Vauxhall Vectra 1995 to date

Vauxhall's fleet car hit, the Vectra, is due for replacement later this year. And not before time, some would say, as the current model has been criticised for its boring image ever since its launch in 1995. For used buyers, however, the arrival of a completely new Vectra is excellent news. As owners upgrade to the latest model, the market is likely to be flooded by first-generation cars. For those motorists who value practicality and reliability rather than image, the current Vectra could become the second-hand bargain of the year. So this week, we sift through the line-up to find out which model makes most sense as a used buy.

Driving
Critics say it's too much like the Cavalier it replaced and no real advance, unlike Ford whose Mondeo improved on the Sierra.
But if you were a fan of the Cavalier, it's unlikely that the Vectra will disappoint. It handles much the same, in a safe but unexciting way, while the ride, although winning no prizes for comfort, doesn't upset, either.

Vauxhall improved matters in 1999 when the car's suspension was updated, but Vectras are still at their best on the motorways, where their tall gearing makes them ideal for fast, economical long-distance work. One area in which the Vauxhall has always impressed is the engine department. If there is a weak link, it's the old 75bhp 8v 1.6-litre found on base models. Although tuned for economy, it fares no better than the 100bhp 16v alternative, as both are claimed to be capable of more than 40mpg.

That's nearly the same as the best all-rounder, the 1.8. In original 115bhp guise, this unit has no problem with hard work. When beefed up to 123bhp in 2000, it virtually got the performance of the old 2.0-litre, which in turn was revamped to a 2.2 producing 143bhp. V6 Vectras are some of the best bargain performance cars around.

Despite so-so handling, the Vectra was a front-runner in the British Touring Car Championship, and a Super Touring model was made in honour of its wins. Tamer alternatives include the SRi or GSi with a GT suspension, traction control and sport-ier gear ratios. These are much better to drive than you would expect a Vectra to be. At the other end of the scale are the diesels. Initially, Vectras relied on a zippy 81bhp 1.7-litre Isuzu turbodiesel before it was replaced by a more flexible Vauxhall 2.0 direct-injection unit. The turbo DTi added real power, especially as a 2.2-litre 123bhp in 2000.

If you're after a diesel, an oil-burning Vectra is preferable to a Mondeo. Whatever engine you go for, there's good refinement together with competitive performance and economy.

Living with
Vectras are ideal for families. There is just about enough space in the rear seat for growing households and they'll travel in fair comfort and refinement.

Of the choice of styles, the hatchbacks are the most popular picks. If you're after an estate, the smaller but more practical Astra, is a better bet though.

A fixed steering column and over-firm seat squab spoiled the driving position of early Vectras. Apart from that, the interior is well designed. There are plenty of trims, but the most popular are the mid- range LS and GLS packs. You benefit from the usual goodies, and air-conditioning was fitted as standard in 1997. GLS Vectras feature a power sunroof and heated door mirrors. Club is a slightly sportier version of the LS. The more upmarket Vectras come with traction control, and the top SRi, GSi, CD and CDX models feel particularly plush.

The Vectra is inherently a safe car. All models come with ABS and most boast twin airbags. Front side airbags were optional before they were made standard in September 2000.

It's always been a tough car to steal too, thanks to innovative deadlocks and an engine immobiliser. The top models also have an alarm. And if you hate traffic jams, you'll love a Vectra because since 1997 Trafficmaster's Oracle information system has been standard kit.

Buying and owning
Do beware when buying a Vectra. As well as patchy reliability, prices are varied and unpredictable, and depreciation will worsen when the new version is launched. Car supersites are the best places for nearly-new bargains, but look to private sales and auctions for older steals.

Main dealers are keen to shift this ageing model and Vauxhall's Network Q used approved plan covers several wear and tear items. Apart from a Ford, no car will prove to be as cheap to run. Vauxhall also operates Masterfit; a dedicated fast-fit service using genuine parts and trained staff.