation
- Receive job (method TBD in EA - likely phone call system)
- Drive Gifu to customer location
- Position truck near septic tank access point
- Operate vacuum pump (hydraulic controls - engine must run during pumping)
- Empty contents at waste processing plant
- Receive payment
đĄ Gifu Driving Tips
- Practice transmission: Unsynchronized shifting takes time to master
- Worn condition: 400,000 km on odometer = poor fuel economy, diesel smoke
- Fuel type: Accepts diesel OR fuel oil (fuel oil = illegal at checkpoints, cheap but risky)
- Rear-heavy when full: Loaded septic tank = difficult handling, plan routes carefully
- Alternative to Kekmet: Can also tow Rivett body if preferred
- Not for daily driving: Slow, fuel-hungry, job-specific vehicle
âšī¸ Early Access Status
The Gifu's full implementation in My Winter Car is still being finalized. Features may be limited in current Early Access build. Check patch notes for updates on septic job mechanics and vehicle changes.
Related guides: Money Making Guide | Beginner's Guide
Real-world basis: 1965 Oldsmobile 98 Holiday Coupe
Location: Fleetari's Repair Shop parking lot
Availability: Borrow when Rivett is at Fleetari's for service
Engine
Large V8 (likely 425 ci)
Transmission
3-Speed Automatic
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
2-Door Hardtop
Exterior
Blue/Green Custom Paint
Interior
Red with Seat Covers
Purpose & Availability
The Bachglotz serves as Fleetari's loaner car - temporary transportation while your Rivett is being serviced. It replaces the Burnet Ferndale from My Summer Car.
How to Access
- Take your Corris Rivett to Fleetari's Repair Shop
- Order repair work (painting, bodywork, mechanical fixes)
- Fleetari keeps your Rivett keys until work is complete AND paid for
- Bachglotz becomes available for you to drive during this period
- Return Bachglotz when you pick up your finished Rivett
Driving Characteristics
- Large & heavy: Full-size American luxury car, significantly heavier than Rivett
- Soft suspension: Comfort-oriented, wallows in corners
- Poor turning radius: Difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- RWD in winter: Like Rivett, prone to oversteer on ice
- Powerful V8: Good torque, but harder to control than Sorbett FWD
- Automatic transmission: Easier than manual, but less control in snow
Features & Equipment
- Power windows: Electric window controls
- Aftermarket tachometer: Custom gauge installation
- Winter tires: Equipped for seasonal use
- Chrome wheels: Custom rim upgrade
- Heater: Standard climate control
- Historic license plate: White-on-black design (1960-1972 era)
đ¨ Visual Style
The Bachglotz has a distinctive custom blue and green paint job with minor rust patina. Developer mentioned the paint scheme may change in updates. Interior features red upholstery with custom seat covers and black/beige woodgrain dashboard.
đĄ Loaner Car Tips
- Not your property: Must return when Rivett service is complete
- Drive carefully: RWD + winter conditions = easy to spin out
- Size awareness: Much larger than Sorbett, difficult parking
- Fleetari's "winter beater": Reliable but not high-performance
- Temporary solution: Use for essential errands while Rivett is being worked on
- Historic value: Described as "businessman car from '60s for one large company"
â ī¸ Early Access Availability
The Bachglotz's full implementation in My Winter Car EA may be limited. Some sources indicate it may not be fully drivable yet. Check current patch version for availability status.
Related guides: Parts & Repairs Guide | Winter Survival Tips
Real-world basis: Mercedes-Benz W124 200D
How to acquire: Apply for taxi driver job, call number from PSK job flyer (08-712112)
Ownership: Belongs to taxi company, temporary access during job
Transmission
Manual (likely 5-speed)
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Odometer Reading
470,000 km
Job Application Process
- Purchase and transport Rivett to parents' house (prerequisite)
- Find "Taxi Driver Wanted" flyer inside PSK gas station
- Note phone number: 08-712112
- Call number from any phone
- Meet taxi owner at PSK parking lot around noon next day
- Complete training/briefing
- Gain access to Machtwagen for taxi work
Taximeter System
The Machtwagen features a functional taximeter with 5 modes:
| Mode |
Fare Rate |
When to Use |
| Minus Mode |
Idle (no charge) |
Waiting for calls, between fares |
| Mode 1 |
21 mk |
Weekdays 06:00-18:00 |
| Mode 2 |
32 mk |
Weekdays 18:00-06:00 OR all weekend |
| Mode 3 |
(Specific rate TBD) |
(Usage TBD in EA) |
| Lotto Mode |
N/A |
Lottery number generator (fun feature) |
đēī¸ Driver Aid: Map in Sun Visor
The Machtwagen has a map displayed on the driver's side sun visor showing local addresses and fare mode reminders. Essential for navigating to passenger destinations.
Taximeter Operation
- Pause button: Red light ON = meter paused, light OFF = fare increasing
- Mode selection: Dial to choose appropriate fare rate based on time/day
- Starting fare: Engage meter when passenger enters
- Ending fare: Pause meter when destination reached, collect payment
Driving Characteristics
- RWD with power/torque: Similar handling to Ferndale - prone to spinning out
- High mileage: 470,000 km = worn but reliable (realistic for taxi duty)
- Diesel engine: Good torque, economical, but cold starts can be difficult
- Professional feel: Solid German engineering despite age
Taxi Job Income Potential
Taxi driving can be lucrative if you:
- Work evening/weekend shifts (higher Mode 2 rates)
- Memorize common destinations to reduce nav time
- Accept multiple fares in same area to minimize dead travel
- Keep vehicle fueled and maintained (breakdowns = lost income)
â ī¸ Fuel Tax Law
The Machtwagen's fuel cap is on the right rear side. It accepts diesel OR fuel oil, BUT:
- Fuel oil is illegal for road vehicles in Finland
- Using fuel oil = violation at police checkpoints
- Fines negate fuel savings - stick to legal diesel
đĄ Taxi Driver Tips
- RWD caution: Especially careful in snow/ice with passengers aboard
- Use sun visor map: Essential for finding addresses quickly
- Correct fare modes: Mode 1 daytime weekdays, Mode 2 everything else
- Meter discipline: Always pause between fares to avoid overcharging
- Historic mileage: Real W124 taxis have reached 1,000,000+ km - this one's halfway there!
Related guides: Money Making Guide | Beginner's Guide
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