1996 Vauxhall Astra LS 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Good long runner

Faults:

Recently the car has had problems starting; it keeps cutting out, and if sitting with the engine running, then it either revs up to 3 (me not touching any thing!), or it will cut out. If it cuts out, then I have to rev quite hard, and the smell of petrol is extremely strong.

Today after cutting out and once started, the oil pressure light came on - until I got my manual out and saw I should switch my engine off straight away. I only have problems in and around town.

General Comments:

The car is spacious, quite comfy, and is a great long drive runner.

I would buy this type of car again, as I guess all cars run their course.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 13th June, 2008

1996 Vauxhall Astra LS 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

This car is rubbish!!!!!

Faults:

Front electric windows (stopped).

Central locking (stopped).

Radio/cassette player (stopped working when driving at speeds over 45mph).

Trip computer (same as above).

Number plate fell off (numerous times), and they are also only stuck with velcro pads.

General Comments:

The car can take of fwell from traffic lights, and get to a high speed easily.

However the cabin is dark and dreary

To add to this, the car's electrics often pack up and it is highly unreliable.

It is also built to a appallingly low standard.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 22nd August, 2007

22nd Aug 2007, 17:16

So in 33k miles and an 11 year old car, only 4 things have gone wrong? All of which are minor electrical problems. The number plate coming off is more down to the design. Sounds like you're expecting too much really.

1996 Vauxhall Astra LS 1.7 TDS (ISUZU ENGINE) from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Don't do it

Faults:

Fan belt, alternator, battery, gear linkage, glow plugs, starter motor, suspension arms, alternator again, oil pump, rear brake cylinders, brake pipes, leak off pipes, dash lights, fuse board.

General Comments:

Bought as a cheap work bus for £100 with no test. It passed an mot OK, but in 2 months it cost £400 in repairs.

Goes really well when on the turbo, Will cruise at 95mph.

Average economy (probably due to the leaks)

However, It has a tendency to try and self destruct every week or so, wether it be setting itself on fire twice (alternator then fuseboard) or trying to kill me by having both rear wheel cylinders explode leaving me with no brakes.

Needless to say the car is now scrap.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 2nd February, 2007

7th Feb 2007, 14:47

What do you expect for £100?

19th Dec 2015, 22:00

I had one of these as a company car - did 128k miles in 3 years without an issue, save for a dead battery once. Comfy and reasonably equipped for the time, it was steady and unspectacular to drive, but great on fuel, and it just felt as long as you fed it diesel, it would just run without stopping... forever.

It was red and the paint bloomed(?) - Vauxhall said it wasn't a paint issue, however over the years I have seen how so many Flame Red Vauxhalls turn pink; it's clearly an issue with their pigments!!

When mine was moved on, it had been repaired after being rear ended, so it was Flame Red at the back running thru faded red across the roof, to dusty pink on the bonnet LOL! Inside only the driver's seat had been sat in!!

However in the previous 5k miles it had a full service, 4 new tyres, new exhaust - it was sent off to an auction, and probably looking like that, was picked up for a song as an absolute bargain, by someone who had the nouse to see past the rust free but faded exterior.

1996 Vauxhall Astra Sport 1.6i 16v ecotec from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A quick, comfortable and sporty car

Faults:

Just the normal things like new brake pads and tyres.

Engine management light comes on for no reason then goes off.

Fan likes to come on when stationary.

I have a random rattle that I cannot diagnose, but its not a major problem.

General Comments:

For only a 1.6i 16v ecotec engine this car does go if you want it to, or if you don't mind using half of your fuel. When thrashed it's a bit juicy. I have had 130mph out of mine, possibly more, but I bottled it.

Lower revs the car seems to struggle, but as soon as it hits about 3000rpm, that's when it takes off.

Inside the car is neat. A simple, but effective dash and lovely comfortable sports seats, only tarnished by slightly dated interior designs. Nice and spacious and a delight to drive.

Handling is superb. My previous 306 was terrible, but my astra gives me so much more confidence. Chunky tyres just stick to the road.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th June, 2005