1997 Vauxhall Vectra SRi 2.5 V6 from UK and Ireland - Comments

I had to return it 12 times because of faulty trip computers. It transpired that it was a dealer issue as other dealer fixed it first time.

Car jumps in the wet (misfiring?), dealer can't fix.

Dashboard creaks when heater warms up, steering ticks on turns. Backfires when cold (they all do from talking to other people).

Dealers generally can't fix faults (I've tried 3). Perhaps not enough room to work on as engine is shoe-horned in.

This is excellent value for money.

Fast for it's class (I tested them all and hated this one the least) and well specified, though seats are uncomfortable. The stereo a bit under powered (personal choice!). It handles well for a Vauxhall and the V6 is smooth and quiet for the first 40k. It's also very economical, I get approx 32mpg and my first set of tyres lasted 42k.

If I was in the market for a 16-18k car next time, I would possibly go for another, perhaps look at the GSi.

The backfire from cold is not a fault. The exhaust manifold has an electrically controlled valve that bleeds in cold air for up to a couple of minutes after startup, to reduce emissions. Current BMW sixes do the same, as do many other engines. If you listen carefully, when the time is up you will hear a 'clunk', and the exhaust will go quiet again.

I have had my Vectra for several months now. I have been highly delighted with the performance. It is a 2.5 V6 estate on an 'R' plate. The drive is comfortable and the driving is excellent.

I have had two 3 series BMW'S and a Laguna in the past 4 years and from my own point of view this is the best.

R plate - 115,000 miles, which I have done from new. Initial problems with engine management system - it used to cut out at inconvenient places and it took the dealer three goes to fix it. Otherwise its great if unrefined and the seats are not good, but now well bedded in. Averages 32-33 mpg and you can squeeze out 34-35. I usually cruise at about 80mph. Engine now a bit noisy. Considering an end of range low mileage one as against a Mondeo as replacement.