Opel Astra OPC

Schnooks

Hi All

Lurker here mainly. Currently driving an 03 Octavia VRS and looking to change in the new year.

I've been thinking about the Astra - 240 bhp, not bad-looking, kind of understated which I like, seems like you get a lot of bang for your buck.

Anyone have any experience or opinions on this car re driveability and reliability? Or suggestions on alternatives.

What I am looking for is 200+ BHP, not too big an engine (something around 2L), age not important, but not more than 70K miles, petrol or diesel doesn't matter, but diesels are completely over-priced these days cos of the tax implications.

Thanks in advance
S

fonecrusher1

Are they not meant to have appalling torque steer?

Schnooks

LIGHTNING wrote: »

I think somebody posted a Corsa OPC here the other day and it was less than 10k. That would be a good choice if you dont need a huge amount of space.

Corsa too small for me, have a smallie to put in the back.


@FC

What is torque oversteer? Is it caused when you put the power on going round a corner?

fonecrusher1

Schnooks wrote: »

@FC

What is torque oversteer? Is it caused when you put the power on going round a corner?

Put the foot down & the car veers to the left or right under heavy acceleration. Its the opc's weakness.

Mena

Schnooks wrote: »

What is torque oversteer? Is it caused when you put the power on going round a corner?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Bq0FFsXpuI

TestTransmission

LIGHTNING wrote: »

I think somebody posted a Corsa OPC here the other day and it was less than 10k. That would be a good choice if you dont need a huge amount of space.

I'd say you could get a Astra OPC for 7/8k,possibly less.

whippet

while the OPC wouldn't be my cup of tea (I actually went for a GTI a few years back instead of one) the vast majority of people who bang on about the torque steer problems more than likely base their opinion on what they saw on Top Gear and nothing else.

In the real world the torque steer isn't an issue.

W.Shakes-Beer

I agree that this torque steer talk is a load of rubbish, in everyday driving you'll never notice it, if you use it on a track and feel torque steer, just man up and hold the wheel tighter

Very nice cars, always stand out nicely on the road compared to other hot hatches.

going for a tidy price nowadays seeing as a 2.0 petrol is the work of the devil.

Veloce

There is an 03 Alfa GTA for sale on donedeal for under €5k. 3.2 V6 with 240bhp. Tax would be an issue off course. Probably a bit smaller than the Astra but bigger than the corsa.

Henry Ford III

OPC's are very quick, but it's more than a torque steer issue. The chassis isn't able to cope with the power. I've driven one quickly and it's like riding a rodeo bull.

Golf GTI, Focus ST, or Mazda 3mps are all pretty much as quick in real life, and are civilised by comparison.

Schnooks

Thanks for the replies everyone, most seem positive about the car which is good. As I said, it seems to be an awful lot of car for what you pay. I'll take the hit on a 2L road tax, rather than paying 1000's more for a small diesel that has €104 tax and has no soul. There are some savage deals to be had on 06 or 07 OPCs at the moment.

@ Veloce, thanks but looking to come up a few years from 03, although mileage is more important than year for me.

rob180

Have an Arden OPC from new in April 08, so it' s on the old tax band of €640. Any car register after June 08 will be on the €1000 annual road tax.Have done 99k on her now and has gone through 6 sets of tyres( mainly Goodyear Asymmetric ). Problems i had with her are:
New gearbox after 45k , luckily she was still under warranty.
New ABS sensors , fixed under warranty.:p
New boot switch, €170 incl. labour.:mad:
Got a strange knocking noise from the back but they fixed it on the schedule service. Never told me what was the cause of it.

So the above is the only problems i've had with her. Average mpg is about 30, obviou
sly will be much less if u have a heavy right foot.
Torque Steer is only an issue if you drive really hard on a damp surface. Plus torque Steer is fun when ur in the mood for it .
Insurance for me is about €600 annually ( iam over 30 with full NCB )
Overall i give it an 7/10

Schnooks

Henry Ford III wrote: »

OPC's are very quick, but it's more than a torque steer issue. The chassis isn't able to cope with the power. I've driven one quickly and it's like riding a rodeo bull.

Golf GTI, Focus ST, or Mazda 3mps are all pretty much as quick in real life, and are civilised by comparison.

Hmm would that have been in a track situation Henry? I wouldn't be doing that, but would like to feel confident chucking it about on a small country road at the same time. I used to have a Pug 306 GTi-6 and that was the best car for cornering that I have ever owned.

Don't like any of the 3 other oiptions I'm afraid.

Can you describe "riding a rodeo bull" in more detail? How bad was it? How was the cornering on a normal country road?

