Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback 1988-
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Represents very good value compared to other cars in the same price range.

    Costs

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Very economical and only ever cost me for wear and tear parts, like tyres and exhaust.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    A pleasure to drive, but my model is let down by the lack of power steering, makes it quite heavy to park.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Does me, don't expect to get pinned to your seat by the shear acceleration, but good for a 1.6 without fuel injection.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never let me down, even up to today when it's 11 years old.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Everyone was going for the Cavalier a few years ago when I bought mine, because it surpassed the Ford Sierra in the looks department. It's starting to look dated now, too many about.

    Comfort

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I've always thought this was a very comfortable car, whether it be short or long journeys. The seats are firm, which is good on my back.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Deadlocks fitted, but the car thief gets round them by removing the whole door handle assembly. No alarm or immobiliser fitted as standard on my model.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Never touch dealers unless I need a dealer only part. Local garage always sorted my car out.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Fuel pump needed replacing. HT leads heat shields caused shorting out, causing it to run very poor.

    Other

    Watch for brakes. All my pads/shoes/discs/hubs/copper pipes have had to be replaced due to neglect.

    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