Vauxhall Chevette HS
ENGINE 2279cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 135bhp@4750rpm TORQUE 134lb ft@1500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 117mph 0-60MPH 8.6sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 20-27mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 46,133 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Any dissention about very expensive Vauxhall Chevettes will disappear when you take the wheel of this beautifully setup car. The smooth and slickshifting close-ratio five-speed gearbox helps to make the most of the phenomenal torque, which makes for jaw-dropping straightline performance. The clutch is quite heavy though. The engine appears to be tuned to perfection, with no sign of misfire or hesitation anywhere in the rev range. The rack-andpinion steering operates quietly, with no notchiness, and offers plenty of feedback via the small leather-rimmed steering wheel. Handling is excellent and never give a moment’s concern. Grip is excellent and the servo-assisted brakes are well up to scratch. This car has been rebuilt to a high standard, right down to the original decals. The paintwork is flawless with no discolouration or overspray and there are no dents, scratches or scuffs. Many of the panels have been renewed and new metal let in to others. Inner and outer sills, rear quarter panels, doors, bulkhead, floors and inner wings have all either been repaired or replaced, the vendor says. Just try finding a single case of bad panel fit or any evidence of welder or grinder – we really couldn’t. The car seems as immaculate underneath as anywhere else. The tyres look new, the glass is unblemished and the delicate glassfibre mouldings look factory-fresh.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
This Chevette’s immaculate exterior presentation extends inside, where the wonderful tartan material on the seats and door trims is genuinely as-new. There’s an unmarked brilliant red carpet, pristine headlining and a dashboard free from cracks, scuffs or warping. The steering wheel also looks new. All the instruments are present and correct and work as they should, right down to the period radio. The interior soundproofing is new and the windows and door rubbers look factory-fresh.
UNDER THE BONNET
A glance under the bonnet requires a double take because it really is as good as it looks. The attention to detail is remarkable, down to the unmarked oil cooler and correct factory labels. The engine hasn’t got a mark on it. Nothing leaks and it all runs beautifully, which isn’t surprising because the engine has been rebuilt with correct-spec 2.3 HS pistons. The gearbox, carburettors and brakes have also been rebuilt. All wiring looks as new.
THE CCW VIEW
Wow! This is one of the most meticulous restoration jobs that we can remember. There’s a huge history file but no-one has tried – or dared to – tot up the total cost, but it far exceeds the asking price. For the dedicated HS enthusiast, it’s surely an unbeatable buy.