1980 Vauxhall Chevette GL sedan review from Australia and New Zealand
"Cheap, economical and won't let you down!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Original engine broke a ring after 100000km.
Big end bearings were also shot.
Replaced with whole new motor.
Replaced thermostat because it was running a bit over mid gauge, now runs between 1/4 and 1/2 gauge no matter what the temperature!
General comments?
Very reliable, one of the tidiest orginal ones in New Zealand, only 100000km since new with 1 family owner, only thing wrong when I got it was the engine so I replaced the whole lot except gearbox.
All electrics work even the heated rear window!
Gearbox is very nice with a short throw.
Advice to others: Take care of the exterior! A lot of reviews complain of rust, keep it in a garage and wash and polish it regularly, rust occurs because people don't wash the debris of the paintwork.
I have not one problem with rust, and it shines like the day it rolled out of Vauxhall motors!
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| Awesome little runabout. If they still made them I would definitely get one |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 OHV Manual |
| Performance marks | 1/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 100000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 119000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Suzuki Samurai |
| Date of Entry | 13th May, 2004 |