Vauxhall Corsa Hatchback (2003 - 2006) 1.3 CDTi Breeze 3d (2005/05) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I care more about economy than style - but hey, saving money is cool now, right?
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Doubt they give it a second glance.
Would you buy this car again and why?
For £2k up front and running costs to rival new, super-efficient superminis, it's a cracker.
What are you likely to buy next?
Could do with more boot space and a 6th gear for motorway cruising. Ideally: BMW 330D Touring. Realistically: Astra 1.7 CDTI Ecoflex estate.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£1,950
When did you buy the car?
January 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Best compromise of low tax, good mpg, age and upfront cost.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Easy. Light, forgiving clutch, responsive steering. Not what you'd call 'communicative' or fun to drive though. Handbrake is rubbish - barely holds the car on a hill, even after adjustment (another common Corsa C issue, apparently). Engine pulls well - most hills can be climbed in 4th at 30mph+, but gutless until turbo kicks in. Far more poke than a new gen Corsa 1.2 petrol I've driven.
What's it like to park?
No problem - have to parallel park it every day.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Snapped nearside front spring - not surprising given the roads on my commute and having 100,000 miles on the clock. Fuel pump has slight leak. Can be a bit reluctant to start on cold mornings (common issue with the 1.3 CDTI).
What's most practical about your car?
Low running costs. Averaging 54 real mpg with best of 59 mpg. '05 plate car so £30/yr to tax (beware - '54 plate and earlier versions put out 122g/km of CO2 so cost more to tax). Can fit 5 internal house doors in if you rest them up on the dashboard and stick the corner out the front passenger window!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Would say air-con, but try not to use it to help the mpg!
