1983 Vauxhall Cavalier MK2 SRI

Highlights

  • Just 2 former keepers
  • Incredibly low mileage 
  • Fantastic condition
  • Desirable, and increasingly rare SRi specification

The Appeal

Produced between 1981 and 1988, the Mk2 Cavalier is without a doubt one of the most memorable retro vehicles, highly regarded by critics of the time, and held dear by enthusiasts even to this day. 
This is of course the highly sought-after SRi model, which stood near the very top of its class, competing with the likes of the Ford Sierra. This Cavalier SRi boasts a fuel-injected 1.8L, 5-speed manual gearbox, desirable Recaro Highland Check interior, and of course, a superbly retro two-tone paint job, unique to the model. 
Whilst finding any Cavalier SRi on the road these days is seemingly an impressive feat, this particular example stands head and shoulders above the vast majority. One of the key factors leading to this is, of course, the incredibly low mileage covered, and the remarkably low number of former keepers. As a result, this Cavalier presents itself in excellent, mostly original condition throughout, with only a few minor signs of its age.

With the excellent condition and mileage in mind, this would make a superb addition to any collection, and will only increase in scarcity as time continues to pass. 

The History and Paperwork

  • The original Vauxhall booklet pack is present, complete with the original service booklet, last officially stamped at 27,430 miles in 1997
  • Recommissioned in 2009, after being stored and seldom driven since 1997
  • A few invoices for various repairs/ parts are included
  • The V5C document is present and ready to sign over
  • 2 keys are included with the vehicle 
  • MOT valid until 15 June 2023

The Interior

  • Original Highland Check interior, wonderfully preserved and presented in fantastic condition
  • Matching Highland Check Recaro front seats, with only slight bolster wear to the driver’s side, and a slight mark just below the passenger’s headrest
  • Much like the rest of the interior, the rear seats also reflect minimal use, and would very easily fool you of their age
  • Contact points such as the steering wheel, gearknob, and controls show minimal wear, further supporting the displayed mileage
  • The beige carpeting throughout the cabin is presented in stunning condition, having been protected over the years by a set of tailored rubber Vauxhall floor mats 
  • Headlining, the dashboard, parcel shelf, and door cards also appear to have been frozen in time and are free from the signs of age typically found with other examples
  • All instruments and controls throughout the interior are believed to be in full working order, including the Phillips radio & cassette player
  • The interior of this Mk2 Cavalier is truly remarkable, reflecting minimal use, and plenty of care over the years

The Exterior

  • Stunning two-tone White Gold & Anthracite paintwork
  • Believed to be mostly original, the paintwork is in excellent condition for its age, with only a few instances of previous repairs, and slight signs of age as pictured
  • The bodywork also presents itself rather impressively, with seemingly only the one noticeable dent, to the O/S/R door, and slight corrosion in the boot as pictured
  • Lights, glass, trim pieces, and badging are in excellent condition for their age, and as an added bonus, the vehicle still sports its original dealer plates and rear windscreen sticker
  • Each 14” wheel also shows off an excellent finish, with only minor blemishes and easily rectifiable marks to note. The wheels come wrapped in a set of Genesys XP1 tyres, with plenty of tread left to enjoy
  • Overall, the finish of this retro icon has been rather well preserved over the years, and now shows only a few signs of its age. It’s a vehicle that never fails to attract admiration wherever it is parked, and will no doubt continue to shine for years to come

The Mechanics

  • Powered by a 1.8L 4-cylinder, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox
  • The vehicle starts and performs exactly as intended, with reportedly no known faults
  • Recommissioned in 2009
  • Fitted with a new cambelt in 2009, at 36,448 miles 
  • Fitted with a new fuel filler neck overflow pipe and fuel pump relay in 2016
  • Prior to putting the car through the MOT in June 2022 the car had the following work: A new fuel tank, new plugs and leads, new fuel pipes and a new battery 

Summary


As retro enthusiasts will fondly recall, the Cavalier was one of Britain’s top-selling vehicles, with the rare SRi model proudly rivaling the nation’s performance cars. Unsurprisingly given their age, a great deal of these iconic cars have fallen over the years, making this a very rare opportunity to secure not just a Cavalier SRi, but perhaps one of the finest available at the moment. 

This mighty Vauxhall boasts an incredibly low mileage figure and reflects both minimal use and decades of care. It’s a vehicle that will enhance any collection, and never fails to turn heads wherever it ventures. 

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.*

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Auction Details
  • Year 1984
  • Make Vauxhall
  • Model Cavalier MK2 SRI
  • Colour White Gold & Anthracite
  • Mileage 38,409 Miles
  • Engine size 1789
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Northampton
  • County Northamptonshire
  • Country United Kingdom
  • Auction ends
Auction FAQs
Bidding history
15 Bids from 7 bidders
  • forbsie•••• £10,000 28/11/22
  • forbsie•••• £9,500 28/11/22
  • 1500lov•••• £9,100 28/11/22
  • forbsie•••• £9,000 28/11/22
  • Andrew•••• £8,700 27/11/22
  • forbsie•••• £8,500 26/11/22
  • Peter L•••• £7,600 25/11/22
  • forbsie•••• £7,500 25/11/22
  • steve-r•••• £7,200 25/11/22
  • janette•••• £7,100 24/11/22

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