Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, Online Auction - 10th July on Thursday the 10th of July. BackgroundThe noughties gave us some true future classics, although not all were equally appreciated at the time. Take the Vauxhall VX220, which made its debut in 2000. This two-seat roadster may have a devoted following today, but it initially struggled to ignite widespread enthusiasm, despite its eye-catching looks and a development story that involved one of the finest sports car makers in existence.
Under the skin, the VX220 shared much with the contemporary Lotus Elise, being the result of a collaboration between Lotus and Vauxhall. Built at Hethel, it shared many key components with the Elise S2, including the stiff aluminium chassis tub. It also benefitted from Lotus’s expertise in glass-fibre bodywork and suspension tuning.
Rather than using the Elise’s K-series engine, the VX220 was powered by a robust 145bhp 2. 2-litre Ecotec petrol unit, which was enough to propel the 870kg car from 0–62mph in 5. 6 seconds. In 2003, the option of a 2. 0-litre turbocharged engine from the Astra GSi became available, resulting in blistering performance. With a 0–62mph time of just 4. 7 seconds (despite the increase in weight to 930kg), the new VX220 Turbo also received visual upgrades, such as larger side air intakes and a rear spoiler.
The CarThis particular car rolled off the production line in late 2003. Originally finished in silver. It comes equipped with the optional 2. 0-litre turbo engine from the Astra, making it the more powerful and faster version — truly a remarkable piece of engineering.
In 2005, the car was recorded as a Category D write-off. It was subsequently bought back from the insurers and returned to the road. According to the vendor, you would never know — it looks and drives as well as the day it left the factory.
In 2016, it underwent a full suspension overhaul. This included the installation of poly bushes, new ball joints, blasted and epoxy-painted wishbones, Quantum Zero dampers, flexible brake lines, and more. All parts were replaced with OEM components, keeping the car completely original in character.
The vehicle has been off the road for approximately a year but has been kept in dry storage on a trickle charger. It will be MOT’d prior to sale.
In SummaryThis is a fantastic opportunity to own a rare and exciting British sports car. We believe it is sensibly guided and will appeal to any enthusiast.
Location: LancashirePhotos: ProfessionalSeller: Private
