Vauxhall Astra D
The front-wheel-drive revolution that modernised Vauxhall.
- Power
- 75 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.4 s
- Top speed
- 106 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$18k
About the Vauxhall Astra D
Launched in late 1979, the Mk1 Astra was a watershed moment for Vauxhall, marking its first foray into front-wheel drive. Effectively a rebadged Opel Kadett D, it replaced the ageing Viva and brought General Motors' European operations into direct competition with the Volkswagen Golf. The 1.3 S variant featured the new 'Family I' overhead-cam engine, which was highly regarded for its efficiency and punchy 75 hp output. While it lacked the prestige of the later GTE, the 1.3 S was the definitive family choice, praised for its sharp handling and space-efficient packaging. Today, survivors are rare due to corrosion, making well-preserved examples increasingly collectable.
Vauxhall Astra D specs
The Vauxhall Astra D produces 75 bhp (56 kW) and 101 Nm (74 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.4 seconds and has a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | D |
| Trim | 1.3 S |
| Years | 1979–1984 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.3-litre OHC inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,297 cc (1.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 75 bhp (56 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 101 Nm (74 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.4 s |
| Top speed | 106 mph (170 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 845 kg (1,863 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 89 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Vauxhall Astra D worth?
A typical Vauxhall Astra D is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $18,000 (about £1,900 – £13,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Vauxhall Astra D rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Astra D is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 18 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Vauxhall Astra D fun facts
- The Astra Mk1 won the What Car? Car of the Year award in 1980, beating the then-dominant Ford Escort and Volkswagen Golf.
- Early production was handled in West Germany at Opel's Bochum plant before moving to Vauxhall's Ellesmere Port factory in November 1981.
- The 'S' in 1.3 S stood for the high-compression state of tune, distinguishing it from the lower-powered 60 hp 'N' or 'E' versions.
