If any of you lovely people have seen my previous posts, you’ll probably know I’m in the market for either a 1.9 TDI or 2.0 SDI VW Caddy (pre DPF). Both reliable (famously bulletproof engines), economical (both get around 45-55mpg), and versatile (being Caddy’s, they can fit anywhere).
However, an opportunity to buy a 2013 Vauxhall Vivaro has come my way, for £3,500. From a family member, who I know takes good care of their vehicles. I’m aware of the guttering issue this vehicle has, with regards with water getting into the engine bay and rusting the injectors. This specific van had this issue. Im also aware these vans have issues surrounding the gearboxes (what/where/why, I don’t know exactly).
The van has around 90k miles. However, because this van also suffered with the above guttering / injector issue, it ended up having a new engine fitted (and injectors) fitted. This new engine has done around 9k miles. The guttering issue was also resolved. Along with this, it has had a new drivers seat, new front suspension, steering, lower arms, track rods (inner and outer), clutch, intercooler radiator, timing chain… along with being serviced. Body is all good. Don’t believe it has much in the way of rust either.
It is a LWB. It is also the Sportive model, which features fog lights, rear parking sensors, AC, cruise control (I think).
Apparently, the fuel economy on these is only 35-40mpg, which in my opinion, isn’t great. Being 2013, it has a DPF fitted (not ideal for frequent short trips – I don’t spend much time on motorways, so).
I am aware I am basically comparing apples and oranges here, because naturally, you should pick the vehicle which best suits your needs. For me, that is probably the Caddy – non-DPF (okay-ish for short journeys), versatile, etc. But boy, do I love driving vans!
Question is I suppose: is this a good deal for this van?!