The early Nineties was a period of hot hatch paradise, with every manufacturer getting in on the act of offering a spiced-up version of their small and mid-size models, cashing in on the trend set by icons such as the VW Golf GTI and Peugeot 205 GTi.

Vauxhall’s answer came in the form of the Astra GTE, which in Mk2 form was one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its class as well as one of the most potent – certainly when the 16v model appeared in 1998. With 150bhp on tap and weighing in at just 997kg, it could sprint from 0-60mph in just 7.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 135mph.

Not only that, but you could watch its performance unfold on a state-of-the-art digital dashboard, as you put its twitchy handling and lively acceleration through its paces.
 
Unsurprisingly, then, and not helped by a rather rudimentary security system that led to many GTEs falling into the wrong (thieving) hands, it was eventually killed-off by spiralling insurance premiums, while later on in life many of the survivors succumbed to corrosion, or were modified to a state unrecognisable from the original.

This one, though, has survived unscathed and is beautifully original. It was recommissioned by its previous owner in 2024, with minor welding and attention to the paintwork, a full engine service including timing belt, replacement injectors and a fuel pump, putting it back to stunning, unspoilt and standard condition.

Oh, and did we mention the car phone? If you want to bring 1990 back to life, the cabin of this car is something to behold – a nicer GTE you’re unlikely to encounter.

BEFORE YOU BUY 

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence. 

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own  full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle. 

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..