Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.8i 16V Sport 5d (2000/V) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
It's a fairly common car but a 1.8 when you're 19-20 shows you are a keen driver. I think so anyway.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
My friends love it because it's fast and spacious and good looking. My parents like it for the same reasons. My dad's a speed freak and the boot fits his mobility scooter for days out with ease.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Absolutely yes and I wouldn't sell it for any reason other than the engine blows up. Fantastic.
What are you likely to buy next?
The new Astra VXR looks appealing if not a bit expensive at the moment or the VW Golf R. It depends how much they depreciate and what else comes out in the hot hatch category.
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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?
£850
When did you buy the car?
November 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes very, all other cars were either modified poorly or had very high mileage (140k+).
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Cheaper insurance than the 1.6 yet better performance.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Fantastic. Power all through the gear ratio's and will reach 60 in second gear. The throttle is infinitely adjustable giving you complete control and the ABS is very strong for braking. The steering is direct with lots of feedback but not too heavy. The clutch is the same, it's not too heavy but you know you're pressing it. Finally the grip, and there's loads of it. The traction control gives you straight line grip with hard acceleration and around bends it sticks to the road with maybe just a hind of understeer, easily corrected.
What's it like to park?
Easy. Great observations all the way around with a large rear window, no sticky out bumpers or ridiculously flared wheel arches and steering which is even light enough to dry steer.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
I had a new suspension fitted on the front near side not so long ago but I knew that was going when I bought the car. Other than that just wear and tear items i.e tyres, brake pads and cam belt.
What's most practical about your car?
The space! 7 Cup holders, a 2 shelved glove box and loads of hidden cubby holes.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
3 main features. The center console has a CD holder which pops out when you press it which is a funky feature. The steering wheel controls were also a nice touch but the most useful feature is the Traction Control.
