1988 Bedford Astravan 1.3 petrol from UK and Ireland
Summary:
The best money I ever spent
Faults:
Water pump disintegrated at about 150,000 miles.
Rear shocks needed replacing at about 200,000 miles.
I've had 4 clutches so far, including the one that's in there now, replaced about a year ago.
One stop bulb seems to blow at regular intervals (about once every 2 years).
Carburettor wrecked by an incompetent mechanic at about 125,000 miles. Non-original replacement was poop. Went back to a re-con carb. That needs a good clean now, every service.
The cam cover gasket's been weeping a little oil for the last 5 years or so.
Rust's just started to appear round the arches.
The heater matrix and blower are coming to the end of their natural life.
General Comments:
This van's been amazing.
Just put petrol in it and it goes.
Starts every time, even in snow.
I still get good fuel economy.
I use it for my business, and regularly go round the M25.
The integral roof rack's really strong.
I can fit 8 foot sign boards inside!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 10th January, 2006
15th Feb 2007, 09:23
My Astravan got nicked last night. I'm gutted. It was a b*****dy good tool' I will try and get another.