Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1.4i 16V LS 5d (1996/P) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Good build quality, interiors very hardwearing so don't buy a scruffy one. Cheap to buy and run, so lots for your money
Costs
Servicing has cost us next to nothing (10k intervals). Car done 94k but now gearbox needs replacing, so new car beckons.
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On the road
Driving
Handles fine, whether potholed roads or motorway. Good seats hold you well.
Performance
This car will never set the world on fire, but for a 1.4 this car is quite nippy. Whatever you do don't buy an 8V.
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Living with it
Reliability
Very good up until about 80K when all sorts of niggly things began: ignition switch, passenger electric window, jumps out of 5th gear, water pump broke (runs off cambelt, so we lost the cylinder head as well). Bold colours fade if not kept polished.
Image
Old hat now, but could do much worse.
Comfort
OK in the front for adults, lots of headroom (I'm 6'2"" and its fine). Tight in the back on legroom
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Security and Service
Security
Door locks resisted recent attempted break-in, so ok. Locks broke now though. Immobiliser built into ignition key, so nice and simple, but replacement keys about £40.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Waterpump failure caused cylinder head failure, otherwise very reliable
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes