Vauxhall Corsa Hatchback (2003 - 2006) 1.2 16V SXi 3d (AC) (2003/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Young, funky, carefree.

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

Colleagues mock; friends love; family indifferent.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Definately. The Corsa has small niggles like all Vauxhalls, but I know she will go on for a long time yet. Still stylish for what is essentially a seven year old design.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mazda MX-5.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,499

When did you buy the car?

May 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Average deal. Car was in good condition although made usual first car purchase mistakes and didn't haggle enough.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Liked the styling, relatives always been happy with Vauxhalls in the past, good value for money.

What was the dealer like?

Fobbed off with excuse when took car back to have handbrake adjusted after one week.

What's it like to drive?

Fun to drive around town, good frontal visibility although lacking rear vision. Suspension a little too soft and car suffers from body roll when pushed. Good little engine average 44mpg on mainly town work - a nice bit of torque after 4400rpm. Competent on the motorway.

What's it like to park?

Poor rear visibility hampers parking, although I keep mine so far away from any objects that it's hard for me to say!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Seat releases are sometimes very sticky and require a firm hand; car suffers from a nightmarish second gear that I believe is common on the Corsas. Suspension creaks over speed bumps or crests in road after just 28,000 miles. However, I know she'll start first time every time.

What's most practical about your car?

Plenty of room in cabin and very deep boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Steering wheel audio controls! A God send!