Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.4i 16V LS 5d (AC) (2000/W) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
The image is not very good as it is very common.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Would you buy this car again and why?
What are you likely to buy next?
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
December 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
What was the dealer like?
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
This car has the x14xe engine which is very rev happy. At low revs the car has a serious lack of torque however once it gets past 3,000rpms it really flies. The steering is a bit heavy at first but you get used to this and the car is generally very engaging to drive, gripping the road well and providing good feedback to the driver. The gearbox can be a tad notchy on cold mornings but once warmed up makes for reassuring gear changes. Unfortunately although the car is very much a driver's car, the ride quality suffers as a result. It is bone-shatteringly firm and any detours over a cobbled road will leave you with a ringing in your ears from the cabin noise. Refinement is not a word I would associate with this car.
What's it like to park?
Parking is very easy, the car has a good turning cirlcle and good visiblity.
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
The thermostat failed. There is a fault with the electric cooling fan which means it runs constantly. Rear nearside wheel bearing needed replacing.
What's most practical about your car?
The parts are cheap so replacing them when they fail is not too bad. Boot space is very decent.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
