1994 Vauxhall Corsa Merit 1.2 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Cheap in every sense of the word

Faults:

Side mirror wobbles.

Mud flaps difficult to keep fixed.

General Comments:

The Corsa is very cheap, to insure and for petrol, I have to admit.

But it is very slow, even for a 1.2 litre engine.

Also the handling is very bad, it is heavy and not precise.

The gear change isn't easy to carry out - you have to grip the gearstick and wrench it from one gear to another with all your strength!

The clutch also makes a worrying squeak when depressing it.

However, I must admit that nothing major has gone wrong in the 3 months I have kept it, but it doesn't feel reliable. It feels as if things will go wrong with it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 30th September, 2003

1994 Vauxhall Corsa LSi 1.2 unleaded from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Excellent bargain

Faults:

The only thing that I feel is wrong with the car is the 5th gear. I find you have to be doing just over 50mph before my car likes to go into 5th.

However, one thing which annoys me is the colour. It's a purple/mauve colour-which i can't find in any car shops.

General Comments:

I think the car is wonderful. It runs quietly, and is reliable.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 25th June, 2003

1994 Vauxhall Corsa Merit E-Drive 1.2i from UK and Ireland

Summary:

A very good little runner

Faults:

When the car is first started in mornings, it takes a while for it to tick over smoothly.

Car is currently undergoing head gasket replacement.

Spark plugs replaced.

General Comments:

Hopefully, the starting issue will be resolved when the head gasket has been replaced.

Other than that, I was very surprised how how the car performs for only being a 1.2i. The acceleration is surprisingly quick.

I also found the car to be quite roomy for only being a small car. Me being around 6ft, and have ample room.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th June, 2003

1994 Vauxhall Corsa GSi 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Skateboard with a rocket engine

Faults:

Oil seal started leaking on the way to work, drove straight to dealer in Spain Who looked amused at the English badges, and then fixed it immediately under European warranty and gave it a new oil filter and a quick once over - better service than England.

Rear washer went, got it fixed at service free of charge.

Speed dial died on the way to Germany, but got it fixed when I got back to the UK.

Badges and aerial got pinched in Spain because they are too easy to pinch.

Someone tried to break into the boot and failed.

Recall for ripped metal on b pillar by door handle. Welding patches were done and metallic paint was resprayed so I couldn't tell, which is saying something. Started to go again though eventually.

General Comments:

Blistering performance for such a small car, now have a V5 Golf which wouldn't stand a chance against this car. Bit cheap and cheerful inside, no airbags.

Tires act like they are coated in super glue compared to squealing Volkswagen golf, but even this low slung little monster can't beat my lowered '67 beetle in a corner. Now that is like driving a car on rails.

Great fun to drive, very boy racer, new styling isn't as cool as this model.

Cabin was a bit, how can I put it...'snug' lovely comfortable seats though.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th June, 2003

6th Sep 2004, 16:49

I have got a 1993 Corsa GSI, and I feel that it is the best not only for power, but also the best handling I have had since passing my test!

I have not lost a race against any Saxo VTS or Pug 106 GTi etc etc. This is just awesome!!!

Superchip next, then possibly nitros!!! Watch out Astras and Calibras, this is fast!!!

12th Nov 2005, 03:46

You've beaten 106 GTis and Saxo VTS's?

Then those guys can't drive.

Both of those cars absolutely rape your's any Corsa for power to weight and 0-60.

8th Oct 2006, 18:56

I think a saxo VTS would be quicker than a GSI 16v as standard, but I know you can tune a 1.6 GSI 16v to 200 BHP without the aid of a turbo. Vauxhalls do have good tough engine's.