Vauxhall Astra CD (1984-91)
2nd Generation
All Model Production Total: 3,779,289
Recorded in UK 2024
CD Licensed=2 SORN=2
The Vauxhall Astra from 1984 to 1991, also known as the Opel Kadett E, had several common faults:
1. **Gear Linkage Issues**: Difficulty in changing gears, especially between first, second, and reverse, often due to the plastic ball joint popping out of place.
2. **Handbrake Problems**: The handbrake often required frequent adjustments.
3. **Brake Pedal Travel**: Excessive travel in the brake pedal, which could affect braking performance.
4. **Camshaft Sensor Faults**: Issues with the camshaft sensor could lead to engine performance problems.
5. **Coolant Temperature Sensor**: Faulty sensors could cause incorrect temperature readings.
6. **Mass Air Flow Sensor**: Problems with the MAF sensor could lead to poor engine performance and fuel efficiency¹.
7. **Clutch Issues**: Clutch problems were common, making it difficult to pull away smoothly.
8. **Suspension Problems**: The front suspension bushes often wore out faster than expected.
These issues were typical for cars of that era, but many enthusiasts still appreciate the Astra for its design and performance.
*****
Generations
The Vauxhall Astra has gone through **eight generations** since its introduction in 1980¹³. Here's a quick overview:
1. **First Generation (1980-1984)**
2. **Second Generation (1984-1991)**
3. **Third Generation (1991-1998)**
4. **Fourth Generation (1998-2004)**
5. **Fifth Generation (2004-2010)**
6. **Sixth Generation (2009-2016)**
7. **Seventh Generation (2015-2021)**
8. **Eighth Generation (2021-present)**
Each generation brought various updates and improvements, reflecting changes in automotive technology and design trends over the years.
*****
Body Styles
The Vauxhall Astra from 1984 to 1991 was available in several body styles:
1. **3-door hatchback**
2. **5-door hatchback**
3. **4-door saloon** (marketed as the Vauxhall Belmont in the UK)
4. **3-door estate**
5. **5-door estate**
6. **3-door van**
These options provided a range of choices for different needs, from practical family cars to sporty hatchbacks.
*****
Trim Levels
*****
The Vauxhall Astra, produced between 1984 and 1991, came in several trim levels. These included:
1. **Base/Standard**: The most basic trim with minimal features.
2. **L**: A step up from the base model, offering a few additional comforts.
3. **GL**: Included more features such as better upholstery and additional interior options.
4. **GLS**: A higher-end trim with more luxurious features.
5. **SR**: A sportier version with performance enhancements.
6. **GTE**: The top-of-the-line performance model with the most powerful engine and sporty features.
Each trim level offered different combinations of features and equipment, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.
*****
Engines
The Vauxhall Astra from 1984 to 1991 offered a variety of engine options, catering to different performance and efficiency needs. Here are some of the engines that were available:
### Petrol Engines:
1. **1.2L OHV**: Basic engine option.
2. **1.3L OHC**: Slightly more powerful than the 1.2L.
3. **1.4L OHC**: Offered a good balance of power and efficiency.
4. **1.6L OHC**: Available in both carbureted and fuel-injected versions.
5. **1.8L OHC**: More powerful, often found in higher trims.
6. **2.0L OHC**: Used in the sportier GTE models, providing higher performance.
### Diesel Engines:
1. **1.6L Diesel**: Basic diesel option.
2. **1.7L Diesel**: Available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions, including a 1.7L Isuzu turbocharged diesel.
These engines provided a range of choices for buyers, from economical daily drivers to sportier models.
*****
Spares
You can find spares for a Vauxhall Astra from 1984-1991 at several online and physical stores. Here are some options:
1. **[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vauxhall-astra-carparts)**: Offers a wide range of original and aftermarket parts for various Astra models.
2. **[EU Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/vauxhall/astra)**: Specialises in OE parts for Vauxhall Astra, including older models.
3. **[1st Choice](https://www.1stchoice.co.uk/car-parts/vauxhall/astra)**: A platform to find and buy new and used Vauxhall Astra parts.
4. **[Vauxhall Parts Direct](https://vauxhallpartsdirect.co.uk/vauxhall-astra/)**: Provides genuine Vauxhall parts and accessories, often cheaper than main dealerships.
These sources should help you find the parts you need to keep your classic Astra running smoothly.
*****
Specialists
Here are some specialists and garages in the UK, particularly in County Antrim and County Down, where you can find services for your Vauxhall Astra from 1984-1991:
### County Antrim:
1. **Townparks Car Sales Antrim**
- **Location**: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
- **Services**: Used car sales, servicing, and repairs
- **Contact**: 028 9446 2506
- **Website**: [Townparks Car Sales](https://www.townparks.co.uk/)
2. **Charles Hurst SEAT Belfast**
- **Location**: 27 Boucher Rd, Belfast BT12 6QU
- **Services**: New and used car sales, servicing, and repairs
- **Contact**: 028 9038 3456
- **Website**: [Charles Hurst SEAT Belfast](https://www.charleshurstgroup.co.uk/seat/contact-us/seat-belfast)
### County Down:
1. **Used Cars NI**
- **Services**: Platform to find used Vauxhall Astra cars and parts
- **Website**: [Used Cars NI](https://www.usedcarsni.com/search_results.php?make=31&model=1265&search_type=1)
2. **AutoVillage**
- **Services**: Platform to find used Vauxhall Astra cars and parts
- **Website**: [AutoVillage](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/used-car/local/northern-ireland/county-antrim/cars/vauxhall/astra)
More mechnical services across NI.
**NORTHERN IRELAND VAUXHALL SPECIALIST LIST**
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
2. Wilsons of Rathkenny
o Address: 371 Cushendall Road, Ballymena BT43 6QB
o Phone: 028 2175 8177
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Townparks Car Sales Antrim
o Address: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
o Phone: 028 9446 2506
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: 1 Ashtree Hill, Craigavon BT62 2LH
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: 2 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL
o Phone: 028 3752 2911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Website
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. Ballyrobert Vauxhall
o Address: 402 Bangor Road, Bangor BT19 1UE
o Phone: 028 9127 2701
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Donnelly Group
o Address: 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR
o Phone: 028 9038 1729
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Lochside Garages
o Address: 101 Irvinestown Road, Enniskillen BT74 6GQ
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Higgins Autos
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. Donnelly Group
o Address: Maydown Carrakeel Drive, Maydown, Derry/Londonderry BT47 6UQ
o Phone: 028 7122 6386
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday by appointment only
o Website
Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. McMullan Autobreakers
o Address: 15 Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9ET
o Phone: 028 8165 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
These specialists should be able to help you with parts, servicing, and repairs for your classic Astra.
*****
Racing
The Vauxhall Astra also competed in other championships beyond the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). It participated in various national and international racing events, including:
1. **European Touring Car Championship (ETCC)**: The Astra GTE was a competitor in this series, showcasing its performance on a broader European stage.
2. **Rallying**: The Astra was also used in rally competitions, particularly in Group A rallying, where it demonstrated its versatility and durability on different terrains.
3. **National Rally Championships**: Various national rally championships saw the Astra in action, often modified to meet specific rallying requirements.
These competitions helped cement the Astra's reputation as a capable and competitive vehicle in motorsports.
The Vauxhall Astra did win championships. The most notable victory was in the **1989 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**, where John Cleland drove the Astra GTE to win the drivers' title. This win was a significant achievement and highlighted the Astra's competitive edge in motorsports.