In the segment of sedans, which are the most common among ordinary consumers in the CIS, the leaders are Ford Focus and Opel Astra. Both cars conquered consumers with their technical characteristics, external data and comfortable interior. And what about those who have not yet purchased a car and are now facing a difficult task: what to choose Ford or Opel?
Both cars have the same body type - a sedan. Both Ford and Opel have a smooth external outline, a similar shape and location of the windshield. Both models look stylish with oblong bi-xenon multi-section optics and trapezoidal fog lamps. Due to the grille in the style of Aston Martin Focus takes on a slightly aggressive look, unlike the classic and business Astra. Ford is suitable for fans of expressive forms, and Opel is suitable for lovers of calm lines.
The reliability of the body of the Astra is higher, although they nod at the fading of the paintwork. But under it is strong metal, which does not begin to play a year after operation. Opel's anti-corrosion factory treatment wins in quality.
Inside, both cars have high-quality performance displays, adjustable heated seats and airbags. Noise isolation is also quite decent. Both the Astra and the Focus transform the rear row of seats, due to which the trunk acquires additional space. The creators of Opel took 460 liters for luggage, which exceeds 370 Ford liters. In total, the Focus has a smaller fuel tank per liter, here 55 versus 56 give a slight difference, which is still there.
Focus interior
The interior of the Astra is more spacious than the Focus, but it loses as a finish, because it has a lot of plastic parts. Another of the minuses is the Opel's unfavorable visibility, which is limited by the A-pillars.
Ford's dashboard is distinctive and modernized in the new New Edge style. All devices are at the driver's fingertips and are well readable. The seats provide good lateral support and minimize lumbar strain.
Astra interior
If you compare it with the Opel dashboard, then Astra has to strain his eyesight, and you have to reach out to control some options. But this did not stop the developers from focusing on security. Astra has 4 airbags, ESP and ABS anti-lock systems and 2 airbags for Focus. To match the Ford in this regard, you will have to pay extra, since 2 more pillows and a stabilization system are available as an option.
As for the sizes, here the difference is minimal. The length, width and height of the Focus are 4534X1823X1484, while Astra has the following numerical values - 4658X1814X1500. The dimensions of the Opel are slightly larger than the Ford, and the ground clearance with the wheelbase is larger.
Differences in technical stuffing
The developers of the Ford Focus have used a wide range of motors. But for the domestic market, 3 gasoline and one diesel were available:
- 1.6-liter PNDA engine, accommodating 125 horses;
- IQDB unit with a volume of 1.6 liters and fashionable 105 hp;
- 2-liter engine with 150 horses;
- 2 liter turbodiesel with a capacity of 140 hp
Ford Focus powertrain range
All gasoline units interacted with 5-speed mechanics, diesel internal combustion engines - only with a gun. Fuel consumption in mixed mode is 6.4 liters per 100 km for the Focus and 6.5 liters for the same mileage for the Astra.
The engine range of the Opel Astra is a little more modest. Our consumer is offered several units that consume gasoline:
- turbocharged engine A 14 NET with 1.4 l and 140 hp;
- 1.6-liter engine A 16 XER, accommodating 115 horses;
- 1.6 liter A 16 LET turbo engine producing 180 hp
The range of powertrains Opel Astra
Specifications and engine compartment stuffing Ford wins slightly due to the wide choice of powertrains, transmission and more economical fuel consumption. It is possible that some will disagree, focusing on the 180-horsepower Opel turbo engine. But Focus engines have lower fuel consumption with high performance.
Both sedans have exactly the same McPherson independent spring front suspension. But the rear is significantly different. An independent spring multi-link Ford keeps the car better on the track than a spring semi-independent with a Watt mechanism on an Opel.
Test for speed
Choosing between Opel Astra and Ford Focus, any motorist will want to test them on the track. During the test drive it was noted:
- Astra cornering has a slight roll and is sensitive to small gravel on the road when driving at high speed; the skid of the front of the Focus is not so obvious;
- on city roads, Ford is already losing, since the variety of transmissions has played a bad service here, because on busy streets and in traffic jams, the Astra is not so voracious and its gearbox is more accommodating;
- Opel has more ground clearance, which allows you to overcome off-road and poor coverage with minimal problems;
- the maximum speed is almost the same - for Ford 202 km / h, for Opel - 205 km / h;
- As numerous tests have shown, the Astra is a bit heavy and tight at the start, which is why it accelerates to the first hundred in 10.3 s versus 9.4 s for the Focus.
