Vauxhall Astra (1998 - 2004)

G Type Astra vastly better than previous F Type. Steering, handling, roadholding became class-competitive. Longer at 13' 6", wider at 6' 6" (including mirrors). Heavier at from 1,079kg upwards.

160 bhp 2.0 litre GSi from autumn 1999.

Three year warranty from October 2000. Price cuts brought Astra 1.6i Club 5-door with a/c down to £11,225. 89bhp 1.4 16v, 74bhp 1.6 8v and 99bhp 1.6 16v also available as specific LPG fuelled models. 197bhp GSI Turbo from December 2002 has same 2.0 litre turbo engine as coupe and Zafira GSi. Gets to 60 in 6.6 and goes on to 140mph for a reasonable £16,495.

187bhp turbo from May 2002. 147 bhp 2.2 litre chain-cam four available from September 2000, plus uprated 125 bhp 1.8 petrol and uprated 85 bhp 1.6.