1990 Vauxhall Cavalier GL Automatic review from UK and Ireland

Surface rust in hatchback seams was there from almost new. Developed irritating habit of dying after pulling off the motorway. Never cured, dealers seemed unwilling to help, especially as it was a Swan National lease car.

Don't buy a 1.8 automatic. The car is a slug. Even the Vauxhall brochure reckons 15 seconds 0-60, and hideously slow after the previous (old shape) 1.8GLi we had. Engine made a good roar on kickdown, though. The 1.8 was not the best engine, the 2-litre would have been a better bet but with an auto was out of the leasing limit.

We liked the way the electric windows would work without the ignition on if you opened the doors. Rear seat space not as good as a Sierra or 405. Why do all Vauxhalls of this age seem to rust easily around the rear arches? Owned for almost 4 years and 100,000+ miles, quite reliable.