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Vauxhall Cresta PA

Vauxhall Cresta PA

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Vauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PA
Vauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PAVauxhall Cresta PA
Lot number 50
Hammer value £2,500
Description Vauxhall Cresta PA
Registration GSV 383
Year 1960
Colour Blue two-tone
Engine size 2,360 cc
Chassis No. PADY109672
Engine No. PAY124697
Documents V5; two old MOTs from 1997/98 and 2001/02

With the introduction of the 'PA' series Cresta and Velox in October 1957, Vauxhall embraced American styling with even greater gusto than before.

Plentiful chrome, garish colour schemes, wrap-around windscreens and fashionable tail fins were all featured on these top-of-the-range sixes, which bore a more-than-passing resemblance to the contemporary Buick Special from the parent branch of General Motors. Originally powered by an 82bhp 2.25-litre straight-six, the overhead-valve engine was enlarged to 2.6-litres in 1960, now with 95bhp and increased diameter wheels to allow for larger drum brakes.

Numerous minor styling tweaks were also introduced on the ‘PADY’ models including a larger front grille and one-piece rear screen while the dash gained a padded top and a horizontal strip speedo. The standard transmission was a three-speed manual while overdrive and the two-speed Hydra-Matic auto 'box were options. An estate conversion was offered by Friary Motors of Basingstoke. Offering softly-sprung comfort, the Cresta offered decent performance for the time, with a top speed of over 90mph.

Dating from 1960, this Cresta PA is a 2.6 ‘PADY’ model although the V5 erroneously records the capacity as 2,360cc. Apparently spending its early life overseas, it was first UK registered in November 1985 and has had just one registered keeper since August 2000.

Although he has never put it into his name, the vendor acquired the car in 2006 and had it sandblasted and repainted, reporting that it proved to be very sound both above and below with no signs of any filler on the bodywork, although he advises that the front wings are fibreglass.

The blue leather interior is somewhat grubby and neglected but is largely undamaged and would doubtless respond well to a good clean and some hide food and some localised repairs to the driver’s side of the front bench seat. Two old MOTs issued in 1997 and 2000 show the mileage rising from 82,403 to 85,658 during that time but it is not possible to read the current recorded mileage because the numbers on the first two dials are illegible.

Little used in the last few years, it nevertheless oozes Rockabilly charm and now needs an enthusiastic new owner who can gradually restore it to its former glory as time and funds allow. Future generations will thank you for doing this as there are only 39 Cresta PAs still UK registered, according to DVLA figures. It is being offered here strictly 'as viewed' and at no reserve so the highest bid takes it home.

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