1
                                                                  EXHIBIT 23.1

                   CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

   
    As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by
reference in this registration statement of our report dated March 6, 1998
included in Group 1 Automotive, Inc.'s Form 10-K for the year ended 
December 31, 1997 and to all references to our Firm included or incorporated by
reference in this registration statement.
    


ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP



Houston, Texas
January 26, 1999