Description
A TRULY remarkable early 1980s Vauxhall is what we have here. Stats say that something like 800, 000 Cavaliers were produced and yet only a handful remain today. This is a 1983 5-door hatchback, both tax and MoT exempt although it comes with a 13-month test with no advisories. And, to give you a quick insight into the history of this fine machine, it has failed just one MoT in its entire 43--year-old lifespan - and that was because of a CV boot!
I acquired this from a good friend of mine, a retired engineer who is meticulous when it comes to re-commissioning and maintaining his classic cars. He bought this in October 2022 with 75, 900 miles on the clock. It has now done 77, 000 although in reality you might say just 1, 200.
This is due to a brand new short engine being delivered to him directly from Opel in Germany (same as the Opel Ascona C). Now, such is the work that has been done under the bonnet, only the cylinder head casing and the sump remain as original components.
I have driven it 80 miles in the short time I have owned it and I have to say that it looks, feels, sounds and handles like a brand new Cavalier. I know. I had these cars when they were new!
No welding done that we can find, original sills and a fantastically original bright orange cloth interior with matching - original again - carpets. Body and paintwork is a sight to behold and, driving this Cavalier, you realise that perhaps they were hugely under-rated back in the day. OK, I had Cortinas and later a Sierra or two. But I would take this fwd Cavalier Mark 2 against the comparable Fords every time.
Here is a list of some of the work done in the past three years. I repeat. Some of the work:
* New short engine, now just run in with 1, 200 miles on the clock.
* Full new exhaust from engine back.
* Brakes rebuilt.
* New camshaft kit.
* New clutch
* New water pump
* New oil pump
* New E10 compliant fuel hoses
* New Carb jetc
* All 4 shock absorbers replaced plus front bump stops and roll bar links
* Cambelt fitted just before his purchase three years ago
* Brand new Weber carb
This car is what many would refer to as being "mega cool." True, I am listing it. But, I would be just as happy to drive it this Spring and Summer. Easy, comfortable and reliable motoring and ideal for the show season.
Strange how time refreshes/ changes our outlook. Once such a common sight on our roads, the Cavalier Mark 2 has turned itself into a cool dude and a hell of a rare sight on our roads.
An absolute joy to drive and so economical too. Tax, MoT and ULEZ-free. You may well struggle to find a better one.
I am Martin (Martin Howey Classics, Est. 28 years) and can also assist with delivery if required. Personally, if I was buying this, I would much rather drive it home no matter what the distance.
