**Please note that these photographs have been supplied by the vendor**
Highlights
- Very rare survivor of the Berton-designed hot hatch with a drop top
- Delightfully retro digital dashboard model
- Peppy 148bhp 2litre fuel injected engine with low miles
- Solid-looking project and deserving survivor of this rare and capable classic
The Appeal
Where the Mk1 Astra was boxy and edgy, the Mk2 was all flowing smoothness, from its Kamm-tailed design to its low nose. Allegedly influenced by the iconic Alfasud, it was a design that clearly lent itself to the hot hatch GTE and sales were suitably strong. Alongside vigorous 2litre, 148bhp performance, an innovative digital dashboard became the GTE’s calling card.
To broaden the GTE’s appeal Vauxhall added a Berton-designed convertible. Essentially a T-bar equipped cabriolet rather than a full convertible, less than 6,500 were sold and only a handful remain on UK roads.
This 1991 car is likely to be one of the last built before the Mk3 arrived. The MOT has just expired - although there were no serious advisories on the last one - and it could do with some work to bring it back to its prime. But given its rarity and the innate charms of these very capable classic cars, it could be a very rewarding project for the right buyer.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered 2nd January 1991
- Appears to have a good history file although we were unable to view it at the time of writing
- Factory handbooks and wallet
- MOT expired 6th May 2023 but only minor advisories on the last test
- Recent MOT mileage records appear to be incorrect
- The MOT has expired so this car will need to be towed after collection
The Interior
- Very original interior, right down to the velour sports seats and Vauxhall factory radio and cassette storage system
- Delightful digital dashboard appears to be fully working and is one of the standout features of this model
- Some wear on the driver’s seat bolsters but otherwise the seats are in good condition
- Carpets appear original and would benefit from a clean
- Trim and switchgear appear complete and in good condition for the year
- Rooflining is sagging and drooping towards rear of vehicle and appears generally discoloured
The Exterior
- Classic Mk2 Astra ‘Kamm Tail’ design one of the prettiest of the 80s hot hatch brigade
- Burgundy metallic paintwork in fair to poor condition with various scratches and marks around the vehicle in particular the rear offside wing and driver’s door
- Front offside wing appears to have poor body and paint repair with indications of filler
- Front and rear bumpers show marks and scuffs
- Plastic trims around the vehicle are scuffed and discoloured
- Front lower spoiler trim incomplete and damaged
- Nearside headlamp washer missing
- Car sits on what appear to be Cavalier GSI alloys painted black and in poor condition
- Roof in fair condition with no obvious rips or tears and would likely respond to cleaning and reproofing
- Roof appears to operate correctly
- Bertin T Bar cabriolet design retains structural rigidity whilst offering full convertible versatility
The Mechanics
- 2litre ‘red top’ Vauxhall 4cyl 16V engine
- 148bhp engine offering 0-60mph in around 7.5secs
- At the time of writing we were not able to view the service history for this car
- 5spd manual gearbox
- The powerful 2litre motor at the heart of the GTE put it right at the front of the hot hatch pack when this car was new
Summary
The Mk2 Astra GTE had the looks, performance and refinement to offer 80s hot hatch enthusiasts something a little different from its GTI rivals. The Bertone-penned convertible added wind in the hair style to this capable package.
This 1991 GTE convertible is a very rare survivor and one with its wonderful digital dashboard still intact and working. There is work to do to bring it back to its full glory but given its ability and its rarity that feels like a project worth undertaking.
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.*
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
