Ask an expert

Looking at a Holden Vectra 2001 - what would be the going price for one in tidy condition?

It would depend on history and mileage as well as general condition. A quick look on Trade Me reveals that the general asking price seems to be between $2k to $4k according to mileage and condition.
These care are cheap for their age due to the fact that they don't generally enjoy a great reputation for reliability.

Its an auto, 160,000km, old couple 1st NZ owners going to check it out tonight but just trying to get an idea in advance. When you say reliability issues what do you mean? What normally goes? Apparently its had the cambelt done at 140,000 kms and has logs for everthing.

As with anything, there are exceptions, and you may be lucky. However, if you deal with statistics and odds, there are better cars than a 2001 Vectra; especially a relatively high mileage example such as this.
They drive very well and are comfortable, but transmissions, engines, broken cambelts and the electrical system are all known issues.
If you look on any of the forums about them, you won't find many positive comments.
Eg;
http://www.geekzone.co.nz/forums.asp?topicid=67069
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/archive/1960409

What make would you suggest we should be looking for then if buying in this price range $2- $2,500?

Obviously, this is a very difficult price range, but there are reliable cars to be had, although they're likely to be older than this Vectra, and possibly with similar or even higher kms.
It depends on what you really need in a car, but if reliability and low cost of maintenance are requirements (and let's face it, they usually are), a mainstream Japanese model such as a Mazda Familia or Nissan Pulsar would be good options. Neither may look or feel as nice as the Vectra, but they're less likely to let you down or empty your wallet!