1992 Vauxhall Calibra SE1 review from UK and Ireland
"A good, solid looker, at a bargain price"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water pump twice, both after the timimg belt had been changed. Seems that tensioning the new belt damages the pump seals.
Antenna amplifier blown.
Discs worn out, replaced.
Various dashboard bulbs.
Not much else!
It's pretty easy to work on yourself, if you are so inclined. I do a bit of both. Essentially it's a Cavalier with a nice shape body. Which means all the oily bits are cheap and easy to get hold of.
Rust has started to show on the rear arches, common on Cavaliers/Calibras.
General comments?
The SE1 is the Carribic Blue edition, (they are all the same colour) which is a really nice finish. My one has leather which is wearing well.
The 8 valve though seems slower than my prevoius SRi cavalier (also 8v), probably the CAT restricting the flow.
Most modern 2 litre cars will keep up with it. But it's fast enough for me!
Although a V6 would be nice.
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  | All round nice car for looks and comfort, but can be a little costly on repairs |
| A mean street car with attitude |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 8v Manual |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 54000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 112000 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 6th June, 2000 |