Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback 1988-
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    A nice car with lots of extras for the money. Usually high mileage, but this is a diesel car so the only things to go wrong (typically) will be non engine items (such as supension/exhaust).

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Relatively cheap to run if lots of miles are driven each year (but still get 42mpg round town).

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Handles well (in dry!), due to heavier engine (typically 200 kg) and better tyres than standard 1600 Cavaliers. Corners well, with ABS there to pick you up.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    It's a diesel, but nice in second gear when moving. Engine revs well.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    20,000 miles without too many problems. Look out for cars with previous owners who don't look after their cars!

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Still looks good when polished - why did they stop making them?

    Comfort

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Good comfy seats with nice interior. Shame it's all black - it's a nightmare in the Summer without air conditioning.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Standard alarm (pretty useless as exposed underneath bonnet), and standard deadlocks.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Helpful advice from any main dealer, parts can be found almost anywhere due to abundance of cars.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Diesel - 150,000 miles and still runs fine.

    Other

    Good car, cheap on insurance (group 8).

    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