BUYING WITH CONFIDENCE

CONCOURS £15,000-20,000+

1 IS THE TRIM INTACT?

Bodywork and trim are key to a top valuation. Trim being rare and visually complex, the restorer needs an excellent eye for detail.

2 DON’T PAY TOO MUCH

A top Cresta can command a couple of thousand more than a Velox. Standard Crestas tend to top out at around £20k.

3 DOES IT HAVE MODS?

Once popular, but most owners now seek period authenticity instead. Modifications can still push values well above £20k.

GOOD £12,000-17,000

1 INSPECT THE BODY

These cars deserve investment in the aesthetics, so make sure that the vendor hasn’t had to scrimp on the mechanicals to pay for it.

2 LOOK FOR QUALITY

Craftmanship is key. Many will have received decades of DIY maintenance, so scrutinise its quality with care.

3 CHECK THE SPEC

Crestas had more options as standard. Individual taste counts for a lot, but overdrive and two-tone paint are key differentiators.

USABLE £10,000-12,000

1 HOW’S THE ENGINE?

Reliable and very long-lived for the era. Oil leaks are common, but still need to be investigated thoroughly, especially if they’re considerable.

2 LOOK OUT FOR ROT

All are now exempt from MoT. Given their prolific corrosion, it’s extra important to ensure that yours is roadworthy before driving it home.

3 CHECK THE CHROME

Most mechanical issues can be affordably rectified, but you’ll need deep pockets for re-chroming or interior refurbishment.

PROJECT £5000-10,000

1 THINK CAREFULLY

The amount of trim, options, large bodywork and plentiful styling details make a top-quality restoration tricky to pull off.

2 AVAILABILITY

Worthy projects are very scarce. Second hand mechanical parts aren’t common, and don’t expect body panels to be readily available new.

3 JOIN THE CLUB

Knowledge of PAs runs deep among relatively few people, so join the Vauxhall Cresta Club and connect with the experts.