Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback 1988-
  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No longer worth the sum of its parts, but if you want a reliable motorway mile muncher it doesn't get much better.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Surprisingly fuel efficient. Servicing can be cheap if nothing much is wrong, but Vauxhall really takes the P**s with the cost of parts, espeially the brakes! Two sets in 3 years costing almost £500 a time!

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Predictable, but fun on B-roads. Put some V rated low profile tyres on and understeer disappears.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    If you can avoid wheelspin, it's quick away from the lights. Once you get over 3000rpm, few cars in the same class can touch it.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Never broken down yet, starts first time every time.

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    If it's the right colour with a nice set of alloys, it still stands out in the carpark.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Front seats are the best you can get for long journeys, especially with lumbar support. If you're over 6 foot, don't bother getting in the back, walk instead.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not bad concidering it's only got deadlocks.

    Service

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Vauxhall couldn't care less! Twice I've caught them out for not even bothering to change the oil! They will rip you off every chance they get! Don't use main dealers.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Still going strong.

    Other

    As it gets older, it can get quite expensive to keep on the road.

    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