Vauxhall Cavalier Hatchback (1988 - 1995) 2.0i GLS Cat 5d Auto (1993/L) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Grandad/peasant
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Friends like the straight line speed. Family like it as it's a sensible motor and something a bit different as not many are on the roads these days.
Would you buy this car again and why?
I wouldn't buy another one. They're nice cars but it's not a car I would miss
What are you likely to buy next?
Hot hatch? Not too sure yet.
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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?
£479
When did you buy the car?
January 2012
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes I thought so. It only had 70k miles on the clock, most of the service history was there and there was not one spot of rust anywhere.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Always wanted an automatic. Previously owned a 1988 Austin Metro (!) which was getting a bit old.
What was the dealer like?
DIdn't see the dealer; my dad picked the car up for me. However, he seemed very friendly over the phone.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Quick in a straight line. Watch the speedo rise and the petrol gauge fall! Doesn't inspire confidence round the bends. The steering is quite vague and the chassis is hardly capable of ensuring a confident drive. I wouldn't like to find out how the heavy V6 models handle; especially with front wheel drive. A keen understeerer, and absolutely lethal in the wet.
What's it like to park?
Not too bad. Visibility is good as there's lots of glass to see out of.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
A valve spring in the engine broke at about 79k miles. Very unusual; as the car had always been serviced regularly and I presumed these 8 valve lumps were bulletproof. Electrical niggles are very annoying too. Door cards disintergrate, trim has started to fall off and the headlining is sagging again.
What's most practical about your car?
5 doors and a big boot.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Heated mirrors come in handy now and again. The ability to dim the interior lighting is a novel touch too.
