Vauxhall. - Queensland News cuttings
x New Vauxhall Model announced April 16 1956
Far removed from the first single-cylinder, five h.p. Vauxhall model seen on the roads on the roads of 1903, the new Vauxhall range – Velox, Wyvern and ten cwt Coupe utility – offers performance combined with grace and beauty.
Unique features of the Velox and Wyvern include full view windscreens with shimmer side pillars. Wrap-around rear windows and new interior styling. Notable too is the improved braking system.
The new utility embraces practically all the features of the sedan models to provide a hard-working business vehicle that will double duty as a family car.
In appearance the new Vauxhalls are smart – the restyled radiator grille is more substantial and bolder. The improved glass area provides for more excellent vision; side windows are operated by winding handles. Illustrated above is the 15.63 hp four cylinders O.H.V. Wyvern. The Velox is of 23.44 h.p. 6 cylinder O.H.V. engine
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x 15th April 1958. Completely New Vauxhall
Completely changed in styling and engineering, the new Vauxhall Velox made its first Australian appearance this month at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
For public release shortly by General Motors Holden
the Velox, with its ultra-low overall height, and many advanced features of design, styling, engineering and comfort, should have wide appeal for Australian conditions. – The new style Vauxhall body, an advance in integral construction, features a low, broad grill which emphasizes the width of the car, which has the traditional British Vauxhall “flutes” retained as side rubbing strips. Headroom, door space and seating are far better than in previous Vauxhalls, and centre of gravity has been considerably lowered with a resultant big increase in comfort and road stability. – The new lower bonnet and the exceptional visibility provided both front and rear, enabling all four “corners” of the car to be seen from the driving seat, and the novel full width, three-piece windscreen greatly simplifies parking. –Although the same rating as the former Velox (2262 cc) the O.H.V. engine now fitted is rated at 23.4 h.p. and has a power output of 82.5 b.h.p. At 4400 r.p.m. Important New advances include “deep skirt” block construction; individual inlet ports which improve engine breathing; larger inlet valves and manifold, giving greater efficiency at high speeds. – In addition, the new engine is fitted with the special Zenith 34VNT carburetor, which incorporates automatic choke adjustments, and has been developed to for greater economy, and easier starting, under all conditions. – Bore and stroke are 3.125×3 inches, as formerly, but pistons are of improved design, with the piston pins offset 1/16th inch on the thrust side to minimise slap when the engine is cold. – The new gearbox features synchromesh on all three forward speeds, while the semi-floating Hypoid rear axle is of 4.11 ratio, compared with 4.125 on the previous Velox, and more massive rear axle shafts, of the latest flanged type, are now fitted.
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x Two New Vauxhall Sixes 16th April 1958 – Two new Vauxhall cars – the six-cylinder Velox and Cresta models are to be released in Queensland this month. The models were released in some southern states last month. The new Vauxhalls incorporate important interior and exterior changes. Prices remain unchanged. – Both the Velox and the more luxurious Cresta are powered by the latest version of the Vauxhall six-cylinder overhead valve engine. Developing 82.5 b.h.p. and of rigid “deep skirt” crankcase construction, the motor features individual inlet and exhaust ports. – Each new model retains the traditional Griffin – a Vauxhall feature since 1903 – and has the following new features – Full wrap-around rear window; new boot locking device; new radiator grille, new bonnet emblem and new two-tone body colour treatment
Transmission – Clutch: Hydrolasticaly controlled. 8 inch single dry plate. Gearbox: Three forward speeds (all synchromesh) 1 reverse. Steering Column gear shift. Gearbox Ratios First 2.886 to 1 – Second 1.635 to 1 -Top Direct. Reverse 3.050 to 1.
Engine Specifications – Six Cylinder Overhead Valve – R.A.C. and S.A.E. rating 23.44 hp. Max b.h.p 82.5 at 4.400 r/p.m r.p.m. Bore 3 1/2 inches. Stroke 3 inches Compression Ratio: 7.8 to 1
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The 23.4 hap. 6 cylinder motor gave the impression of power coupled with ability. Although no attempt was made to drive the vehicle at maximum speed. ( the manufactures claim a top speed of over 80 m.p.h.) It was found that speeds between 65 – 70 m.p.h. could be maintained with no apparent effort, whilst roadability left nothing to be the desired Steering was a delightfully light, and answered readily to the touch, and when required the braking system operated smoothly and efficiently. On the score of ability, it must be said for those who like a turn of speed, the Velox can “turn it on” at will.
Perhaps the most amazing thing about the Vauxhall Velox performance is its ability to hold slow speeds in top gear without labouring, both when climbing and during level running. – Apart from the “oversquare” advantages, the new Vauxhall engine has many other points of notable advance in design, engineering, and operation. – Combining to give more power from less petrol, and longer life, these points include – larger ports and improved manifold; larger valves and better cooling; more generously proportioned main, big and small end bearings; exceptionally rigid crankshaft with main and big-end bearings overlapping longitudinally; “Commonality” or exchangeability of parts of the Wyvern and Velox “square” engines. – Many special Vauxhall features, such as six-phase carburation, positive lubrication of cylinder bores, and double thermostat control of cooling, are retained, while longer cylinder bore life is claimed for the new Vauxhall cylinder boring technique. – Passenger comfort in this car is good, with some refinements, such as armrests, etc, usually seen only in a more expensive make of car. – The Velox body styling overall is modern and attractive, and incorporates a number of unique features, the boot compartment (of very ample proportions), for instance, is both locked and unlocked by operating a button located inside the rear seat compartments obviating the need for a separate key. The bonnet is opened by unique “disappearing” handles located on each side, and the entire cover can be removed if desired. The wind-up windows are spring-loaded push-up-and-down type and remain in position similar to the sash type window. Unfortunately, the windows do not retract below the level of the aperture, and so do not provide the most comfortable armrest on the driving side for the driver when doing long a long trip. The provision of an inside armrest on the drivers’ side door panel would solve this problem.- The tunnel type ventilation for passengers was found to be most effective – good air circulation is possible even in wet weather without the risk of water entering the car. – No attempt was made to check petrol consumption during the test, but according to manufacturers, the vehicle will average 30.m.p.g
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January 15 1954
Holdens Australian Except for 10 pound . The cost of overseas components used in Holden cars and utilities was only as little at 10 pounds a vehicle last year. General Motors Holden’s Ltd managing director (Mr E.C.Daum) said early this month. – Mr Daum said that the Vauxhall Motor Co,. Acting as agents had shipped to Australia about 1,034,000 Pounds worth of machinery to expand the manufacture of Holden’s. – It had shipped only 450,000 Pounds worth of components for Holdens. – These figures would clear up any misunderstanding caused by reports that Vauxhall Motors shipped 1,400,000 pounds worth of material and equipment for use in the production of Holden Vehicles.
March 1957 Vauxhall Victor – Vauxhall Motors new model the Victor, appeared on the road in Britain at the end of last month. – The four-cylinder, 75 m.p.h. four doors Victor will sell in Britain for (pounds) 728/17/- including tax. – The makers claim petrol consumption of about 40 m.p.g. with normal driving. – The 1 1/2 litre motor (bore 3.12 inches stroke 3 inches) is slightly over the square. The standard compression ratio is 7.8 to 1, which yields 55 brake horsepower at 4.200 revolutions per minute. – The Victor has synchromesh
Sept 1958 Modified Vauxhall at lower price version – A slightly modified version of the Vauxhall Victor was introduced to the Queensland market last month. With some of the trimmings eliminated, the standard model sells at approx (Pounds) 43 less than the special. Price of the standard model is (pounds) 1072/18/6 including sales tax.
Jan 15th 1959 Vauxhall Prices Down – Price reductions for all Vauxhall models were announced by General Motors Holden’s to become effective from December 22. – The reductions ranging from (pounds 20 to 35 off list prices, were as follows (Pounds) – Victor Standard 850 now 840 – Victor Super 163 895 now 875 – Velox 1,145 now 1,110 – Cresta 1,195 now 1,170. – These prices are metropolitan list prices and do not include sales tax
Feb 15th 1960 New Vauxhall – A press report from London states that Vauxhall has begun production of an entirely new car based on the Victor. – It is named the Envoy, and a station wagon version is named the Sherwood. – The new models will be for export only, the first going to Canada. – Vauxhalls have produced 2000 of them and production rate is at the rate of 100 a day. – It will have a development of the Victors 4 cylinder engine, but no other details have yet been released.
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x 1957 – New Vauxhall “Victor Super”
New Vauxhall “Victor Super” Is distinctive
Queensland Sept 16th 1957 –
A British car entirely new in conception and design was previewed this month by General Motors-Holden’s to its dealer organization. – The car, the 4-cylinder, 4- seater “Victor Super” Vauxhall will be released in all States on September 26. – The “Victor Super”, with its low overall height – only 58 in. is claimed to be the first car of moderate size to feature both panoramic windscreen and wrap-around rear window. – With its 50 in. track, 98 in. wheelbase, and 166 1/2 in. Overall length, the vehicle has a remarkably small turning circle of 34 feet. Extremely low centre of gravity – 23 inches- contributes towards stability.
Some Restored Vauxhalls or restoration projects
1958 Vauxhall Velox PA Series
Owned by Athol and Marjorie Mitchelson
Athol and Marjorie were doing a rally in the Barossa Valley (South Australia) when they spotted this car for sale on the side of the road. . . Nobody could accuse Marjorie of having a negative attitude towards the Velox because she volunteered to drive it home. Isn’t that an old WW2 song. “It’s a long way to Burpengary”? (Qld) The Velox is in completely original condition, except for the carpet in the front, the Velox had rubber mats
This photo was taken at Gladstone Celebrating the Clubs 30th Anniversary Athol and Marjorie were members of the Queensland Vintage Vehicle association And the A Vauxhall owners Club of Australia
Photo Tubby Davis
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owned by Gordon and Faith McKinnon – Freshly imported from Wellington New Zealand, is this earlier version of the Viscount (see 1971 Viscount) This photo was taken during the Gladstone Club’s 30th Anniversary rally. The Car made its Australian Rally debut at the Sunshine Coast Vauxhall Rally 2001.
Photo- Tubby Davis
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1927 Vauxhall R type 20/60 Grafton cabriolet coupe
Owned by Ron and Joy Capil Ron and Joys latest acquisition is a 1927 R type 20/60 Grafton cabriolet coupe, to give it its correct title. Coach built body by The Grosvenor Carriage Coy Ltd London.
As far as we know this is the only example of this body style still on the road in Australia with only one other known to exist in the UK. –
The Capil’s purchased the car from Devonport in Tasmania where it has been since about 1945. It was originally a Victorian car owned by a Queensland cane cutter. It underwent a partial restoration approximately 10 years ago. The mileage on the car at 33,000 is believed to be the genuine mileage the car has travelled.
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1958 Vauxhall Victor &
1958 victor Super.
I decided to get the Victor because I was looking for something in the fifties era, and had set myself a budget of $500, for a complete car that was restorable. As you may or may not be able to tell from the above photo there is a minimum of rust, a little in the boot, a little on each wing, and some surface rust, the car runs, although it will not move. The chrome work needs re doing, but I am not in a hurry, this is a nice five six-year project. Well maybe longer, unfortunately my circumstances changed and I was never able to finish the task.
So all up $750. And now I have no reason to have nothing to do. Expect an update in six months 12-month update, Up to this time I have refurbished the brake Cylinders on the top vehicle. A lot of time was spent re-organizing under the house so I have room to work. (other projects have kept me away. . . But I never said I was in a hurry.
Never completed – But I still have these photos. Pat Davis
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1954 Vauxhall Vagabond
A Vauxhall owners Club of Australia Car – This vehicle was a one-owner car when Joe and Pat Heipertz purchased it in 1977, and was completely restored in 1978. Since that time it has travelled another 77.000 miles.
The exterior colour is Cockatoo Cream, The interior is Front …Red leather, and vinyl in the rear. Heater fitted. The engine has been re-bored to 3 1/4′ Laycock De Normanville A-type overdrive Fitted.
Owners Joe and Pat Heipertz of Deception Bay -Queensland
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1963 Vauxhall Victor
A Vauxhall owners Club of Australia car.
1963 Vauxhall Victor This Victor was restored by Ken and June Sempe from Gatton, Qld. Unfortunately, although I took a roll of film at the Bundaberg cane festival, I forgot to wind it on, if it had, a better picture would be here
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The PC Model was launched at Earls Court Motor Show in October 1965 as a Cresta and Cresta Deluxe. The Viscount, the most luxurious Vauxhall of the period, was introduced in 1965. Standard fitment included individual reclining front seats, leather upholstery, power windows, vinyl roof, heated rear window and power steering.
