1998 Opel Astra Euro 200iE review from South Africa
"The most car you can get for the money"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Air conditioner compressor replaced under warranty at 80000km.
General comments?
Most car you can get for this money. If it was a 1.6 or 1.8 I might have sold it by now, but the 2 litre engine gives it real character. Pulls from low low down, huge torque, and makes the car feel much bigger than it is.
Handling is average, the chassis is a bit wobbly and steering a bit slow, but grip levels are good. Lots of safe understeer if you overdo it.
Very comfortable, no major rattles or squeaks even after 125000 km. Gets a bit noisy at 130+ km/h, could use a 6th gear, more than enough power for it. Hits 200 fairly easily.
More than enough room, done several long trips with 4 people in car, and even loaded up, performance on the open road is lovely.
Recommended Reviews:
  | A good workhorse |
 | 1996 - Astra Champion II 1.6 16v A very nice wagon with reasonable power |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 80000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 125000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Opel Kadett |
| Date of Entry | 22nd November, 2005 |