Full Description
SORRY NOW SOLD – SIMILAR WANTED
The most incredible Mk1 Vauxhall Astra L 1300S with just 10,448 miles from new.
EQUIPMENT
Laminated windscreen, safety crumple zones, rigid passenger safety cell, front air spoiler, burst-proof locks, locking fuel cap, halogen headlamps, twin rear fog lamps, heated rear window, reclining front seats, upholstered front seat headrests, folding rear seat, Phillips push button mono stereo cassette, quartz clock, centre console, lidded glovebox. Dealer options; mudflaps.
EXTERIOR
Only very rarely is such an incredibly special vehicle seen, one that has defied the years to truly deserve the term ‘Time warp’. This very early Mk1 Vauxhall Astra finished in Mandarin Red, (Code 533), boasts a virtually flawless factory finish commensurate with the ultra-low genuine mileage and even more remarkable is the fact that the car is unrestored. The gleaming paintwork would put most one-year old vehicles to shame and the trim sections are perfect. Unique features of this very early 1980 example include the tailgate Vauxhall lettering centralised, absence of rear wash wipe and rear number plate shroud, lower boot lock position and bumper mounted rear number plate lamp. Earlier cars, even the base L model, had bright finish exterior door handles that were later changed to satin black. Originality seekers will be further thrilled to see supplying dealer number plates still fitted as well as the super clean and untouched underside displaying factory markings. It is difficult to imagine this not being the best example in existence.
INTERIOR
As new! Rarely does the opportunity arise to describe a classic car interior as perfect, however in this instance we feel it is entirely justified. The Red Tweed Cloth upholstery, (Code 245), is representative of a 10,448 mile garaged example with no wear or fading whatsoever. The door cards, trim sections, carpets and headlining are pristine and the dashboard is flawless. The controls and switchgear boast bright symbols which have avoided fading and discolouration and the steering wheel and gear knob have defined natural veins which are usually worn smooth with increased use. All equipment operates perfectly including the Phillips push button mono stereo cassette and even the nostalgia evoking period Vauxhall scent hasn’t escaped into the 1980’s atmosphere! It is beyond words how amazing this interior is.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
This 1300S incorporates the 1297cc OHC unit produces 75bhp at 5800rpm and 100Nm of torque at 4500 rpm. The car performs and drives beautifully and the instantly familiar free revving engine note is delightful. The engine bay is spotless and displaying factory plates, labels, PDI chalk markings and original panel stampings. The four-speed all-synchromesh manual gearbox is sturdy and direct. Simply wonderful.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Any collector will be delighted to see the standard 13in steel rims correctly 1980 date stamped and shod in the factory Michelin 155/80 R13 tyres. Those wanting to use the car are also catered for with a second set of pristine wheels shod in brand new premium brand Firestone tyres. The spare wheel is housed alongside a complete tool and jack assembly within the moulded foam holder. Diagonally split dual circuit brakes with servo assistance feature 9.3in front discs and 7.9in rear drums to bring the car to a steady and assured halt.
HISTORY FILE
Following UK launch of the all new German built Vauxhall Astra in March 1980, this very early example was registered new on the 4th June 1980 by Vauxhall Main Dealer, Moores & Newton of Wilmslow. The first registered keeper was sportswear and football equipment supplier, Umbro Ltd, whereby it was purchased by the Managing Director for his wife. After three years the car was registered to her personally and remained so until her passing in 2000 to be bequeathed to a family friend. The car has been in the hands of just two further collectors. The car was shown just twice by the previous owner, including at a large Ford show where it caused quite a stir by winning Car of the Show, considered sacrilege for a Vauxhall to do so at a Ford event!
The fantastic history file consists of the original book pack with all handbooks, guides, service booklet and dealership point of sale literature. There are two original sets of keys both with supplying dealer fobs and keys tags and even a ‘You’ll love driving our cars’ Astra badge! A further beautifully presented folder contains masses of invoices and receipts as well as every MOT certificate dating back to very first in 1983 to fully verify the mileage. Completing the superb history file are two original Astra Mk1 sales brochures. Personal inspection encouraged to appreciate just how special this car is.
HPI Clear.
