Vauxhall Magnum 2300 Estate

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Vauxhall had a habit of shoe-horning large engines into their run-of-the-mill saloons. The range topping Ventora used a 3.3-litre straight-six in what was really a Victor bodyshell and the Viva got the big motor treatment too, with 1.8-litre or 2.3-litre transplants, transforming the baby of the Vauxhall line-up in the butch Magnum range.

The slant-4 engines were torquey and responsive, later 2.3-litre models being fitted with twin-carburettors. The larger engined variant also came with a sporty ‘7-instrument’ facia, incorporating a large rev counter, speedometer and clock, with smaller gauges for water temperature, fuel level, battery condition and oil pressure.

In production from 1973 until 1978, the Magnum came as a 2- or 4-door saloon, an attractive coupe or in 3-door estate form as on offer here.

Described by the vendor as in very good original condition, they confirm that it has recently had a major engine overhaul including a new cambelt, alternator, rebuilt carburettors, a new Kenlowe fan and a new clutch and cable. The bodywork is described as very solid and the paintwork in nice condition, the car even wearing its original number plates.

Its MOT expires in April 2015 and it is taxed until September 2014 (not quite tax exempt but not so long to go before it qualifies).

With just a handful of manual 2300 Magnums road registered in 2013, you are unlikely to find another in a hurry so here’s your best chance to get your hands on a good running example while you can.