Vauxhall Astra Mk3 (1991 - 1998)

Model designation is 'Astra F'. Not bad looking and with metallic paint gives impression of reasonable quality.

13' 4" long but fatter than prevuous Astra at 5' 11" wide. Also heavier at 930kg to 1,150kg.

Convertible from June 1993. Useful improvements for 1995 ('V' grille) model year include power steering across the range and 'low pressure turbo' GM diesel.

67bhp LPT diesel estate the best buy and deservedly the most popular.

69bhp 1.6 E-Drive petrol engine slow, but very economical (45 mpg): a good choice if worried about.

89bhp 16 valve 1.4 and 99bhp 1.6 16v engines much more perky.

GSi down on power on to 134bhp.