Photos provided by the vendor

*Notice to Bidders - the Vendor of the vehicle is prepared to assist the eventual Purchaser with organising transport from Ontinyent, Spain, where it is currently located, to any mainland UK address. Moreover, he is prepared to cover half of the transport costs (export and import duties and other miscellaneous expenses excepted)

Highlights

Right-hand drive example
Only four owners from new
Original period interior
Eyecatching Cresta two-tone colour scheme
Only 4 cars listed with the DVLA source[How many left]

The Appeal

Introduced in 1954, the Vauxhall Cresta was a luxury evolution of the established Vauxhall Velox, with the same engine but a distinctly higher internal specification - and a wide array of options. The car was a distinctive saloon with character, smart aesthetics and that little bit of charming British milieu creating an unbeatable aesthetic.

This example has had a rather peaceful life, and following a stalled restoration, is seeking a new lease of life. For the dedicated enthusiast, this should be a superb project that’s bound to be rewarding.

The History and Paperwork

Car indicates 44,893 miles on a five-figure odometer
However, this is backed by the paperwork
Currently SORN
Comes with rare registration PFO888
First registered in the UK in 1956
Restoration begun by previous UK owner circa 2010
In 2018 the car was imported to Spain by the current owner
Since then, some home restoration has been undertaken
Always sorted in a dehumidified garage by current owner
Comes with some previous British MOT certificates
Car includes original 1950s Preventative Service Voucher Booklet

The Interior

Beautifully appointed interior with original options in matching blue
Two-tone leather seating in blue with badge detailing
A restoration of the leather has been begun
The leather seating is showing some wear, with cracking and heavy patina
Some carpets are original, while others are aftermarket - all have some staining and wear
Headlining is still in situ though is somewhat misshapen in places
Blue period dashboard presents well though with heavy blistering to the left-hand side
All dials and instruments present very nicely in original chrome
Chromework has some clear patina and pitting
Original push-button 1950s radio is still present in working order
Original clock and cigar lighter still installed in good working order
Some loss of silver accents to the switches
Some minor paint loss to the steering wheel
Door cards are in poor condition with cracking, loose fabric and staining
Extensive cracking to seams
Dashboard-surrounding interior trim in very poor condition
Round the back, the boot is in fair condition with good carpets
The engine bay and the inner wings are very clean and the paintwork shows no sign of corrosion

The Exterior

Original two-tone blue and black paintwork
Paintwork features some rough finishing and streaking
A slight colour mis-match is visible on the powder blue paintwork
Some obvious blistering around seams and sills is visible
The black paintwork may be obscuring some heavy texturing
Some corrosion is visible on the door-side of the rear pillars
Bodywork in need of attention
Sills are original and need replacement, however replacements will be included
Floor pan is reportedly solid with no structural concerns
All chromework is present and correct though in need of some restoration
Doors are correct on their hinges with no droop visible when opened
Panels appear to be well-fitted with no major gaps
Underneath, we’re informed the car is solid with some restoration required
The car has the rare metal sun visor and the blue spot spotlights
All 4 hub caps are present and are in very good condition

The Mechanics

Fitted with the Bedford 2.3L OHV 6-cylinder engine
3-speed manual transmission
Unmodified example to the seller’s knowledge
Brakes require new seals in the master cylinder
All lights, indicators etc are working correctly
Vehicle reportedly starts well ‘with a little choke’ according to vendor
Correct dual tone wind-horns
The car reportedly runs as expected though has not travelled far due to SORN status
The exhaust sounds solid with no leaks
Overall, a good candidate for restoration

Summary

Although the car could benefit from some work to the sills etc, because it is so good mechanically.it drives very well and could be driven as it is, and would still be the centre of attraction.

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.*

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