Expert Buyer

The ‘baby Chevy’ is getting rare and prices are creeping up. Here’s what to look out for

Vauxhall Chevette

PROJECT

IS IT WORTH IT?

Nut-and-bolt restos are prohibitively expensive because demand fails to match that of early Escorts; values for basic spec cars are low, despite rarity.

CHECK THE SPARES

There’s some mechanical crossover with, for example, the Opel Kadett. Interiors are tough, but replacements are hard to source. Old-stock panels tend to be pricey.

CONTACT A CLUB

Chevette enthusiasts are small in number but very passionate. Track them down amid other droop snoot Vauxhall fans.

USABLE

PRICES VARY

BETWEEN MODELS

Values can vary massively, and there’s a gulf in values between the HS/HSR and humbler examples. £6k buys a lovely L but a knackered HS.

LOOK FOR ROT

They all corrode terribly, but pre-1980 Chevettes fare worst. Sills, wheelarches and exposed panels are notorious, too. HSRs feature extensive glassfibre.

HOW’S THE ENGINE?

Noisy timing chains and bottom end bearings are common in tired 1.3s. However, they are simple to work on and are good candidates for a rolling restoration.

GOOD CONDITION COUNTS

Provenance is lovely, but considering the cost of repairs and sourcing parts, don’t let the seller charge an excessive amount for it. Shell solidity is more important.

WHO’S BEHIND IT?

Home-maintenance and DIY rebuilds – including welding of new panels and structural braces for rigidity – is common. Scrutinise the quality of any work done before parting with any cash. 

DON’T BE AFRAID TO HAGGLE ON PRICE

Rarity matters, and puts originality at a premium. But buyers are few, and sellers don’t always get the prices that the cars probably deserve. It’s always worth haggling.

CONCOURS WHICH ONE IS IT?

Top HS models can command £30k these days – some sellers ask for more. If you can find a mint wide-body HSR (which is mega rare) you’ll pay more still.

BEWARE THE FAKES

Watch out for standard Chevettes masquerading as HS or HSRs. Upgrades are common – and absolutely fi ne – but only original HS or HSRs deserve top money.

PAY FOR THE BEST

Saloons, base and L-spec cars in concours condition aren’t common, either, and are likely to achieve around £10,000. They make good use of their mere 56bhp!