Vauxhall Vectra GSI 2.5 V6 24V Review
★★★★★
“Well, after owning one of these Vauxhall Vectra GSI...”
Written on: 30/10/2003 by Cruise Master Wales (1 review written)
Good Points
Solid and quick for a car of its size, stylish with agressive stance and a nice interior to boot! plus the engine sound is unmistakable.
Bad Points
the looks you get off people when you waste them in what they thought was a kitted 1.6/1.8...
General Comments
Well, after owning one of these Vauxhall Vectra GSI 2.5 V6 24v, no other car i have driven compares with it. its fast, looks good and very comfy. not many in the modding world which is nice and always fun when you really annoy those saxo VTS drivers who think they have a 368326.0 engine in thier car by the way they drive them! nice car overall... cant wait to get my next one!
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Barry Collins's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 05/11/2003
Good review, full agreement with all comments. Having owned a Vectra 2.0 SRi and the 2.5 GSi, I have to say they have to be just about the best cars around for that kind of money. The 2.5 Vecra KILLS its 2.5 V6 rival (Mondeo).
<br>Tip Top.
Wimziee's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 25/01/2004
I have owned a GSI for 2 years and I am lucky enough to be getting rid of it!! I dont know where you get great performance from because it is only slightly better than the 2.2sri which is not very fast at all.The build quality is total rubbish it costs £340 every 8 months for front tyres and drinks petrol. I think maybe you have been driving mk2 escorts before you got your GSI that is why you think it is so great but let me tell you it is NOT!! and your in dreamland if you think it would hammer a saxo vts and look how rubbish they are!!
Bigben1984's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 03/02/2004
comment on comment by wimziee.A standard GSI vectra would give certain subaru's&evo's a race for their money so when you see a saxo VTS coming close to a GSI then let us know. you obviousley drive a 2.2 sri or a saxo vts. start saving up those pennies for some tyres and get you're self a proper car!
Wimziee's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 04/02/2004
Coment If you seriously think a GSI would come close to an Impreza you have been dreaming. look at what i wrote and you will see that i have owned a v reg gsi for 2 year and they are rubbish!! My mother ownes a 2.2sri so i have given them both a good hammering and i can tell you there is nowt in it. I take delivery of a civic type r in 3 weeks and the difference in performance is massive it will tear a gsi to peices. Like it or not the gsi is RUBBISH
Csw21's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 04/02/2004
The Vectra GSI is a very nice car as far as Vectras go, but it is not a performance car its more of a motarway cruiser,and you must be mad if you think it would give an evo or subaru a run for there money, GSI would get hammered, thats the truth, I also agree with wimziee when he says a type r will hammer a gsi into the ground, all I can say is if you think a GSI is fast try a test drive on the others and be prepared to be dazzled.
Vectramad's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 11/02/2004
After reading the reviews on the 2.5 gsi vectra can anyone tell me the difference between the 2.5 and the 2.6 gsi that I own. 2001 model with a m.s.d. sticker in the bonnet compartment.and by the way 8000/9000 miles and i,m needing a new set of front tyres .
Wildyce's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/02/2004
I gave back my company 2.5 GSI after 4 years last April. In that time I covered 130K mostly quite quickly and became ATS's best customer. I used 47 new tyres (Yokohama AVS)in that time at a cost of around 13K to my firm - (so I am not their best customer) Having had tete a tetes with many other cars including Scoobs, Evo's and VTS's - oh and a BMW x5, I can confirm that I lost every time. There was a noticable flat spot at 3000 revs that vauxhall could never sort out (after 12 weeks in the garage in total!), the rattles in the headlining gave me a headache, the gearing was far too long - up to 70 in 2nd @6800 then up to 110 in third - starting way down @ 3000 revs at 70. It always drove nicer on super unleaded, hated the summer - and would lose BHP. On the plus side, it never broke down, and always started first time, had fantastic air con, looked nice, gripped well and that's it really.
Neophyte's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 01/03/2004
Granted, the standard GSi is more of a motorway car but............I have replaced the engine with a 3.0 and have done many modifications such as air filter, fuel re-routing, superchip etc that when I raced a friend of mine in his Suberu Impreza WRX, he beat me off the lights but was overtaken by me once I hit 3rd gear (110mph top speed in 3rd), now I wish to get a supercharger and Nitrous fitted and then we\'ll see who\'s quickest! note. Handling on the GSi is not so great, suggest you uprate the suspension and get a roll bar / wider wheels, works a treat.
Csw21's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 01/03/2004
For all the money you are spending, why dont you just buy a ferrari. lol
Littlecareatsbigcar's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 07/03/2004
They are not that fast, I can stay on your bum quite easily in my 106GTI(same as a VTS)and then when i flick on my nitrous your nothing but a speck in the distance!! The facts are (from evo magasine) my gti (1.6 16v 4cyl) has 128BHP/ton and 0-60 in 7.4 and your 2.5 V6 24V has 137BHP/ton and a 0-60 of 7.6, so as the guy above said he can eat VTS`s and impreza`s and think its rubbish.
Cruise Master Wales's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/03/2004
Comment to all the above....
<br>
<br>Ok, sum fair views and sum pretty 1 sided views...
<br>
<br>To the guy with the apparent nitrous 106 GTI... ok, wake up.... ive owned a VTS and it was nothing compared to the vectra... plus if u have nitrous... of course its going to improve your cars performance... until you have to replace the bottle....
<br>
<br>Everything I said was from personal experiance... Not fiction that i just came up with while i was day dreaming in work!
<br>
<br>Why not just buy a ferarri..? well heres why... when you have kids.... would you have 2 sell the vectra 2 get a car which is more practical for kids? No.... do parts cost more than a small country on the vectra? no.....
<br>
<br>I enjoyed my GSi and i cant wait to get my next!!
Littlecareatsbigcar's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/03/2004
To the guy with the apparent nitrous 106 GTI... ok, wake up.... ive owned a VTS and it was nothing compared to the vectra... plus if u have nitrous... of course its going to improve your cars performance... until you have to replace the bottle....
<br>
<br>
<br>Ohh making it up, and i suppose that Evo Magazine are too?? If you think so then check out there web site under \"THE KNOWLEGE\" (http://www.evo.co.uk)
<br> And i know with nitrous on it`s gonna improve performance, why else would you use it?? I was only trying to make a point that some guy earlier in the post said he was beating \"VTS`S\", now i`m not trying to say my car is some kind of super car, i`m just tryin to point out that a V6 vectra isn`t either, and that a little 1.6 is capable of stickin with one. RANT OVER NOW.......until next time.
Cottrellb's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 11/03/2004
I have a 200 bhp rs turbo and overtake any vectra gsi/ sri like they are standing still... My Rs is no evo or scooby either. If it were you vectra drivers might as well be going backwards. I like the vectra, they are nice to sit in on long journeys - but thats the crux, they are cruisers not sports saloons like the M3!
147645_Bluetoothboy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/03/2004
I have a 1996 2.5v6 sri Vectra and I have to say that yes while it does have a flap spot around 3000rpm it eats saxo`s without even trying . Granted off the lights saxo wins every time but as soon as I go to 3rd and rev right out to 110mph i just fly past them. But I have to say I dont think I would be able to take on a scooby without some serious mods which are coming soon....
Mark2Selby's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 23/03/2004
Comment on bigben1984. My Cav GSI is as quick as a Vectra GSI and I cant keep up with my old man's Evo 5 for love nor money.