It is difficult to determine which is better in terms of dynamic performance, since cars behave differently under different road conditions. One thing is clear that Opel is more suitable for city trips, and Focus should be used on the highway.
We offer a draw!
Ford Focus is a car that has already become a classic. After all, wherever you look, solid tricks, that on the roads, that salons, that specialized services. We must pay tribute to the heirs of the great Henry Ford, who take care of the offspring of their concern. There should not be any problems with the repair of this model, since there are a lot of dealer and specialized services. The supply of spare parts has also been established, although original parts will be quite expensive.
Opel Astra shares a leading position with Focus in terms of popularity and in tacit competition. But there are not so many specialized workshops for cars. True, Astra can be repaired at almost any service station, since there are enough partner stations that have concluded agreements with the Avtotor Kaliningrad plant. There are no problems with the search for components.
Let's sum up. In comparing the two cars, it is clear that:
- Ford wins in interior decoration due to the quality of finishing materials and ergonomics, as well as the versatility and comfort of the seats;
The Opel excels in luggage space and a negligible fuel tank; - Focus behaves well on the track and when driving at high speeds;
Astra is ideal for use on city roads;
The proposed engine range is wider at Ford, and performance is also higher; - Opel wins in fuel consumption, especially in urban areas;
Focus is higher in dynamics, it starts easier and accelerates faster; - The Astra outperforms in terms of driver and passenger safety;
- Focusing on the pricing policy, Ford bypassed Opel, since the cost of the basic configuration of the second is almost 100 thousand rubles higher.
Opinions of motorists also polarized. Focusing on the reviews of the owners, we can conclude that in most cases the choice depends on the personal preferences of each motorist. Someone fell in love with the aggressive look of the Focus, while someone loves the classic features of the Astra. There are those who do not take into account the dynamic advantages of Ford, because they pay more attention to Opel's economical fuel consumption.
It is quite difficult to determine which is more reliable Ford Focus or Opel Astra. Both sedans have good technical performance and stuffing, not to mention the attractive appearance. Which car to choose in the end will have to be decided by everyone individually, because for many the financial aspect is also important, only for some it prevails when buying, and for others during the maintenance of the car.
Video about cars
Ford Focus review from "Greater Test Drive"
Vorotnikov about Focus
Victor Stelkah will talk about Astra
Info car about Astra
Comparison of competitors in English from the British
With regard to the "Focus III", the Russian sales of which started just the other day, "Fordovtsy" adhere to the same strategy that ensured the success of its predecessors. They still do not raise prices, offer the buyer a decent European quality and, importantly, a huge selection. Yes, there will be no more three-doors, but today a 5-door hatchback and a sedan are leaving the assembly line of the Vsevolozhsk plant, and a station wagon will join them at the beginning of next year. The list of options is complemented by four configurations, a quartet of motors and three types of gearboxes. Having become noticeably brighter and more aggressive in appearance, technically, the car has not changed fundamentally. It is based on the C1 platform, on which the first Focus was built. That did not stop the engineers from stuffing the car with all sorts of innovative systems, such as navigation and an active parking assistant. The latter, of course, cost decent money, but at the same time, no one deprives zealous buyers of the opportunity to build a well-equipped copy for themselves no more than 600 thousand.
The newest Astra, which debuted at the end of 2009, does not have a sedan body, but otherwise its representation in our market is just as numerous. And Opel also has a Russian passport. The SKD assembly of the Sports Tourer station wagon is established in Kaliningrad, and the more popular hatchback is completely - with welding and painting - produced at a plant in Shushary, not far from the birthplace of Ford.
True, even the Russified Astra in the basic configuration is noticeably more expensive than the Focus. But the quality of a car is not measured by price alone.
