Vauxhall Vectra Hatchback 1.6 16V LS 5d (AC) (96) (1998/R) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Bought the car for £4,000 in 2001, with only 65k miles on it.
Costs
Labour is the key cost. Parts are easy to come by, but the engine design means dismantling and rebuilding much of it every time.
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On the road
Driving
Power steering copes effortlessly. Cab is very roomy and comfortable. Really enjoyed it - 'til it broke.
Performance
For a 1.6 (on such a big chassis), the engine copes well. More at home on motorways than in town, but admirable none-the-less.
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Living with it
Reliability
This particular year/model is riddled with design faults and other gremlins.
Image
Got mistaken for a taxi on plenty of occasions (had to drive round with the doors locked outside nightclubs).
Comfort
Cabin is spacious with plenty of legroom in the rear. The boot is deep, but the tapered hatch limits loading room for bulky items.
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Security and Service
Security
The central locking system is very solid.
Service
Vauxhall really can't be bothered with their customers any more. Most of the work gets out-sourced to smaller firms or you end up getting the parts yourself.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Cambelt (twice in 12 months). Thermostat sensor. Piston rings (ouch).
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