148327_Vectragsi's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 24/03/2004
Problem with Fords is there are too plastic and rattly. Most of the parts / sensors don't last long either. As for them being as quick as a GSI, I think not. The GSI has a top end of 158mph, 0-100 in 12 secs. Say no more. Most 1600/1800 engines run out of steam at about 60/70.
Cottrellb's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 21/04/2004
The older fords have terrible interiors I agree, but vauxhalls are hardly in a different league. I see them as much of the same thing.
<br>
<br>Btw, Vauxhall quote 143mph and 0-60 of 8 seconds for the Vectra GSi. That is hardly 158! (see posts on speedos) And you need about 400 bhp in a 4wd car to hit 100 in 12 seconds! The Vectra has 170 bhp and is front wheel drive... It also weighs about 1400kg!
<br>
<br>I like the Vectra GSi, its an ok car. But please realise it is not a supercar!
Qwerty0's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 13/05/2004
I own a Vectra GSi...the one I own along with many more has been breathed on by msd and has a standard 194bhp(rolling road tested)..performance wise its quick for a car of its size and when you wind a v6 up to the redline a Saxo aint going to live with it, but there big cars and there rubbish round corners so this is where nimble cars like Saxos will take over..and by the way evos and scoobys will kill a v6, people have to understand v6's are powerful but evos and scoobys descend from rally cars so they would thrash a gsi.
<br>I like my GSi because of the amount long distance driving I do but if you want to race around then there not the car to have, buy a Civic Type R or Focus RS.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 31/05/2004
"The GSI has a top end of 158mph
<br> 0-100 in 12 secs"
<br>
<br>That is by far the biggest load of rubbish in this thread so far.
Qwerty0's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 03/06/2004
No way will a GSi do 158mph, I have had mine to about 140 and that is a long way off 158mph, if that were true id be able to give my mate in his supra twin turbo a run for his money and that absolutly slaughters everything on the road. Although I have had quicker than the stated 0-60 time of 8 seconds in my GSi.
Jamlid's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/06/2004
What are they like compared to a Golf VR6 (2.8)(performance wise and handling)?
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 12/06/2004
Well I got a Y reg GSi nearly standard just got viper induction and a full stainles system on it. Had it rolling road tested and it has 204bhp. Now then Saxo VTS got no chance, I anialate them even in first with the traction control swithed off can not touch the evo but will stay with a standard uk scooby all day on the motorway even accelerating in 3rd and 4th not first and second I kill my GSi everyday and have loads of races so if you want a race in a saxo come to me with your cash out.
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 12/06/2004
Well as for your vectra only doing 140mph I suggest you get it sorted because there is something wrong with it . My vectra foes 145 in 4th gear and its been off the clock on the m1 past sheffield and numerous other places and could you imagine a saxo doing that speed (I think not ).
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 13/06/2004
Well people sorry to disappoint you all but I just came in from a cruise at the coast when a silly young lad tryed racing me in a Saxo vts. Fair enough he had spent money on it, looked nice but I totally wasted it in my GSi coming off roundabouts he was fading into the distance rapidly so there you go.
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 13/06/2004
I forgot to mention I had my GSi off the clock last night at so your 148mph quoted by vauxhall is a load of tripe.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/06/2004
Do you not realise that speedometers are wildly inaccurate at those kinds of speeds ?
<br>
<br>You're quite likely to have it "off the clock" but so what, you'll be anything up to 20mph over-reading at that speed. 160mph indicated means around 145mph actual. And what's the quoted max speed again - oh look, around the 145mph area.
<br>
<br>Well ain't that a coincidence.
<br>
<br>And btw, most cars *do* hit their top speeds in 4th gear, not 5th.
Vectramad's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 15/06/2004
Spot on with the pick up and top speed of the GSi but can anyone in the know tell me if a 2.6 will be any different from a 2.5 GSi? My 2.6 has a M.S.D. sticker and registration number under the hood and don't know where it came from or what its had done to it.
<br>Saying that I don't see many 2.6 gsi,s on the road...
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 15/06/2004
Well seen as you were so adamant that Vectras were only capable of 145 mph, I went up to my mates air strip this morning and got out the radar gun and I got 158 but it was still going, so my clocks are about 2 - 3 mph out so, would like to see a Saxo do that speed on the flat wouldnt even do it off a cliff!
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 15/06/2004
As for most cars hitting there top speeds in 4th explain this. I hit the limiter in 4th change to 5th and it just winds on and on and on and on. May be small engined cars without the power to rev out in 5th but not a V6.
Littlecareatsbigcar's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 15/06/2004
Check out is video by highlighting it and right click to save as, and it shows how slow a Saxo can be!!!
<br>http://www.m-developments.co.uk/video/johnsaxo.mpeg
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/06/2004
Ah but you forgot to mention that it was supercharged.
Wimziee's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/06/2004
I have now had my Civic Type R for 2 month and I can say hand on my heart it would kick my old V reg GSi all over town, it will pull away 0-100mph no problem and on the twisties it will kill the Vectra. GSi owners please get this into your head the gsi is a fast family car NOT a sports car. A 196bhp is a lot in a mini but not a lot in a tank!!!! Go test drive a Type R and you will see what I mean!
Littlecareatsbigcar's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/06/2004
A cheeky little saxo that can do 160mph on a standard VTR box, and it can go round corners, just shows what a 1.6 is capable of. There is also another in the making with throttle boddies, standalone management, wild cams and 100hp of gas!! Will let you know the results.
<br>Wish I had friends like yours with airfields and laser guns, could be a lot of fun.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 17/06/2004
"I went up to my mates air strip this morning and got out the radar gun and I got 158 but it was still going, so my clocks are about 2 - 3mph out"
<br>
<br>Please don't make things up to try and save face, it only makes you look stupid :/
<br>
<br>
<br>Given its low power output (i.e. circa 200bhp max depending on revision, which is only about 130bhp per ton) the chances of a Vectra V6 being able to pull an actual 160mph - even if it had the gearing to do so on the available revs - are about as high as the chances of you conveniently 'having a mate with an air strip and a radar gun' :)
<br>
<br>I'm a V6 owner myself btw, and I hate Saxos :)
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 17/06/2004
"Ah but you forgot to mention that it was supercharged."
<br>
<br>It's also racing an M3 Convertible btw, which weighs about 200 kilo more than the normal Coupé.
159758_Vectragsi 25V6's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 23/06/2004
Well, I don't know what tablets you none GSI drivers are taking, but it's all in the torque. The GSI has a massive amount of it. Lets face it your not always running 0-60, most of the driving is mid range. A 2.5V6 GSI will kick the ass of a Civic Type-r mid range. I know I do it every day on my trip into work. Type-r's look terrible, and what's with the gear knob in the dash suppose to prove, reminds me of my old renault 6 I owned as a kid. The only car for me is a GSI. And as for competing against a Scooby on mid range, try 60-100, I did and came out on top. If your a Saxo owner, keep dreaming, and turn the stereo up to hide the rattles.
159802_Cooper's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 23/06/2004
YES YES YES this is all very well, but i can't take my kids on holiday in a poxy saxo. The GSI is a great performing family car that is reasonably priced, just what i need. If you lot really want to go fast buy a Fireblade.
