Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback 1.7 GLS TD 5d (1994/M) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Among Cavaliers, TD still holds its value better than counterparts. Bought mine for 695 quid on Ebay in Apr 2003 with 115k miles.
Costs
Cheap parts and maintenance but not from Vauxhall dealer. Need frequent service. Mine got 45mpg.
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On the road
Driving
Hard suspension, PAS too light on motorway, too tight driving in town.
Performance
Can't race with this Cav - slow acceleration, especially a struggle to takeover, seems like flying into air when go over 90mph, but ideal family car or workhorse.
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Living with it
Reliability
Let me down once due to faulty brakes and handbrakes, luckily almost back home. Superb Isuzu engine though.
Image
Loved it when purchased, better than saloon with extra room in boot. Prefer the badge on front grille, but not on bonnet.
Comfort
Ok. Driver seat with lumbar and height adjustment. Comfy for long motorway journeys.
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Security and Service
Security
Never got broken into. Solid deadlock, but alarm sounds in summer and C/L temperamental in winter, happy in general.
Service
Too dear. Got quote of 75 quid for backbox, done in Kwikfit for £35 only. Fetched radio code for £16.50, but good service.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Sweet Isuzu engine, but need service every 5k miles.
Other
Changed handbrake cable, backbox etc. Rusty sill, slight oil leak, alternator on, airbag light flicker, rear heated screen not working but didn't cause any problem at all.
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