Schnooks

rob180 wrote: »

Have an Arden OPC from new in April 08, so it' s on the old tax band of €640. Any car register after June 08 will be on the €1000 annual road tax.Have done 99k on her now and has gone through 6 sets of tyres( mainly Goodyear Asymmetric ). Problems i had with her are:
New gearbox after 45k , luckily she was still under warranty.
New ABS sensors , fixed under warranty.:p
New boot switch, €170 incl. labour.:mad:
Got a strange knocking noise from the back but they fixed it on the schedule service. Never told me what was the cause of it.

So the above is the only problems i've had with her. Average mpg is about 30, obviously will be much less if u have a heavy right foot.
Torque Steer is only an issue if you drive really hard on a damp surface. Plus torque Steer is fun when ur in the mood for it .
Insurance for me is about €600 annually ( iam over 30 with full NCB )
Overall i give it an 7/10

Thanks Rob, good info there. A bit worrying about the gearbox going after 45K though :eek: I'm 45 so not worried about insurance.

dar83

The Torque steer issue is what the car is known for, along with the somewhat rough ride, but I have no personal experience with one. You'll get some level of Torque steer in anything front wheel drive with that much power in it really, as long as you're prepared for the kick, you'll be fine.

You seem pretty set on one anyway, personally I'd have any of the other three someone else mentioned over it, but different strokes...

MetzgerMeister

I'd go for this before I the OPC...

Mazda3 MPS

€15,950

2,500 miles

Schnooks

dar83 wrote: »

The Torque steer issue is what the car is known for, along with the somewhat rough ride, but I have no personal experience with one. You'll get some level of Torque steer in anything front wheel drive with that much power in it really, as long as you're prepared for the kick, you'll be fine.

You seem pretty set on one anyway, personally I'd have any of the other three someone else mentioned over it, but different strokes...

Not exactly set on one Dar83, but it seems to offer the best value for money from what I can see and none of the other 3 mentioned do anything for me.

But I am not limited to a "hot hatch" in my choices so, barring an M3 or an S4 (mmmm) what else is out there? Or should I just get the newer 200bhp VRS? They seem nice, but kinda looking for a change. Seat Leon Cupra? Looking upto 2007 in what I will purchase.

cojomo2

Hi OP

I have driven the OPC. I would agree with the others on the torque steer..I took it out on test trive on a straight narrowish road on a quiet industrial estate. When I floored it the car went wild..I really had to fight with the wheel in order to keep it straight on the road.

Also , if you drive the car with a heavy right foot (which you will) you will realise that this thing devours petrol, much more so that driving the same way in GTi for example.

In the end , I went for a gti with a remap and was very pleased with it, actually on my second one now..went for a manual this time which is my only regret, the dsg is brilliant.

Schnooks

einheisserschre wrote: »

I'd go for this before I the OPC...

Mazda3 MPS

€15,950

2,500 miles

Looks good Ein, but I would prefer not to go above 2L in old road tax terms. What's the bhp on those? Is it like the Focus ST?

rob180

@Shnooks
It a well known problem with the Astra OPC apparently. Checkout this website :
www.vxronline.co.uk do a search on gearbox problems and u will get more info about it.
It was a 5th and 6th gear that was the problem, a whining sort of noise. Local dealer said it was first known gearbox failure of an OPC.:rolleyes:
But overall it's been a joy driving her , very quick when u want it, comfy Recaro seats that hugs the right places. She still turn heads and the local civic/corolla boys/girls have given up trying to keep up with me, don't know why they bother in the first place.

Henry Ford III

Schnooks wrote: »

Hmm would that have been in a track situation Henry? I wouldn't be doing that, but would like to feel confident chucking it about on a small country road at the same time. I used to have a Pug 306 GTi-6 and that was the best car for cornering that I have ever owned.

Don't like any of the 3 other oiptions I'm afraid.

Can you describe "riding a rodeo bull" in more detail? How bad was it? How was the cornering on a normal country road?

Yep it was an airfield track day.

As I said acceleration is very strong, but it's unmannerly, wild, and slightly unpredictable and imprecise when pushed hard.

All powerful fwd cars will struggle to get the power down to a degree, it's just that the OPC struggles a bit more. You have to wait until it "settles" before applying fairly gentle power. Boot it too early and it'll skitter all over the shop - kind of like a drunken dance.

In ordinary road conditions I'm sure it's fine.

dar83

Schnooks wrote: »

Not exactly set on one Dar83, but it seems to offer the best value for money from what I can see and none of the other 3 mentioned do anything for me.

But I am not limited to a "hot hatch" in my choices so, barring an M3 or an S4 (mmmm) what else is out there? Or should I just get the newer 200bhp VRS? They seem nice, but kinda looking for a change. Seat Leon Cupra? Looking upto 2007 in what I will purchase.

I think most people here would like an S4 alright. An M3 may be a decent alternative if you're open to that. Although you did mention the Tax thing does come into it for you, so it kind of limits you to be fair.

