Omega Owners Forum

Omega Help Area => Omega General Help => Topic started by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 20:01:49

Title: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 20:01:49
I scrapped Ben's 2.2 last summer, due to MOT failure caused by rust. Jonny rang today, complaining his 2.2 is 'slipping'. Sounds like clutch failure to me, he's bring it home tomorrow. Now I am a car short. Rust free cheap Omegas are no longer an option. I reckon I should buy something smaller and cheaper to run; I have no idea what. Please advise.

My ideas are Honda Jazz, VW Golf, that sort of thing. I expect to do my own servicing and simple repairs. I am quite pleased with Emma's Streetwise, though I gather they are prone to head gasket failure.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 15 October 2018, 20:07:48
Lots of colleagues got Hondas & love them very reliable.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 October 2018, 20:15:00
Put a clutch in the Omega whilst you choose. Don't forget that you will be choosing long term, so don't rush it :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 15 October 2018, 20:16:51
As your used to working on vauxhall ,and have tools etc
why not another vauxhall  :-\
I just replaced an ageing astra G estate with astra H estate (1.7 cdti tractor juice edition ) over 500 miles per tank and only problem so far was a hose leak, done 1500 miles.
similarly, the picasso got replaced with a zafira A and once i did the brakes,new tyres has gone well 2000+ miles without issue , needs a central locking motor for a rear door (which i robbed off the scrapped astra G )
and vauxhall parts are cheap new or used 
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 21:00:21
Put a clutch in the Omega whilst you choose. Don't forget that you will be choosing long term, so don't rush it :y
It's a 4 cylinder, 18 years old, and rusty. I doubt it will pass MOT next year. Doesn't seem worth a new clutch.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 21:01:06
Lots of colleagues got Hondas & love them very reliable.
Thanks. That's my impression too.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 21:03:45
As your used to working on vauxhall ,and have tools etc
why not another vauxhall  :-\
I just replaced an ageing astra G estate with astra H estate (1.7 cdti tractor juice edition ) over 500 miles per tank and only problem so far was a hose leak, done 1500 miles.
similarly, the picasso got replaced with a zafira A and once i did the brakes,new tyres has gone well 2000+ miles without issue , needs a central locking motor for a rear door (which i robbed off the scrapped astra G )
and vauxhall parts are cheap new or used
Good thought. I agree, I like Vauxhalls, cheap parts, and lots of Forum advice. My sister has bought a Mokka and loves it. I had in mind something smaller, Astra size. Is there much wrong with the Astra?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 15 October 2018, 21:18:40
Pretty simple to work on , having "the code reader we don't talk about"
we have 2000 1.6 8 valve estate,2001 1.6 8 valve hatch,2002 1.4 16v hatch,and the 1.7 dirty diesel estate
and a pair of corsa c and the zafira A
find a car that is ok body wise ,not much rust and all repairs are simple bolt on
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 October 2018, 21:22:20
Pretty simple to work on , having "the code reader we don't talk about"
we have 2000 1.6 8 valve estate,2001 1.6 8 valve hatch,2002 1.4 16v hatch,and the 1.7 dirty diesel estate
and a pair of corsa c and the zafira A
find a car that is ok body wise ,not much rust and all repairs are simple bolt on
That's fair recommendation. I must check availability and prices. Where are the rust problem areas?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 October 2018, 21:36:31
Put a clutch in the Omega whilst you choose. Don't forget that you will be choosing long term, so don't rush it :y
It's a 4 cylinder, 18 years old, and rusty. I doubt it will pass MOT next year. Doesn't seem worth a new clutch.
Anything you buy may not pass its next MoT ::)

Might as well buy anything ticketed for as little as you can and throw it away when the MoT runs out.

Possibly time the kids sourced their own transport as well, but that is a side issue...
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 15 October 2018, 21:48:54

find a car that is ok body wise ,not much rust and all repairs are simple bolt on
That's fair recommendation. I must check availability and prices. Where are the rust problem areas?
wheel arches, sills, front and rear chassis mountings ,all the usual suspects
but if your buying newer ,chances are there will be less rust than an omega
but it is still worth spending time trying to prevent rust ,even on a newer car
from my experience, the more miles a car has done,the more prone it is to rust
and in your case Terry ,your great with the spanners at fixing things but scrap a car when rust rears it's ugly bill  ;D
same as me  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 October 2018, 21:50:30
Vectra C also worth a look... Wear mileage well and start from £250... Just avoid the dti and 2.2 petrol :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 16 October 2018, 01:44:08
Vectra C also worth a look... Wear mileage well and start from £250... Just avoid the dti and 2.2 petrol :y
Nice motors for the money  :y
 but many suffer dual mass flywheel ,clutch ,gearbox issues
worth looking into before buying
if it's been done, all is good, if there are any transmission noises ,clutch problems walk away (unless you are buying cheap and have factored in the parts/time

I've brought cars "spares or repairs" and fixed the issue before now,because that way you know why the car is being sold
(the astra G estate ,blown head gasket but 11 months MOT, £150 in parts and a couple of days working through it ,still going strong after 5 years )

a clutch on an omega could be done in a day ,£150 ? parts if you have lots of mot ledt and no other problems  :-\ aka better the devil you know

or plenty of omegas about with mot , buy one cheap with a long mot , say 500 quid lasts 12 months = £10 a week
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 16 October 2018, 03:25:27
Ran 3 1.8s to 500k between them with little more than routine servicing... Can't fault them.  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: deviator on 16 October 2018, 08:22:10
I'm sorry to say, I doubt I'll be buying another Vauxhall. Being owned by Pug/Citroen is enough to put me off, add in the lack of trade club and the uninspiring line up of models and that's me out. I'm not a fan of VAG cars, the owners are enough to put me off. The over complex suspension setup and the fact that they just aren't that reliable. Also I hate offset steering, a lot of VAG cars come with this back aching feature.

Personally, I would drive a Jazz before a Golf. Although if I had a choice, I'd pick a different Honda/Toyota. In fact I've taken a like to the Honda Accord estate.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Keith ABS on 16 October 2018, 08:23:36
 Zafira A seems to be good. Don't know of anyone who has seen a rusty one
Lots about to choose from in varies trim and engine options.
As said before, cheap parts.
And Zafs have a following with youngsters
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 16 October 2018, 12:14:43
I was surprised how rust free the Zafira A 2.0 dti elegance was we got and quite a few toys too  :) cheap parts and servicing  :y
TB has one the same ,moans about how lacking in power it is (you would compared to a Jag or omega) but he's had it a while and not blown it up or stuffed it in a wheely bin  ;D
it's a rüsselsheim opel product , same as carlton,omega
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Shackeng on 16 October 2018, 12:31:28
SWMBO has her second auto Jazz, doesn't do many miles, but had the first 9 years with nothing at all going wrong in 30k, and this one 4 years, 12k, ditto. Very cleverly designed car, I could do with more drivers legroom, however I'm 6'4" with long legs. :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 16 October 2018, 16:46:10
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BORG-BECK-HK6781-CLUTCH-KIT-PA229084C-ADAM-MERIVIA-CORSA-OMEGA-VECTRA/123371985897?epid=249794753&hash=item1cb98b1be9:g:k30AAOSwKfFbnYnp:rk:43:pf:0
This outfit buys up old stock and flogs it on. It is selling a clutch kit for an Omega 2.6 for £29.99. Would that fit my 2.2?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 16 October 2018, 17:31:55
I have a four cylinder clutch in stock.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 16 October 2018, 18:26:05
Modern Honda, eg last 15yrs, lack reliability, unlike the older ones (which are now rust buckets).  The Koreans do well in reliability tables, if you can stand the dullness (but less dull than a Honda Jizz)


My Zaffy-A just will not rust or break down, despite my best attempts.  Its annoyingly reliable - as long as I put some electricity in it every few weeks when its unused, it just works, despite the glowplugs being sheared. Its so damn annoying.  Hopefully the new MOT rules will kill it.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 16 October 2018, 19:09:25

My Zaffy-A just will not rust or break down, despite my best attempts.  Its annoyingly reliable - as long as I put some electricity in it every few weeks when its unused, it just works, despite the glowplugs being sheared. Its so damn annoying.  Hopefully the new MOT rules will kill it.
first used on or after 1 August 1979 and before 1 July 2008
Maximum smoke value (absorption coefficient) measured under free
acceleration =3.0m-1 or plate value if lower  :y
what new rule will kill it ?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Sir Tigger KC on 17 October 2018, 01:02:09
Mundano!  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 17 October 2018, 07:40:21
Alongside the Omega i have a Vectra C 1.8VVT. Once brought up to scratch it's clean, safe, comfy, reliable and rust free, just has those damn annoying column stalks and cracked springs. Cracked springs are easy to sort, just don't buy OE or pattern springs when they go because they'll just go again. Replace with Eibach pro-kit, do the job once.

I also have 2 astra G's, a 1.7 CDTi which cost £420 and again needed bringing up to scratch and a EGR delete to sort out the emissions and a thorough cleaning of the inlet manifold but is otherwise fine and reliable. I also have a 1.6 twinport picked up for £250 on ebay which should cost about another £250 to finish sorting and so far has also been utterly reliable too. Rusty brake pipes and rear arches are the only non mechanical gripes.

All of them have done 100K+ miles and they all work perfectly. Nothing wrong with Vauxhalls that are properly maintained. Factor in lack of maintenance when you buy them and there's no issue.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 17 October 2018, 14:12:34
Many thanks for all the advice. Keep it coming. Jonny brought home his Omega yesterday, afraid the clutch is far gone, slipping in all the gears.
My current inclination is a petrol manual Astra, there seem to be lots on e-bay. Any models to avoid, or go for?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 17 October 2018, 20:08:53

My Zaffy-A just will not rust or break down, despite my best attempts.  Its annoyingly reliable - as long as I put some electricity in it every few weeks when its unused, it just works, despite the glowplugs being sheared. Its so damn annoying.  Hopefully the new MOT rules will kill it.
first used on or after 1 August 1979 and before 1 July 2008
Maximum smoke value (absorption coefficient) measured under free
acceleration =3.0m-1 or plate value if lower  :y
what new rule will kill it ?
You're so oppsing depressing.

What does it take?  Its got that bad, its outside the house because I CBA to dump it somewhere.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 17 October 2018, 20:12:46
I'm sorry to say, I doubt I'll be buying another Vauxhall. Being owned by Pug/Citroen is enough to put me off, add in the lack of trade club and the uninspiring line up of models and that's me out. I'm not a fan of VAG cars, the owners are enough to put me off. The over complex suspension setup and the fact that they just aren't that reliable. Also I hate offset steering, a lot of VAG cars come with this back aching feature.

Personally, I would drive a Jazz before a Golf. Although if I had a choice, I'd pick a different Honda/Toyota. In fact I've taken a like to the Honda Accord estate.
A good friend has a Honda Accord Estate; he loves it. But it cost him £10,000 against £300 for my Omega estate, and it goes wrong. Not rusting too badly though. It's a big car, and I am looking for something smaller for my family. All Cath, Jonny and Dan need is a 2 seater, easier to park and more economical.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 17 October 2018, 20:28:26

My Zaffy-A just will not rust or break down, despite my best attempts.  Its annoyingly reliable - as long as I put some electricity in it every few weeks when its unused, it just works, despite the glowplugs being sheared. Its so damn annoying.  Hopefully the new MOT rules will kill it.
first used on or after 1 August 1979 and before 1 July 2008
Maximum smoke value (absorption coefficient) measured under free
acceleration =3.0m-1 or plate value if lower  :y
what new rule will kill it ?
You're so oppsing depressing.

What does it take?  Its got that bad, its outside the house because I CBA to dump it somewhere.
You need something reliable in life vehicle wise
even if it will only do the speed limit  ;)
swaps with a Picasso with "new clutch & recon box" and MOT ,good tyres, sweet engine ,earplugs or i can glue the radio knob on load (so you can't hear the transmission noise)
If you have" fallen out of love" with the reliability of your cheap to run/never breaks down Zafira  :-\
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: VXL V6 on 17 October 2018, 20:44:17
Look on the bright side TB, the EDC will die eventually or failing that you could fit a heater blower resister from ECP and stand well back.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 17 October 2018, 20:51:22

A good friend has a Honda Accord Estate; he loves it. But it cost him £10,000 against £300 for my Omega estate, and it goes wrong. Not rusting too badly though. It's a big car, and I am looking for something smaller for my family. All Cath, Jonny and Dan need is a 2 seater, easier to park and more economical.
Astra G or H, corsa C facelift  2003+ Twinport (the 1.4 z14xep is very nippy ,economical and roomy for a small car ) even a newish tigra 2004+
all good "bangernomics" if purchased well
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 17 October 2018, 20:55:24
A lot to be said of cheaper bangers. Always wonder what I’d do if lost 3.2, enjoyed drive home tonight in it.

As Omega is in short supply, if I lost 3.2 tomorrow, I’d strongly look at BMW 530i in E39 shape, plenty about!

RWD, autos plentiful and smooth effortless power.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: VXL V6 on 17 October 2018, 21:07:39
A lot to be said of cheaper bangers. Always wonder what I’d do if lost 3.2, enjoyed drive home tonight in it.

As Omega is in short supply, if I lost 3.2 tomorrow, I’d strongly look at BMW 530i in E39 shape, plenty about!

RWD, autos plentiful and smooth effortless power.

Problem is that they are roughly the same age as Omega's with same or simillar problems to sort including a good few rusty examples. I think i'm one of the few people who likes the E60 design but early ones are too old (not much gain over an Omega) and late ones have complications, you're better off going for the diesel models (Petrol models not the best to LPG) and they command a premium...

It's exactly what TB and Serek say... you struggle to find anything a lot newer with the same or better spec and driveability unless you have £10K+ to spend.  :(
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 17 October 2018, 21:10:08
True, I would not bother with LPG though. No need and with London emissions rules, not worth investing.

Prefer smooth petrol as my commuter, if going ~2k banger budget. 8)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 17 October 2018, 21:10:36
fit a heater blower resister from ECP and stand well back.
//TB strokes chin....
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: VXL V6 on 17 October 2018, 21:13:16
fit a heater blower resister from ECP and stand well back.
//TB strokes chin....
resistor //VXL V6 can't spell
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 17 October 2018, 21:18:45
True, I would not bother with LPG though. No need and with London emissions rules, not worth investing.

Prefer smooth petrol as my commuter, if going ~2k banger budget. 8)

Eg

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476)

Expensive yes, but looks very clean.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 17 October 2018, 21:21:49
Let them choose and buy the cars that they feel suit their needs  ::)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 17 October 2018, 21:23:35
True, I would not bother with LPG though. No need and with London emissions rules, not worth investing.

Prefer smooth petrol as my commuter, if going ~2k banger budget. 8)

Eg

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476)

Expensive yes, but looks very clean.
But older, so will have same chassis corrosion issues, and same (potential) emission issues.

Or have I missed something  :-\
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 17 October 2018, 21:32:53
True, I would not bother with LPG though. No need and with London emissions rules, not worth investing.

Prefer smooth petrol as my commuter, if going ~2k banger budget. 8)

Eg

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810031147476)

Expensive yes, but looks very clean.
But older, so will have same chassis corrosion issues, and same (potential) emission issues.

Or have I missed something  :-\

Considered only if lost 3.2 in very near future.  :)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 17 October 2018, 21:34:30
Considered only if lost 3.2 in very near future.  :)
Ah, my bad, was thinking this was if the London emission zones moved out.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 17 October 2018, 21:40:15
Considered only if lost 3.2 in very near future.  :)
Ah, my bad, was thinking this was if the London emission zones moved out.

It’s in my thoughts, e39 would be a banger temp solution. Based on current plans not including the office location.

What concerns me is if I spent £10-12k on say XF S which is Euro5? They could easily ramp up requirement and further expand. 
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 18 October 2018, 09:07:46
I’m so glad I live nowhere near London ;).
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: aaronjb on 18 October 2018, 09:28:11
I think i'm one of the few people who likes the E60 design but early ones are too old (not much gain over an Omega) and late ones have complications, you're better off going for the diesel models (Petrol models not the best to LPG) and they command a premium...

Best looking 5 series they made after the E28.. I eyed them up as a potential return to bangernomics after the Skoda.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: aaronjb on 18 October 2018, 09:28:40
I’m so glad I live nowhere near London ;).

Erm.. you live precisely in prime commuter district for London, last time I checked! ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 18 October 2018, 09:37:41
I’m so glad I live nowhere near London ;).

Erm.. you live precisely in prime commuter district for London, last time I checked! ;D

Also, as you've said it's coming. Birmingham, Manchester etc soon all major cities would have similar measures.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 18 October 2018, 10:42:39
A lot to be said of cheaper bangers. Always wonder what I’d do if lost 3.2, enjoyed drive home tonight in it.

As Omega is in short supply, if I lost 3.2 tomorrow, I’d strongly look at BMW 530i in E39 shape, plenty about!

RWD, autos plentiful and smooth effortless power.
.


 
Makes sense to me have spent silly money on cars in the past " Bangernomics" makes sense to me £5000 spent on a vehicle if I get 5 years use out of it I'm more than happy.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Webby the Bear on 18 October 2018, 13:06:05
Petrol Astra H’s if you’re going for something cheaper.

If you’re after something newer I can’t recommend more the Hyundai i30. Wife’s is 15 plate 1.4. Bloody love it
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 18 October 2018, 13:52:54
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Webby the Bear on 18 October 2018, 14:37:38
If Astra G check them front brake pipes from the flexis that snake up the chassis rail
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 18 October 2018, 17:50:41
I’m so glad I live nowhere near London ;).

Erm.. you live precisely in prime commuter district for London, last time I checked! ;D
Too far for me. Plus it smells. And after every visit to said shithole, I'm pulling enough coal from my nostrils to power Drax.


Oh shit, remind me where I've been all day. Just to enter 8 bloody IPs only 8 devices, grrrrrr.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: aaronjb on 18 October 2018, 18:40:41
Oh shit, remind me where I've been all day. Just to enter 8 bloody IPs only 8 devices, grrrrrr.

 ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Andy B on 18 October 2018, 21:35:02
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra .....

Mrs B used to have one when they were were just a Lantra & I can vouch for the expensive parts ..... though she liked it cos it was purple  ;D ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 19 October 2018, 00:36:56
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra .....

Mrs B used to have one when they were were just a Lantra & I can vouch for the expensive parts ..... though she liked it cos it was purple  ;D ;D
That's alright then :D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 19 October 2018, 01:05:46
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra .....

Mrs B used to have one when they were were just a Lantra & I can vouch for the expensive parts ..... though she liked it cos it was purple  ;D ;D

Lucky you  :)
so you can buy her any car you like and just rattle can paint it purple and she's happy  :D ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 19 October 2018, 07:49:57
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D

Astra Gs are tough little things. I'd choose one over the H mainly because it's electronically much simpler.

I think the floorpan is the same as the H as I've found many fixed length parts like hoses and links are interchangeable. Some people find the Astra G seats a bit uncomfortable. Easy swap with the H seats which are much more supportive.

The CDTis weak point is emissions. Even with proper hard use the inlet manifold gunges up. Mapping out the EGR as you can't just blank it, cleans up the smoke test and ensures a good safe MOT pass.

Both of mine, 1 petrol, 1 diesel barely cost £500 between them and have cost about the same over the years to put into good condition.

They are small, light and simple to work on so seem perfect for home maintenance.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: aaronjb on 19 October 2018, 08:42:11
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra .....

Mrs B used to have one when they were were just a Lantra & I can vouch for the expensive parts ..... though she liked it cos it was purple  ;D ;D

Lucky you  :)
so you can buy her any car you like and just rattle can paint it purple and she's happy  :D ;D

There's a box. You are thinking outside of it. ;D ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 21 October 2018, 20:51:06
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Are you saying my Omega wheels will fit the Astra G?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Andy B on 21 October 2018, 21:01:07
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Are you saying my Omega wheels will fit the Astra G?

Most Astra Gs had 4 stud hubs ...
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 21 October 2018, 21:33:56
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Are you saying my Omega wheels will fit the Astra G?
NO.

True, they might bolt on, but the offsets are VERY different. The only VX cars that the Omega wheels fit are Omegas and Carltons, so either keep them as spares for the other Omegas or pop them on ebay/here... :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 21 October 2018, 21:35:09
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Are you saying my Omega wheels will fit the Astra G?

Most Astra Gs had 4 stud hubs ...
Looking at brake discs for Astra H they are for 5 stub hubs. Perhaps Omega wheels would fit an Astra H (2004-2009).
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 21 October 2018, 21:36:43
Thank you.
Mrs Builder had an Hyundai Elantra when I met her, parts where expensive .everything rusted between fettling intervals .
It was made clear that she would need to swap brand to vauxhall before I alowed her to marry me  :y
the in-laws still have a santa fe , because they drag a tin shed around the country quite often ,they have it repaired elsewhere at great expense as it does not meet the requirements of my Vauxhall family care service/repair criteria  ;D

petrol astra H are a good choice agreed , if it must be petrol , the astra H design 1.7 cdti tractor juice edition estate my brother is running is saving him quite a chunk of cash on fuel .
also, in true "bangernomics" style, you should not rule out the older astra G platform IF purchased cheapy with long MOT,no major issues .
a sub £500 car with 12 months mot is £10 a week and you'll still claw back scrap value £100+ IF the next MOT is untenable .
also if vauxhall 5 stud 5x110 you could save wheels/tyres off the doomed omega ,depending on what vaux you go for

or get that clutch swapped  ;D
Are you saying my Omega wheels will fit the Astra G?
NO.

True, they might bolt on, but the offsets are VERY different. The only VX cars that the Omega wheels fit are Omegas and Carltons, so either keep them as spares for the other Omegas or pop them on ebay/here... :y
Thank you.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 21 October 2018, 21:38:43
Also applies to Astra H ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 22 October 2018, 11:40:19
Omega et34 on 7j 225/55/16 5 stud astra et 35 to 37 on 7j 195/65/15

so et wise 3mm poke -3 inset (like having a 1 to 3mm wheel spacer) speedo error less than -3%

many astras are 5x110 upto 2009

the spare in the astra 1.7 cdti is 195/65/15 as is my omega steely

https://www.willtheyfit.com/index.php?width=195&aspect=65&diameter=15&wheelwidth=7&offset=37&width2=225&aspect2=55&wheel_size=16&wheel_width=7&offset2=34 (https://www.willtheyfit.com/index.php?width=195&aspect=65&diameter=15&wheelwidth=7&offset=37&width2=225&aspect2=55&wheel_size=16&wheel_width=7&offset2=34)

seem to remember Terry says he has steel wheels rather than alloys ?

but yes, selling a set of alloys if you scrap a car ,even omega 16", will add to the budget of the replacement ,or put them to one side for another omega

got the new clutch fitted yet Terry  :D ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 22 October 2018, 11:54:30
The temptation would be to use as is straight off the Omega... The difference in tyre width/aspect ratio would be enough to foul the strut.  ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 22 October 2018, 17:21:47
The temptation would be to use as is straight off the Omega... The difference in tyre width/aspect ratio would be enough to foul the strut.  ;)


17" Omega wheels bolt onto an Astra G, but aren't usable.  BTDT
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 23 October 2018, 14:05:38
Omega et34 on 7j 225/55/16 5 stud astra et 35 to 37 on 7j 195/65/15

so et wise 3mm poke -3 inset (like having a 1 to 3mm wheel spacer) speedo error less than -3%

many astras are 5x110 upto 2009

the spare in the astra 1.7 cdti is 195/65/15 as is my omega steely

https://www.willtheyfit.com/index.php?width=195&aspect=65&diameter=15&wheelwidth=7&offset=37&width2=225&aspect2=55&wheel_size=16&wheel_width=7&offset2=34 (https://www.willtheyfit.com/index.php?width=195&aspect=65&diameter=15&wheelwidth=7&offset=37&width2=225&aspect2=55&wheel_size=16&wheel_width=7&offset2=34)

seem to remember Terry says he has steel wheels rather than alloys ?

but yes, selling a set of alloys if you scrap a car ,even omega 16", will add to the budget of the replacement ,or put them to one side for another omega

got the new clutch fitted yet Terry :D ;D
No, can't be bothered on a 4 cylinder Omega with rust. Am now stripping for spares before scrapping.
Had a drive in a mate's Astra today, seemed OK. It was an 02 car, with no obvious rust. 8 miles away there's an Astra on e-bay, MOT failure, rear discs, failed horn and engine light on, current bid £180. Would need trailering away, boring.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 23 October 2018, 14:10:28
You could always let them source their own cars :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 23 October 2018, 16:39:01
No, can't be bothered on a 4 cylinder Omega with rust. Am now stripping for spares before scrapping.
Had a drive in a mate's Astra today, seemed OK. It was an 02 car, with no obvious rust. 8 miles away there's an Astra on e-bay, MOT failure, rear discs, failed horn and engine light on, current bid £180. Would need trailering away, boring.
depends on what the car is(spec,miles age and condition)
Rear discs and pads are cheap enough £50 easy job ,horn could be easy,fuse ,lose wire,steering horn button,
 engine management light is another story, it could be a simple sensor OR dropped valve,bummed cat anything , but you can read the codes with the pedal test on most astras (not the early x16szr 1.6 )  :y
is it not worth spending say £500- 600 on something with long mot to save you the mediate hassle, get them mobile again  :-\
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 23 October 2018, 19:17:22
No, can't be bothered on a 4 cylinder Omega with rust. Am now stripping for spares before scrapping.
Had a drive in a mate's Astra today, seemed OK. It was an 02 car, with no obvious rust. 8 miles away there's an Astra on e-bay, MOT failure, rear discs, failed horn and engine light on, current bid £180. Would need trailering away, boring.
depends on what the car is(spec,miles age and condition)
Rear discs and pads are cheap enough £50 easy job ,horn could be easy,fuse ,lose wire,steering horn button,
 engine management light is another story, it could be a simple sensor OR dropped valve,bummed cat anything , but you can read the codes with the pedal test on most astras (not the early x16szr 1.6 )  :y
is it not worth spending say £500- 600 on something with long mot to save you the mediate hassle, get them mobile again /highlight] :-\
I think so. There was a 2005 car for sale in Chippenham for £595 on Sunday, new MOT, but I delayed bidding until I had sat in one. It sold Monday morning.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 25 October 2018, 08:37:05
I am looking at Astras, and to date restricting my search to petrol and manual gearbox cars.

Are Astra automatics reliable? I imagine they are torque converter type automatics, not strange semi manual boxes.

Have diesel Astras any drawbacks? I understand they are not suitable for someone doing only short journeys, but my son Jonny does lots of long runs

There is an Astra on e-bay with 180,000 miles on it. Should I avoid it, or go for a cheap 9 year old car?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 25 October 2018, 11:05:25
1.8 Vectra C all day long ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 25 October 2018, 11:45:58
I am looking at Astras, and to date restricting my search to petrol and manual gearbox cars.

Are Astra automatics reliable? I imagine they are torque converter type automatics, not strange semi manual boxes.

Have diesel Astras any drawbacks? I understand they are not suitable for someone doing only short journeys, but my son Jonny does lots of long runs

There is an Astra on e-bay with 180,000 miles on it. Should I avoid it, or go for a cheap 9 year old car?
There are loads of manual astras about if that is what you want
seem to remember people having transmission cooler fails that saw coolant into the auto boxes on some astras even under warranty or just out ,but i can't remember what model, there are some semi auto boxes about too IIRC. :-\

The 1.7cdti design (tractor juice edition) astra h estate that my brother is driving cost £875, had 75k on it and 12 months mot . (ebay private sale buy it now) so far i have binned the space saver and given it a proper spare (which i had anyway), and it had a small coolant hose leak after about 6 weeks, he's saving on fuel bills will pay for the car in less than a year (compared to the petrol astra he had)

I'd avoid cars with 180k on myself  ;)
ebay,auto trader etc you can narrow your search down to lower ,say less than 100k
don't rule out dealer part ex , some bargains to be had  :y

the zafira 2.0 DTi elegance was a main dealer part ex, 9 months mot ,105k £500 , I replaced front and rear brake pads and discs for £70 (my choice, they where pitted), one brake line, serviced it . that has done 2000k since, i do need to repair the o/s/r door not locking (probably a broken wire in the door shut)

1.8 Vectra C all day long ;)
Is a bigger car than astra (i think Terry said he'd be ok with smaller)
plenty of vec c about  :)
there is that clutch / dmf flywheel fail issue with lots of vec c though  :-\
did you come across it Doc ? in our ownership

£1000 should see a tidy astra or vec c brought without major rust to deal with any time soon if you choose wisely Terry

Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 12:08:48
Astra and Vectra FWD though and boring.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 25 October 2018, 12:29:37
Astra and Vectra FWD though and boring.
I think Terry is looking for cheap,reliable transport for his kids,
That is not rotten,needs welding for the next MOT trackday race car  ;D
he's good with the spanners, allergic to welding bills  :y
so, I don't think he will find much cheap  RWD fun to be had that won't require being shot with the welding gun  :y
your avatar depicts a FWD car  ???   ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: aaronjb on 25 October 2018, 13:00:15
I think Terry is looking for cheap,reliable transport for his kids,
...
your avatar depicts a FWD car  ???   ;D

Which, ironically, Tunnie uses for ... transporting his kids ;D

[edit] Although I think the difference is that Terry's are nearly as old as Tunnie is, let alone Tunnie's kids!

Speaking of - I went looking for Astra H's on eBay and 'trader.. it looks like more like £2k for a 1.7 diesel, manual, estate with less than 100k on it. Shame or I could have been tempted for the return to bangernomics (that said, I would prefer RWD, too).
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 25 October 2018, 13:38:10
I think Terry is looking for cheap,reliable transport for his kids,
...
your avatar depicts a FWD car  ???   ;D

Which, ironically, Tunnie uses for ... transporting his kids ;D

[edit] Although I think the difference is that Terry's are nearly as old as Tunnie is, let alone Tunnie's kids!
Terry's choice , he looks after the cars for his family , as do I  :y
Speaking of - I went looking for Astra H's on eBay and 'trader.. it looks like more like £2k for a 1.7 diesel, manual, estate with less than 100k on it. Shame or I could have been tempted for the return to bangernomics (that said, I would prefer RWD, too).
I agree the astra estate I found was a real bargain, astra h 1.7 tractor juice edition estates are very rare, usually have 150k on because they are very good on fuel (bro is getting 50mpg+   average Tamworth/Birmingham commute)
Terry wants something smaller than an omega and probably a hatchback would do  :-\  and in petrol there are loads ,and also some diesels

"Bangernomics" requires shopping around ,research ,time ,and probably fixing a few issues (the reason the car is for sale)

Also, 12 months mot is nice , but, many things are not covered by an MOT inspection, like clutch, headgasket starting to fail ,etc etc

 
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 14:16:00
Astra and Vectra FWD though and boring.
I think Terry is looking for cheap,reliable transport for his kids,
That is not rotten,needs welding for the next MOT trackday race car  ;D
he's good with the spanners, allergic to welding bills  :y
so, I don't think he will find much cheap  RWD fun to be had that won't require being shot with the welding gun  :y
your avatar depicts a FWD car  ???   ;D

The Zafira Tourer is the wife's, not mine. Driving it has shown me I could not live with FWD as my commuter  :y

Still maintain Astra/Vectra are boring and horrible choices for bangernomics, far more interesting bangers out there for a couple of grand, with 6 pots and RWD.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 14:24:32
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 25 October 2018, 14:52:02
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
Few things.....
 bangernomics = driving an older car (banger) economically 
  @23 MPG +road tax ::) and insurance , it won't be very economical  ::)

check the MOT history   :o 4 years ago it failed because of rust , and again 3 years ago , I doubt the rust situation has improved with time  :P and it has 180k+ on it so will need parts and spannering probably  :-\

Terry may as well have the Omega welded up if he wants that sort of RWD
 "economy"  ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 15:52:11
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
Few things.....
 bangernomics = driving an older car (banger) economically 

Humm not my definition of a banger, it does not need to be good on fuel.

A banger should have lots of cylinders and be a bit of fun, run it for a while until it implodes or explodes.

Besides, 23mpg, I barely get that out of the 3.2.  :)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 25 October 2018, 16:19:26
No DMF issues on the 1.8 Vectra C... ran three as taxis... total sum of issues was limited to a couple of pairs of springs, 3 radiators (all at 100k) and that was it over about 300k miles between them. all had oil and filter every 10k, and plugs, air/pollen/fuel filters every 20k and coolant every 40k.

6 speed manual box doesn't agree with the 150 cdti in the Astra chassis if the car is driven hard. the box is a slimmed down version of the Vectra one to fit the chassis, and doesn't like abuse.

EY55TLN MoT history will give you an idea of what a well looked after Vectra 1.8 can do. Still see it running around locally. It was still licenced as a PHV until 2017, hence gap in Mot history. I bought it July 2010 with 16k on it and released the V5 once the finance was done in 2015.

FV55LXH equally managed well over 200k, bought in 2009 with 34k.

NL58OJR was the third, used by one person from 2010-15, I used to service it, but he was responsible for the tyres etc, but inspite of his best efforts, did 174k miles. bought in 2010 with 38k on it.

All were Network Q.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 25 October 2018, 16:56:35

Besides, 23mpg, I barely get that out of the 3.2.  :)
If it's any consilation, my 2.6 does not much better  ;D

Driving a V6 omega is not good "bangernomics" . it's financial stupidity if you do any mileage  :D (unless you have a petrol tree in your garden that's in fruit 24/7/365) , I drive a V6 omega because I like the brand,and need the boot space and have been driving carltons for 18 years, which are thin on the ground  :'(

Lots of very useful information Doctor G  :y  thank you
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 25 October 2018, 17:37:38
Still maintain Astra/Vectra are boring and horrible choices for bangernomics, far more interesting bangers out there for a couple of grand, with 6 pots and RWD.


6 cylinder RWD cars are the horrible choices for bangernomics. That requires a car that is cheap to buy and needs nothing done to or spent on it for some time. And £2k is a costly banger. Most cheap RWD are that way because they're actually expensive to own, and the previous owners opted out of paying for the jobs that make them long term possibilities. Just like cheap Omegas have been for several years now.


Astras, Vectras, Focus are good for this because there are lots of them about, parts are easy and cheap and they're OK as cars. Except for the Focus, but I'm in a small minority thinking that ::)


I no longer give a toss about owning a RWD everyday car. Which is just as well, because I don't like most of them!
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 25 October 2018, 18:30:37
Plenty of sensibly priced 1.8 Vectra around, buy facelift and look after it and the car might only owe you a couple of hundred a year. Similar size to the Omega so no loss of comfort that you would get from smaller Focus/Astra sized cars.

Economy is better than the Omega, typically 32 mpg, so all in all, it's a win :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 25 October 2018, 18:59:48
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 25 October 2018, 19:02:04
1.8 Vectra C all day long ;)
Back when they were worth something, I seemed to spend half my life down at a certain garage diagnosing shagged ECMs on them.

Nowadays, they're just scrapped. And rightly so, god awful pieces of shit.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 25 October 2018, 19:05:43
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.
Yes, at least with the Omega it's only the rust you've got to worry about and it's not a mechanical basket case on top.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 21:04:12
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 25 October 2018, 21:13:19
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.
A neighbour has a highly tuned Astra-H VXR, I suspect that's a lot of fun. If it hadn't put too much through the gearbox so it whines like a bastard
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 25 October 2018, 21:16:39
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.
A neighbour has a highly tuned Astra-H VXR, I suspect that's a lot of fun. If it hadn't put too much through the gearbox so it whines like a bastard

FWD though, you boot it in RWD and the back end wiggles about, can steer through it. It’s fun.

Boot it in FWD and it just rattles your dash to bits, with zero steering ability, I find it quite unpleasant to drive a FWD quickly.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Migv6 le Frog Fan on 25 October 2018, 21:32:09
So do I. I feel sorry for youngsters who have never experienced driving quickly in a rwd car.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 25 October 2018, 21:35:49
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.

Tinckering with an Astra G isn't fun, it's easy. Tinckering with an Omega isn't fun it's a necessity.

Both my Astra G's are really ordinary but with light mods when things wear out have got better with age and miles. Full Eibach/Bilstein suspension with new GM sport front mounts and the front end is really tight and pointy, not really go kart but pretty sharp for a family hatch. Remapped 1.7CDTi gives real world 63+ MPG and the same sort of pull as a new Skoda Octavia VRS - just ask the poor sod who tried to out drag me uphill on a dual carriageway last Summer when he saw a slightly battered old Astra and assumed it was a slow smoky pile of s!!!e. It's only the longer gearing that eventually got him past after nearly a mile of trying really hard. Total with the mods still less than a grand. That's where the fun comes.

Petrol is less congested under the bonnet than diesel so easier to work on, 2 litre turbo is pretty rapid and can be made to handle well and is off the "notice me" radar.

Normal 1.4 or 1.6 petrol dead easy to work on, simple and once sorted is reliable. Most will not have been looked after properly but that's right up Terry's street so should be fine.


RWD is much more fun to drive, even better with a howling engine for a soundtrack, sadly it's a long way from what most people want. Have found though that you can still do doughnuts in an Astra G with deft use of the handbrake, a wet surface and crap tyres.

Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Sir Tigger KC on 25 October 2018, 22:14:38
So do I. I feel sorry for youngsters who have never experienced driving quickly in a rwd car.

Yes they will never know the delight of a Morris Marina 1800TC Coupe!  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 25 October 2018, 23:51:06
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.


That's the point, an Astra(or similar) doesn't need any tinkering! It's the 'premium' German stuff that has to be fettled all the time and is therefore a poor choice for those who don't have the time/money to keep them.


Nor can I understand all the fuss about V8s, especially European ones.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 26 October 2018, 00:46:32
So do I. I feel sorry for youngsters who have never experienced driving quickly in a rwd car.

Yes they will never know the delight of a Morris Marina 1800TC Coupe!  :y

He did say driving quickly. What's to miss about having your @rse chewing through the driver's seat while trying to grapple with the prehistoric suspension??
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 26 October 2018, 05:27:26
So do I. I feel sorry for youngsters who have never experienced driving quickly in a rwd car.

Yes they will never know the delight of a Morris Marina 1800TC Coupe!  :y

He did say driving quickly. What's to miss about having your @rse chewing through the driver's seat while trying to grapple with the prehistoric suspension??
.


Very true, as I mentioned on here a few weeks back a friend took me for a spin in his 1974 MGB GT V8 looks & sounds terrific but I have to admit I felt extremely vunerable in it, made me appreciate how much cars have improved.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 26 October 2018, 05:38:16
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.


That's the point, an Astra(or similar) doesn't need any tinkering! It's the 'premium' German stuff that has to be fettled all the time and is therefore a poor choice for those who don't have the time/money to keep them.


Nor can I understand all the fuss about V8s, especially European ones.
.

Would never "tinker" with my V8 wash & polish it yes & enjoy the sound and experience of simply driving it, and has not needed any "fettling" at all.😎
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 26 October 2018, 09:33:01
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.


That's the point, an Astra(or similar) doesn't need any tinkering! It's the 'premium' German stuff that has to be fettled all the time and is therefore a poor choice for those who don't have the time/money to keep them.


Nor can I understand all the fuss about V8s, especially European ones.
.

Would never "tinker" with my V8 wash & polish it yes & enjoy the sound and experience of simply driving it, and has not needed any "fettling" at all.😎

How much was yours? Although know yours was in excellent condition.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 26 October 2018, 10:50:54
Which engines are best, or to be avoided? Most petrol Astras seem to be 1.6, but some are 1.4 and some 2.2. Diesels can be 1.4 or 1.6. And what does 'twinport' mean?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 26 October 2018, 12:18:22
Petrol-astra g (mk 4)
 1.4 16v X14XE produced 88 bhp (66 kW; 89 PS).lower tax  :-\  mum has one  :y
 1.6 8v X16SZR produced 75 hp, Mrs builder has one great simple engine  :y
 later the 8v Z16SE produced 85 hp older brother has one  :y
The 1.6 16v Produced 101 bhp (75 kW; 102 PS),
 later the 1.6 Twinport Z16XEP produced 105 bhp

Twinport = updated version of the Family 0 engine and features TwinPort technology – twin intake ports with a choke closing one of the ports at low RPM, providing strong air swirl pattern for higher torque levels and better fuel economy.

1.8 X18XE1 produced 115 bhp,
 later Z18XE 125 bhp (93 kW; 127 PS).
 2.0 X20XEV produced 134 bhp.
 2.2 Z22SE produced 147 bhp (110 kW; 149 PS). Avoid  :(
2.0 Turbocharged produced 189 bhp (141 kW; 192 PS)
 SRI Turbo and 197 bhp
 1.7 DTi producing 75 bhp (56 kW; 76 PS).
 1.7 CDTi producing 80 bhp (60 kW; 81 PS).
 2.0 DTL 16v producing 85 bhp
 2.0 DTi Y20DTH producing 100 bhp (one in the zafira a :y )

astra h (mk 5) petrol
 1.4 90 bhp,twinport (brother's wife has one in corsa ,nippy economy  :y)
 1.6 105 bhp or 115 bhp,
1.8 140 bhp,
1.6 Turbo and 2.0 litre Turbo (VXR).
Diesel Models  1.3 90 bhp,
 1.7 with either 80 or 100 bhp (other brother has one  :y)
  1.9 with either 120 or 150 bhp.( DG says avoid because of chocolate gearbox  :()
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: 2boxerdogs on 26 October 2018, 12:39:26
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.


That's the point, an Astra(or similar) doesn't need any tinkering! It's the 'premium' German stuff that has to be fettled all the time and is therefore a poor choice for those who don't have the time/money to keep them.


Nor can I understand all the fuss about V8s, especially European ones.
.

Would never "tinker" with my V8 wash & polish it yes & enjoy the sound and experience of simply driving it, and has not needed any "fettling" at all.😎

How much was yours? Although know yours was in excellent condition.
.


Was priced at £5995 got it down to £5250 sold the mig to a member on here for £750 so it stands me £4500 .
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 26 October 2018, 13:09:03
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1 (https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201810221727162?fuel-type=Petrol&model=5%20SERIES&make=BMW&advertising-location=at_cars&year-to=2006&radius=1500&postcode=tw89de&price-to=2000&sort=price-asc&onesearchad=Used&onesearchad=Nearly%20New&onesearchad=New&minimum-badge-engine-size=3.0&transmission=Automatic&page=1)

4.4 V8 with RWD for grand, that's my kinda banger.
You will spend your entire life trying to find where all the fluids are escaping from.  Actually, as you say you don't have time to maintain cars (and that 4.4 lump needs lovin'), you'll be paying someone a fortune keeping that going.

I’d rather spend time tinkering with that, while getting to enjoy a V8.

Where is the fun in tinkering to keep an Astra, no fun for the work.


That's the point, an Astra(or similar) doesn't need any tinkering! It's the 'premium' German stuff that has to be fettled all the time and is therefore a poor choice for those who don't have the time/money to keep them.


Nor can I understand all the fuss about V8s, especially European ones.
.

Would never "tinker" with my V8 wash & polish it yes & enjoy the sound and experience of simply driving it, and has not needed any "fettling" at all.😎

How much was yours? Although know yours was in excellent condition.
.


Was priced at £5995 got it down to £5250 sold the mig to a member on here for £750 so it stands me £4500 .

Not bad for V8 barge, my kinda money if I was going to scratch the V8 ich.  :)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 26 October 2018, 16:56:27
Low mile 37,500 ,11 months MOT 1.6 club red astra G 53 plate
£745 clicky (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VAUXHALL-ASTRA-1-6-CLUB-GENUINE-37K-WITH-FSH-AND-NEW-CAMBELT-AT-25K-FULL-MOT/323512492023?hash=item4b52d8dff7:g:E0QAAOSwdHxbpm5q:rk:62:pf:0)
in V̶a̶u̶x̶h̶a̶l̶l̶ ̶p̶i̶n̶k̶ RED , probably want tyres looking at the mot (old)

Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 26 October 2018, 17:13:38
Low mile 37,500 ,11 months MOT 1.6 club red astra G 53 plate
£745 clicky (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/VAUXHALL-ASTRA-1-6-CLUB-GENUINE-37K-WITH-FSH-AND-NEW-CAMBELT-AT-25K-FULL-MOT/323512492023?hash=item4b52d8dff7:g:E0QAAOSwdHxbpm5q:rk:62:pf:0)
in V̶a̶u̶x̶h̶a̶l̶l̶ ̶p̶i̶n̶k̶ RED , probably want tyres looking at the mot (old)
Thanks Dave. Now that the wife has stopped driving it's a bit far away for me. Tomorow I shall look at 2 Astras, one auction and one classified ad. There are lots about, aren't there?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: STEMO on 26 October 2018, 17:23:54
I had the G,H,J and wifey now has the K. The only problem we had was the well known clutch judder on the H, due to the crap dual mass flywheel. If you're worried about reliability and longevity, look how many are still on the road. Parts are readily available and, even if you don't want to get your hands dirty, they are relatively cheap for a local garage to repair.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 26 October 2018, 17:25:43
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: STEMO on 26 October 2018, 17:29:08
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 26 October 2018, 17:38:39
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
next door has one,127k now ,never had clutch or DMF issues
he gets through quite a few driver side wing mirrors though  ::)  ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: STEMO on 26 October 2018, 17:53:07
He may have had it in for a replacement dmf, which Vauxhall ended up doing for free (after about 12 months of changing the clutches). Somewhere, in the bowels of this forum, is the bulletin number for the job. Mark kindly gave it to me at the time.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 26 October 2018, 18:11:43
He may have had it in for a replacement dmf, which Vauxhall ended up doing for free (after about 12 months of changing the clutches). Somewhere, in the bowels of this forum, is the bulletin number for the job. Mark kindly gave it to me at the time.
ah , so it may have been done before he got it  :y
Good information Mr STEMO  :)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 26 October 2018, 18:14:25
Boot it in FWD and it just rattles your dash to bits, with zero steering ability, I find it quite unpleasant to drive a FWD quickly.
I suspect you've never driven a properly quick FWD. Or if you have, not driven it very well. They can be very rewarding to drive quickly.


My issue with them is the quick ones tend to be sprung in such a way my spine gives out after a short time.  Sadly, though, BMW are leading a trend to (unnecessarily) do similar with RWD :(
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 26 October 2018, 19:45:44
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
Which models had dodgy dual mass flywheels? I thought they were only a problem on diesels.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: STEMO on 26 October 2018, 19:59:52
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
Which models had dodgy dual mass flywheels? I thought they were only a problem on diesels.

Astra H 1.6 petrols. But, of course, you would know on a test drive whether it had been sorted or not.
Anyone would think we were talking a £20,000 investment here.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 26 October 2018, 20:54:57
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
Which models had dodgy dual mass flywheels? I thought they were only a problem on diesels.

Astra H 1.6 petrols. But, of course, you would know on a test drive whether it had been sorted or not.
Anyone would think we were talking a £20,000 investment here.
Which years? Hopefully any used car would have been sorted.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 26 October 2018, 23:22:27
or an 06 silver 1.6 twinport 12 MONTHS MOT 83k
 
£850.00 clicky  (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6-12-MONTHS-MOT-LOW-MILLEAGE/283226790090?hash=item41f1a1d8ca:g:ds8AAOSw0G9bu9~Y:rk:60:pf:0)

just examples of what is out there  :y
That's the model with the dodgy flywheel.
Which models had dodgy dual mass flywheels? I thought they were only a problem on diesels.

Astra H 1.6 petrols. But, of course, you would know on a test drive whether it had been sorted or not.
Anyone would think we were talking a £20,000 investment here.
Which years? Hopefully any used car would have been sorted.
Like all the Omegas were ::)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: neil74 on 26 October 2018, 23:30:14
My sister has a 1.6 astra H that shes had from a year old and has not had any issues with the DMF. although it seems as though the ECU might not be long for this world..
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 27 October 2018, 21:26:25
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2005-55-Vauxhall-Astra-1-6i-Design-Twinport-5dr-12-MONTHS-MOT/123430434812?hash=item1cbd06f7fc:g:rRYAAOSwyEdbxiEQ
Interesting car, but loudspeakers silent. Probably plug at the back of the radio I suppose, but might be dead radio output. Any comments?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 27 October 2018, 21:27:29
I would be more concerned about how it runs and drives :-X
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 27 October 2018, 21:42:23
Looks beat up, I’d personally spend a bit more on a decent example.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 28 October 2018, 09:08:30
Looks beat up, I’d personally spend a bit more on a decent example.
Does indeed, then again so did both of mine (Gs not Hs). I'd still stick with the G myself, less advanced so easier to fix.

Also don't get taken in by the half leather seat thing if it matters. Design models of all Vauxhall types of this age have half cloth half plastic seats and are susceptible to increased wear depending on the seat bolster design. Vectras are worse than Astras in this respect.

If it was me, I'd be looking at https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2003-Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-2-2i-16v-2003MY-Bertone-Edition-RARE-CAR-LOVELY-DRIVE/163303149900?hash=item2605a0514c:g:ZK4AAOSwSVdbu5E8:rk:5:pf:0.

or this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Opel-Astra-1-6i-16v-Twinport-2004-Sport/223191801718?hash=item33f7449f76:g:qosAAOSwmNlbxcz5:rk:7:pf:0

or this https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2002-Vauxhall-Astra-1-6-LS-85k-NEW-MOT/273514023215?hash=item3faeb4c92f:g:4u4AAOSwKwhbyH~e:rk:24:pf:0
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Keith ABS on 28 October 2018, 10:20:42
 There is an Astra H on a forecort close to me for £495.
Dont know what model and spec
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 28 October 2018, 10:56:48
The radio not working is not important,  ::)
dents and scratches are not MOT fails,(unless very bad ;D )
but when looking at a car to buy used you need to look at the MOT history
if it has advisory's for brake pipes or tyres or rust then you will probably have to do the work.
i'd avoid the 2.2 ,it's rare ,2.2(so expensive and ecu issues are common, parts are more expensive,harder to find)
I like the design spec, i don't have a leather fettish , much prefer cloth seats but a set of seat covers are £15 if needed and untidy seats are  not an MOT item.

look at the MOT history of any car before you look at the car
https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/ (https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/)
there are loads of astra and vectra cars about,
just do a bit of research, ask questions ,look at and test drive .
there are good and bad cars, new and old
my mum had a brand new car needed a dash out /heater matrix replace on a 13 month old ,5k clit years ago , I've brought cars for less than £500, serviced and had no issues .




Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Shackeng on 28 October 2018, 11:21:57
Son buys cheap cars somewhere in South Wales, paid about £300 for his most recent 100k 2.0L(?), poss 1.8, Focus about 3 years ago. No problems with it. :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 28 October 2018, 11:55:26
Son buys cheap cars somewhere in South Wales, paid about £300 for his most recent 100k 2.0L(?), poss 1.8, Focus about 3 years ago. No problems with it. :y
Focus  ::)  before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D
Fix
Often
Repair
Daily
 :P
if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 28 October 2018, 12:40:29
Son buys cheap cars somewhere in South Wales, paid about £300 for his most recent 100k 2.0L(?), poss 1.8, Focus about 3 years ago. No problems with it. :y
Focus  ::)  before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D
Fix
Often
Repair
Daily
 :P
if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D

Shackeng just said they had no problems with it  :y

Don’t think you can get all high and mighty putting down a Focus, when you spend 500 quid on Astra.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 28 October 2018, 12:51:53
Don’t think you can get all high and mighty putting down a Focus, when you spend 500 quid on Astra.


But a Focus is such a horrible car compared to an Astra.....
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 28 October 2018, 13:27:47
Son buys cheap cars somewhere in South Wales, paid about £300 for his most recent 100k 2.0L(?), poss 1.8, Focus about 3 years ago. No problems with it. :y
Focus  ::)  before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D
Fix
Often
Repair
Daily
 :P
if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D

Shackeng just said they had no problems with it  :y

Don’t think you can get all high and mighty putting down a Focus, when you spend 500 quid on Astra.
maybe Shackeng found one that had the heater matrix done previously and that was not a rusty colander  :y good luck to him  :)

I said

 before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D

if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D

one astra we spent £8,500 on  ;D
one astra i spent £200 on (knowing it had a blown head gasket but 11 months mot),another £200 on parts and it's been great for 5 years  :y

not getting high and mighty , just trying to give constructive advice
please feel free to do the same  :P
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 28 October 2018, 17:08:11
.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 28 October 2018, 17:13:44
Son buys cheap cars somewhere in South Wales, paid about £300 for his most recent 100k 2.0L(?), poss 1.8, Focus about 3 years ago. No problems with it. :y
Focus  ::)  before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D
Fix
Often
Repair
Daily
 :P
if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D

Shackeng just said they had no problems with it  :y

Don’t think you can get all high and mighty putting down a Focus, when you spend 500 quid on Astra.
maybe Shackeng found one that had the heater matrix done previously and that was not a rusty colander  :y good luck to him  :)

I said

 before buying check it does not need a "dash out /heater matrix seal or matrix replaced"  (a well known fail 2002-2008 ish IIRC)  ;D

if you can find something not a rusty colander  ;D

one astra we spent £8,500 on  ;D
one astra i spent £200 on (knowing it had a blown head gasket but 11 months mot),another £200 on parts and it's been great for 5 years  :y


Matches my experience too. Bought with "rattle from engine" and EML illuminated, a 2010 Meriva used intake manifold, new front and rear lambdas and a new thermostat £189 total has sorted my recent £255 ebay purchase which is now MOT worthy and runs like a dream.

I also have a growing dislike for the focus. My old dad has a 59 plate 1.6 and it's the second most hateful car I've ever encoutered. A bit rusty and really mutton dressed as lamb - no substance behind the shine. It only comes second to a 54 plate Focus C-max 1.6 TDCi I had the misfortune of owning. Utterly utterly hateful in every respect except interior space and fuel economy - now bettered by the remapped CDTi Astra G which might be a little rough but at least it's honest and easy to work on.

Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: BazaJT on 28 October 2018, 17:56:34
Not a Focus fan but they're not greatly bad cars.Of course they have there issues-as do all cars-another to consider in the same size range could be Volvo S40/V40 to my knowing available with 1.8,1.8vvt,2.0 and 2.0turbo petrols and a diesel version.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 28 October 2018, 18:29:32
We had an earlyish Focus, and it was that bad (reliability and drivability), it has put me off Ford ever since.

A quite detestable piece of shit.

Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 28 October 2018, 18:38:16
We had an earlyish Focus, and it was that bad (reliability and drivability), it has put me off Ford ever since.

A quite detestable piece of shit.


Mum's was reliable, but had no other redeeming features - ugly, uncomfortable, slow, poor riding, hideous interior, poor boot space etc.
The 3 year old 1.0l that she's replaced it with is even worse, although it does have a worthwhile boot which was achieved by drastically increasing the size of the car.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Shackeng on 28 October 2018, 18:56:48
Interesting. I know nothing about the Focus, but son has been running them for about ten years, this is his 3rd IIRC, has had virtually no trouble with them, and has never spent more than £450. He says they are easy to work on if required, one broken spring IIRC! :y

I'll suggest Astras to him if they are better. :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 28 October 2018, 19:14:18
Was happy enough with my 2.0 Focus saloon, it rode and went well and had a decent boot :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 28 October 2018, 20:34:22
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/FOR-VAUXHALL-ASTRA-1-4-1-6-1-8-1998-2010-GATES-TIMING-CAM-BELT-CAMSHAFT/182261381858?_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIM.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D52945%26meid%3Deed75f84db0040b8898d
Today I bought a Haynes manual for the Astra. Official Vauxhall interval for cambelt kit changes is 100,ooo miles, but Haynes recommends 40,000 miles if car does lots of stop start journeys. Looking for cam belt kits, they seem to fit many cars, and the above seems cheap enough. Do I need to change the water pump at the same time, like on Omega 4 cylinder engines?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 29 October 2018, 00:18:12
Water pumps are so cheap you may as well change when doing a timing belt,
a seized pump or tension roller bearing will snap a belt ,so worth checking and replacing when needed
don't know where you got the 100k belt interval from  :-\ think it used to be 7 years or 70k but was reduced to 4 years 40k years ago (depends on what engine i guess)

  some engines have a thermostat behind the belt too (which can be re-located to the top hose ,to aid replacement of the stat in future helps mpg and keeps breathers clearer)

there are lots of different belts and kits ,so be sure to check what you order with what engine you have fitted ,because ebay fitment info is not always correct .

many jobs on an astra are simple compared to omega (wheel bearings for example)

one thing I noticed recently is your not far from the sea side  :)
try and avoid buying puff the magic dragon cars  ;)
(that have lived by the sea)
salt water feeds tin worms  :y
i'm sure you know that ,but may be helpful for anyone who is reading this who does not  :y

 
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 29 October 2018, 01:11:13
Facelift Vectra C is 100k, and perfectly happy with that interval  ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 29 October 2018, 08:54:53
Water pumps are so cheap you may as well change when doing a timing belt,
a seized pump or tension roller bearing will snap a belt ,so worth checking and replacing when needed
don't know where you got the 100k belt interval from  :-\ think it used to be 7 years or 70k but was reduced to 4 years 40k years ago (depends on what engine i guess)

  some engines have a thermostat behind the belt too (which can be re-located to the top hose ,to aid replacement of the stat in future helps mpg and keeps breathers clearer)

there are lots of different belts and kits ,so be sure to check what you order with what engine you have fitted ,because ebay fitment info is not always correct .

many jobs on an astra are simple compared to omega (wheel bearings for example)

one thing I noticed recently is your not far from the sea side  :)
try and avoid buying puff the magic dragon cars  ;)
(that have lived by the sea)
salt water feeds tin worms  :y
i'm sure you know that ,but may be helpful for anyone who is reading this who does not  :y
Thanks for advice. 100K came from Haynes.
I did not know whether the water pump is a pivot for the cambelt, as on straight 4 Omegas. I lost an Omega  4 when a cheap water pump, recently changed, seized and wrecked the engine.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: henryd on 29 October 2018, 09:49:20
Was happy enough with my 2.0 Focus saloon, it rode and went well and had a decent boot :y

I have a Mk2 1.6 used for work,very reliable and done 150k,drives lovely :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 29 October 2018, 11:33:17

Thanks for advice. 100K came from Haynes.
I did not know whether the water pump is a pivot for the cambelt, as on straight 4 Omegas. I lost an Omega  4 when a cheap water pump, recently changed, seized and wrecked the engine.
As i said . depends on the engine as to the belt interval ,I was quoting 1.6 but the 1.7 diesel is 80 or 100k
some water pumps are cam belt driven (e.g the 1.4, 1.6 petrol) others are driven by aux belt (eg 1.7 CDTi )
not saying buy a cheap unbranded water pump ,  branded are cheap too (relatively) I like Gates kit, which vauxhall used to re-box as GM OEM   :y

If finding an astra is proving difficult local , why not cast the net further afield ,get a mate to give you a lift ,use public transport (just ignore the wierdos  ;D) or look at vectra as DG suggests , focus and other brands is an option for you(if you can find a nice one local) but your tooled up for vauxhall  :-\ 
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 29 October 2018, 17:23:47
Was happy enough with my 2.0 Focus saloon, it rode and went well and had a decent boot :y

I have a Mk2 1.6 used for work,very reliable and done 150k,drives lovely :y
Keep it, and never let it go. You've got the only Focus that handles in a consistent manor.  Must be worth a fortune ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: henryd on 30 October 2018, 10:44:39
Was happy enough with my 2.0 Focus saloon, it rode and went well and had a decent boot :y

I have a Mk2 1.6 used for work,very reliable and done 150k,drives lovely :y
Keep it, and never let it go. You've got the only Focus that handles in a consistent manor.  Must be worth a fortune ;)

No,its worth F all but still drives nice ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 30 October 2018, 19:02:11
Today I bought a 2010 Astra 1.6 petrol manual, 165000 miles, £850, MOT till April 2019. A test drive last Saturday impressed me, and the drive home did not disappoint. The cam belt was changed 4 December 2014, at 95,924 miles. Last service recorded was 10 October 2016, at 130,466 miles. Quick inspection revealed no rust, new battery, exhaust, front tyres and rear offside spring. Car came with 2 keys and a space saver tyre. Everything remarkably clean under the bonnet, all fluid levels OK, but the oil is black.
Oil change is the immediate priority, perhaps also a plug change. Is there a trade club 5W/30 oil available? Anything else before I put it into general use?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 30 October 2018, 19:19:55
well done on finding something finally  :y
I'd do the cam belt ,water pump and check the tensioners/rollers
I use vauxhall trade club 10w40 and at 165k 5w30 nay be a bit thin but is available £48 delivered for 20 L , 10w40 is £38 deliveed for 20 L
(if oil is really black/dirty then a couple of oil and filter changes is a good idea)

and ,  because it does not have rust , maybe spend a little time rust proofing the vulnerable areas  ;D

find a real spare wheel  ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: robson on 30 October 2018, 19:43:22
Are you saying that it has done 35000mls since the last oil change?  >:(
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 30 October 2018, 19:52:58
Are you saying that it has done 35000mls since the last oil change?  >:(
. Last service recorded was 10 October 2016, at 130,466 miles.


probably been done but not recorded , as many new parts are fitted , so someone has spannered it  ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 30 October 2018, 20:13:44
Are you saying that it has done 35000mls since the last oil change?  >:(
That's the last recorded service. 10/10/2016 130466 miles, 'full service', oil, oil filter, air filter, pollen filter, spark plugs, and nearside anti-roll bar link rod. The battery, tyres and exhaust look more recent, but no more invoices or records in the service book. Once the car is out of guarantee I can believe it. The oil level is a bit high, and the colour is black.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ajsphead on 30 October 2018, 20:24:43
Trade club 5W30 is about £23 for 5 litres. Have a good look around for leaks before deciding whether 10/40 might be better. Csn't remember if the Z16XEP engine drives the water pump off the aux belt or the cam belt. I'd look outside only it's a bit dark.
Get yourself a good code reader or "My Naff Code Reader" or better still a preloaded tech 2 laptop. 2010 cars are fully Canbus so it'll save you a lot of grief and money in tracing faults and programming new bits when needed. I'm sure the family will help with the techy bits if you need  hand.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 30 October 2018, 20:33:23
but if you have to do a flush, because it's treacle, and then want oil , may as well buy bulk  ;D
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Long-Life-5w-30-Fully-Synthetic-Engine-Oil-ACEA-C3-Dexos-2-API-SN-20-Litre-20L/371241391278?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Long-Life-5w-30-Fully-Synthetic-Engine-Oil-ACEA-C3-Dexos-2-API-SN-20-Litre-20L/371241391278?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649)

rather than 2 x £26  :-\ for only 10 L
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Keith ABS on 31 October 2018, 10:36:28
Autovaux do deals on the 5/30 oil.
Plugs need doing every 100,000
Oil is 20,000 by VX schedule, so 10,000 by ours as we always halve it.
Oil coolers can leak, some in other out, like my Zaf is.
Again, Autovaux do deals for a complete kit, £164 inc vat delivered for mine.
Trade through VX dealer is £265 +vat
Oil cooler is part of filter housing
Variable valve timing bit in rocker box can rattle. Remove the fine mesh filter in it and it stops it
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 31 October 2018, 13:18:28
Autovaux do deals on the 5/30 oil.
Plugs need doing every 100,000
Oil is 20,000 by VX schedule, so 10,000 by ours as we always halve it.
Oil coolers can leak, some in other out, like my Zaf is.
Again, Autovaux do deals for a complete kit, £164 inc vat delivered for mine.
Trade through VX dealer is £265 +vat
Oil cooler is part of filter housing
Variable valve timing bit in rocker box can rattle. Remove the fine mesh filter in it and it stops it
Thanks. I'll check it out.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 31 October 2018, 13:39:01
I curse garage mechanics. All wheel nuts were very tight, socket and 2' breaker bar would not shift them, needed 3/4" impact wrench. The sump plug was also tight, I broke off a spanner trying to shift it, eventually succeeded with a 1/2" torx socket, On replacing sump nut, checked the torque setting, 14nM.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 31 October 2018, 17:09:56
10w40 is £38 deliveed for 20 L
I pay £25+VAT  ???
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ronnyd on 31 October 2018, 20:11:12
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 31 October 2018, 20:23:35
10w40 is £38 deliveed for 20 L
I pay £25+VAT  ???
But my deliveries turn up  :y
 on time  :y
 and what i ordered  ;D
Just got another tub delivered
(8 Vauxhalls , no crappy french car in the fleet anymore  :) )
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 01 November 2018, 17:29:36
10w40 is £38 deliveed for 20 L
I pay £25+VAT  ???
But my deliveries turn up  :y
 on time  :y
 and what i ordered  ;D
Just got another tub delivered
(8 Vauxhalls , no crappy french car in the fleet anymore  :) )
The dealer is pretty good at turning up when they say, ie morning or afternoon on a given day :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 01 November 2018, 17:29:49
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Ouch!!
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 02 November 2018, 11:40:17
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Gosh that's cheap. I've just visited Drive Vauxhall Bristol, and bought Trade Club 20 litres 10W40 for £48.95 and 20 litres 5W30 for £66.38, both plus VAT. At least the 20 litres of Dex-cool was cheap at £20. I'll buy online next time.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: tunnie on 02 November 2018, 12:04:49
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Gosh that's cheap. I've just visited Drive Vauxhall Bristol, and bought Trade Club 20 litres 10W40 for £48.95 and 20 litres 5W30 for £66.38, both plus VAT. At least the 20 litres of Dex-cool was cheap at £20. I'll buy online next time.

 ;D ;D ;D

TB Says = Expensive

Terry = Cheap

 :D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 02 November 2018, 12:20:02
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Gosh that's cheap. I've just visited Drive Vauxhall Bristol, and bought Trade Club 20 litres 10W40 for £48.95 and 20 litres 5W30 for £66.38, both plus VAT. At least the 20 litres of Dex-cool was cheap at £20. I'll buy online next time.
ouch  :(

Anusol Plus HC Ointment- 15g at superdrug £5.09 3 times a day  :y

hope the pain eases soon Terry  ;D


Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 02 November 2018, 16:48:40
I found my previous invoice from Drive Vauxhall. They charged me £22.50 for 20 litres of 10W40 in July 2016. Today they charged me £48.95. I rang up and complained. They said they must have undercharged me last time, it should have been £42.50. I am not convinced. They said £22.50 is less than they pay for it.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: TheBoy on 02 November 2018, 16:57:37
I had 5l of QX 5-40 full synth delivered today for £19.95 from carparts4less. Awaits pishtakes. :D
Gosh that's cheap. I've just visited Drive Vauxhall Bristol, and bought Trade Club 20 litres 10W40 for £48.95 and 20 litres 5W30 for £66.38, both plus VAT. At least the 20 litres of Dex-cool was cheap at £20. I'll buy online next time.

 ;D ;D ;D

TB Says = Expensive

Terry = Cheap

 :D
£20 for 5l of oil (any car engine oil) sounds expensive to me.  Even Terry thinks its expensive if he thought about it, because the price he was quoting was for 20l.


My experience with Triple QX products, admittedly screenwash, means I will never use their products again. Ever. But that's irrelevant for this debate.


