1997 Vauxhall Vectra GLS 2.0 turbo diesel from UK and Ireland
Summary:
It's really not that bad...
Faults:
Sticky electric windows, door trim peeling away, ABS sensor and engine management lights on, plus consumables - servicing, exhaust parts, etc.
General Comments:
A decent car that I didn't get my hopes up about; however it turned out to be better than the famously negative reviews it got upon release. The argument back in the 90s was that the Ford Mondeo was a much better car and this is true because I can say that I have owned both cars from that time period, however the Mondeo only beats the Vectra on one strength - handling. The handling of this car is nowhere near as good as the Ford, however being a family car you should not expect it to corner like a race car.
Reliability was great until the engine management light came on and a lack of power was noticeable. It was near its MOT test time and was needing new brakes and other stuff so I decided to scrap it as it was likely uneconomical to keep on the road. The 5 years I had the car previous to this however it gave very little trouble. It was already high on the miles, but performed as new, even though I took a chance on a slightly rough example (estate car, previously owned by a joiner I think as the rear seats and luggage area were a mess with sawdust!). Generally the interior was pretty dull after I cleaned it up, but again, no sports car so what do you expect? With that said, the feel of the materials were not too bad and I found it a comfortable and equipped enough car to be in for long journeys.
Still lots around from the 90s, however most people have moved on to the newer Vectra (2002 onwards) or the Insignia, both of which fine cars I've heard, but still the same problem with regards to handling. But if you're looking for a cheap 90s car on a budget and have the choice between an old Mondeo or Vectra, to be honest at the age and mileage they are likely to be at, take a chance with either and you should have a decent car for a year or two's reliable motoring.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st May, 2016
5th Oct 2023, 08:12
My car was very similar, the engine management light always came on on these cars at higher mileage. At best it was a small electrical fault, at worst a turbo or something else very expensive and probably not worth fixing; these cars had such low value with a bit of age and miles on them.