Changing my BMW for a Vectra C
Discussion
Just to be awkward, why not look at the 2.0 turbo too?
The 2.2 is pretty good, there were issues with fuel pressure regulators, but most should have been sorted by now. Otherwise, they're solid and reasonably brisk with decent economy.
There are loads of scare stories about the 1.9 diesel, but in my personal experience, it's been fine. Again reasonably quick and economical.
The 2.0 turbo is definately worth a look though. Very solid, rarely giving trouble.
The 2.2 is pretty good, there were issues with fuel pressure regulators, but most should have been sorted by now. Otherwise, they're solid and reasonably brisk with decent economy.
There are loads of scare stories about the 1.9 diesel, but in my personal experience, it's been fine. Again reasonably quick and economical.
The 2.0 turbo is definately worth a look though. Very solid, rarely giving trouble.
My everyday transport is a 58-plate Vectra SRi 2.2 Direct that I bought as a 3,000 ex-Vauxhall Motors car. From 2003-2006 I owned a 52-plate SRi 2.2 that my father still has. The "Direct" is a more brisk performer and better on fuel but the earlier car is more smooth and actually slightly nicer to drive.
The Vectra has a decent amount of space without being enormous on the outside. I went for the SRi primarily to get firmer seats, which I find comfortable - they support my dodgy back well on long journeys. The driver's seat adjusts for height and tilt and has lumber support, and with the steering wheel adjustable for height and reach a good driving position should be achievable for most people. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, the cars are brisk and reasonable on fuel - mine does 33-43 depending on use. Levels of grip are far higher than anyone needs on a public road, and particularly impressive in the dry. I find them excellent motorway cars, with decent levels of refinement.
My current car needed some gearbox work under warranty to eliminate an obstructive change affecting 3rd & 5th, and has had the fuel pressure regulator replaced; the only "symptom" being a glowing engine management light.
Downsides are road noise over coarse surfaces, the condensation my current car suffers from in damp weather after being parked at the station all day, and the aggravating indicator stalk.
Although I cannot offer a comparison with the car's rivals, I consider that in the "real world" (how refreshing to see this approach) the Vectra is a good all-rounder that offers value for money. Not everyone's cup of tea obviously, but I have been happy with mine. I also have a VXR version.
The Vectra has a decent amount of space without being enormous on the outside. I went for the SRi primarily to get firmer seats, which I find comfortable - they support my dodgy back well on long journeys. The driver's seat adjusts for height and tilt and has lumber support, and with the steering wheel adjustable for height and reach a good driving position should be achievable for most people. The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, the cars are brisk and reasonable on fuel - mine does 33-43 depending on use. Levels of grip are far higher than anyone needs on a public road, and particularly impressive in the dry. I find them excellent motorway cars, with decent levels of refinement.
My current car needed some gearbox work under warranty to eliminate an obstructive change affecting 3rd & 5th, and has had the fuel pressure regulator replaced; the only "symptom" being a glowing engine management light.
Downsides are road noise over coarse surfaces, the condensation my current car suffers from in damp weather after being parked at the station all day, and the aggravating indicator stalk.
Although I cannot offer a comparison with the car's rivals, I consider that in the "real world" (how refreshing to see this approach) the Vectra is a good all-rounder that offers value for money. Not everyone's cup of tea obviously, but I have been happy with mine. I also have a VXR version.
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