From simple to complex (interior)
Salon "Focus" of the second generation seemed gray and artless to many. The interior of the successor is much more expressive. The polyhedrons of the speedometer and tachometer displays, the block of the center console hanging over the climate control panel, the concave “steering wheel”, the sharp edges of the dashboard, the broken lines of the door handles are by no means trite. It is surprising that Ford's linkers managed to harmoniously fit all earthly controls into this space architecture. To deal with the buttons of the audio system, "climate" is not difficult. Even such an advanced function as automatic parking is extremely clear to use, especially since Focus writes all the hints in the great mighty one. You can't complain about the convenience of landing either. The adjustment ranges of the seats and the steering wheel are enough for a short driver and a 190 cm tall man. The only slight omission of the Ford finishers is the very impractical fabric upholstery of the seats, which attracts dust and dirt like a magnet.
There is much more warmth and elegance in the forms and colors of the Astra interior. A smoothly curved torpedo seems to want to wrap you in its arms. The instrument panel with classic round dials is pleasing to the eye. Seats with extendable cushions, rubberized radio and climate controls with clearly fixed positions deserve exceptional praise. But why was it necessary to populate the center console with a huge number of buttons? We counted exactly forty pieces! A good part of them can easily be sent to the tunnel. But most of all, we were upset in the Astra by the visibility. Through the small triangular windows between the wide windshield pillar and its support, there is really little to see.
Amazing transformation
The wheelbase of the "Focus" has increased by 8 mm. However, having measured the distance for the legs of the sofa passengers, we not only did not find any increase, but did not even count one centimeter. Moreover, the massive armrests located in the doors tucked the rear seat in width. Fortunately, there was something to cut. Yes, of course, after a slight downsizing, the Focus sofa is quite comfortable for two people up to 186 cm tall. But when traveling with three people, you will have to crowd a little more than before.
Sofa "Asters" is 1 cm wider. But this is not his main advantage. The Opel has noticeably more headroom, which allows tall passengers to sit upright rather than hunchback or slide forward, resting their knees on the backs of the front seats. And getting into a car with a higher roof is more convenient.
With and without suitcases
Trunk "Focus" has not changed in size. The distances to the back of the sofa and the front seats remained the same. From the floor to the shelf, we measured the same 40 cm. In general, not a sample of spaciousness - there is enough space for one large travel suitcase, and if you need to transport something else bulky or long, you will have to lay out the backs of the sofa.
All our attempts to introduce two large suitcases into the trunk of the Opel were also unsuccessful. But if we operate with generally accepted methods of measurement, then its hold turns out to be noticeably more capacious. Thanks to the small spare tire, it is 13 cm deeper. In addition, the distance to the back of the rear seat is 7.5 cm longer. As for the loading height and the possibility of transforming the sofa, the Astra is not inferior to its rival in these disciplines.
Green Party
The 1.8-liter, 125-horsepower gasoline engine was very popular with Focus II buyers. Unpretentious, high-torque from low speeds, he very cheerfully moved the pistons, giving the car decent dynamics. Alas, his 1.6-liter changer is not a fighter. Despite the same power and the presence of a variable valve timing system up to 2000 rpm, the engine just sleeps. In order to just drive normally, it is advisable not to lower the tachometer needle below 4000 at all. But at the same time, you don’t have to wait for a quick response to gas, which completely eliminates active actions in the city and requires more caution when overtaking on the highway.
But this unit meets the Euro-5 environmental requirements, and if you try to save fuel by moving at a constant speed or shifting to the next gear as early as possible, it will reward you with a green flower that has grown on the on-board computer display. It seems to us that with the new 150-horsepower engine "Focus" will go a little better. In acceleration from 50 to 100 km / h, the more powerful unit is faster by only one tenth of a second. Thus, fans of dynamic driving have only one choice - a 2-liter 140-horsepower diesel engine. However, you can buy it only with automatic transmission, and such a car costs more than all the others.
