1998 Opel Corsa 130 iE review from South Africa

-Clutch is shot, expensive to replace.

-Air Conditioner's compressor doesn't

work and is VERY expensive to replace with Opel dealers (about £500)

I never really was a big fan of Opel/Vauxhall until I got my Corsa. It's an amazing little car with great character.It's very fast for a 1.3 and beats any other 1.3 in a straight line race bar the Renault Clio 1.2 16V. The handling isn't too bad either and has loads of standard options like electric windows, electric mirrors, air con and remote central locking (model specific though).

The car has got good build quality, but starts to rattle at about 105000 km. Interior is well laid out, but is a bit dull with way too much bad plastic trim. Fuel consumption is more like that of a 2 litre than of a 1.3, but does get much better when driven on the highway. Standard sound system is crap as well and you better hope and pray that nothing breaks on the car because parts and servicing is VERY VERY VERY expensive.

This may sound like a very negative review, but all these things add up to the character of the car. It drives well, handles well and is very reliable (if maintained correctly). This is an amazing little car with loads to offer and will always bring a smile to your face. I'll definitely recommend this car to any one who might be looking of buying in the small car class!