1990 Vauxhall Astra L 1.4 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Spankingly fast for what it is
Faults:
Over heated twice, the first time was stuck in traffic and as soon as steam started rising the traffic moved so I left it. Other time was stuck in traffic for about an hour over the distance of 500 yards. Parked up for a while and let it cooled, but all was fine in the end as far as I know, it was only 2 and a half hours ago.
I also found out the other day that there was no oil in the engine. The last time I filled it was in the middle of June. Thankfully it wasn't a leak, but just consumption. Bit thirsty I know, but It ran well without oil.
Cam ticks like a something I can't say on here, but quietens down once I pull off or give it a little rev.
There is an annoying rattle from the engine. to be honest I want a new car now so I'm gonna leave it be.
I think the C.V. joints have gone as it makes a worrying ticking noise when I accelerate round corners in first second and third.
General Comments:
Otherwise it's fantastic, don't let my problems put you off. If you are buying a car of this age, you can't go far wrong, in fact unless I can get a cheap Honda Civic, I'm gonna get another Astra.
By the way It did 111 mph with very little/no oil. Would have gone faster had a Fiesta not gone into my lane at 60. Quickly followed by 40 tonnes of truck. Regularly cracked 100 which isn't bad for a car that's supposed to do 96 (I think).
A cracking car, especially if your my Age (18)
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th October, 2002