I think buying one of these cars generally means you dont mind paying the extortionate annual road tax for the pleasure of having it. It's to be looked at as a minor inconvenience.

I considered a Leon Cupra FR for a bit, they aren't bad looking and have some decent performance, but for the price any decent specimens were, it just put me off really. The Mazda MPS, I'm not a fan of. Just looks too much like a regular Mazda 3 of that era.
If you dont mind small, cheap tax and some form of performance you could worse than the VRS' smaller cousin...
http://www.carzone.ie/search/Skoda/Fabia/RS-1.4-T/201110201567376/advert?channel=CARS

Or else maybe even consider something else different...

http://www.carzone.ie/search/Audi/TT/COUPE-2./201138204524161/advert?channel=CARS

Your taste seems pretty much the opposite to mine though, so I'm probably not much help really to be honest. Haha.

rob180

Look folks , ALL powerful front drive hot hatches have some form of torque steer but like all things u get used to it after awhile. I admit the OPC torque steer is more pronounce than others but you'll have to be ringing the neck of it to really notice it. You won't notice it on a normal blast down the back road.

MetzgerMeister

Schnooks wrote: »

Looks good Ein, but I would prefer not to go above 2L in old road tax terms. What's the bhp on those? Is it like the Focus ST?

It's not THAT much above 2L

It's 260bhp/380Nm

MetzgerMeister

dar83 wrote: »

The Mazda MPS, I'm not a fan of. Just looks too much like a regular Mazda 3 of that era.

That's the point the 3 and 6 MPS are both sleepers. Nearly the same thing as sticking a 1.9TDi badge on the back of an RS4.

Schnooks

Having mixed thoughts now about the OPC, given the handling problems and other issues that people are pointing out. But that's why I came on here, to find out opinions and experiences, and thanks to all for the really good info.

What else bar Mazda (2.3L), Focus ST (2.5L I think?) and Golf is out there? The Fabia wouldn't be for me. I'm looking at not spending more than 13 -15K.

Should I think of going up to the next level i.e max road tax 1500 per year? I kinda set my limit at 2L/600-odd euro, but there are alot of large-engined cars out there for good prices. The M3 would probably be my favourite of these, massive yearly tax hit, although the driving pleasure would probably be worth it.

Or should I go down the WRX/EVO route? That's a bit boy-racerish though (still 45;)), although great performance, just thinking out loud here.

One thing is for sure though, I don't want a 1.6/1.8 sensible Mondeo/Vectra/Passat/407 etc.

goodstuff!

Something "like" these might suit ya!!
http://www.tradecarview.com/used_car/japan%20car/subaru/legacy+b4/8380734/

http://www.tradecarview.com/used_car/japan%20car/subaru/legacy+touring+wagon/8079709/

Ardennes1944

id get the corsa opc still, doesnt suffer from the problems the astra has and isnt going to have much less room in the back

Keith in cork

fonecrusher1 wrote: »

Are they not meant to have appalling torque steer?

They do. I dont own one, but drove my mates one manies a time. But that said, when you learn how to drive it, its awesome. He then went and fitted a bluefin chip, and it got more awesome.

He upgraded the stereo system to the highest spec available from opel / vaux and it is incredible. Dvd/ipod/sat nav etc etc from the "stock" unit. Sound zoning etc etc etc you name it, it dos it and does it better than a 10k sound upgrade from your local incar genius.

Ardennes1944

Keith in cork wrote: »

They do. I dont own one, but drove my mates one manies a time. But that said, when you learn how to drive it, its awesome. He then went and fitted a bluefin chip, and it got more awesome.

He upgraded the stereo system to the highest spec available from opel / vaux and it is incredible. Dvd/ipod/sat nav etc etc from the "stock" unit. Sound zoning etc etc etc you name it, it dos it and does it better than a 10k sound upgrade from your local incar genius.

does your friend called Ed and drives a 'burg by any chance?

Keith in cork

Ardennes1944 wrote: »

does your friend called Ed and drives a 'burg by any chance?

No sir. Bu i'd imagine "ed" and "paul" are two of few who have the sounds upgrade done in this country.

Ardennes1944

Feck theres a guy on blitzandgriffin from bandon with a lovely 'burg

dar83

einheisserschre wrote: »

That's the point the 3 and 6 MPS are both sleepers. Nearly the same thing as sticking a 1.9TDi badge on the back of an RS4.

Yeah I get that, but the only problem is the 3 just doesn't look good to begin with. :P

Also you know the TDi to RS4 only works one way. Why would you want to lose BHP by putting a smaller badge on? Are you mental?!?! :rolleyes:

:pac:

Keith in cork

Ardennes1944 wrote: »

Feck theres a guy on blitzandgriffin from bandon with a lovely 'burg

Theres 5 Opc's in bandon. 3 opc blue, 1 red , 1 white. I'd imagine as we have the main dealer here gives the high count.

