Opel Vectra

   The Opel Vectra C was produced between 2003 and 2008. It was available as a sedan, hatchback or estate. This car received a facelift in 2005. Currently it was replaced with the new Opel Insignia.

   It has a strong pull and good driveability, rather than outright power. The 1.9-liter turbo diesel, delivering 150 hp has a very good balance between acceleration and fuel consumption. Most engines are fine for motorway cruising.

   The Opel Vectra C has better driving comfort than it's predecessor. However it's steering do not gives enough feedback to the driver, especially on twisted roads or in bad weather. The brakes are excellent.

   The new Vectra has a well isolated cabin. You can hardly hear any noises coming from the outside. Even the engines stay in the background, untill revved hard.

   The Opel Vectra is very competitively priced. Running costs are reasonable, and residual values are much stronger than the Ford Mondeo's.

   Interior of the new Vectra is much improved over it's predecessor as the design team styling chief came from Audi, and it shows. Soft furnishings and damped controls are the order of the day. All the controls, with the exception of the gearlever, move with slick precision. Switchgear layout is orderly, logical and neat. Opel mostly has a good reliability record, so there's no need to fear of constant failures.

  Unlike the old car, the new Vectra has all the steering wheel's and seat's adjustments. Unfortunately large rear screen pillars restrict visibility.

   The most important thing about this car is that it became far more spacious. Now it is a true five-seater. Still it is worth noticing, that taller adults will find headroom restricted at the back. A large boot, matching class leaders.

   Front, side and curtain airbags are standard. Furthermore the new Vectra comes with a pedal release system, anti-whiplash head restraints and an up-to-the-minute braking system. It has a comprehensive security features, but it might be not enough for a professional car thieves.

   All models are much better equipped than their predecessors, as well as some leading rivals - for little or no increase in price, and many versions cost less.

   Production of the Opel Vectra C still continues.

   Advantages: Enough space for all the family to get comfortable and boot will easily hold all of their luggage.

   Disadvantages: Styling inside and out not to all tastes. one-touch indicators take a long time to get used to.

   Verdict: Spacious and capable family car, but bland.

   Also consider: Ford Mondeo, Honda Accord.