Astra motors are also calibrated for Euro-5. Both the base 100-horsepower and its more powerful 115-horsepower relative boast minimal carbon emissions. The car accelerates with them very sadly, forcing the driver to either slowly swim in the stream, or literally stomp the gas pedal. Nevertheless, for active drivers, Opel has a more attractive offer than Ford. Equipped with a turbocharged 140-horsepower engine, although it does not have an explosive character, it is very mentally lucky. He is ready to support active urban movements and is able to cheerfully add from a speed of 150 km / h. And it costs only 44,100 rubles more than a 115-strong one.
Who likes what
And in the handling of the "Focus" the spark and enthusiasm diminished. Yes, the car more than confidently keeps on a high-speed straight line, without being nervous because of joints and small pits, it rolls minimally in corners. However, its steering is a little lacking in transparency and responsiveness. Because of this, it seems that it is somehow not a joy to go through a bunch of turns at the limit of adhesion for Ford. And I don't want to force him to do something by force.
Astra has a completely different character. She is not so trained and accurate - in the same corners and on the same tires, she starts to slide out a little earlier than the Focus and can jump off the trajectory, landing on bumps. But these generally minor gaps in education are more than compensated by excitement. It is not necessary to go to the limit. From how willingly and easily Opel dives into turns, how frank with you, you already get a lot of pleasure. In addition, sophisticated drivers can order the Flex-ride suspension - its electronically controlled shock absorbers in sport mode make the Astra's handling even more fun.
New level
In what "Focus" has added unconditionally, so it is in comfort. The ability to drive solidly, without fuss, without straining your owner in any way, is perhaps the main achievement of the new Ford. Albeit without enthusiasm, but on our patched-patched roads, the car rolls very smoothly. At the same time, the suspension has enough elasticity to prevent breakdown of the shock absorbers even on fairly large potholes. Engineers did a great job on soundproofing. The howling of tires, which was fairly annoying on the previous Focuses, is now almost inaudible. A good portion of the sedative went to the motor: silently, with an increase in speed, it no longer raises its voice.
What can not be said about the Opel engines. From 4000 rpm, the growl of any of them is clearly heard in the cabin. In terms of sound insulation of the bottom and wheel arches, the Astra is also slightly inferior to its rival, besides, it behaves a little more nervously at the pits and joints. By and large, all this does not go beyond the bounds of decency and is not very annoying, but in general, traveling in the Astra is definitely less comfortable than in the Focus.
Everything, but not immediately
Both cars have already managed to be noted in European crash tests. Equipped with the maximum number of airbags, Ford and Opel proved to be very skilled bodyguards in both frontal collisions and side impacts. The dynamic stabilization system installed in the cars also contributed to the achievement of a five-star rating. However, in Russia, Astra is closer to the ideal, since it is already equipped with ABS, ESP and a quartet of airbags in the base. "Inflatable curtains" security for any of its modifications cost 9500 rubles.
In the arsenal of the most affordable Focus, there are only two airbags and an anti-lock braking system. Side airbags and ESP are put on the more expensive Trend-Sport and Titanium. However, a complete set of pillows, including window pillows, and a stabilization system can also be obtained in the base - for 19,500 rubles.
In almost all respects
The price list of the new Ford leaves little doubt about the success of the car. In any of the popular options - be it a 5-door hatchback in optimal equipment, the same sedan or a version with automatic transmission, Focus is cheaper than any of its competitors. For example, a five-door with a 105-horsepower engine, ABS, two airbags, air conditioning and an MP3 radio can be bought for 538,000 rubles, and a sedan with a more powerful engine and a new 6-speed Power Shift automatic transmission costs 674,000 rubles . And still "Focus" is inexpensive in content. The planned expenses for its maintenance, including the replacement of brake fluid, for 60,000 km are 32,000 rubles.
For Astra, such a service is 12 thousand more expensive. And the prices for the car itself are higher - by 15,900 rubles when buying a version with automatic transmission. If we compare the basic options with air conditioning, the difference increases to 75,900 rubles. Astra is more profitable only when dynamics come to the fore when buying a car. To date, only the diesel version can compete with the Opel, equipped with a 1.4 Turbo engine, in the Ford team, but it is 85,500 rubles more expensive.
The Mazda3 and Mitsubishi Lancer have the image of active driving cars, while the Ford Focus and Opel Astra are in demand among pragmatic and practical people.
The most expensive model is the Mazda3, and the most affordable is the Mitsubishi Lancer. Ford Focus and Opel Astra cost almost the same and are between the two "Japanese" in the price range. With an amount of 100 thousand UAH, you can buy a Ford Focus and Opel Astra 2007 or Mazda3 2 years older or fresher than all of them (2008) Mitsubishi Lancer. Focus and Mazda3 are built on a common platform and use some of the same parts and assemblies.
| Ford Focus | Mazda3 | Mitsubishi Lancer | Opel Astra | |
| Total information | ||||
| body type | sedan | sedan | sedan | sedan |
| doors/seats | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Dimensions, L/W/H, mm | 4490/1840/1455 | 4490/1755/1465 | 4480/1695/1445 | 4587/1753/1458 |
| Base, mm | 2640 | 2640 | 2600 | 2703 |
| Curb / full weight, kg | 1230/1775 | 1235/1745 | 1205/1750 | 1314/1740 |
| Trunk volume, l | 465/525 | 420/675 | 430/n.d. | 490/870 |
| Tank volume, l | 55 | 55 | 50 | 52 |
| Engines | ||||
| Petrol 4-cyl.: | 1.4L 16V (80HP), 1.6L 16V (100HP) 1.6L 16V (115HP), 2.0L 16V (145HP) | 1.6 L 16V (105 HP), 2.0 L 16V (150 HP) | 1.6 L 16V (98 HP), 1.8 L 16V (140 HP), 2.0 L 16V (135 HP) | 1.6 L 16V (115 HP), 1.8 L 16V (140 HP) |
| Diesel 4-cyl.: | 1.6L 16V Turbo (90/109 HP), 2.0L 16V Turbo (136 HP) | 1.7L 16V (110 HP) | ||
| Transmission | ||||
| type of drive | anterior | anterior | anterior | anterior |
| KP | 5-st. fur. or 4-st. ed. | 5- or 6-tbsp. fur. or 4-st. ed. | 5-st. fur. or 4-st. ed. | 5- and 6-st. fur., 5-st. robot. fur.. |
| Chassis | ||||
| Brakes front/rear | fan disk/disc | fan disk/disc | fan disk/disc | fan disk/disc |
| Suspension front/rear | independent/independent | independent/independent | independent/independent | independent/independent |
| Tires | 195/65R15, 205/55R16, 205/50R17 | 195/65R15, 205/55R16 | 195/60R15, 195/50R16 | 205/55R16 |
Ford Focus II 2004-2011 from UAH 77.6 thousand up to 134.4 thousand UAH.
Mazda3 2003-2009 from 80 thousand UAH. up to 136 thousand UAH.
Mitsubishi Lancer IX 2002-2009 from 68 thousand UAH. up to 108 thousand UAH.
Opel Astra (H) since 2007 from 100 thousand UAH to 152 thousand UAH
Match the character!
Given the active temperament of the "troika" and Lancer with more powerful engines in the secondary market, there is a risk of purchasing a copy restored after an accident. Therefore, we recommend a qualified diagnosis of the condition of their body. Regarding corrosion resistance, the most complaints are against Mazda3, and regarding the condition of other body parts - to Astra and also the “troika”. The most (5 stars EuroNCAP) - the "Germans" (other models in this discipline are weaker).
Salons of all cars are ready to accept five crew members - while it will be most convenient in Opel - it has the largest wheelbase, this advantage was used by designers to improve the comfort of rear passengers. And the least spacious interior of the Lancer. The practicality of the "Germans" is also confirmed by more spacious trunks compared to the "Japanese". It is the largest for Astra - 490 liters, a little less for Focus - 465 liters (against 420 liters for Mazda3 and 430 liters for Lancer). Opel should only be criticized for the narrowed access opening to the passenger compartment with the rear seats folded down.
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In inexpensive versions of the Focus, the quality of the plastic trim is low - it is hard and can squeak over time. Visibility is limited to the A-pillars, sloping rear window and high "stern".
The plastic of the finish looks expensive, but it feels hard to the touch, since it is non-creaky. Noise isolation of the engine compartment and wheel arches is rather weak. In cars 2003-2004 the information display on the dashboard and the front airbag sensor may fail.
The plastic finish is hard, but not squeaky. Noise isolation is rather weak, and visibility is limited only in Sport versions by a standard rear wing. But all salon equipment is reliable and works without problems.
The interior plastic is of high quality, even with time nothing creaks inside. The soundproofing of the engine compartment is rather weak. The main advantage of the cabin is one of the largest reserves of legroom for rear passengers in the class.
Wrong stereotype
Under the hood of both "Japanese" - only gasoline engines, while the "Germans" also have economical diesel versions, although they are less common. It is better to refrain from buying a Focus with a 1.6 TDI engine - it is short-lived. Among gasoline power units, the least problems were found in Ford and Opel engines.
The most popular engine for all cars is a 1.6-liter gasoline engine. Comparing the dynamic performance of these versions with the “mechanics” declared by the manufacturers, we found out that the “troika” corresponds more accurately to it - it is the fastest and accelerates to “hundreds” in 11.2 s, and Lancer, despite the image of a car for active driving , turned out to be the slowest - 12.1 s (Focus - 11.9 s and Astra - 11.7 s). Notes on gearboxes are available for all models.
The suspensions of these cars are knocked down and well suited for active driving. A feature of the Focus is that its rear “multi-link” is endowed with the effect of passive steering due to special silent blocks. Because of this, on uneven roads, the rear often rearranges. It is difficult to say unequivocally which chassis of which car is the most durable. In the suspensions of each model, weaknesses have been identified that will have to be repaired with runs of 40–80 thousand km.
Only Opel has no claims to steering reliability, while Astra and Lancer tie rods (1.6 l) serve less than other cars - 70–80 thousand km and 40–80 thousand km, respectively. Notes on the brakes are only for the 2.0-liter versions of the Lancer Sport.
Ford Focus II
In general, Focus bodies are well protected against corrosion. Many cars are sold without protective mudguards, and if they are not additionally installed, over time, the paint on the thresholds and lower parts of the doors will be sandblasted.
The plastic finishes of cheap and expensive versions are different - the former are of lower quality. Behind it will be most convenient for people of average build. Over time, power windows begin to creak (lubrication is required), and the air conditioner radiator needs periodic cleaning (otherwise, the tube between the compressor and the radiator loses its tightness).
The most common unit is 1.6 liters (gasoline and diesel). A characteristic problem of "gasoline" is the throttle. 1.6 TDI has a short resource - by 100 thousand km the cylinder-piston group wears out, oil consumption increases. The automatic transmission is reliable, and the manual transmission "sins" with oil leaks.
Suspension moderately hard, but energy-intensive. On rough roads, the rear often rearranges. The resource of the rear multi-link is large, but a number of parts of the front suspension are not durable. At the same time, ball and silent blocks of the front levers are able to run about 150 thousand km. Over time, the steering can also disturb.
pros |
Minuses |
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Summary "AC"
Used Focus is comfortable, convenient, practical and endowed with good driving characteristics. Although there are serious comments on the reliability and durability of some components and aggregates (suspension parts, transmission and 1.6 liter turbodiesel engine).
Claims for corrosion resistance apply only to pre-styling versions released before 2006. In addition, Mazda3 also has a number of comments on the condition of some body parts.
Interior design reflects the active focus of the model. Many versions are well stocked. At the same time, you can criticize the quality of sound insulation and the ergonomics of landing on the gallery.
Only petrol versions were officially sold. The most common 1.6-liter versions, which have proven to be more reliable. The 2.0L unit can create problems. There are no comments for both types of CP. Only the clutch on 1.6-liter cars and some transmission parts on the 2003-2005 versions can be of concern. Thanks to the downed suspension and informative steering, the Mazda3 is great for active driving. Weak points of the chassis: rear multi-link wishbones, strut support pads and stabilizer struts. The remaining consumables serve 100-200 thousand km. Remarks on the reliability of the electric power steering apply only to the 2.0-liter versions. At the same time, the steering rods of all versions are durable - about 150 thousand km can go out.
pros |
Minuses |
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Summary "AC"
Mazda3 is popular with the beautiful half of society and among lovers of active driving. 2.0-liter versions can be worn out by temperamental owners. It is better to buy cars since 2006, in which many "childhood diseases" have been eliminated. Some suspension parts are short-lived.
Mitsubishi Lancer IX
In the secondary market, there are "gray" versions from the Asian and American markets - Virage and Mirage (more often 2002-2004). Advantage - they are equipped richer than the "Europeans".
On Lancer until 2006, you should check the trunk lid lock - it can wedge due to water entering it. The functionality of using the cargo compartment is limited by the narrow “neck” of the access opening to the passenger compartment with the rear seats folded down. On the back sofa, three passengers will be cramped, a small margin of space for the legs of the rear passengers.
Officially, we sold versions with 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline engines. The 1.8 liter engine is found among the "gray" versions. Each of the power units has characteristic problems. Manual and automatic transmissions are reliable, troubles can arise with “mechanics” only for overly active drivers. A more problematic clutch for versions with a 1.6 liter engine.
Good suspension provides good stability and handling. Weak points of the chassis: ball bearings of the front levers, front stabilizer bushings, upper support pads of the rear shock absorbers, rear springs (1.6 l), floating external silent blocks of three wishbones (2.0 l until 2005 onwards). The rest of the consumables serve for 100 thousand km. There are also comments on the reliability of the steering and brakes.
pros |
Minuses |
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Summary "AC"
Mitsubishi Lancer is able to attract buyers with an affordable market value, a corrosion-resistant body and an image of a driver's model, backed up by good driving performance. Although the Lancer's practicality is lame: the trunk volume is small, and the "gallery" is not spacious. Yes, and reliability - does not match the image of Japanese cars.
Opel Astra (N)
In general, the corrosion resistance of the body is not bad. The only weak point where rust can appear is the trunk lid under the chrome trim. There are also a few comments on the condition of other body parts.
The salon, in particular the gallery, is very spacious for the legs due to the fact that the wheelbase of the sedan is one of the largest among the "classmates" and even 3 mm more than that of the Vectra (C). The interior is of high quality, most of the equipment works without problems.
Most often, we meet cars equipped with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine. "Gasoline" 1.8 liters and turbodiesel 1.7 liters - the most rare. Poor quality gasoline can damage the ignition coils. The “mechanics” is trouble-free, and the “robot” is thoughtful in operation, and also requires regular (every 15 thousand km) clutch adjustment (including after slipping). If this is not done, the clutch and dual-mass flywheel may become unusable by 50 thousand km.
The chassis is moderately stiff and provides good stability and handling. A number of suspension parts have a short service life. At the same time, silent blocks of the front levers can withstand about 100 thousand km, and ball joints even longer. The "rubbers" of the rear beam are also considered "indestructible".
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Minuses |
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Summary "AC"
The main trump card of the Astra (H) sedan compared to its competitors is a spacious interior, in which rear passengers will be accommodated more freely than in most competitors. When buying, it is better to choose versions with reliable "mechanics". The suspension does not like overloads, and some of its parts are short-lived.
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A little more than 1.5 years have passed since the writing of this opus, the aster's mileage was 110,000 km, with which it was successfully sold. I must say that during this period in the operation of this car there were no grandiose problems similar to those described above. Mostly turnover and classic aster sores. I replaced the rear shock absorbers, and one failed, but the replacement had to be done naturally in pairs (I took a cheap Kayaba - 1300 apiece). The recirculation damper was repaired in strict accordance with the advice of experienced friends on the forums, independently. The brake pads were replaced in a circle with a run of 65,000 km, spark plugs (perhaps all of the consumables, oil and filters do not count). At 95,000 runs, I replaced both anti-roll bars (500 rubles each), and I couldn’t replace it myself, I had to give it to local craftsmen. I upset the play in the hub of the right wheel (with a run of about 100,000 km I had to put a new one for 5,000 rubles), my native battery departed for 4 winters and with the first frost of November 2012 ordered to live a long time (I bought Varta Silver for 4,000 rubles). Like many Astra owners, they faced the problem of broken wires in the rear door harnesses. I repaired it myself, again on the advice of Internet members of the forum. That's all the operational problems from a mileage of 64,000 to 110,000. It seems to be a bit too much at first glance for a car worth more than 620 thousand rubles, here everyone will judge from personal experience.
