I’m getting used to the “new” car. You know how it is when you switch, especially between manual cars, and you have to learn the feel of the accelerator and clutch for the new vehicle? Otherwise you either take off too fast, or stall it.
Things I’ve noticed about the Astra which are different from the old Magna:
The gear stick is at a different angle. The Magna’s seems almost vertical next to the Astra’s.
Despite the Astra being a smaller car, it seems reasonably roomy. The ceiling seems higher. Leg room is reduced, but I’m already used to it. I’ve considered reflecting this by getting the customised licence plate “TARDIS”, but given the $395 cost — I don’t think so. Just can’t justify it. (Interestingly, according to the VPlates web site, “DALEK”, and “DRWHO” are already taken. But amazingly perhaps, “DANIEL” is available.)
Not just roomy, also zoomy. It accelerates much faster than the old beast. On the first day, a couple of times I took off so fast from the lights I nearly pranged into the people in front. I must confess I tried to see how fast it takes off compared to other cars on Wellington Road. The only one I’ve noticed get to the speed limit faster was a Jeep Wrangler, which apparently burns about 50% more fuel.
Maybe it’s the silver paint instead of black, or maybe it’s just a better design, but it doesn’t seem hot when left in the (winter) sun like the Magna gets. Will be interested to see how it goes over summer, and how good the aircon is.
I’m already noticing it’s using less petrol. The theoretical fuel consumption is 20% less, but I suspect it may be even lower. (Apparently alloy wheels alone can save 10+Kg off the weight of a car; and the Magna may have been burning more than advertised.)
The Astra is not without its faults. The left side of the driver’s seat squeaks when changing gears (eg when pressing down the clutch). As does the windscreen wiper; it may need a new set of blades. That’s what you get in a $10K car, I guess.
The turning circle seems much smaller, although it’s just 10.3 metres instead of 11.0.
I may get to the stage where I don’t understand how I ever survived without remote keyless entry.
Love the cruise control, for those occasional jaunts on the motorway.
I’m getting used to the indicator and windscreen wipers being on opposite sides. Though once or twice I have wiped the windows accidentally.
I do need to get used to the electric windows — specifically, closing them before stopping the engine, though you can do that thing where you lock the door with the key and the windows will close.
And finally… both Midtown Madness 2 and Midtown Madness 3 have an Opel Astra modelled in them (the former is a download). It’s only a 3-door model, but it means I can zoom around in a virtual London, SF, Paris or Washington, driving like a maniac. Woo hoo!