Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1998-

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  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    £16,000 brand new, bought for £5000 3 years old. Plus these engines reportedly last 150k miles easy

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    SRi means everythings expensive. Decent on petrol considering engine. Only insurance group 9

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Good handling, firm seats, low firm ride. Cruise control adds to the fun. ABS. PAS etc

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very quick. Sees off most boy racers in their Nova GSi's or Saxo VTRs. Brilliant braking power too. Nippy in all gears!

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Head gasket at 72000 (Which I've heard is common on these Ecotec engines) starts everytime. Never broken down

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Bit of a Grandads car plus they're everywhere. SRi trim makes a difference with rear spoiler and fog lights though

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Air con. Lumbar support. Cruise control. Steering wheel radio controls. A real lazy boy's car. Hard seats are the only let down, but you learn to live with them

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Alarm/ immobiliser are standard and double locking. What more do you need?

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Decent price on the servicing. No messing about. Had car for very short period of time. Can't complain

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Head gasket at 72000

    Other

    Thrust bearing may need doing soon

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes