Vauxhall Via GT (HB) (1968-70)
Production Total: Vauxhall Viva GT=4,606
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=33 SORN=25
The **Vauxhall Viva GT** had a limited production run, and while specific issues related to this model are not widely documented, here are some general considerations for used Vauxhall Viva hatchbacks (2015-2019):
1. **Oil Consumption**: A few owners reported excessive oil consumption. When inspecting a used Viva, check the oil level and inquire about any service history related to oil consumption.
2. **Recalls**: There were two recalls—one for a **driveshaft problem** and another for an issue with the **handbrake**. Ensure that any necessary remedial work has been carried out.
3. **Non-Engine Electrics**: Some minor non-engine electrical problems have been noted.
4. **Overall Reliability**: The Viva didn't feature in our most recent 2019 reliability survey, but Vauxhall as a brand finished in a rather disappointing 27th place out of 32 manufacturers¹.
Remember to assess the specific Viva GT you're interested in and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.
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Generations
The **Vauxhall Viva** went through **three generations**: the **HA**, **HB**, and **HC series**¹. The **Viva GT** was part of the **HB generation**.
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Engines
The **Vauxhall Viva HB** featured several engine options during its production years (1966–1970):
1. **1159cc Overhead-Valve (OHV)**: The base engine for both the HB and HC models. It produced **47 bhp** at **5200 rpm** and had a maximum torque of **83.8 N·m** at **2800 rpm**.
2. **1599cc Overhead Camshaft (OHC)**: Introduced later, this option provided more performance.
3. **Viva 1600**: A sportier version with an **83 bhp** OHC engine for improved handling and performance.
4. **Viva GT**: The ultimate HB variant, equipped with a twin-carb **1975cc** engine, close-ratio gearbox, enhanced brakes, and modified final drive.
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Body Style/Variants
The **Vauxhall Viva HB** was available in **four body styles**:
1. **2-door saloon**
2. **4-door saloon**
3. **3-door estate**
4. **Attractive coupe**, partly inspired by the Mk1 Ford Capri.
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Trim Levels
The Vauxhall Viva HB, produced between 1966 and 1970, came in several trim levels:
1. **Standard/Base Model**: This was the most basic version, featuring minimal equipment such as a driver's sun visor and an interior roof lamp with an integral switch.
2. **De Luxe**: This trim level included additional features like a heater and windscreen washers as standard.
3. **SL**: The SL trim was the top-of-the-line version, offering more comfort and convenience features.
4. **SL90**: A high-compression version of the SL, with a more powerful engine.
5. **Brabham Viva**: A special edition with performance enhancements, named after the famous racing driver Jack Brabham.
6. **GT**: The ultimate performance version, featuring a twin-carb 1975cc engine, close-ratio gearbox, and beefed-up brakes.
These trim levels provided a range of options from basic transportation to more luxurious and performance-oriented versions.
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **spare parts for your Vauxhall Viva HB**, you can explore the following options in the United Kingdom and Ireland:
1. **AutoPartsPro**: Visit the **[AutoPartsPro Vauxhall Viva page](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vauxhall-viva-carparts)**. They offer a wide range of original Viva spares, including brakes, filters, suspension components, electrics, and more.
2. **EU-SPARES**: Check out the **[EU-SPARES Vauxhall Viva Saloon parts catalogue](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/vauxhall/viva/viva-1963)**. They provide OE parts for various Viva models.
Remember to verify compatibility and availability based on your specific Viva HB model.
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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 Viva HB did compete in racing! It was particularly active in British saloon car racing during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Viva HB was used in various racing events, including the British Saloon Car Championship (BSCC), which is now known as the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC).
One notable achievement was in 1967, when the Viva HB, driven by Gerry Marshall, won the British Saloon Car Championship in the up to 1000cc class. The car's lightweight design and nimble handling made it competitive in its class.
Gerry Marshall, often referred to as "Big Gerry," was a legendary British racing driver known for his flamboyant and crowd-pleasing style. Born on November 16, 1941, in St Neots, Huntingdonshire, England, he had a remarkable career spanning over four decades.
Marshall began his racing career in the early 1960s, initially driving a Mini. He quickly made a name for himself with his first race win in 1964 at Snetterton². Over the years, he became a dominant force in British saloon car racing, particularly during the 1970s when he drove for Dealer Team Vauxhall.
Some highlights of his career include:
- **Winning the British Saloon Car Championship (BSCC) Class C title in 1971**¹.
- **Driving iconic cars like the Vauxhall Firenza "Old Nail" and "Baby Bertha"**, which became fan favorites¹.
- **Accumulating over 600 race wins**, making him one of the most successful drivers in British motorsport history.
Marshall's driving style was characterized by his sideways, on-the-edge cornering, which thrilled spectators and earned him a loyal following¹. He continued racing well into the 2000s, achieving his 600th win in 2000 at Snetterton in an Aston Martin DB4.
Sadly, Gerry Marshall passed away on April 21, 2005, while testing at Silverstone. His legacy, however, lives on as one of the greatest and most beloved figures in British motorsport.