1997 Vauxhall Tigra bermuda review from UK and Ireland

Cam belt has just snapped at 48,000 miles causing major repair bills!

Had problems with the electrics, but only minor.

Reverse light switch went.

Break spring was sticking when first purchased.

Deadlocking spring has gone on passenger door - will it unlock, won't it unlock, it's a lottery.

I love my little Tigra, but just recently it has started to go a little dodery as it has hit the big 50! The cam belt snapped at 48,000 miles, but this was no surprise as it was 8,000 over the recommended mileage for a new one - I am in wrangles with Vauxhall over this one...

The electrics fizzled out, but that was due to a faulty bulb, and the reverse light switch was repaired under warranty.

However in the grand scheme of things, the brakes, tyres, suspension etc. are fine and I have had no real repair bills apart from the cam belt, it has been a well behaved little motor.

As for the car itself, the cabin is "snug" and the seat-belts do drive you insane as they are always getting slammed in the door or stuck round the back of the seat.

BUT I am on the internet now looking for a new car and I can honestly say I haven't found anything else which even remotely catches my eye. My friends things it's the slinkiest thing they've seen, I love posing in it and it looks like a lot more 'dollars' than it is. Make some more Vauxhall!