STYLISH
Your opinions
TWO WHEEL STAR WITH FOUR-WHEEL SUPPORT
Over the past few years, my son James has won two European, one World
and one British championship in his chosen sport. During all that time, we
have driven our G-registered Vauxhall Cavalier around Europe to watch him
compete on many of the most famous race circuits in the world. When we've
been unable to find hotels, we've even slept in the car - overnighting
alongside circuits in Italy, San Marino, Germany, France and Belgium.
We've driven thousands of miles without so much as a sigh or a moan from
the car. We have parked it alongside Mercedes and Porsches, prompting
many a second glance. But it was the most comfortable car I've ever been in.
In fact being in the Cavalier was like driving through Europe in an armchair.
Now, son James has been elevated into the world of two-wheeled Grand
Prix racing, and for 2005 he'll be competing in Moto GP. Once again,
naturally, we'll be travelling to see him as often as we can. The only change
is that the Cavalier is finally being retired from duty - but I'll certainly be
buying another Vauxhall to take it's place
Mrs J Ellison, Cumbria
A VERY HAPPY VAUXHALL FAMILY
My father's first new Vauxhall was a Viva in August 1973 and since then he has had a
new Vauxhall every year, and on two occasions he has bought two new cars in one
year. These have ranged from Vivas and Chevettes to Cavaliers, Vectras, Astras and
Corsas - and this year, when it's ready for him, he will have a Meriva, to accommodate
my mother's wheelchair.
In addition, my sister, her husband and two boys all have Vauxhalls. I have had
Cavaliers, Vectras, Astras and Corsas since 1983. My first new Astra Estate was
purchased in 1989 and clocked up over 200,000 miles. My current car is an Astra SXi
bought new in 2003. My three girls all have Corsas, and my partner has an Astra -
bought new in 1993 and now with 135,000 miles on the clock but still going strong.
My only disappointment in all this time was when I took my 1996 SportAstra Estate to
a non-Vauxhall dealer for what was claimed to be a quality service for half the Vauxhall
price - but which actually turned out to be a costly mistake. Their cheap oil resulted in
me being forced to replace the vehicle after 'only' 170,000 miles. Lesson learned. (PS:
when my relatives come to visit my drive looks like a Vauxhall parking lot!)
Sandra Dennis, St Neots, Cambs