1988 Bedford Astravan 1.3 petrol

Summary:

The best money I ever spent

Faults:

Water pump disintegrated at about 150,000 miles.

Rear shocks needed replacing at about 200,000 miles.

I've had 4 clutches so far, including the one that's in there now, replaced about a year ago.

One stop bulb seems to blow at regular intervals (about once every 2 years).

Carburettor wrecked by an incompetent mechanic at about 125,000 miles. Non-original replacement was poop. Went back to a re-con carb. That needs a good clean now, every service.

The cam cover gasket's been weeping a little oil for the last 5 years or so.

Rust's just started to appear round the arches.

The heater matrix and blower are coming to the end of their natural life.

General Comments:

This van's been amazing.

Just put petrol in it and it goes.

Starts every time, even in snow.

I still get good fuel economy.

I use it for my business, and regularly go round the M25.

The integral roof rack's really strong.

I can fit 8 foot sign boards inside!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th January, 2006

15th Feb 2007, 09:23

My Astravan got nicked last night. I'm gutted. It was a b*****dy good tool' I will try and get another.