Vauxhall Astra MK2 Polycarbonate Windows

The Vauxhall Astra Mk2, launched in 1984, took everything that made the original Astra a success and refined it into one of the most popular and recognisable hatchbacks of the 1980s. With sleeker styling, improved performance, and a greater focus on practicality, the Mk2 Astra became a staple of British roads, competing head-to-head with the Ford Escort, Volkswagen Golf, and Peugeot 309. It was the car that truly cemented the Astra as a household name in the UK.
One of the biggest changes with the Mk2 Astra was its aerodynamic, more rounded design. Compared to the boxy Mk1, the new model had a more modern, streamlined look, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. It was also slightly longer and wider, offering more cabin space and a bigger boot, making it a more comfortable and practical choice for families. The Astra Mk2 was available in three-door and five-door hatchbacks, a four-door saloon, an estate, and even a convertible, ensuring there was a version to suit every type of buyer.
Under the bonnet, the Astra Mk2 came with a wide range of engines, from 1.2-litre economy models to 1.8-litre fuel-injected variants, offering power outputs between 60 and 115 horsepower. These engines were known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and ease of maintenance, making the Astra a practical and affordable choice for everyday driving. The lightweight construction and front-wheel-drive layout meant the Astra was easy to handle, with good road manners and predictable cornering.
But the real star of the range was the Astra GTE, launched in 1985, which became one of the defining hot hatches of the 1980s. Powered by a 1.8-litre engine producing 115 horsepower, and later upgraded to a 2.0-litre 16-valve unit with 150 horsepower, the GTE could hit 0-60 mph in around 7 seconds, putting it firmly in the same league as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Ford Escort XR3i. With sportier suspension, sharper steering, and aggressive bodywork, including the iconic digital dashboard, the GTE was Vauxhall’s ultimate statement in performance and technology at the time.
Inside, the Astra Mk2 featured a simple yet well-laid-out cabin, with comfortable seats, a practical dashboard, and good visibility. Higher-spec models included more advanced features for the era, such as electric windows, central locking, and even an optional trip computer. The Astra was designed to be easy to drive and live with, making it a go-to choice for families, commuters, and company car drivers alike.
The Mk2 Astra also had a strong motorsport presence, competing in rallying and touring car championships, where its lightweight chassis and punchy engines made it a serious contender. It proved that, despite being a practical family car, the Astra had true sporting potential when pushed to its limits.
By the time the Mk2 Astra was replaced by the Mk3 in 1991, it had become one of the best-selling cars of the decade, firmly establishing Vauxhall as one of the UK’s most dominant car brands.
Today, the Astra Mk2 is a rare sight, as most have succumbed to rust and years of hard use. However, enthusiasts still appreciate it for its simple mechanics, engaging driving dynamics, and iconic styling, especially in GTE form. The Mk2 Astra may have been a common car in its day, but it left a lasting legacy as one of the defining hatchbacks of the 1980s.