Since launch date in October 1995 Vauxhall has sold more than half a million Vectras, the vast majority as company cars. But while it’s not a bad buy as a company vehicle (thanks to generous discounts, reasonable specifications and a comprehensive warranty), as a used buy it needs to be approached with more caution.

Even the range-topping V6 models fail to set the pulse racing thanks to the long gaps between gear ratios that blunt performance and will frustrate the enthusiastic driver. The bestsellers tend to be the smaller four-cylinder petrol units available in 1.6, 1.8 and 2 litre derivatives. Of these the 1.8 litre is the pick of the bunch. Originally with 113bhp, this increased to 123bhp in September 2000 and endows the car with a 0-60 time of less than 10sec, not far off that of the thirstier 2 litre unit.

High-mileage users may look to the more frugal diesel engines, but these too fail to sparkle. The least powerful, a 1.7 litre, is made by Isuzu, and although reasonably smooth, with only 81bhp on tap its performance will test the patience of all but the most laid-back driver. The 2 litre diesel with 98bhp should feel better but what it adds in pace it lacks in refinement. Only the 2.2 litre diesel unit, introduced in September 2000 and producing 123bhp, is worth serious consideration.

For some buyers acceleration is of little importance; they just want a reliable car that goes from “A to B eventually”. So are these the people for whom a used Vectra is a good buy? Probably not, because the car also has a worse than average reputation for mechanical problems.

Under the skin the flawed design of the car leads to some minor faults being costly to repair. For example, a blown dashboard bulb requires the removal of the entire fascia, and that’s the main reason you find so many second-hand Vectras around with partially-lit dashboards.

Talk to Vectra owners and you will invariably discover a catalogue of faults that typically include failed air-conditioning units and electric windows, and prematurely worn front suspension — all of which can cost significant amounts of money.

The engines also have a few weak points. Timing belts and tensioners originally intended to be replaced every 80,000 miles were revised to 40,000 miles after owners reported premature failure. Diesel models also need to have the mass airflow sensors replaced at about 36,000 miles.

But despite its numerous problems the Vectra continues to sell well as a used car, thanks in part to the way it looks. In hatchback form it is particularly attractive; low to the road with an aggressive front grille and rear spoiler. The sporty SRi and GSi models add wide alloys, low-profile tyres and sports seats.

Unfortunately the promise of the car’s looks exceed the reality of its dynamic abilities. On the road Vectras have a tendency to understeer badly and revisions to post-1999 cars improved but did not remove the problem. The stodgy steering also does little to inspire the driver’s confidence.

If buying a used Vauxhall Vectra still seems appealing, there are three things I would recommend you do before you buy: make sure it comes with a comprehensive warranty, a perfect service history and a good local dealer. You’ll need all three if you want to enjoy the experience.

VITAL STATISTICS

Model: Vauxhall Vectra 1.8 CD five-door
Engine type: Four-cylinder, 1796cc
Power: 123bhp
Transmission: Five-speed manual
Fuel: 37.2mpg (combined)
Acceleration: 0-60mph: 9.5sec
Top speed: 129mph

Air-conditioning: Standard on most models since September 1997, but check carefully as it's a weak point.

Steering: Stodgy steering lacks feel. Height-adjustable steering column since 1997.

Dashboard: Blown bulbs cost a small fortune to replace as the dashboard must be removed for access.

Camshaft belt: Should be replaced every 35,000-40,000 miles to avoid failure.

Spark plug leads: Deteriorate over time and are expensive to replace.

Servicing: Avoid cars with less than perfect history and insist on seeing service invoices to confirm any additional work.

Suspension: Front suspension prone to wear — check for play.

Electric windows: Prone to failure, particularly on infrequently used rear windows.

Total sold in Britain: 500,000.

Handling: All cars understeer but handling improved on post-1999 cars.

Antilock brakes: Check the dashboard indicator comes on then turns off when starting.

Tickover: A varying idle speed ('hunting') is a sign that the air intake control valve is faulty — replacement costs over £120.

Tyres: Sporty SRi and GSi models prone to heavy front tyre wear.

THE ONE TO BUY

Vauxhall Vectra 1.8 CD five-door with five-speed manual gearbox, 2000 X-reg with 30,000 miles. Pay £5,650 at a dealer with 12-month warranty, or £4,800 privately.

OR FOR SIMILAR MONEY...

2000 X-reg Ford Mondeo 2.0 Ghia 5dr
1999 V-reg Saab 9-3 2.0t Airflow 5dr
2001 X-reg Renault Laguna 1.8 RXE 5dr
2000 X-reg Honda Accord 1.8i S 5dr
2001 X-reg Toyota Avensis 1.6 VVTi S



Saloon £200 less than equivalent hatchback.

Source: estimates based on confidential CAP black book prices. ‘Trade’ is what a dealer would pay to buy your car; ‘Retail’ is what you would pay a dealer