USED Vauxhall Omega Saloon (94 - 03)

My car

This is comfortable, well equiped and relaxing to drive.

Performance of the 2.6 V6 tests the driver to stay within the limits, especially on motorways or other fast roads.

The discreet, elegant design appeals to those who don't want to show off.

Second-hand bargain of the decade! The V6 a bit thirsty if the throttle is pressed hard, but overall satisfaction makes it worth the cost.

Why did Vauxhall stop making it?!

My car

Steep running costs in terms of fuel and insurance (group 16), but exceptionally comfortable and spacious - passengers often make complimentary comments on the car. I have owned my model for over a year, a 2.6 CDX with leather and auto. Buying it second hand through the networkq scheme I have covered 20,000 miles in it, and it has been trouble-free and completely reliable, I have it dealer serviced and the oil changed in between services. An excellent used buy, and to be recommended.

My car

I bought a used 2.0 Petrol 16V CD with 74,000 miles on the clock. I had a full service history and only one previous owner. The car had problems on delivery to me. The engine symbol warning light up on the dash and the engine went into limp-home mode, ie where it will not exceed 4500rpm.

That particular problem was a faulty camshaft sensor. Since then, with just 8000 more miles, it has required a new catalytic convertor (OEM) at £230 (Vauxhall price £1295). It now stalls at random, especially at idle.

The steering lock randomly decides to jam. The driver's window jams halfway down. The driver's door lock will only lock manually. On the positive side, it is a fabulous car to drive and I will miss her dearly, but life will be much cheaper without her. I also struggle to get any more than 24mpg, but I do live in a very hilly rural area and have a very heavy right foot.

My car

My present vehicle is a 2.6i CDX auto I bought new Aug 01. My third Omega. Undoubtedly the best car I have owned since the days of the 3.5 P6 Rovers.

Each car has been entirely trouble-free. Extremely comfortable and long rides are a joy. The auto box is very good and copes well with all terain. The acceleration is all one can need. Engine noise is unobtrusive.

Half my annual mileage has been towing a caravan and, where the conditions and law permit, high speeds can be maintained. Solo or towing, 550 miles in a day is no effort. I normallly change my car every three years but I cannot buy another Omega, so it looks as if I will be keeping this one. Most other cars would be downgrading.