- Review Centre
- Motoring
- Car Reviews
- Daewoo Main Page
- Daewoo Espero
The Daewoo Espero has developed a solid reputation as a reliable family car and may well be a bargain if you can get hold of one.
Our reviewers have been delighted with Daewoos family car which appears to makes a lot of practical sense.
Although some critics rated the handling as an average experience when they were first produced most regular consumers find the Espero more than adequate and along with its perceived reliability, space and comfort these cars tend to get snapped up quick when they arrive on the market.
This conventional mid price family saloon was produced by Korean firm Daewoo Motors from 1995 to 1997 as an enlarged version of the 1986 Opel Kadett.
Although it was very similar to the Daewoo Nexia the car was equipped with a powerful 2.0 L Family II engine from Holden.
The Espero was regarded as ordinary for some with weaker build quality than some other models and lacklustre performance. However well kept second hand models are now generally seen as a reliable and comfortable runner with a bit of power as well.
In fact, the family-sized Espero saloon is now gaining a loyal following among many used buyers.
Feedback in our site from buyers from new also suggests the Espero is built to last.
In 1997 the Espero was replaced by the Daewoo Leganza
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Espero was its geographical manoeuvring. The engine was made by Holden shipped to Korea, fitted to the Espero and then shipped back. Complete Daewoo Espero cars were shipped by sea up the Adreatic to Slovenia then dismantled and brought by rail freight to Warsaw. The car was then put together again to be sold to the European market.
Some cars were reported to have alternator trouble. Whining automatic gearboxes were another common problem and a cracking plastic interior.
There was a recall affecting some later-build Esperos that needed to have an engine bracket rewelded.
However most of our reviewers as well as industry professionals point to an overall lack of maintenance these days as being a plus point for the Espero. The relative scarcity of moving parts makes it perfect for DIY repairs and appears to be aiding its durability as a model which could run for a long time.
YahooCars.Com warns the Espero is nowhere near state of the art and its used values should reflect that however it maintains it is reliable, offers easy access to affordable parts and has a good level of standard equipment.
Yahoos reviewer also adds: "The handling is not designed to set you alight with enthusiasm, but having said that, its really not bad either. The Espero manages to soak up bumps and ripples quite impressively, without rolling around in the twisty stuff like a Channel ferry in a stiff sea.
Inside youll find a light, glassy cabin with plenty of space for four adults, as well as a usefully proportioned boot. The vinyl and velour-trimmed interior is more functional than elegant, but thats probably a sensible choice for many people. Family car buyers usually rate durability over fabric and fittings that scuff easily.
These positive views are backed up by the majority of our reviewers who rate this vehicle a great car to own, drive and maintain.
There are not too many about these days but the most you should pay for an Espero is about 1,200. [B] [B]
