Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1.4 Merit (60ps) 5d (1995/M) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
It's a lot of car for a couple of hundred quid. Definitely better value than much other stuff, and more durable too. Can be neglected and abused a lot before it breaks down. Virtually indestructable if you change the oil and timing-belt regularly.
Costs
Cheap service and repair, easy for a DIY mechanic, rarely breaks down even after 177,900 miles. Only about 30-35mpg though.
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On the road
Driving
Not quite as nippy as multi-point injection model but still lively, especially for a 1.4. Handles badly in the wet, but better than saloon or estate which lose rear end easily. Prone to understeering on roundabouts.
Performance
Very nippy for a 1.4, but not as good as 1.4 multipoint. Fuel economy used to be an excellent 40-45mpg but after high mileage expect 30-35mpg. Handling isn't spectacular, particularly in the wet.
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Living with it
Reliability
Keep the timing belt less than 4 years old (1 if you thrash it), change the oil regularly and it'll have no problems. I've not had a breakdown yet. All it takes is a yearly service. Starts very well, even in the cold.
Image
Ok, it's your auntie's little shopping cart or a young family's practical runabout but it is really an excellent car for your money, and will surprise you at the traffic lights next to that body-kitted space-ship that used to be a Nova/Corsa.
Comfort
It's an extremely comfortable ride with plenty of room, surprisingly comfy supportive seats, and wonderful suspension for a small family car. There's a bit of engine noise though, especially on the motorway.
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Security and Service
Security
Not brilliant, but as good as other cars of the period. Would be better if it had central locking and if you're that worried fit an alarm or buy an autolock.
Service
Haven't taken it to a main dealer yet.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Indestructable engine - no problems, but if you rev it too far (above 5k rpm) too often it chafes the timing belt, so replace it every year if you do.
Other
No problems. Two of them have proven extremely cheap to run and have shown outstanding durability and reliability.
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