Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1998-

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Decent value for money but buy private, save over £1000 from a dealer.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Poor servicing costs, basic £80 service cost over £250 at dealer just to replace two brake disc pads. Fuel economy good, over 350miles to a tank if you push it.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What you'd expect from this car but exceptional round corners considering no ABS or traction control. Not so good in the wet.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Good performance for a 1.6. Better at the top end and pulls hard in 3rd gear and onwards. I got 132mph flat out (down a slight hill!)

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Went in the garage four times. Eventually found out it was a cylinder head needed skimming but told me it was because I was driving it hard when cold.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Its a Vauxhall but mine was in black with spoiler so stood out from the rest. Get a SRI body kit put on they look better.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very comfy considering sports suspension. I drove to London for 5hrs straight and no problems at all.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No alarm standard but immobiliser and deadlocks.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Servicing was top priority at my local dealer and they will pick your car up and bring it back. Very polite staff.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Cylinder head needed skimming and valve replaced on exhaust. All under warranty.

    Other

    Rear windscreen heater - all bars aren't working and CD player skips when first switched on.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes