Vauxhall Magnum (1973-78)

The Vauxhall Magnum, while not as well-known as some other models, had its share of issues. Here are some common problems reported by owners:

1. **Exhaust Sensors**: The malfunction indicator light may flash due to exhaust gas temperature sensors being installed in the wrong order. If you encounter fault codes P0421 and P2080, you'll need to swap the sensors¹.

2. **Oil Leaks**: Some models suffer oil leaks where the engine and gearbox meet. If you notice a puddle of oil beneath your Magnum, address it promptly¹.

Remember, regular maintenance and timely fixes can keep your Vauxhall Magnum running smoothly!
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Generations
The Vauxhall Magnum was produced in a single generation from 1973 to 1978¹². It was essentially an upgraded version of the Vauxhall Viva, featuring larger engines, a more luxurious interior, and higher trim levels.
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Body Styles
The Vauxhall Magnum was available in four different body styles:

1. **2-door saloon**
2. **4-door saloon**
3. **2-door coupé**
4. **3-door estate**

These options provided a variety of choices for buyers looking for different configurations.
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Trim Levels
The Vauxhall Magnum was available in several trim levels, which varied based on the engine and interior features:

1. **Magnum 1800**: This trim featured the 1.8-litre engine and a twin-dial instrument panel.
2. **Magnum 2300**: This trim came with the more powerful 2.3-litre engine and a seven-dial instrument panel.

Both trims offered more luxurious interiors compared to the standard Viva, including features like cloth-faced seats, additional chrome parts, and dual headlights.
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Engines
The Vauxhall Magnum was available with two engine options:

1. **1.8-litre Slant-Four engine**: This engine was used in the Magnum 1800 model.
2. **2.3-litre Slant-Four engine**: This engine was used in the Magnum 2300 model¹²³.

These engines provided a range of power options for the Magnum, making it a versatile choice for different driving needs.
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Spares
You can find spares for a Vauxhall Magnum at several places in the UK and Ireland. Here are some options:

1. **AutoPartsPro**
- **Website**: [AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vauxhall-magnum-carparts)
- They offer a wide range of parts for the Vauxhall Magnum, including brakes, filters, suspension components, and more.

2. **EU-Spares**
- **Website**: [EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/vauxhall/magnum)
- This site provides original parts for the Vauxhall Magnum, covering various components like engine parts, brake fluids, and more.

3. **eBay UK**
- **Website**: [eBay UK](https://www.ebay.co.uk/)
- You can often find both new and used Vauxhall Magnum parts from various sellers.

4. **Classic Vauxhall Spares**
- **Website**: [Classic Vauxhall Spares](https://www.classicvauxhallspares.co.uk/)
- Specializes in parts for classic Vauxhall models, including the Magnum.

These sources should help you locate the parts you need for your Vauxhall Magnum.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND VAUXHALL SPECIALIST LIST**

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
2. Wilsons of Rathkenny
o Address: 371 Cushendall Road, Ballymena BT43 6QB
o Phone: 028 2175 8177
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Townparks Car Sales Antrim
o Address: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
o Phone: 028 9446 2506
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: 1 Ashtree Hill, Craigavon BT62 2LH
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: 2 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL
o Phone: 028 3752 2911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. Ballyrobert Vauxhall
o Address: 402 Bangor Road, Bangor BT19 1UE
o Phone: 028 9127 2701
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Donnelly Group
o Address: 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR
o Phone: 028 9038 1729
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Lochside Garages
o Address: 101 Irvinestown Road, Enniskillen BT74 6GQ
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Higgins Autos
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. Donnelly Group
o Address: Maydown Carrakeel Drive, Maydown, Derry/Londonderry BT47 6UQ
o Phone: 028 7122 6386
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday by appointment only
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. McMullan Autobreakers
o Address: 15 Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9ET
o Phone: 028 8165 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
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Racing
The Vauxhall Magnum did have some success in racing, particularly in endurance events. One notable achievement was at the Spa 24 Hours, where the Magnum 2300 Coupé averaged over 100 mph during the 2,400-mile race. This performance highlighted the car's durability and speed in a demanding racing environment.

Additionally, the Magnum was often tuned and raced by private teams and enthusiasts, benefiting from its robust Slant-Four engine and relatively lightweight design.

The Vauxhall Magnum saw several modifications for racing, particularly under the Dealer Team Vauxhall (DTV) banner. Here are some key modifications:

1. **Engine Tuning**: The Slant-Four engines were extensively tuned for higher performance. This included modifications to the carburetors, exhaust systems, and camshafts to increase power output.

2. **Suspension Upgrades**: The suspension was upgraded to handle the rigors of racing. This included stiffer springs, upgraded shock absorbers, and reinforced suspension components to improve handling and stability.

3. **Weight Reduction**: To meet racing regulations and improve performance, unnecessary weight was stripped from the car. This included removing interior components and using lightweight materials where possible.

4. **Aerodynamic Enhancements**: Modifications were made to improve the car's aerodynamics, such as adding spoilers and modifying the bodywork to reduce drag and increase downforce.

5. **Braking System**: The braking system was upgraded with larger, more efficient brakes to handle the increased speeds and demands of racing.

6. **Safety Features**: Racing versions of the Magnum were equipped with safety features such as roll cages, racing seats, and harnesses to protect the driver in the event of an accident¹².

These modifications helped the Vauxhall Magnum achieve success in various racing events, including endurance races like the Spa 24 Hours.