VAUXHALL VIVA (1963-1979)

WHY YOU’LL WANT ONE

They’re fun, easy to look after, and there are plenty to choose from

Here’s another classic that’s undervalued when you consider what it was up against in period. You’ll struggle to find an Escort MkI or MkII at this money without getting your hands dirty, but all three generations of Viva can be had in decent condition within our budget.

Want proof? Well, Brightwells sold a clearly cherished 1964 HA, with just two owners from new and 32 old MoT certificates included with a small mountain of paperwork, for £4370 back in March, while Mathewsons found new owners for a pair of HCs – a two-door saloon and a surprisingly rare SL estate that could still turn heads with its distinctive Pastel Beige paintwork for around the £2700 mark.

All three generations are a delight to drive, simple to work on and supported by a particularly proactive owners’ club. Snap one up now and it’ll go down a treat when the famous Vauxhall Bedford Opel Association rally (hopefully) returns next summer.

ENGINE 1759cc/4-cyl/OHC POWER 90bhp@5500rpm TORQUE 104lb ft@3000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 94mph 0-60MPH 13.1sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 25-32mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual