Highlights

Reported to be highly original and unmodified throughout
Finished in Carmine Red with paint described as unfaded
Service book with stamps, supported by invoices and MOT records
MOT valid until May 2027

The Appeal

The Nova was General Motors' spirited contender in the 1980s supermini class, offering eager engines, nimble handling, and a lightweight chassis that made every journey entertaining. The Merit trim delivered a sensible, well-equipped package, emblazoned with the Vauxhall branding and a sharp, angular silhouette that felt determined and sporty.

This 1986 example in Carmine Red is a remarkable survivor, with a fine shine to the paintwork, straight bodywork and a highly original cabin. The vendor believes this is as close to a new Nova as you can get forty years later, and we'd agree it's certainly a very well-appointed machine.

With good, solid-looking arches, well-presented upholstery and even rather clean headlining, it's an excellent prospect - and we think the lucky buyer will find it a very rewarding machine.

Key Information

Mileage: 33,000 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 20th May 2027
Technical specs: 993cc four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual transmission
Paperwork: Service book with stamps, invoices, and MOT records

The Detail

The vendor describes the paint as original and unfaded
Lovely bright shine to the Carmine livery
Badges, branding and trims look in good order
Underside has been coated for protection
Interior is very well-kept and original
Upholstery in good order
Dash plastics appear sound
Instruments are clean and legible
The vendor reports the car has been properly stored during periods of inactivity
We're told that the car is driving well

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.