The engine is a six-cylinder (3.3 litres) 8.5:1 compression ratio. OHV with Zenith carburettor, and develops 124 bhp (net) at 4600 rpm and 174 lb of torque at 2400 rpm.
Various Transmissions were available during the models run. Initially, the two speed Powerglide was standard with a four-speed manual as an option. From late 1970 the GM 3 speed automatic replaced the Powerglide. (this was the European equivalent to the Holden Trimatic). The suspension is by coil springs, wishbones and anti-roll bars at the front, with a live axle half elliptic leaf springs and a radius arm at the rear.
This particular example is in original condition, has had two previous owners, and only 55000 miles. It was a New Zealand new import, first registered on !st march 1971.
Ron and Joy brought this car to Australia in March 1966.
The PC Vauxhall was a popular model in New Zealand with the basic Cresta being assembled by General Motors. All Cresta Deluxe and Viscount models were imported fully assembled from the Luton factory in England. An Estate model was also available in the UK. But unaware if any going to New Zealand..
The PC continued in production until late 1972. No changes were made to the body were made during the 7 years of production, however, some minor mechanical trim and fittings did occur. In Total, 53,012 Cresta’s were produced and 7,025 Viscounts.
The PC was not replaced in Vauxhalls model range until 1978 when the Viscount Royale was released. This was a re-badged Opel Senator.
Vauxhall Motors is now an assembler of GM designs, mainly Opels. A number of them are identical to the current imported Holden Models.
There are 19 PC model Vauxhalls currently registered with the Vauxhall owners Club of Australia.
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The PC Model was launched at Earls Court Motor Show in October 1965 as a Cresta and Cresta Deluxe.
The Viscount, the most luxurious Vauxhall of the period, was introduced in 1965. Standard fitment included individual reclining front seats, leather upholstery, power windows, vinyl roof, heated rear window and power steering.
The engine is a six-cylinder (3.3 litres) 8.5:1 compression ratio. OHV with Zenith carburettor, and develops 124 bhp (net) at 4600 rpm and 174 lb of torque at 2400 rpm.
Various Transmissions were available during the models run. Initially, the two speed Powerglide was standard with a four-speed manual as an option.
From late 1970 the GM 3 speed automatic replaced the Powerglide. (this was the European equivalent to the Holden Trimatic). The suspension is by coil springs, wishbones and anti-roll bars at the front, with a live axle half elliptic leaf springs and a radius arm at the rear.
This particular example is in original condition, has had two previous owners, and only 55000 miles. It was a New Zealand new import, first registered on !st march 1971.
Ron and Joy brought this car to Australia in March 1966.
The PC Vauxhall was a popular model in New Zealand with the basic Cresta being assembled by General Motors. All Cresta Deluxe and Viscount models were imported fully assembled from the Luton factory in England. An Estate model was also available in the UK. But unaware if any going to New Zealand..
The PC continued in production until late 1972. No changes were made to the body were made during the 7 years of production, however, some minor mechanical trim and fittings did occur. In Total, 53,012 Cresta's were produced and 7,025 Viscounts.
The PC was not replaced in Vauxhalls model range until 1978 when the Viscount Royale was released. This was a re-badged Opel Senator.
Vauxhall Motors is now an assembler of GM designs, mainly Opels. A number of them are identical to the current imported Holden Models.
There are 19 PC model Vauxhalls currently registered with the Vauxhall owners Club of Australia.
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Vauxhall Saloon car
1925 brought about a bit of an upheaval for Vauxhall when, for $2.5 million, General Motors made Vauxhall an overseas subsidiary of their company. This event spurred a chain reaction that greatly affected Vauxhall’s design decisions. General Motors was being influenced by their competitor–the Ford Company–and that influence transferred across the pond to Vauxhall. What had until 1925 been a thoroughly British car was now distinctly American in flavour. When World War II began, Vauxhall put their car production on hold to build 5,600 Churchill Tanks.
The vehicle featured here is a Vauxhall Saloon (perhaps a Vauxhall 14/6 or a 25), most likely built right around the time World War II began–in 1937. The ads for Vauxhall vehicles from this era boasted the car’s ability to go from 0 to 80 in thirteen seconds and referred to the car as “an embarrassment of riches” and something “to meet world competition, ” which, given the company’s inadvertent imitation of the Ford design, was an accurate statement!