159758_Vectragsi 25V6's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 28/06/2004
For all you none GSI lovers that aren't sure of the power or top end of the GSI, can I suggest you learn to read. 0-60 7.6..... Top Speed 158mph. Any less you got engine probs. Just had mine rolling Road tested, 202 BHP, that's all standard except K&N Panel filter. Bring it on Saxo man,
Goncho's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/07/2004
Hi, OK new comments here
<br>I own a vectra gsi, and have also own the 2.5 sri, and to be honest there is not a lot of diff here, mine has performance exhaust and filters and to be honest is not that quick.
<br>Quite sluggish and booring until you get to 3-3500 revs then it wakes up a bit.
<br>sounds nice and yes looks aggresive but looking a little too boy racerish for me now.
<br>Lets be honest this is not a quick car, quite solid and reliable put this is a vauxhall remember, not a VW or BMW.
<br>I used to own a bmw 323 which was a beautiful car, smooth and quiet, refines, makes Vauxhall look rubbish, although it was not as quick as the GSI would much rather still have it for its status and respect on the road. Saxo boys want to race GSI owners because they think they are in the same league, Saxo owners wont look twice at a BMW owner, thats the difference.
<br>BY the way my mate has an Impreze Turbo and that kills the GSi easily.
<br>Cheers
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 22/07/2004
> Well, I don't know what you none GSI
<br>> drivers are talking about, but it's all in the torque.
<br>> The GSI has a massive amount of it.
<br>
<br>It has a moderate amount of torque (massive is certainly not an appropriate word), which is quite high up the rev range for a V6. More importantly it's stunted by terrible gear ratios.
<br>
<br>> Lets face it your not always running 0-60,
<br>> most of the driving is mid range.
<br>> A 2.5V6 GSI will kick the ass of a Civic
<br>> Type-r mid range.
<br>
<br>A Type R has no mid range ! It's either on or off. The only way you'd 'take' one is if he wasn't bothered.
<br>
<br>> And as for competing against a Scooby on mid
<br>> range, try 60-100, I did and came out on top.
<br>
<br>Erm, no. Less power, less torque, less traction. Just less everything. It's simple physics.
<br>
<br>I've just swapped from a 620ti to a V6, and it's frustrating not being able to trust that I'll have the ability to get past someone as quick as I would in the turbo. Manouevres I normally take for granted are now quite often out of the question.
<br>
<br>> For all you none GSI lovers that aren't sure
<br>> of the power or top end of the GSI, can I
<br>> suggest you learn to read. 0-60 7.6.....
<br>
<br>You'll be lucky.
<br>
<br>> Top Speed 158mph.
<br>
<br>Utter rubbish, seriously.
<br>
<br>If you believe that such a big heavy car with a relatively small amount of power can crack even 150mph actual, then you're an idiot.
<br>
<br>> Any less you got engine probs.
<br>
<br>Any less and they're just talking reality rather than wet dreams.
<br> <br>> Just had mine rolling Road tested, 202 BHP
<br>
<br>So what, nothing special. Your average hot hatch has that nowadays. And they weigh a lot less than a Vectra V6.
Cottrellb's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 22/07/2004
Where does the 168 mph figure come from? Its not published data by vauxhall or another credible body fer certainty :/ The boy racer Evo mag Quoted a tested 143 mph - 7.6 0-60mph for this machine... Even the Mitsubishi Evo VIII MR FQ-340 with 345 bhp only tops 157 mph. And if you want to bitch on about aerodynamics and gearing the Ford Mondeo ST220 has 223 bhp and only tops 151 mph. Why do some people persist in this drunken pub like banter of 'my mate kevs nova with a bean can exhaust is faster than your ferrari'! thats what this has turned into chaps. Hell why not. I have a vectra gsi too and it has had a service and they put a new fuse in it. Now it does 176 mph and I eat scoobies for breakfast every day all day coz its so easy and I have more grip...... ;) If you dont believe me belive me mate daves gps computer watch! :D
Smarshall's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 25/07/2004
Hi All, Can anyone help me I have just bought a 2000 (W) GSI, and I love it. It has the MSD sticker missing from under the bonnet, I know it had one as i can see the imprint of the writing on the paint, can I get a replacement from anywhere.
<br>
<br>Also why do they go through so many tyres, after reading some of your comments I am a bit worried about that (financialy).
<br>
<br>Finally, My mate has a BMW 328i (standard) and after driving mine he said its not much slower than his, so they cant be as bad as some of you are making out. Drive safely all.
Wildyce's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 26/07/2004
Post 1999, the GSI got new gear ratios which made it much better after the change from 2nd to 3rd gear - although you can't do 115 mph in third any more.........
<br>
<br>The tyres wear on their inside edges (this affects fronts and rears.)I would advise checking after 6,000 miles - although you can tell they were starting to go because the steering gets affected by ruts in the road. The tyres I had were the Yokohama AVS sport as specc'd when new - these are well known to be soft and not very hard wearing. My lease company made me have Michelins for my last set just before I gave the car back but a man from Vauxhall told me that when the car was designed and tweaked by MSD and Lotus - Yokos were the tyres they specc'd for the toe in's etc and it was not advisable to change.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 26/07/2004
We're not saying it's slow per se, it's just not the fire breathing Scooby eater that some people seem to be trying to make it out as (remember most of us here are actually V6 owners ourselves). It's a decent engine, but heavy and stunted by terrible gear ratios plus a massively heavy flywheel for the most part.
<br>
<br>A 328 isn't comparable to a Scooby either, so your friends comparison is quite valid.
Smarshall's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/08/2004
What about the MSD serial number sticker
Goncho's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/08/2004
<br>Just be honest and grow up, i have a GSI and i can be honest and realistic.
<br>They are very average cars, noisy, lumpy, rubbish gears, average performance, they are certainly not the cars you lot are spouting on about.
<br>They dont have scooby power or BMW refinement, they are just a useable everyday Vauxhall, thats it.
<br>They are reliable, and very good value for money, now becoming very cheap and it is a lot of car for the money., this is unfortunately why many boy racers have now got them and drawing them into these pointless debates.
<br>And will you sll please stop qouting these stupid figures, i.e. mine does 0-60 in 3.2 secs and top speed of 245 mph???? who cares, grow up.
Worz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 18/08/2004
I have just bought the estate, i told the wife all the kids and their bikes would fit in no problem, which they do, but failed to tell her it was top of the range performance etc. I don't care whether this car or that car is faster. It gets me around everywhere rapidly (when minus the kids)and i love it. It also sounds the n*ts. 60k on the clock and the only thing wrong was the tracking. Car was thoroughly checked out before i bought it. At the end of the day it's a Vauxhall and i paid Vauxhall money for it, cheap, cheap, cheap. When it goes bang will just throw away and get another one.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 28/08/2004
This is not a sports car. it is quick in a straight line but most enthusiasts will be disappointed as it is just not up to the job round the bends. It is not even in the same league as an impreza or evo. I um utterly convinced that a 106/saxo will beat this round a track but obviously not on a straight. 0-100 in 12secs had me in stiches! lol. I think this car will appeal to family types looking for a comftable, fast and cheap cruiser. I have also drivevn the mk1 CTR which has a top speed of 146, a higher bhp per tonne and far better handling and the gsi won't beat it in a straight line til 100 and then it will be caught up a couple of seconds later anyway- not even worth comparing round a track the difference would be so huge.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 02/09/2004
Comment by vectragsi 25v6 on 23rd Jun 2004
<br> <br>Well, I don't know what tablets you none GSI drivers are taking, but it's all in the torque. The GSI has a massive amount of it. Lets face it your not always running 0-60, most of the driving is mid range. A 2.5V6 GSI will kick the ass of a Civic Type-r mid range. I know I do it every day on my trip into work. Type-r's look terrible, and what's with the gear knob in the dash suppose to prove, reminds me of my old renault 6 I owned as a kid. The only car for me is a GSI. And as for competing against a Scooby on mid range, try 60-100, I did and came out on top. If your a Saxo owner, keep dreaming, and turn the stereo up to hide the rattles.
