Opel or Mazda

bayles

Hi Guys

Im heading out this week to look at a new family car , i have narrowed down my search to two models an Opel Vectra 06 or a Mazda 6, 05 or 06. Has anybody got feedback on either of these models good or bad . I have two kids both under two and we use a double buggy (side by side) so boot space is critical and i also need enough space for shopping etc etc . Mechanicaly i hear mazda 6 can be problematic with brakes but thats about all i know on both cars . If anyone has any feedback i would love to hear it , thanks

GavMan

From what I remember the Vectra had a pretty much huge boot. I also remember having a go of my mates Mazda 6 (pre re-model) and it was a hoot.

Vectra with cruise control was mighty comfortable though.

Think most here will recommend the Mazda. Not much to choose between them IMO.

Both are pretty solid if they've been looked after by previous owners....

Ardent

I have a 04 petrol Vectra. It's a big saloon with lots of space and a great big boot. I'd recommend a 2L+ diesel as they are a heavy car and will rob you on petrol.

I've never had any major problems with mine in the two years I've had it, running like clockwork. Common problems are suspension related: worn ARB bushings, drop-links, knocking from rear, etc. Parts are cheap and easy to source though.

Hope this helps.

Ardennes1944

get the facelift (06-) mazda 6

langdang

Estate rather than saloon? Very few vectra (huge boot) or mazda estates for sale. I don't get how unpopular estates are in Ireland.

If it's diesel you're after be sure to have it checked over by a mechanic* - there's a few big bills that could hit you with a used diesel. There's a certain (small) percentage of the 2.0 mazda diesels that decide to fill their sumps with diesel and destroy themselves.

* Obviously get a petrol checked as well but something like a Dual Mass Flywheel on the way out in a diesel could land you a big bill for a wear and tear item. Particularly on the mazda, dunno what price a DMF is for the vectra.

Ardennes1944

vectra cdti's have the swirl flap problem like the 320d, if not half as bad

bayles

Thanks for the replies guys

Bit more info on this , im looking at 1.8 petrol not deisel as some are a bit out of my price range . My budget is €5000 but i would go €5500 at a stretch its also 4 and 5 door not estates as my wife has a thing about estates search me . I would even concider coming down in spec just to get a newer car as im trying to get as recent as i can .

Are the Vectras as heavy on fuel as has been outlined

bazz26

It would be the Mazda 6 for me, way nicer looking (subjective I know), less likely to break and nicer to drive than a Vectra. The hatchback version of both has a pretty large boot with easy access.

I'd also look at the Ford Mondeo, big boot and they are bought cheap these days:

http://www.driving.ie/usedcars/index.cfm?fuseaction=car&carID=131097939344165

langdang

bayles wrote: »

My budget is €5000 but i would go €5500 at a stretch its also 4 and 5 door not estates as my wife has a thing about estates

You should get a fine Mazda petrol with plenty of miles left in it for that much - people are gone completely anti petrol , especially "fierce big injuns". Can't figure out the anti-estate thing, saloons are a pain if you want to carry stuff!

The Mondeo liftback/hatchback has an absolutely massive boot. (I think the petrol engine is the same or is a relation of the Mazda 6 engine).

I must now make the obligatory suggestion of a Skoda Octavia for it's boot size alone. Please God don't inflict a 1.4 petrol on yourself if you can't afford a good diesel. I'd be inclined to go for the Mazda, personal preference, my perceived value for money and reliability etc.