1990 Vauxhall Cavalier GL 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Cheap, cheerful and has never let me down
Faults:
Small leak in the radiator.
Some rust on the bodywork, but this is expected in a ten year old car.
Discs and pads replaced due to rather un-nerving whirr at high speeds and lack of braking performance.
Electric mirrors do not move.
Centre console bulb blown (surprise, surprise).
Electric choke occasionally fails on cold days.
General Comments:
Got this car last year as a general run-around. I'm over 6'6" tall so for the money I had I was faced with either a Cavalier or a Mondeo. Took the right decision when I went for the Cavalier.
The 1.6 engine pulls well in low gears, however in higher gears it does not perform but this is a heavy car so can be expected.
Not sure about the economy - looks to be around 25-30mpg but town traffic is always heavy on the fuel. Also, this car tends to feel very laden when the tank is full.
It's a very comfortable car given my height - it has always started first time and once warm runs smoothly.
I've put a small install into it, and it sounds okay - loads of sound-killing soft furnishings make it slightly flat though.
Over all a very forgiving car to drive - cheap(ish) to insure and very reliable.
Not sure it's one for performance or looks, but for reliability it's an excellent choice.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th March, 2001
10th Mar 2001, 15:41
Once had a 'E' reg mark 2 Cavalier, great cars. It was just run in at 210,000 miles. Finally gave up after 280,000 miles due to rotton bodywork, the engine was still sound!