Vauxhall started to
produce their 'Viva' series in 1963 at a price of £528 for the basic
car. Towards the end of 1966 some 309,000 'HA' Viva had been
produced. This was followed by the even more successful 'HB' model
with the more 'coke-bottle' curvy shape which could be purchased new
from £580 upwards depending on the model. Over 650,000 of the 'HB'
were produced including the very desirable 2 litre 'GT' version.
1970 saw the start of
production on a new 'HC' version which could be yours for less than
£800.
This production run (
641,000 saloons and estates) continued until June 1979 covering a
large range of models including the 1 .8 and 2. 3 litre 'slant four' engine
fitted to the 'Magnum' One of the most desirable of the range
which now command very high prices on the classic car market was the
ill-fated 'HPF' (High Speed Firenza) which was in any colour you
like.....providing it was silver (called Starfire Metallic). This
utilised the coupe body of the Firenza and a four headlamp
'droop-snoot' nose cone giving a superb new 'look' to this ultimate
2.3 engined 'Viva' with at least one example achieving a recorded
130mph run.
Unfortunately not many
people were prepared to pay £2600 in 1973 prices, so only 203 were
produced. If you want the ultimate 'Viva' …......this is the one to
have......but check your bank balance first!
'ANA 78M' is a two-door
model in 'Yellow Gold' with a 1256cc engine and takes a little while
to get up to 130mph !!
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