<br>
<br>
<br>Precisely it is all in the torque, it aint about bhp in V6's, its the way they pull that most 4 pot cars cant handle. To justify my point my mates dad has a mondeo ST24 and has seen a civic off nicely, and our Gsi can keep up with him.
<br>
<br>thanks for reading all
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 06/09/2004
> Well, I don't know what tablets you none GSI
<br>> drivers are taking, but it's all in the torque.
<br>> The GSI has a massive amount of it.
<br>
<br>Like hell it does, it has a moderate amount of torque produced too high up the rev range to be really effective.
<br>
<br>> Lets face it your not always running 0-60,
<br>> most of the driving is mid range. A 2.5V6 GSI
<br>> will kick the ass of a Civic Type-r mid range.
<br>> I know I do it every day on my trip into work.
<br>
<br>A Civic Type-R does not have a mid-range, it's not really a valid comparison.
<br>
<br>> And as for competing against a Scooby on mid
<br>> range, try 60-100, I did and came out on top.
<br>
<br>Yea, in your dreams maybe. Are we telling the truth?
<br>
<br>> Precisely it is all in the torque, it aint
<br>> about bhp in V6's
<br>
<br>And guess what, the same is true for two litre four pot turbocharged cars, and then some. They have more torque than a Vectra, and it's produced a lot lower down in the rev range (plus the gears are set sensibly to take advantage of it, not something you can say for a Vectra).
<br>
<br>> its the way they pull that most 4 pot cars
<br>> cant handle. To justify my point my mates dad
<br>> has a mondeo ST24 and has seen a civic off
<br>
<br>Quite possibly - but only a 1.6 litre poverty spec version :)
Corradovr6T's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 06/09/2004
i had a V6 for about a month, it was 'OK' nothing special, it was about as quick as my old renault 19 16v and not as quick as my corrado vr6, and as for killing scoobies thats just getting silly now.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 06/09/2004
yea, until you come to a bend and its bye bye!! lol
Wimziee's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 07/09/2004
Comment on gsifan 2nd sept
<br> To start with the ctr might be ugly to you but if we all liked the same cars the world would be a boring place!! The gear stick is in a great place so dont knock it until you have driven one. As for your mates dads st24 beating a ctr you are in dreamland one of my mates at work has a st24 and we go home the same way on a night and we leave a roundabout together on to dual carridgeway and he can do nothing about me pulling away until we reach silly speeds and then he does not close the gap he just stops me pulling away further.
<br>
<br> I owned a v reg gsi for 2 years so i know what they are all about a fast family car but no hot hatch beater and 100% no evo beater not even close! so do your self a favor and stop writing silly comments and making yourself sound silly!!
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/09/2004
I bought a 1999 Vectra GSI last week its done 72000 miles. Im not at all impressesd with it, battery went dead first day, then was alright then did it again at the weekend, told I needed a new alternator £350 fitted!! what a joke, anyway drove home at lunchtime and it wouldnt fire up after several turns now the battery is dead again, anyone else had starting problems? please email me on james@mrprinters.com.
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/09/2004
also dont understand why people are comparing this car to a Saxo?? two totally different style of cars, Saxos are so lame, okay the VTS is quick but so what? who would want to be seen in one? unless you like wearing fake Burberry caps and McKenzie (who??). The Vectras a cruiser, in the class of the mondeo v6, or maybe the MG ZT or even a 325/8? Its definately NOT a sports car, handles like a mattress, great motorway car though, the engine bays a joke, have you ever tried changing a headlight bulb on one?? Looks are okay in fact they look quite tough, but not sure about the build quality, my front end feels a bit 'woolly'. Only thing that can't be criticised is the electric Recaros. Dont buy one of these unless you get it well cheap like i did.....£4000 for a V reg 72k BLACK PIECE!!
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/09/2004
firstly i never said the Type R was ugly, that was someone elses quote. Also going on what Lordy said, it was a Civiv Type R that he beat in his mondie (not the feeble 1600 like you think).
<br>
<br>Anyway Turbo cars are turbo's so they will be quick, and for a Vectra, the Gsi is fast and i'm not gonna bother posting here again because all this review has turned into is a mess; with you lot talking about how rubbish they are (which is nonsense).
<br>
<br>Anyway ill leave you with something to think about and wish you would have been there to see it.
<br>
<br>7.30 down leicester rd this mornin blew past a Leon Cupra R (with someone in it who was trying to kill themself by overtaking on bends)
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/09/2004
can anyone tell me are all GSi Vectras, MSD versions? if not whats the differnce? cheers
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/09/2004
yet another silly saxo driver took me on last night from the lights on felling bypass and well he go wasted all the way infact he didnt even come close . i waited for him further up the dual carriagway and he tried again from about 60 mph and he got wasted again lol !
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/09/2004
> Anyway Turbo cars are turbo's so they will be
<br>> quick
<br>
<br>Yes -> quicker than a Vectra GSi.
<br>
<br>> and for a Vectra, the Gsi is fast and i'm not
<br>> gonna bother posting here again because all
<br>> this review has turned into is a mess;
<br>
<br>Because no one believes what you are posting more like.
<br>
<br>> with you lot talking about how rubbish they
<br>> are (which is nonsense).
<br>
<br>Who said they were rubbish ? I certainly don't think they're rubbish - I have one :)
<br>
<br>The only nonsense being talked is by those who are claiming that the V6 is such a speed demon it can fly past Scoobies all the way up to 160mph and do 0-100mph in 12 seconds, etc, etc.
<br>
<br>> 7.30 down leicester rd this mornin blew past
<br>> a Leon Cupra R
<br>
<br>And that's exactly the kind of nonsense that is being referred to. A CupraR has more BHP, more torque, and is lighter.
<br>
<br>Maybe you don't realise that the Cupra bodykit is put on a lot more models in the range than the Cupra - it's even on some of the diesels...
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/09/2004
to GSiFan.... you say were all talking nonsense by saying how rubbish the GSi is, well surely everyones entitled to their opinion? I have owned over 100 cars in 20 years of driving, and my opinion is that it is not a great car. High maintenance costs, extreme tyre wear out, bad MPG and average performance, all seem to be a general consensus.
<br>
<br>oh and a Honda S2000 absolutely thrashed me last night and I was gunning it...
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/09/2004
Comment by jamestopdog on 9th Sep 2004
<br> <br>can anyone tell me are all GSi Vectras, MSD versions? if not whats the differnce? cheers
<br>>
<br>
<br>MSD versions have better chassis etc, not all GSI's are MSD models (they are rarer)
<br>
<br>And as for the S2000 beating you well they're in a totally different league. For a start the rev very high and have a large powerband.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/09/2004
>And that's exactly the kind of nonsense that is being referred to. A CupraR has more BHP, more torque, and is lighter.
