VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN (1997)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 32 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
32
Avg Mileage
115,759 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the VAUXHALL brand average of 84%.
At 27 years old, 88% of VAUXHALL ASTRAVANs from 1997 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 32 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 115,759 miles.
How does the 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN has 115,759 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 199,800 miles for a 27-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 79% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 61%. The 1997 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 79% | 589 | 140,826 mi |
| 2011 | 75% | 1,524 | 153,119 mi |
| 2010 | 73% | 1,396 | 152,645 mi |
| 2009 | 73% | 958 | 151,281 mi |
| 2008 | 71% | 1,893 | 153,122 mi |
| 2007 | 75% | 1,669 | 150,030 mi |
| 2006 | 71% | 2,876 | 149,529 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 2,700 | 148,683 mi |
| 2004 | 69% | 1,758 | 144,527 mi |
| 2003 | 63% | 285 | 148,543 mi |
| 2002 | 61% | 74 | 160,347 mi |
| 2001 | 62% | 37 | 162,743 mi |
| 2000 | 60% | 45 | 133,082 mi |
| 1997 | 88% | 32 | 115,759 mi |
Checking a specific VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN
The 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN is a family car with a 1700cc diesel engine. 32 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 15% of all 1997 cars for reliability.
With an average of 115,759 miles at 27 years old, VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN Fuel Costs
The 1700cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN Reliability Trend
Newer VAUXHALL ASTRAVANs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 8 percentage points.
Buying a Used 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN
At 27 years old, the VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 79%. Note: with only 32 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 1997 VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN
The VAUXHALL ASTRAVAN is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FIAT DUCATO (1999) 72% pass rate (-16%) from 4,393 tests
- FORD FIESTA (1998) 65% pass rate (-23%) from 4,382 tests
- MERCEDES C (1997) 81% pass rate (-7%) from 2,336 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (1998) 71% pass rate (-17%) from 1,681 tests