BUYING TIPS
■ Check the inner and outer wings thoroughly, plus the base of the A-pillars, inner and outer sills, behind the rear shock absorbers and the swan necks of the front chassis legs. Also worth inspecting are the boot floor and the spare wheel well.
■ The Viva’s cabin is fairly hard wearing but getting replacement trim is tricky. It’s worth signing up with the Vauxhall Viva Owners’ Club (vauxhallviva.com) to keep in touch with fellow owners.
■ Rear suspension arm bushes are prone to wearing out – particularly if the car’s been used hard.