<br>
<br>Yes its lighter, may have a bit more torque but im not sure on the GSi figure, and they dont have all that much more power.
<br>
<br>Yes i know they are quick coz i've been in one and off the mark it would toast us, but going at some speed (60-70) and putting your foot down a V6 would win.
<br>
<br>Horsepower: 225 bhp @ 5900 rpm
<br>Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm
<br>
<br>for the Cupra R
<br>
<br>I know the Gsi has 195bhp standard and id say the torque would be about the same (about 180-190?)
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 13/09/2004
> Yes i know they are quick coz i've been in one
<br>> and off the mark it would toast us, but going
<br>> at some speed (60-70) and putting your foot
<br>> down a V6 would win.
<br>
<br>Absolutely no way on this earth. I had a 2.0 turbo before my Vectra V6 and it's not even remotely comparable at motorway speeds. It's one of the things I miss the most (I only got the Vectra because I needed the hatch for a while) :/
<br>
<br>> Horsepower: 225 bhp @ 5900 rpm
<br>> Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm
<br>> for the Cupra R
<br>> I know the Gsi has 195bhp standard and id
<br>> say the torque would be about the same
<br>> (about 180-190?)
<br>
<br>There you go, as said. Less power (30bhp is a fair amount), less torque (and, importantly, what torque the V6 has is not as useable at low revs), more weight.
Steveh24's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/09/2004
I have owned a Vectra GSi for about 3 years now and having read all of the above comments I am somewhat ammused.
<br>
<br>There is no doubt that the GSi is a nice car to drive and it can move quickly when it has to, but it also a heavy beast and is no match for the 2 litre turbo charged screamers like scoobys and Evo's from a standing start, but over a longer run it will pass most cars and I have a photo of my speedo showing that it has reached 156 mph, which is faster than most other cars mentioned in other comments.
<br>
<br>Overall I am very happy with my GSi even though there are a number of things I would like to see improved, noticeably the horrible lag at around 3000 revs.
<br>
<br>For those that own a GSi, there a number of mods available to boost the power to around 360 bhp from companies such as Regal Autos and Courtney Motors and a friend of mine has a GSi producing 295 bhp, which no scooby or vtx would get near.
<br>
<br>On a sensible note, the GSi is a fast motorway cruiser with great handling and not a boy racers car and as such it was not built for acceleration, but on a long straight it can more than hold its own.
Cottrellb's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/09/2004
You think a gsi has the traction to beat a evo scooby with near equal power?, dont forget the turbo cars produce higher torque for longer... I think a 400 bhp gsi would loose to a standard scooby over a quarter mile.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/09/2004
> I have a photo of my speedo showing that it has
<br>> reached 156 mph
<br>
<br>Do you not realise that your speedo is grossly inaccurate at that kind of speed. You should expect it to be over-reading by at least 10% - which means that an indicated 156mph is an actual 140mph, which - wonder of wonders - is around the rated top speed for this vehicle.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 14/09/2004
A Impreza WR1 would easily beat even a 295bhp gsi. This is a factory built car that does60 in 4.2 and the 1/4mile in 12.6, I'm pretty sure that is sufficient.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 15/09/2004
More than sufficient :)
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/09/2004
Has anyone else had starting problems??? 90% of the time it starts on the button, but occasinally, say when im driving home at lunchtime I got to start the car and it hust wont fire up?? help?? Its going in Stevens Vauxhall otherwise Tuesday and i dont know if my bank can take another hefty bill!!!
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 16/09/2004
Yes because it has a turbo and over 300bhp standard. I for one am not trying to say GSI's are quicker than scooby's but i think they are a quick family car
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 20/09/2004
yo man we went up bruntinthorpe and got ours off the clock must av been doin about 165 its well fast pasted my uncles scooby yea!
171287_Butch3687's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 21/09/2004
I am thinking of buying a GSI Vectra in the next couple of weeks. I have always had Golfs mostly GTI and two VR6s. I have decided a change is due and need a bigger car.
<br>Can I have peoples honest opinion as i have never owned one before and I dont have enough cash to buy cars similar to an M3 or a civic type-r.
<br>Please can owners give me honest advice. Thanks - Butch
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 21/09/2004
Oh god, here we go again, vectras doing 165!? lol, yes it is quick in a straight line, but not that quick, don't kid yourself that it's a sports car, drive the car round a track and then it will be shown up for what it really is...
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 22/09/2004
I think it's pretty obvious that that was not actually GSIFan making that post, just someone having a 'laugh'.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 22/09/2004
Yes thanks Lordy just seen that one don't know where it came from lol. But no it wasnt me, probably one of my mates or someone in my household maybe. We are going to bruntinthorpe in a few weeks when my dad gets back from Italy to see what the car can really do. I reckon about 140-150 but we'll see.
<br>
<br>cheers guys
173190_St24's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 07/10/2004
One thing that people forget ...
<br>
<br>300bhp + Crap driver = morgue
<br>
<br>200bhp + Good driver = second
<br>
<br>100bhp + Expert driver = beat the lot of you
Jams's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/10/2004
Note to Jamestopdog - I got a '99 2.5 V6 SRi about 6 weeks ago ...... and it has been in the garage for 5 weeks now. It turns over fine but doesn't fire for about 6 - 8 seconds, the garage changed the coil pack / plugs and leads but no joy. There is also a really annoying tapping noise when I accelerate that sounds like I'm being chased by a 1950's motorbike everywhere I go! There is also the common problem of the idle control valve so it hunts all the time at tick over, the revs drop and the whole car shakes while the engine's trying to stay alive. Needless to say I feel something of a chump having parted with £5000 for what can only be described as a bag! Luckily I bought it from a Network Q garage so it hasn't cost me a penny - just means I've been roaming the streets in a 1.2 Corsa courtesy car ..... sexy.
Jamestopdog's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 11/10/2004
Thanks for the info there, turned out in the end it was the battery (thought they would check that before replacing the £350 alternator!) apparently the battery may still turn the car over but needs more to fire it up?? anyway sold it last week, fearing what might go wrong next, spoken to loads of mechanics since telling me they are a nightmare car. Now bought a subaru impreza...feels alot more solid...shame about the £600 its just cost me for a clutch!!!!
178498_Micko1's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 01/12/2004
The only true way to get an accurate top end reading is from a gps system (without going to the cost of timing gear), my gps system installed in two cavalier's one being 2litre 8 valve h reg which we get up to 129 mph on the gps system but the clock was reading 140 mph.
<br>
<br>The other was a 2 litre 16 valve n reg with the ecotech engine in it, in standard form top speed reading from the gps system was 139 mph, we was of the clock on the cars system at 130 mph on the gps system,and we got to 139 on the gps so the clock would of been reading approx 150 + if the clock would of had 160 on it,
<br>
<br>I have just brought a vectra sri 2litre 16 valve 140 with the ecotech engine in it, so I will be testing that and let you know what the gps reading is for that car in the near future.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 31/12/2004
I wouldn't say I was an expert driver but give me a 200bhp car and I will put my mortgage on no one in a 100bhp motor beating me.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 02/01/2005
Yes but you are forgetting power to weight. A 200bhp V6 would probably not keep up with a Lotus Elise for example; not forgetting that the Elise did come with a 111bhp engine.
<br>
<br>This is purely because the Elise weighs nothing in comparision.
Gsivectra204Bhp's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 03/01/2005
Exactly!
Corradovr6T's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 04/01/2005
Depends how much your 200bhp car weighs etc.., if your talking a normal Vectra GSi that weighs over a ton then you'd lose your mortgage.
<br>There are plenty of 100bhp kit cars that weigh 400-500kg and would eat that for breakfast.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 04/01/2005
Actually the old elise had 118bhp, does the Vectra even have 200bhp? I don't think it's fair to start bringing kit cars into the equation. Thats like me saying my R1 will beat any car, regardless of power, lets keep it to road cars. A decent 200bhp car (Nissan 200 Touring/CTR) will not be beaten by a 100bhp car and no a 118/120bhp Elise does not count, it has 20% more power than you stated, so no I would not lose my mortgage.
Jams's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 05/01/2005
Note to Samm - I think the point your man is trying to make is that anyone with a heavy right foot in a car with reasonable horse power, in a straight line 'drag race' outside your local McDonalds may well beat a smaller car. But what does make a difference is the way you drive when there's a couple of turns in the road, a more experienced driver could quite easily have the upper hand in a lesser powered car.
<br>I would class myself as a fairly competant driver, but I'm just not that naive to think there isn't someone out there who could perhaps out-perform me on a track in a smaller car. Face it buddy, you're not Ayrton Senna, or that blonde bloke off of Fast and the Furious!
<br>And for the record, Caterham produce a car intended for road use, using a puny 1.4 Rover engine (a whole 105 bhp), that will get to 60 in 6.5 seconds.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 05/01/2005
Well actually there was a Lotus Elise 111s which had 111bhp and the Vectra Gsi has something like 195 bhp, so near enough 200.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 07/01/2005
The elise 111s does not mean it has 111bhp. Of course I understand the point that was raised. Nevertheless, it is a swooping generalisation in that 99% of 100bhp cars will not beat a 200bhp car unless the driver is seriouosly rubbish. Using average 100bhp hatchback (Yaris T sport) against a 200bhp car like a Nissan 200 and bye bye! I do know how good some not so high powered cars are, I owned a 205 1.9 gti for 3 years I liked it so much!
Vectramad's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 08/01/2005
Anyone know of a company that will do a good job on my 2.6 gsi vectra to boost my b.h.p. 2001 model msd modified. Cheers
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 10/01/2005
Although the 2.6 isn't as easily modified as the 2.5 I think courtenay sport may do upgrades for your car.
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 20/01/2005
Comedy, pure hilarity in some of these posts.
<br>
<br>I thought it was just the 1.1 litre Saxo drivers that thought their cars were faster than everything else on the road. It seems some GSi drivers are the same.
<br>
<br>A few points:
<br>
<br>It's all about torque in a V6 someone said? Most 4-pot cars don't have that. Slight mis-conception of 4-pot small hatchbacks. Some do. My hatchback 4-pot has a mere 1781cc but strapped to that is a KKK turbo.. !! Remapped also, meaning ~230 lb/ft torque. MORE than your V6 and in a lighter car.
<br>
<br>Top speeds.. Hmmmmm.. Anything above 70mph is illegal unless on a private road remember. Although, again some miss the point about speedo's being incorrect etc. 160 on the clock is indeed about 145-150mph actual speed. My small hatchback will do 153mph on the clock.
<br>
<br>Acceleration... This is down to several things, power, torque, weight and traction. GSi V6 doesn't have lots of power (170-200bhp isn't a lot). Torque isn't spectacular either. Weight it has a lot of but that isn't good, especially when coupled to not much power. Traction it isn't too bad with but loses out everytime to 4WD.
<br>
<br>My brother-in-law owns a Vectra V6 and I travel in it regularly. It is swift for a relatively large family vehicle but by no means 'fast'. It cruises nicely and for motorways it is good apart from the rate at which it consumes petrol.
<br>
<br>Put it next to my small (1100kg) SEAT Ibiza Cupra running 215bhp and ~230lb/ft and from 0-135mph I'm pulling a bigger and bigger gap away from you, only over the last 10mph will the gap start to shrink. I'll run 0-62mph in six seconds and cover 1/4 mile in 14s. My car isn't by any means 'fast' but it puts the V6 in perspective.
<br>The GSi is a nice looking, comfortable, family car that gets up to speed faster than your average family car. Nothing more, nothing less. Just don't make it out as something it isn't.
<br>
<br>P.S: Don't ever pull behind or next to an Ibiza Cupra thinking they are easy 'prey', you may come across a remapped one.. !! ;)
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 24/01/2005
Well then mate thats a re-mapped turbo one you're on about. Put a standard one against a Gsi and it will lose.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 24/01/2005
I very nearly bought a Cupra, there is definitley a lot to be said about it- namely VAG quality and that very tuneable engine. What remap did you have done? and what other modes to get 215bhp Jabba & Ottenger seem to be very popular. I would say you're car is defo quick if you can do 1/4 mile in under 15 seconds. I wish they put a 6th cog on it though, that would shut up the CTR boys.
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 25/01/2005
I am running a custom UPsolute remap with N75-J wastegate valve off an Audi S2, Forge motorsport DV, Cold Air Intake & 3.5" Stainless Steel Exhaust system through to a 5" jap box. Lowest 'good run' for 1/4mile is 14s but usually between 14 and 15.2s depending upon launch and conditions obviously, traction being my biggest enemy.
<br>Standard with 156bhp and 176lb/ft torque the Cupra will match the pace of a GSi up to 90mph, purely due to the difference in weight but then loses out 'top-end'. Remapped the GSi doesn't stand a chance but to be expected I suppose. The GSi is a nice car don't get me wrong, I clearly point out in my previous post that it is, I just find that sometimes their owners are a little unrealistic with how quick they are. I would like to see what the new GSi performs like with its 3.2litre V6 (albeit heavier I guess)?
<br>
<br>My brother-in-law wouldn't believe that his V6 was slower than my car until he actually had the experience of it. The acceleration of the remapped Cupra Turbo is impressive, which he now agrees. I am changing my Cupra this year and possibly going for an Impreza or Evo as I want 4WD but I'll have to give up the 'luxury' the VAG build quality offers when I do so.
<br>
<br>As for 'extra cog' I couldn't agree more. I have an acquantance who owns a highly modified Cupra with 360+bhp (IHI turbo) using a 6-speed box and Peloquin LSD. That certainly puts most cars in their place.. !! Awesome.
<br>
<br>Anyone driven the new Vectra GSi (3.2 V6)?? No reviews up about it yet.
Corradovr6T's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 25/01/2005
I have driven on many occasions a close friends amd re-mapped, modified 225 Cupra R, which is running about 260bhp. It is pretty quick and a real hoot to drive, I was almost tempted to get one to replace my charged VR6 corrado but it just wasnt quite quick enough.
<br>
<br>Im pretty sure a standard Cupra R would easily out run a 2.5 GSi.
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 25/01/2005
VAG quality ?? Interesting turn of phrase that might have actually meant something a decade ago.
<br>
<br>These days Volkswagen (Group) 'quality' is just something that's perceived by people who don't actually own one of their products. Similiar to BMW 'reliability' - it doesn't exist anymore, they are just average at best.
<br>
<br>Oh, and a six speed box tends to detract from the driving experience rather than add to it. But there again, that's the same thing; it's just perceived by people who don't actually have one that is must be better because it costs more and is a bit more exclusive.
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 26/01/2005
You seem to obviously be speaking from a lack of experience with both then Lordy !?!
<br>
<br>I have driven SEAT vehicles pre-VAG and existing models and find the build quality is greatly improved.
<br>I have had several company cars varying from Vauxhall, Ford, Volvo, BMW & Audi and find the best build quality is with VAG, closely followed by BMW and Volvo with the blue oval and Vauxhall trailing a long way behind.
<br>I have personally also owned citroen and renault vehicles and found the build quality of those to be even worse than the manufacturers listed above.
<br>Therefore, FROM EXPERIENCE - I find VAG to hold a very good level of build quality, although I believe the 'gap' is decreasing as the years go by.
<br>
<br>As for 6-speed gearboxes - Again I speak from experience and not just 'hearsay'. The beneficial reasons for a 6th cog in a remapped Cupra is because the power and torque far outweigh the limitations of the gearing, meaning you can red-line in 5th and still have power left to go further if the gearbox allowed it. Hence modifiers of this car are switching to alternative transmissions. The Leon Cupra R comes with a 6-speed gearbox, simply for that reason as they know the engine is strong and many will modify ECU's meaning more power than a 5-speed gearing would practically allow (without having really long unusable gears in a 5-speed unit).
<br>
<br>The Leon Cupra R is a very good package and remapped they do make good power although once up to over 250bhp I would prefer to have 4WD. Star Performance and Jabbasport are regularly getting a solid 270-285bhp from a simple remap on the LCR without running massive levels of boost (below 20psi so not overworking the relatively small turbo). They look pretty good too, although I think I'll still go for an Impreza STi later this year though.
Gsifan's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 27/01/2005
My Nova will paste a Leon Cupra R LOL
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 27/01/2005
> I have driven SEAT vehicles pre-VAG and existing models and find the build quality is greatly improved.
<br>
<br>I have no doubt that SEAT quality has improved vastly due to the VAG influence; when you hit rock bottom the only way you can go is up...
<br>
<br>I'm just disputing the quality myth that still surrounds the VAG as a whole. Sure I'd still put my money in their build quality before any of the other mainstream manufacturers (Vauxhall as you quite rightly say has been dreadful, since the early nineties imo) but seeing as most of their products are priced pretty ridiculously these days (with a few exceptions, the Cupra actually being one of them), you can't generally compare them to Vauxhall, Ford and the like.
<br>
<br>They consistently rank as average for reliability in any polls of users, and - in the call centre where my partner works, which handles calls for a large dealerbase throughout the entire of the UK - Volkswagen consistently figure pretty highly there for problems as well.
<br>
<br>I didn't mean it to sound like a VW bashing post, I just feel they don't deserve the esteem that a lot of people still hold them in - particularly when taking the price factor into account.
<br>
<br>As for the six speed box - well, we'll have to differ on that one. I've had a few turbo cars (plus a craphole of a Vectra V6 for a few months due to someone someone sideswiping my last car, but we won't go there - already said more than enough about current Vauxhall reliability) and I've always found the ones with six speed boxes to have badly judged ratios for normal road use compared to the equivalent five speeders. I've had the pleasure of a 6-speed Evo8 recently, and the 'box was the only part of the package that really let it down.
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<br>But then, to me a sixth cog is certainly not to 'go further when you're redling in fifth'. Maybe one of us has missed the point of them. Or just has a different one.
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 28/01/2005
I agree that VAG have somewhat overinflated their prices and in a fashion not in keeping with its Quality as you would expect Quality to increase with price but over recent years I agree that Quality has remained fairly static (still good) and not significantly improved. I'm glad you agree that it is still in a league above some of the other manufacturers mentioned though, which was my initial point.
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<br>As for 6th cog, agree to disagree I guess. A lot does indeed depend on how well the ratios are setup and the purpose the vehicle is used for. I don't drive above 78mph usually on the public roads (due to getting caught @ 99mph recently) so no real need for 6th gear in my car as 5th does me fine but on a track it may be necessary to have the shorter ratios for lots of corner work and for top-end down long straights. I do agree that many 6-speed boxes are badly setup making it pointless in having the extra gear, although some are ok (Leon Cupra R box is fairly reasonable imo).
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<br>I haven't driven the Evo VIII yet but have given a VII a good blast. Also driven the new Impreza STi and WR1, I didn't mind the gear boxes in them, seemed pretty reasonable although if I was an owner I would choose a short-shift or sequential shift option as a modification to make the most out of the acceleration/traction.
Samm's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 31/01/2005
I tried a CTR and it really does benefit from the 6th cog, because this allows the ratios to be closer so you can stay in v-tec zone easily and accelerate quicker! It's also handy for motorway and economy- Ibiza TDI 130 @70 in 6th it is barely ticking over! lol
Andyjg43's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 06/02/2005
I have owned three vectra gsi's and i must say I love them. However a proper performance sports car they are not, they are just too heavy! but they sound, look and handle brilliant and there are not a lot of them around unlike your saxo's and pug 106's. Keep them serviced and they run forever and only yokohama avs sport tyres will do. I am sure they will and should be a classic after all the value of them is increasing!
196421_Johh2000's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 06/06/2005
the gsi is probably the vectra around i have owned my since new in 2000 i have taken it to the nurburgring in germany and beaten quite a few evos and scoobys i would say to anyone who slags them off to get behind the wheel and drive it to the limits better than the ford mondeo st
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 05/07/2005
I've driven one on many occasion (it is fitted with straight through stainless exhaust and induction kit to help 'breathing') and I can honestly say you are over estimating its performance if you think it is in the same league as EVO's and Impreza STi's.
The Vectra V6 is slower in a straight line and round corners than my remapped Ibiza Turbo and my Ibiza is slower than both the EVOVIII and STi I have driven. The only Impreza's I would see the Vectra beating is a badly driven one I am afraid.
I believe the Vectra GSi to be a good car that looks nice and sounds superb. It is swift for a heavy car but it is more suited to motorway cruising than being in the league with 200+bhp hot hatches and WRC-bred turbocharged saloon cars.
Therefore, not 'slagging' them off, just pointing out that some owners need to realistically understand what they are driving.
346077_Scedgm1976's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 19/02/2008
I've owned a 1999 2.5 Vectra GSi for 2 years. Handling is heavy, the weight is all out of proportion, hence smaller cars that are much slower will beat them on twisty and tight roads. Does not matter if you uprate the suspension you can't change the weight distribution without serious mods. My 0-60 is around 7.5. This is with a magnex exhaust, sports cat, panel filter, usual breathing mods and performance plugs/leads etc. This is one heavy car. in around the 90-100 range in third on a dual/motorway etc you will overtake Saxo VTS, Civic type R's, Standand WRX etc. My car tops out at around 152 on the clock, on the flat, which is probably around 145. At top end you will catch up with Type UK STi's and stay with them. M3's will piss all over you. This car is good for top end racing and thats it. I've owned standard red top calibras and cav's. They were only slightly slower, only after 130 would you see the difference.
Scoobz's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 27/02/2008
My previous "weekend car" (Ibiza turbo) has been sold and replaced with a Subaru STI (WR1 Spec) with some modifications, running 348bhp/356ftlb. There's no Vectra V6 or M3 that will keep up with or anything at all over the STI at any speed, that is for certain!
