Discussion
Having bought one in June last year (used, with basically every option ticked), it really depends what you're coming from.
It's an excellent all-rounder and undeniably easy to live with. Visibility is reasonable. I have the ST-3 so the all-leather interior with Recaros is comfortable and supportive. The interior is miles ahead of the MK2 in terms of finish, but still not quite near our German friends in terms of quality (of design, layout or materials).
It does, however, torque steer like an absolute pig unless in sports mode (which winds in the electronic countering system it uses, which seems to cause 90% of the problem).
It's relatively brisk on a 0-60 (although coming from a 370z it does feel a bit lethargic), but the power-band is really livable when between 30-70. The mid-range torque is more than enough for some spirited driving.
Fuel economy is woeful. I'm getting around 25mpg which will reach 30 on a longer drive - absolutely nowhere near the 39mpg Ford like to claim. Even the OBC rarely thinks we're doing anything that high. The ride is firm too; poorly surfaced B-roads will take your fillings out.
In reality, I wonder if an Insignia VXR is a better used buy (given they're cheaper, 4WD, 320bhp and remap well). I like mine, I'm happy with it, but it's only a temporary thing while I buy a house. Then, when my expenses are settled down again I'll get something more lairy. It's all a bit civilised.
It's an excellent all-rounder and undeniably easy to live with. Visibility is reasonable. I have the ST-3 so the all-leather interior with Recaros is comfortable and supportive. The interior is miles ahead of the MK2 in terms of finish, but still not quite near our German friends in terms of quality (of design, layout or materials).
It does, however, torque steer like an absolute pig unless in sports mode (which winds in the electronic countering system it uses, which seems to cause 90% of the problem).
It's relatively brisk on a 0-60 (although coming from a 370z it does feel a bit lethargic), but the power-band is really livable when between 30-70. The mid-range torque is more than enough for some spirited driving.
Fuel economy is woeful. I'm getting around 25mpg which will reach 30 on a longer drive - absolutely nowhere near the 39mpg Ford like to claim. Even the OBC rarely thinks we're doing anything that high. The ride is firm too; poorly surfaced B-roads will take your fillings out.
In reality, I wonder if an Insignia VXR is a better used buy (given they're cheaper, 4WD, 320bhp and remap well). I like mine, I'm happy with it, but it's only a temporary thing while I buy a house. Then, when my expenses are settled down again I'll get something more lairy. It's all a bit civilised.
Roastie ITR said:
Assume that you are buying second hand? Might be worth looking on drivethedeal.co.uk, as I remember reading on another thread that it was cheaper to buy new than second hand due to the discounts being offered.
Hmm possibly I'm looking at st3's with sub 3,000 miles on them. Almost new really...They're £20k generally
Was going to pull the trigger and pick it up ASAP but 20k is a lot ! Just want to make sure it's the right motor.
Consumption I'm not too fussed to be honest over 20 will be fine.
seopher said:
Having bought one in June last year (used, with basically every option ticked), it really depends what you're coming from.
It's an excellent all-rounder and undeniably easy to live with. Visibility is reasonable. I have the ST-3 so the all-leather interior with Recaros is comfortable and supportive. The interior is miles ahead of the MK2 in terms of finish, but still not quite near our German friends in terms of quality (of design, layout or materials).
It does, however, torque steer like an absolute pig unless in sports mode (which winds in the electronic countering system it uses, which seems to cause 90% of the problem).
It's relatively brisk on a 0-60 (although coming from a 370z it does feel a bit lethargic), but the power-band is really livable when between 30-70. The mid-range torque is more than enough for some spirited driving.
Fuel economy is woeful. I'm getting around 25mpg which will reach 30 on a longer drive - absolutely nowhere near the 39mpg Ford like to claim. Even the OBC rarely thinks we're doing anything that high. The ride is firm too; poorly surfaced B-roads will take your fillings out.
In reality, I wonder if an Insignia VXR is a better used buy (given they're cheaper, 4WD, 320bhp and remap well). I like mine, I'm happy with it, but it's only a temporary thing while I buy a house. Then, when my expenses are settled down again I'll get something more lairy. It's all a bit civilised.
Interesting post. Midrange power sounds good. It's an excellent all-rounder and undeniably easy to live with. Visibility is reasonable. I have the ST-3 so the all-leather interior with Recaros is comfortable and supportive. The interior is miles ahead of the MK2 in terms of finish, but still not quite near our German friends in terms of quality (of design, layout or materials).
It does, however, torque steer like an absolute pig unless in sports mode (which winds in the electronic countering system it uses, which seems to cause 90% of the problem).
It's relatively brisk on a 0-60 (although coming from a 370z it does feel a bit lethargic), but the power-band is really livable when between 30-70. The mid-range torque is more than enough for some spirited driving.
Fuel economy is woeful. I'm getting around 25mpg which will reach 30 on a longer drive - absolutely nowhere near the 39mpg Ford like to claim. Even the OBC rarely thinks we're doing anything that high. The ride is firm too; poorly surfaced B-roads will take your fillings out.
In reality, I wonder if an Insignia VXR is a better used buy (given they're cheaper, 4WD, 320bhp and remap well). I like mine, I'm happy with it, but it's only a temporary thing while I buy a house. Then, when my expenses are settled down again I'll get something more lairy. It's all a bit civilised.
Insignia VXR is a saloon - don't think I could compare the two but maybe the Astra yes.
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