Vauxhall VX200 – Classified of the Week

When charged with the task of thinking about a modern classic British roadster, one that is agile and fast and boasts lightning response in terms of brakes and steering, it’s pretty common to end up landing on the Lotus Elise. Arguably the car that saved the company, the Elise was a glorious wee thing. It still is, and early cars are now becoming sought after. However, the Lotus Elise, while brilliant, was far from the only option. Vauxhall, unexpectedly, had an offering, too. The VX220.

The Lotus Elise was great, right until the point it met a solid object. The powers that be were aware of this, and as such, the original model simply stood no chance of meeting more stringent crash test regulations. As such, it needed to be updated. General Motors also wanted a sporty little number to put in showrooms, so in a presumably smoke-filled room, execs from both companies struck a deal. GM would give Lotus money, which would help with the new Elise, and in return, the good people of Hethel would build GM a sports car. The VX220 was born.

It was a more angular affair than the Lotus. Niels Loeb and Martin Smith wanted a more aggressive, purposeful look. And on that, they delivered. It was also more powerful. Early cars had a 2.2, but later models, as per the stunning 2004 Vauxhall VX220 listed here, were fitted with a rip-snorting 2.0 turbocharged Vauxhall unit delivering 200bhp. All in a car that barely tipped the scales at 930kg. It was, and still is, an utter riot. But ultimately, it was also a Vauxhall, and in 2000 when the VX220 landed, Vauxhall just didn’t have enough cool points to be offering such a car, despite it being lauded as being utterly brilliant. Sadly, the VX220 was largely forgotten.

Now, it stands as something of an ‘if you know, you know’ hidden gem. Owners, as ably demonstrated by the car we’re talking about here, were and continue to be passionate and invested. Find a VX220 today and it’ll be cherished, there’s no doubt. This one certainly is. It’s only covered a mere 10,954 miles which means it’s pretty much as new in car terms. The current owner spent two years looking for the best VX220 out there, and this was it. Probably still is.

This one has never been ridden hard and put away wet. It’s been kept away from the abuse of tracks, and not one nut or bolt has been turned in the name of modification. The seller proudly states that “this example doesn’t even have curb rash on a single wheel” followed by “unmolested factory original. I’m the second owner. No mods. Note the undercarriage diffusers and under tray retain factory sealant on all seams.” If you’re looking for one, this is it.

This 2004 Vauxhall VX220 still turns heads, it still provides thrills and thanks to its rarity and condition is sure to only go up in value. Heck, you could put another 10,000 miles on it yourself and probably still make a profit should you need to part with it. It’s a moot notion though, as when you experience this machine, you’ll never want to let it go. Whatever it is the seller has replaced it with must be very special indeed! But, his loss could be your gain.