<br/>I agree with you regarding the poor handling and weight balance in the Vectra though (from experience).
Martinknight's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 24/03/2008
I do agree with some comments on here. the Vectra GSI MSD is a motorway car .but a 106 gti/vts saxo is not in the same class as a vectra .my Vectra gsi msd model is 200bhp and does 70 in 2nd 115in 3rd 137in 4th 162in 5th .I would pay to see a 106 or a Saxo get near 162 before there doors fell off. When it comes to things like Scooby sti's you need to take out a mortgage to buy one. Get a Vectra for a bag of sand!
356926_Jake2's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 05/04/2008
I've owned a 2.5GSi (estate) for about four years now (apparently only about 300 or so of these things ever made). I've fettled it a bit up to 228 bhp. Done the usual bits n bobs.
<br/>It is a family car, and should be compared to same. 325 BMW, ST200 (not st220 they are 3.0), lagunas etc.
<br/>It is not a road racer It should not be compared to ctr's scoobys, evos.
<br/>It will not beat scoobys, evos etc in flat out brains out driving. It might catch one unawares off boost at the right speed but once the tubo cuts in I'd expect the family car to be left by the wrc derived road racer. Does that really surprise anyone?
<br/>It uses too much petrol when driving hard, As do scoobys. It can however be reasonable on fuel mid 30's mpg if you are very carefull
<br/>It sounds fantastic!
<br/>The prices are falling faster than a brick! Cheap fast (ish) family car.
<br/>The gearing on the prefacelift GSi,s (f25 box) is designed for cruising and is waaaay overgeared for racing) The facelift models had better gearing (F23) and better standard torque due to an exhaust cam change.
<br/>ALL GSi's were done by SRi's sent to MSD for fettling.
<br/>The engine bay is cramped and V6's (certain jobs) are difficult to work on.
<br/>It is difficult to get more than 200 lb ft from a 2.5GSi, though it can be done. (just)
<br/>There are a few 2.5 GSi's around now with a dyno proven 250 bhp. Thats with a HUGE amount of money spent on them. But 100 bhp/ litre from a very old na engine design is pretty impressive in my humble opinion.
<br/>I've never seen a na 2.5 GSi with more than 250bhp
<br/>Its an old car with an old engine design that fares reasonably well against other mid sized family cars, with a bit of fettling it can hold its own against some more modern "better" models such as standard ST220's
<br/>They seem to be better after about 3000rpm from about 70mph ish and they are good at top end perfromance.
<br/>I have no idea what they will do flat out though they will hit the limiter in 4th about 135 if I remeber right, and then pull again in 5th. It takes a HUGE amount ot power to increase top speed and even though mine is a fair bit above the standard 192bhp I wouldn't bet on it being much higher than the standard top speed 143 I think for the estate?
<br/>No one likes to admit their car is slower than someone elses, but facts are facts. I do believe that the GSi is underestimated and will surprise quite a few in fettled form, but remember the chances are the standard car you just beat can also be fettled.
359882_Mike1987 's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 17/04/2008
I think a lot of points are being made but none are being listened to. Firstly iv just bought my first vectra gsi and so far as i can see its the best car iv ever owned. Maye its just my gsi but at 145 i pulled out and car still had some juice left. Saxo vts gets left behind by my car. no way it can do the accelleration or top speed of the gsi. Pug 106 gti with god knows how much spent on nitrous and whatever else maybe, but if you put the same in the gsi imagine what you could get from it! The possibilities are endless. You spend the money and the time and you could get a metro running faster. As far as buying the standard car you wont get better performance for the money. I paid just under 700 quid for mine, and apart from an induction kit and stainless exhaust she is standard. If i paid a few grand for something like a scooby or an evo i would expect more power. After all im not going to go outside and throw my money away needlessly. Whilst im here i may as well point out that vtr's, vts's, 106 gti's and any other pocket rocket you wanna mention have nothing on the looks of the vectra. I dont think it could have a scoob or evo but i think as standard it gives a good run for what it is. Any one who wants to compare is welcome by invitation to come and show me what they got.
367603_Gentle Ben's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 19/05/2008
I have two Vectras - one a '97 Supertouring V6 and the other an '01 Vectra GSi V6. The Supertouring is miles faster despite being 50,000 ahead of the GSi. <br/><br/>The main mistake people are making in their performance comparisons is that they are comparing a large heavy saloon/hatchback which by motorsport standards is classed as a Touring Car with 106 GTi's, Saxo VTR's and Civic Type R's which are a separate category of car altogether. <br/><br/>Off the line, any of a pick of small lightweight hatchbacks with a mildly hot engine will see off a V6 Vectra from a standing start quite easily. The Vectra gets the last laugh when it gets beyond 3500-4000rpm - beyond the flatspot - and on a motorway a Vectra V6 will quite happily sail past a Saxo at 130mph without breaking a sweat, while the small 1600cc 4-pot in said Saxo is screaming itself half to death. <br/><br/>I personally have gone for the Vectras because they handle long runs well, you don't have to rev them to get anywhere particularly fast at cruising speed, and, if you're nice on the pedal they'll return 30+mpg as well. I cover a lot of miles all over the Midlands as an electrician and the Vectra's have enough room in the boot for all my kit and eat the miles without major complaint.<br/><br/>Compared to a similar German, French or even Japanese car they are the cheapest to maintain - when have Vauxhalls ever been rare cars to source parts for? <br/><br/>All in all a Vectra does everything reasonably well, but nothing spectacularly. It's the right blend of performance, comfort, luxury, running costs, and economy, and in the case of the facelifted models they actually make for quite smart cars.<br/><br/>I certainly have enjoyed both of mine and would own another again in the future.<br/><br/>Ben<br/><br/>
Lordy's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 27/05/2008
I'm on the "side" of the Vectras in this, but if one of them is "the best car you've ever owned", wait until you get something fast, it'll be a bit of an eye opener - Vectra V6's are heavy and cumbersome, with performance being blunted by gear ratios that are too high (I've had several, and personally think the Cavalier V6 was a much better car). Which is why lightweight little shoeboxes like Saxos are able to keep up with them until motorway speeds. But yes, you're right about points not being listened to, because it's been repeatedly stated that speedos are not accurate. Oh, and I love the way you say you you're not quite sure if it could "have" an evo or Scoob though, as if you really believe that you would have the faintest chance.
Dannybwoii's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 11/10/2008
Top Speed for MSD Vectra 2.5GSI = 148mph<br/>Top Speed For The SRI & None Msd Tuned GSI = 143mph<br/>Evo/Sub would smash a Vectra GSI to pieces as so would the Type R & Cupra R. Saxo or 106 aint no match for it though....<br/>Seriously recommend the cold air kits with these as it helps no end with the blackspot.
416475_Jonathan Underhill's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 09/11/2008
i own a gsi 2.5 no mistake 100 % allround owned it for 2 years mint and wont part with it.
444556_Yjjb's Response to Cruise Master Wales's Review
Written on: 01/03/2009
This thread seems to have been a bit of a slanging match? If you compare standard cars, its easier than modified cars as people have a tenancy to "big up" their car. The saxo vts vs gsi fight is a bit odd, cause as standard, their acceleration is very similar, so time would come down to driver skill, and the gsi would cruise straight past at 120/130. The heavy vectra is not a spring chicken like a Japanese car, but due to the heavy v6 there is more midrange power.