1995 Vauxhall Cavalier GLS 1.7 turbo diesel from UK and Ireland
Summary:
An excellent value car that gives a mundane drive
Faults:
Valves started sticking at 100k or so and it wouldn't start in the morning - took over a week at the garage to get sorted. Found out that the valve sleeves needed replaced (I think). Problem sorted and very cheaply.
Alternator needs replaced due to above fault. Currently disengaged the Central Locking so seems to be OK starting.
Front shocks went and rear springs need to be done soon.
Front Brakes were a bit dodgy when I bought the car, but just needed the brake disks changed.
Exhaust went about 90K.
General Comments:
Great Car, but very dull!
Excellent MPG - you can sit on the motorway at 90 MPH or do loads of start/stop town driving and still get 50 MPG.
Reasonable for cruising and overtaking (just give it enough room to speed up and then she's off!)
Girlfriend has the same sort of car and no issues with it either.
Good comfort car with loads of room.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 20th November, 2002
10th Feb 2004, 12:05
Vauxhall 16-valve units are getting better in the newer (less than 3 year old) cars, but for cars of the age like yours, they were more problematic. My father-in-law is a second hand car dealer and has told me that, for older Vectras, he can sell the 1.6 8-valve cars for more than equivalent 16-valve engined cars because of greater reliability and maintenance affordability.