Schnooks

What do poeple think of this car? Looks rather nice to me. Any experiences you would care to share?

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2687786

Ardennes1944

didnt even know there was one of those for sale on donedeal

dar83

Schnooks wrote: »

What do poeple think of this car? Looks rather nice to me. Any experiences you would care to share?

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2687786

I'd personally have that over either Opel any day.

And that's saying something given that it's French.

ugglasdav

Schnooks wrote: »

What do poeple think of this car? Looks rather nice to me. Any experiences you would care to share?

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2687786

personally i think you should stick with going with the opc, it has a better standard spec over the other cars in its category and i think there has been alot more work put into the styling of the car, for the comments made about the torque steer i would just forget about, you not going to be trying to race every car at the traffic lights so i would not worry about it, as for the renault i would tend to stay away from french cars and it really doesnt look like at sporty car, it almost looks like a cardboard box with a set of wheels and a powerful engine, it doesnt really give of an aggressive look that i think sporty cars should have :pac:

EPM

Schnooks wrote: »

What do poeple think of this car? Looks rather nice to me. Any experiences you would care to share?

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2687786

I stupidly never bought one when I had the chance a couple of years back. Cup chassis and all:(

They are rare, and there was a similar one with two sets of wheels also for sale this time last year at the same price. I don't know if it's the same car or not.

They are an epic motor though. Fast, grippy, excellent brembo brakes and reasonable smooth and comfortable too. Easily the best hot hatch imo. Unfortunately it's all wrapped in a megane which means common problems but I still think they are worth a punt.

smash

Try an RX8

ugglasdav

smash wrote: »

Try an RX8

the only problem with an rx8 is that you need to get one that someone has looked after it, if they are driven when cold it can cause problems in the future. but it would be a very good choice if you could get a good one

rob180

smash wrote: »

Try an RX8

Stay well away from them, know afew people that have them and all had engine problems of some sort. That Wankel engine is very expensive to replace.

Atomic Pineapple

rob180 wrote: »

Stay well away from them, know afew people that have them and all had engine problems of some sort. That Wankel engine is very expensive to replace.

*Sigh*

A well minded example will be fine and won't need a rebuild and they are excellent value for money at the minute. A bit of reading up on them and anyone should be able to take care of one properly.

MetzgerMeister

draffodx wrote: »

*Sigh*

A well minded example will be fine and won't need a rebuild and they are excellent value for money at the minute. A bit of reading up on them and anyone should be able to take care of one properly.

+100

Schnooks

smash wrote: »

Try an RX8

Not a chance, sorry. Know a couple of lads that have/had them, disasters all, topping up oil every 2nd week and changing every 3k miles I think? And one lad had to replace the engine at approx 60k miles. Don't like them anyway apart from that, too gimmicky with the wankel engine which hasn't been a success "practically".

That Megane is interesting alright, rare and seems to be great reviews on it's performance and handling. Not sure about the looks tho, not fond of that arse Would be an unusual car to own though.

I'm finding myself looking up the old familiar safe option again. The newer version of my current car is not bad-looking, especially in blue. I have no major complaints about the 03 model which I currently drive, apart from a few rather expensive electrical issues with central locking for example.

Honest opinion on this? Seems alot of car for the money, very low mileage etc, nice enough interior, familiar old friend :eek:

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1737028

Doesn't exactly grab me by the balls though!!

.Longshanks.

Lifts too short to buy another octavia. The the OPC. Or an unmolested Civic Type-R


€12-13k would get you a 2007 or 2008 model with the old tax rates


Or this ST. And put the savings to the extra road tax over the the two or three years your likely to keep it

Graham_B18C

Schnooks wrote: »

Honest opinion on this? Seems alot of car for the money, very low mileage etc, nice enough interior, familiar old friend :eek:

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/1737028

Doesn't exactly grab me by the balls though!!

*sigh*

I had a go of one of these about a year ago, it didn't do anything for me at all. I've driven diesel cars that excited me more tbh. And the fact that Octavias are a Boards favourate kinda turns me off them.

You can't of gone from seriously considering an OPC to considering a VRS! There's no comparison. Get the OPC...or that Evo you mentioned

This is a serious bargain! http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/cars/2688207

Ardennes1944

was it you that had the opc corsa so kev?

Schnooks

Ok looks like the Octavia isn't a runner and you are probably right, it is a bit boooooooooooorrrring!!

Lots more thinking to be done, doubt if I will go for the ST, but thanks for the suggestion

And thanks to all for your good input and info, this is a great place to kick ideas around and get honest informed opinions.

Maybe the OPC is not such a bad idea after all, will keep looking and be back with my next mad idea shortly.

L-M

http://cars.donedeal.ie/for-sale/damagedcars/2758527

Ardennes1944

just saw that LM on my nightly opc search be interesting to see the report!