Vauxhall Astra Estate (1998 - 2004) 1.7 CDTi 16V Club 5d (2004/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not a lot - it's not flashy nor sporty. Sensible?

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Nothing. Good if you don't like to show off.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, Parts for Astras are cheap. Maintaining them is fairly simple. Be good for a family car.

What are you likely to buy next?

Audi A4 1.8T Quattro.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

November 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Got road tax and £30 of fuel.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Cheap insurance. First car. Not a Corsa.

What was the dealer like?

Okay.

What's it like to drive?

Okay. For an everyday run around, excellent. Bit under-powered compared to newer diesels of the same engine size. Front wheel drive, but not enough power for this to be a bad thing. Climbing hills isn't too bad but really steep hills can some times need 4th or 3rd gear. Motorway cruises at 70 well, bit noisy and sometimes you wish there was a 6th gear, but will only bother you if you've drove a car with more than 5 gears. Saying this you could turn the volume up on the radio. Seats are quite comfy. Some come with air-con nice in hot weather. Keeps up with 1.6 petrol alternate with a fraction of fuel consumption.

What's it like to park?

Easy, Astras are quite narrow.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Alternator went at 64,000 miles. (Cost about £80 for a recon unit and fitting).

What's most practical about your car?

Has four wheels and turns. Good size boot can fit lots into it. Good MPG - can achieve over 60mpg if driven sensibly.£20 = about 210 miles based on trip reset. Good for holidays with friends or family. Has roof bars.Gets used for work, good all round vehicle. Cheap and cheerful.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Radio, air-con and loads of cup holders.