1989 Vauxhall Cavalier 2.0 GLi Auto 2.0 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
A superb family car for banger money
Faults:
Thermostat failed, cost £15.
Rear disks are corroded and will need replacing soon.
Exhaust downpipe is on the way out.
General Comments:
I bought this car for the princely sum of £350 (with 12 months MOT) and it has turned out to be my best car purchase ever.
The car is very easy to drive, the 4-speed auto box is very smooth, it changes up quickly, but this suits the tourqey character of the 8v engine so is not a problem.
Performance is good, cruising ability is excellent - quiet, comfortable and economical.
Standard equipment is good considering the age with a few nice touches such as self closing windows when you lock the car and electric headlamp adjustment.
Economy varies quite a lot, from high 20's round town to low 40's on the motorway.
The only bad points I can think of are a bit cramped in the rear for the size of car, and the ride is not great over poor surfaces.
I admit I was lucky with this car, most cav's of this age are past it now, but if you can find a good one you can't go wrong!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th June, 2002
17th Jun 2002, 14:24
Nice review - these are absolutely top motors and they'll go on forever if serviced regularly. Change the oil every 6 months and keep on top of the maintenance, and you'll get 250,000 miles out of it without any problems.