Of the pluses of the aster, which were described above and in which I was not disappointed.
1. Engine 1.8 / 140 (a wonderful unit), during the sales run, I did not see any prerequisites for oil consumption, never in winter, let alone in summer, I started the car the second time (and I had to drive every day, garage cold, no heating), highway consumption for long trips (more than 1000 km) fit into 7 l / 100, I put the engine a big five.
Strengths:
Weak sides:
Review of Opel Astra Coupe 1.8i-16V (Opel Astra) 2000 Part 2
It's been a year and a half of owning this car and 3 vacations at home, a total of three months. I live and work far outside my country, so I only use my car on holidays. During this time, drove only 10,000. The rest of the time Opelek waiting for me in the garage. However, something can already be said from the impressions in general and about the reliability of the car.
Despite its age, the elderly car continues to delight me with its dynamism, relative reliability and appearance., The quality of interior trim. I put only good European spare parts of well-known manufacturers. On my last vacation, I did maintenance for prevention. Although nothing was asked for a replacement. But why bring this up?
In my last race was replaced: timing, water pump, oil, filters, all discs and pads on four wheels, a pair of reinforced rear springs, both handbrake cables.
Strengths:
Weak sides:
Review of Opel Astra Stationwagon 1.8 (Opel Astra) 2006
Hello!
My first review. A car from a German showroom assembly. I am a staunch generalist and generalist. The first station wagon was a 1998 Avensis. 2.0 in the top configuration. I remember the car only from the good side. Sold to a neighbor and now it has almost 400,000 km. Flight is normal. Opel in daily operation in the Urals. Mileage track — city somewhere 50/50. I am served only in one service (not at o.d).
Up to 150,000 km there were no questions at all. The rumble in the box was the result of the main shaft bearing being stuck and sticking to the latter. It was cheaper to put a contract box that turned up at the price of the issue of 30,000 with work. Opening the box showed a shortage of oil in the absence of a leak. It is not possible to check the oil level. Replacing the front struts at 185,000 km. and they were not considered dead. Nothing more was done to the suspension (links twice don't count). The paint in problem areas began to exfoliate after 5 years.
Strengths:
- Reliability in everyday use
- High ground clearance, excellent handling and brakes, good climate control
- Relatively not greedy
- Excellent regular xenon
- Good stock music
- Dense suspension
- Nice car to this day
Weak sides:
- Little space in the second row for tall organisms (from 180cm)
- Low engine power at low end
- Windshield wipes quickly
- Front seats with weak lateral support
Review of Opel Astra Stationwagon 1.3 CDTi (Opel Astra) 2006 Part 2
It has been 2 years since I wrote my first review of the Opel Astra. The car is still in operation, passed this year on its own inspection, and without prior preparation, I plan to operate it for another 2 years (until the end of the inspection). Mileage is currently 72,000 km.
The car still does not deliver negative emotions, the Ford Mondeo has never regretted replacing it either in terms of technical performance, or especially in terms of operating costs. And what are they for the past period:
Initially, after the purchase, I installed crankcase protection for 3750 rubles, mudguards for 2000 rubles, changed the oil and all filters in a circle - another 4000 rubles. and that's it. Operating costs in subsequent years: after 1 year - oil with a filter (1750 rubles), pads (2500 rubles), 2 years - oil with filters in a circle (4000 rubles), windshield wipers (1100 rubles). In general, 19,100 for 2.5 years or 7640 rubles. in year. This does not include the cost of purchasing a native trunk for 7000 rubles, second disks and winter tires 14000 rubles. because this is a performance improvement. I did not change the units, components and parts, and in general there were no breakdowns. Stop! And then I caught myself on inaccuracies: the rear fog light bulb burned out. All!
Strengths:
- economy
- Elegance
- capacity
- Ground clearance
- Equipment
Weak sides:
- No coolant temperature sensor
