Vauxhall Corsa Hatchback (2000 - 2004) 1.0i 12V Active 3d (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I can't afford the cars I want to own.

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

Cramped to travel longer journeys in but has proven more reliable than other more expensive and newer cars friends have owned. Has managed a number of 300+ miles trips without any issues.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. Reasonable fuel economy and performance for the money. Aygos, C1s and other newer cars with similar engines/spec are much smaller and less refined.

What are you likely to buy next?

Used Golf, Focus, etc. Something with a bigger engine and more space.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Owner used same independent garage as me and the garage had been servicing the car for about 5 years and could vouch for the low mileage and condition of the car.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Cheap to insure. Had 1.0 Corsa as first car.

What was the dealer like?

N/a

What's it like to drive?

Good around town. Very comfortable at speeds less than 40-50mph and gets good fuel economy (45-50mpg). Very sluggish up hills. Often necessary to change down one or two gears but to be expected with the size of engine. Motorway driving is better than expected but still sluggish. Reasonably refined at 60-80mph for a small car but overtaking can be a challenge. Poor fuel economy on motorway runs. Less than 40mpg. Engine and gears need to be worked hard to get any kind of decent acceleration and performance out of the car.

What's it like to park?

Very easy, steering is very light. Mirrors are quite big which is a help. C pillars are quite big and obstructive when reversing.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Handbrake snapped, very easy to fix. Mechanicals and engine all fine. Wear and tear on brakes, tyres and suspension as normal.

What's most practical about your car?

Rear seats fold flat so can carry a reasonable load.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Air-con is good for a small car. Electric windows and mirrors are a bonus. Alloys make it look slightly less a cheap car.