Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.8i 16V SRi 5d (AC) (2002/52) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I suppose that you like the handling and performance of a sportier car, with the practicality of a reliable hatchback.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Not sure about the neighbours,but as far as cI am aware friends and family have always liked it, and have found it comfortable to be in.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. Obviously most are getting older now and the 1998 design is dated against new models. It was also built in the days before CO2 emissions and petrol prices were the concern they now are. However if I was on a tight budget, but wanted a fun but practical and reliable hatchback I would definitely consider this car.

What are you likely to buy next?

I have just bought a new white Astra SRi 1.6 Turbo. Having been driving for over 30 years and generally changing manufacturer and model regularly, I have even surprised myself that I have gone for another Astra, However my experience with the last two, combined with there being some good deals available at the moment swung me.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,500

When did you buy the car?

September 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was a well priced car at the time. The car came fully serviced and MoTed, and with a years warranty.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Had owned a 1.8 SXi of the same age from new and done over 100,000 miles in it when someone wrote it off whilst it was parked, Very good car, so had no hesitation in replacing with similar.

What was the dealer like?

Very pleasant and helpful, No hard sell. I have since purchased another car from them, and have recommended them to friends.

What's it like to drive?

I find it an enjoyable car to drive with good handling and performance. It is good fun on smaller roads and lanes, whilst being untiring and comfortable on long motorway journeys. Overall on both cars (which for comfort and driving are identical) I have driven about 150,000 miles on all types of road and in all conditions.and have always felt safe and confident in the cars ability. It does have sizeable blind spots however and you have to be careful when entering motorways dual carriageways etc, particularly if you are coming in on a curve. .

What's it like to park?

I have no problem parking it. Visibility is fine all round for parking and you can see both ends of the car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Ity has been a very reliable car and has now done 110,000 miles with little work needed apart from routine servicing. I have however just had to have the rear two pipes of the exhaust replaced.

What's most practical about your car?

This is a very practical car, being highly reliable, comfortable and with decent luggage space for a car of it's type at the time.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

This car is not laden with extras, I chose in 2002, when I bought new to pay less for an SXi and load it with the optional extras I wanted. However Cruise control is good for long motorway journeys, and the electric mirrors are convenient. Also whilst pretty standard these days, air conditioning is now a must for me.