HIGHLIGHTS

Extremely rare
American influenced styling
Very low mileage
Fantastic unrestored condition

THE APPEAL

Produced from 1966-1972, the Viscount was Vauxhall’s flagship ‘posh’ saloon and was the ultimate version of the PC Series Cresta. It was thoughtfully equipped, comfortable and good value for money compared to it’s contemporaries. Oh, and also good for a ton with the torquey 3.3-litre block.

Back in the day, Vauxhall claimed that the Viscount was “the car for top professional men” and it was indeed voted “best business car of 1966” by the Sunday Times.

With just 7,025 Viscount’s built, it is a rare sight nowadays. indeed, according to the website ‘How Many Left’, there are currently only around 35 Vauxhall Viscount’s licensed on UK roads including just 2 automatic models!.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Owned 41 years by first owner
Previous MOT’s
Original handbook and instruction manuals

XNP 240G was first registered on the 1st April 1969 and it appears was cherished by the owner right up until 2010. Residing in the Sunderland area, the second and third registered custodians then kept it until the current registered owner acquired it on the 5th December 2015.

There isn’t much in the way of historical paperwork accompanying this wonderful Viscount other than the V5 (still in the previous owners name), a previous registration document, and some old MOT certificates which endorse the consistent low mileage.

There is, however, the original Viscount owner’s handbook and instruction manual’s pertaining to the Powerglide transmission and Radiomobile radio, plus a couple of service guides.

The last (exempt) MOT expired in 2018 but aside from one ‘fail’ for two steering issues, it has passed each year since 2010 according to online records. The exempt car tax has been renewed and runs until the 1st March 2023.

THE INTERIOR

Stylish 1960’s opulence
Great overall condition
Sumptuous leather

The plush interior offers every conceivable ’60’s luxury going. From power steering and automatic transmission, to walnut trim, comfortable leather upholstery, front seat belts, and amazingly, electric windows (which all operate!).

There is some age-related wear here and there, most noticeably on the steering wheel leather cover, and to the wood veneer. The carpeting is also a little faded on the transmission tunnel, but otherwise, the headlining, seats, door trims, fixtures and fittings are very agreeable.

The functioning AC instrumentation and usual driver switchgear is accompanied by a two-speed fan heater, radiomobile radio, and great map reading light and period fire extinguisher. The original clock appears to have stopped working, so a digital one is located in the lighter socket.

In addition to the spacious and comfortable interior, the massive boot is lined with very clean and undamaged black carpeting and contains the spare wheel and jack. Lifting the carpet and sound deadening reveals an excellent looking floor.

THE EXTERIOR

Fantastic coachwork
No major rust issues
Great chrome work

From the griffin badge back, this imposing executive saloon is a subtle blend of American styling and reserved British sensibility. The Viscount’s vinyl roof and chrome trim add a touch of class and the original burgundy coachwork really suits this distinctive car.

Believed to be unrestored, the paint and bodywork is in remarkable condition, and during the brief photoshoot, we didn’t detect any obvious scratches, dings or dents. There are one or two note-worthy imperfections, but nothing major (see photos).

Overall, the chrome parts, glass, trim and lights all present really well and the owner informs us that the front and rear screens have recently been resealed to prevent water ingress.

The sills and underside appear solid with minimal surface rust and the twin exhausts are a little rusty towards the rear - all probably consummate with a lack of use in recent years. Original Viscount trims sit on the steel wheels and four older Hercules tyres are fitted.

THE MECHANICS

Powerful low mileage cruiser
Simple to maintain
Good parts availability

This under-stressed, yet powerful, 3.3-litre OHV straight six engine features the original single Zenith Carburettor and produces around 115bhp @4,200rpm. With regular oil changes every 3,000 miles, this engine should perform quietly and smoothly for years to come.

With the aid of the GM-derived 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, put your foot down, and the six-cylinder should accelerate effortlessly. In fact, when new, Vauxhall were quick to point out that the Viscount could out-sprint a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow to 50mph.

This spacious engine bay looks highly original and well looked after, and again, has some signs of lack of use more than anything. The owner assures us that it starts easily, is “lovely” to drive, and the light power steering, power brakes and compliant suspension are spot on.

SUMMARY

This particular and extremely rare example of Luton’s finest is sure to please. It offers effortless driving pleasure combined with ‘foot-down’ performance, space for the whole family and looks stunning too.

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