1997 Vauxhall Calibra V6 2.5 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
A comfortable performance cruiser
Faults:
Within the first week of buying the car I began noticing water underneath the engine and I had to start topping up the coolant. I decided to take it to an independent garage that I had used before and the guy turned around and said it needed a new water pump at £500. This was within 2 weeks of buying it so I wasn't happy, but I decided to go ahead rather than have to buy something else. The car went into the garage and the next day I got a phone call saying the water pump was OK. Instead it needed a complete strip down of the cylinder heads etc with an estimated cost of £2000+. I then had no choice, but to return to place of purchase and they also confirmed the work. They agreed to do it for £600 all in to be near to the original quote of £500 for the water pump. That was 18 months ago and as yet I have had no other problems other than general wear and tear.
General Comments:
This car is quick above about 3000 rpm where it pulls and pulls through all the gears.
It is not the type of car to throw around as the gearbox is not happy with quick shifting. But it comes into its own as a performance cruiser on the longer faster roads.
The car handles well and is comfortable inside.
The only thing really lacking on this car is cruise control. There is electric everything else.
I have to say that when washed this car does look very very good. Mine is black and can therefore be difficult to keep clean.
The car is not too bad on fuel, but I don't do enough mileage to care anyway.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 4th May, 2004
28th Jul 2003, 09:55
I have a Manual V6 Calibra and on a run up to cumbria I got 46 to the gallon, I was surprised.