I have to say also that the "cheap" oil Opie flogged me for the Shaguar is another crap product - immediately after putting it in it was noticeable. So it didn't stay in long, and back to the (even cheaper) TC stuff, which seems fine.  The cheap Opie shite gets dumped in the Battlebus now ;D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 04 November 2018, 08:57:50
Thanks to all for advice.

 The Astra purchased last Tuesday seemed good, so after examination and oil change on Wednesday I delivered it to son Jonny at Chippenham and retrieved his Omega estate. On Thursday I scrapped my last 4 cylinder Omega, leaving me with 3 V6s.

Yesterday I purchased a 2004 Astra 1.6, 121000 miles, MOT failed, for £331. Some work to do, but the car looks like new and is not rusty.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Sir Tigger KC on 04 November 2018, 11:03:48
Your kids are very lucky Terry to have a Dad like you who puts so much time, effort and money into keeping them mobile!  :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 04 November 2018, 11:58:22
Your kids are very lucky Terry to have a Dad like you who puts so much time, effort and money into keeping them mobile!  :y
Seconded  :y
let's hope they appreciate it  :)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: BazaJT on 04 November 2018, 12:17:39
They certainly should.When I told my dad I'd passed my test and all I needed then was a car he looked at me and said "You look like saving up then don't you?"So that's what I did and finished up with a used  MkII Consul from a car sales place for £38!
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: ronnyd on 04 November 2018, 16:39:09
I looked at the first cars that son and daughter bought but they had to pay for ,em. My daughter bought all my grandkids first cars. ::)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 04 November 2018, 18:31:52
They certainly should.When I told my dad I'd passed my test and all I needed then was a car he looked at me and said "You look like saving up then don't you?"So that's what I did and finished up with a used  MkII Consul from a car sales place for £38!
Quite right too... My only cluster opps was to borrow money to do it... A slippery slope if ever there was  :-X
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 04 November 2018, 20:32:26
I looked at the first cars that son and daughter bought but they had to pay for ,em. My daughter bought all my grandkids first cars. ::)


I bought my first car with some of the compensation I had from breaking my leg 7 years earlier. Thirty years later, the car is long gone and my leg still hurts, so that was a shitty deal :-\
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 14 November 2018, 20:32:35
I have bought one Astra, sorted it, handed it over to son Jonny, he loves it, success. I bought a second, no MOT, for my daughter, but during the MOT emission test it began to rattle and has wrecked its engine. The Astra seems like a fine car, not at all small, I think my duaghtter might settle for something smaller. What about a Corsa?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 14 November 2018, 21:34:08
Don't give up on that astra just yet Terry   ;)
finding a corsa that has not been neglected could be a task
(women and learner driver cars)
with the sump off and cleaned ,you will see what your looking at  :y
If it where me , i'd just continue till the astra was sorted ,even if that was a head off,new rings rebuild (rings can be done engine in car ) parts are cheap ,rest of the car is sorted now anyway  :-\
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 07:18:38
Probably unwisely, I drove rhe Astra 2 miles home, and only just mde it. Afte a mile it was stiffening up and would have stalled without throttle. The oil, now I have seen it, could explain everything. It rattled like a can of naila. In getting off the exhaust I had to use an angle grinder on one of the cat to downpipe nuts. I am assuming this car is a wreck but I want to see the strainer.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Kevin Wood on 15 November 2018, 08:00:19
Doesn't sound too good but will be interesting to see what you find.
If the rest of the vehicle's sound you could always source another engine. Plenty of them get scrapped with perfectly good mechanicals.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 18:50:39
Doesn't sound too good but will be interesting to see what you find.
If the rest of the vehicle's sound you could always source another engine. Plenty of them get scrapped with perfectly good mechanicals.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have never changed an engine, amd am nervous of attempting to do so. I am more inclined to buy another Astra H 1.6, stripping this one for spares, and scrapping it.
Can anyone advise me of the language of Astras; I see advertised Design, Envoy, Club and SXi versions.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 November 2018, 18:54:56
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vauxhall-Astra-Mk5-Range-2007-Models-No1-inc-SRi-SXi-Design-Elite-Club-Life/273541924076?hash=item3fb05e84ec:g:GKwAAOSwe-FU4ReQ:rk:37:pf:0

 :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 20:13:43
Thanks That tells me that Design is better than Club, and Elite is better still. The two I am watching are Life and SXi. Any idea where they fit in?
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: VXL V6 on 15 November 2018, 20:23:33
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 November 2018, 20:26:35
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Sri is the sporty one...
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 20:34:29
Doesn't sound too good but will be interesting to see what you find.
If the rest of the vehicle's sound you could always source another engine. Plenty of them get scrapped with perfectly good mechanicals.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have never changed an engine, amd am nervous of attempting to do so. I am more inclined to buy another Astra H 1.6, stripping this one for spares, and scrapping it.
Can anyone advise me of the language of Astras; I see advertised Design, Envoy, Club and SXi versions.
Looking on e-bay, good Astra H engines come at £345. For a car that cost me £331 that route looks unattractive.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 November 2018, 20:37:19
Then perhaps your next £350 purchase will have at least 6 months MoT ::)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 20:39:54
Only Elite appears to have cruise, the one extra that I would appreciate. Not that this car would be for me, I have my V reg Omega. This car would be for my daughter, who never used it on an Omega.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 November 2018, 20:45:56
Buy the brochure I linked to and it will give you a better understanding of spec and options for any given car :y
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 15 November 2018, 21:00:22
you can look at all specs inc MPG,trim etc at parkers
https://www.parkers.co.uk/vauxhall/astra/hatchback-2004/review/ (https://www.parkers.co.uk/vauxhall/astra/hatchback-2004/review/)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: VXL V6 on 15 November 2018, 21:03:07
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Sri is the sporty one...
Which it also isn't LOL

Usually VX's SRI models have stiffer shocks, bit more Ali trim, bigger alloys, barryboys exhaust trim and if your very lucky a closer ratio gearbox (Vectra B).  ::)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 15 November 2018, 21:19:10
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Sri is the sporty one...
Which it also isn't LOL

Usually VX's SRI models have stiffer shocks, bit more Ali trim, bigger alloys, barryboys exhaust trim and if your very lucky a closer ratio gearbox (Vectra B).  ::)
The larger engine sports hatch in Sri spec had all of the above, and with the styling pack and 18" alloys looked and went with purpose.

Parkers is ok at a glance but shit on detail, especially for older cars... retail brochure leaves no ambiguity with regards to specs and options... and at £3.50, it's hardly bank breaking ;D

The retail brochure and pricelist should be part of any pre purchase research, especially if you're looking at a specific model range ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: dave the builder on 15 November 2018, 21:46:10
bangernomics
the 3.50 leaflet is 1% of the £350 purchase  ;D
I may look at another H design estate tomorrow for the fleet  ::)
retire another G estate  ;)
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 15 November 2018, 21:47:56
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Sri is the sporty one...
Which it also isn't LOL

Usually VX's SRI models have stiffer shocks, bit more Ali trim, bigger alloys, barryboys exhaust trim and if your very lucky a closer ratio gearbox (Vectra B).  ::)
The larger engine sports hatch in Sri spec had all of the above, and with the styling pack and 18" alloys looked and went with purpose.

Parkers is ok at a glance but shit on detail, especially for older cars... retail brochure leaves no ambiguity with regards to specs and options... and at £3.50, it's hardly bank breaking ;D

The retail brochure and pricelist should be part of any pre purchase research, especially if you're looking at a specific model range ;)
Agreed. Bought it.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Nick W on 15 November 2018, 23:07:39
The retail brochure and pricelist should be part of any pre purchase research, especially if you're looking at a specific model range ;)


It's utterly irrelevant for sub £1000 bangers. What you're interested in is condition, plenty of MOT, low cost and decent spares support. That the car has electric windows or poncy trim isn't worth worrying about, although I am more likely to buy a bigger engined model because they usually drive better. They tend to be cheaper too, so that's another point in their favour.
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: Doctor Gollum on 16 November 2018, 08:58:46
Depends... Whilst MoT length, followed by condition and price/budget are always the first priorities for most car purchases (especially cheap/immediate transport), understanding the differences between two given models can focus your search, especially if things like engine/gearbox (a 1.8 Vectra C is no use to anyone with an auto only license as they never made one) and cruise control or a sunroof are important features on the wish list... As Terry looks like running a fleet of Astra Hs, he might find it useful  ;)

The brochure will also tell you if items such as cruise are available options, and therefore if it's possible to retro fit it, which can influence potential purchase choices :y

Also, speaking personally, I find the brochures of cars that I am considering/or own and like to be an interesting addition to the car itself... Whether it's a late registered Omega or a £400 167k mile A Class. No I don't have any bumpf for the Focus :D
Title: Re: What car should I buy?
Post by: terry paget on 17 November 2018, 18:04:02
I think Life is the base model (wheel trims etc) and SXi is usually the one that looks sporty but isn't (Alloys, boot spoiler, sport style seats) but otherwise standard.
Sri is the sporty one...
Which it also isn't LOL

Usually VX's SRI models have stiffer shocks, bit more Ali trim, bigger alloys, barryboys exhaust trim and if your very lucky a closer ratio gearbox (Vectra B).  ::)
The larger engine sports hatch in Sri spec had all of the above, and with the styling pack and 18" alloys looked and went with purpose.

Parkers is ok at a glance but shit on detail, especially for older cars... retail brochure leaves no ambiguity with regards to specs and options... and at £3.50, it's hardly bank breaking ;D

The retail brochure and pricelist should be part of any pre purchase research, especially if you're looking at a specific model range ;)
Agreed. Bought it.
Brochure arrived today, in mint condition. I shall study it when in the mood. As Nick says, when buying under £1000 bangers, what I look for are the price, length of MOT, MOT history, how far away, how many keys, and how it drives. If it were to be my car, specification would matter more, but for family members it is irrelevant..