Mk5 Astra Estate - 1.6VVT or 1.8VVT?

[HellDiver]

Due to the impending death of the Mondeo, I'm thinking about going back to Vauxhall, and I always liked the Mk5 Estate. I need something with a decent sized boot due to ongoing house renovations. I'd ideally like a Design spec, for the auto gubbins and half fake leather seats.

I only do 3k a year at most, so don't want a diesel.

I've driven a Vectra with the 1.8VVT and it was fine, until the engine popped at 22k. So, I'm swinging towards the 1.6VVT.

Anyone driven one, that can give me any feedback?

[2DDav]

I'm currently running a 1.6 Design sportshatch as a company car at the moment. The 1,6 is not a bad engine and given the bulk of these cars were specced in 1.6 guise then you;ll have a far bigger choice of used examples than the 1.8. The 1.6 does lack the little bit of oomph that the 1.8 gives, its not to bad off the blocks but it does run out off puff as the revs climb.
For me I would say the 1.8 would be a better option as it does have that little extra go about it, and fuel consumption figures will be en-par with the 1.6, but if your not that fussed about the power difference then stick with the 1.6