Vauxhall Astra engine temperatures

[aburtt]

Are Vauxhall Astras (in particular a 1.4 16V LS) known for operating at high temperatures and reaching those temperatures particularly quickly.
The reason i am asking, is because I went to look at purchasing the above car, and when i took it for a test drive, it seemed to hit 80 degrees C, in a matter of minutes whilst idling, is this normal?
I questioned this with the salesman and he said that all astras are like that.
Any one have any ideas?

[aburtt]

Thanks for that, in your general opinion is an astra a suitable car - i.e. much maintenance? how much would you expect to pay for a 1.4 LS 16V 2000 in good nick?

[aburtt]

Anyone else have some more input on this, would be grateful for it.