*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT C insurance loss in 03/2012 ***

*Fresh MOT with no advisories till May 2026

Highlights

Very low documented mileage of under 35,000 miles
Factory standard 200bhp VX220
Current keeper since 2008
Summer use, garaged and never used on track
Light recommissioning including cambelt in 2024
Fitted with hard and soft tops and factory Touring Pack
Fresh MOT until May 26 with no advisories
Two keys present
A very good example of these superlative, highly rated cars

The Appeal

Without the VX220, there would be no second-generation Elise. For that alone, we can be grateful it was built. But the car that enabled Lotus to meet stringent crash test regulations also eclipsed it when new, with none other than CAR magazine acclaiming it as their 2003 Performance Car of the Year and stating, “any road becomes VX road. And once it owns the road, it owns your heart.”

Strong stuff. Today, thanks to lacking a Lotus badge, the VX220 is one of motoring’s most glittering of hidden gems. We want one and we think you should too. The one you want is this car, the 200bhp VX220, the turbocharged Ecotec engine finally delivering the power to match the car’s sizzling dynamics.

The vendor acquired this car in 2008 and has clearly looked after it. It is fully factory standard and displays an exceptionally low mileage of under 35,000 miles from new. The extensive history file of regular servicing and maintenance confirms this. We are told that it has never been used on the track - a rarity for a VX220 - and is reserved for dry, summer use.

Finished in silver metallic, with a two-tone black and red leather interior, it is a fine example of these chiselled sports cars. It is said to run and drive exactly as it should with no faults or issues. The car was recommissioned in early 2024 following dry storage, work that included a new cam belt, so it arrives with the buyer in good order.

The VX220 is the Vauxhall you really, really want. Trust us and don’t miss this one.

The vendor says:

“This VX220 Turbo is a genuinely rewarding car to drive. The turbocharged engine delivers strong, accessible torque with a characterful soundtrack, while the car's light weight and precise handling make even everyday drives feel special.

“It’s a proper driver’s car, equally at home on twisty B-roads as it is soaking up the sun with the roof off in summer. A well-maintained, garage-kept example that’s ready to be enjoyed.”

History and Paperwork

First registered 14th July 2003
Six registered keepers from new
Current keeper registered with DVLA from August 2008
Vendor informs us that he acquired the car in 2008
We are told that the car sustained damage to the front clam in a low-speed accident in 2012
The work was professionally repaired with no subsequent issues
Regularly serviced throughout its life, with annual servicing up until 2019
Placed into dry storage following the birth of the owner's daughter in 2019
Recommissioned in early 2024, including a full cambelt service
Used exclusively for weekend drives and never tracked during current ownership
Two keys present
Never been used on the track by the vendor
Fresh MOT until May 26 with no advisories

The Condition

Smart silver metallic paintwork in very good order for age of car
Due to age and mileage buyers should expect minor signs of use such as stone chips
Vendor advises that there is a small paint chip on the front edge of the hardtop
Car is supplied with hard and soft tops from factory as shown
Fibreglass bodywork presents well with no reported crazing, damage or deterioration
Panelwork fits well with flush and consistent panel gaps as shown in photos
Aluminium chassis in very good order with no structural advisories on MOT
Exterior lights present well with no notable misting or damage
Five-spoke, split-spoke 17in alloy wheels in good order with only minor marks
Tyres appear to be in generally good order with plenty of remaining tread
Two-tone black and red leather interior in very good order with only slight wear
Factory fitted with optional Touring Pack including thicker carpets and sound deadening
Seats and carpets are in very good condition as shown in photos
All switchgear and instruments work as they should according to the seller
Aftermarket radio fitted, but cabin remains original otherwise
No reported faults with electrics, lighting, switchgear or dials
No dashboard warning lights notified

The Mechanics

1,998cc ‘Ecotec’ Z20LET 4cyl turbocharged engine delivering 200bhp
5spd manual gearbox
Engine starts eagerly, pulls strongly, with no known faults according to seller
Fully factory-standard, with everything operating as it should we are told
Turbocharged engine delivers strong, accessible torque
Lightweight and precise handling
Full service history with gap when car was off the road in dry storage
Recommissioned in early 2024 with a cam belt change as above
No reported running or driving issues
Fresh MOT until May 26 with no advisories

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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