1956 Vauxhall Cresta
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Photos provided by the vendor
*Notice to Bidders - the Vendor of the vehicle is prepared to assist the eventual Purchaser with organising transport from Ontinyent, Spain, where it is currently located, to any mainland UK address. Moreover, he is prepared to cover half of the transport costs (export and import duties and other miscellaneous expenses excepted)
Highlights
- Right-hand drive example
- Only four owners from new
- Original period interior
- Eyecatching Cresta two-tone colour scheme
- Only 4 cars listed with the DVLA source[How many left]
The Appeal
Introduced in 1954, the Vauxhall Cresta was a luxury evolution of the established Vauxhall Velox, with the same engine but a distinctly higher internal specification - and a wide array of options. The car was a distinctive saloon with character, smart aesthetics and that little bit of charming British milieu creating an unbeatable aesthetic.
This example has had a rather peaceful life, and following a stalled restoration, is seeking a new lease of life. For the dedicated enthusiast, this should be a superb project that’s bound to be rewarding.
The History and Paperwork
- Car indicates 44,893 miles on a five-figure odometer
- However, this is backed by the paperwork
- Currently SORN
- Comes with rare registration PFO888
- First registered in the UK in 1956
- Restoration begun by previous UK owner circa 2010
- In 2018 the car was imported to Spain by the current owner
- Since then, some home restoration has been undertaken
- Always sorted in a dehumidified garage by current owner
- Comes with some previous British MOT certificates
- Car includes original 1950s Preventative Service Voucher Booklet
The Interior
- Beautifully appointed interior with original options in matching blue
- Two-tone leather seating in blue with badge detailing
- A restoration of the leather has been begun
- The leather seating is showing some wear, with cracking and heavy patina
- Some carpets are original, while others are aftermarket - all have some staining and wear
- Headlining is still in situ though is somewhat misshapen in places
- Blue period dashboard presents well though with heavy blistering to the left-hand side
- All dials and instruments present very nicely in original chrome
- Chromework has some clear patina and pitting
- Original push-button 1950s radio is still present in working order
- Original clock and cigar lighter still installed in good working order
- Some loss of silver accents to the switches
- Some minor paint loss to the steering wheel
- Door cards are in poor condition with cracking, loose fabric and staining
- Extensive cracking to seams
- Dashboard-surrounding interior trim in very poor condition
- Round the back, the boot is in fair condition with good carpets
- The engine bay and the inner wings are very clean and the paintwork shows no sign of corrosion
The Exterior
- Original two-tone blue and black paintwork
- Paintwork features some rough finishing and streaking
- A slight colour mis-match is visible on the powder blue paintwork
- Some obvious blistering around seams and sills is visible
- The black paintwork may be obscuring some heavy texturing
- Some corrosion is visible on the door-side of the rear pillars
- Bodywork in need of attention
- Sills are original and need replacement, however replacements will be included
- Floor pan is reportedly solid with no structural concerns
- All chromework is present and correct though in need of some restoration
- Doors are correct on their hinges with no droop visible when opened
- Panels appear to be well-fitted with no major gaps
- Underneath, we’re informed the car is solid with some restoration required
- The car has the rare metal sun visor and the blue spot spotlights
- All 4 hub caps are present and are in very good condition
The Mechanics
- Fitted with the Bedford 2.3L OHV 6-cylinder engine
- 3-speed manual transmission
- Unmodified example to the seller’s knowledge
- Brakes require new seals in the master cylinder
- All lights, indicators etc are working correctly
- Vehicle reportedly starts well ‘with a little choke’ according to vendor
- Correct dual tone wind-horns
- The car reportedly runs as expected though has not travelled far due to SORN status
- The exhaust sounds solid with no leaks
- Overall, a good candidate for restoration
Summary
Although the car could benefit from some work to the sills etc, because it is so good mechanically.it drives very well and could be driven as it is, and would still be the centre of attraction.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1956
- Make Vauxhall
- Model Cresta
- Colour Black & Blue
- Odometer 44,893 Miles
- Engine size 2262
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Ontinyent
- Country Spain
17
bids
- ch•••• £2,650 07/04/23
- fr•••• £2,400 07/04/23
- ch•••• £2,300 07/04/23
- fr•••• £2,100 07/04/23
- pe•••• £2,000 07/04/23
- fr•••• £1,600 07/04/23
- eq•••• £1,500 07/04/23
- fr•••• £1,400 07/04/23
- pe•••• £1,300 07/04/23
- fr•••• £1,200 07/04/23
The Gallery
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|---|---|
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