Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.8i 16V SRi 5d (AC) (2003/53) 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?
Shows that I like the sportier type of vehicle.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Brother likes it a lot!
Would you buy this car again and why?
So far I am reasonably impressed. Some random creaks and the front seat has its own idea of what is a good driving position ( I need to keep raising the back!) I suppose I would at the moment. Fingers crossed that Vauxhall are more helpful than Ford...
What are you likely to buy next?
Maybe a slightly more exclusive Marque. Maybe a VW or Audi.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£4,999
When did you buy the car?
April 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
It was ok. There were some dealers asking completely over the odds prices. Have to shop around!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Thought it would be a good compromise on the cost of tha car and the performance.
What was the dealer like?
It was like being on a production line. If you want a salesman who cares don't try Car Giant!
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It is ok. It is a 1.8, so it is reasonably brisk, but do not expect to get the claimed performance. Can chuck it about, but easy to get tyre squeel! I think the last owner endowed it with some poor quality tyres. Steering has reasonable feedback, but the Focus had that down to a fine art.
What's it like to park?
It is ok. Can see the end of the bonnet okay. The rear is a little more tricky to judge. The spolier gets in the way a bit.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Not yet. The suspension is noisy over the legions of speed bumps in the area- this may need some investigation. I have only had for a month, anyway.
What's most practical about your car?
It is reasonably practical. Could do with more places to put your things, and a cup holder not in the door bucket would have been appreciated..
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
My last car had all the bells and whistles '05 Focus Ghia (DO NOT BUY ONE!). This one kind of matches up, but I would have to say that I still found myself after Cruise Control. It is a great toy
