1963 Vauxhall Viva DL review from UK and Ireland
"Best Vauxhall until the Nova saloon!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Dynamo failed.
Petrol tank leaked.
Fuel pump failed.
Door hinges worn out and repaired.
General comments?
I bought the car from a back street dealer in the rain at night after I had had a few beers.
Yet it turned out to be a wonderful little car, the first car I owned that kept up with traffic, didn't use oil, and gave great fuel economy.
It was a delight to drive in town with feather light steering, a light clutch pedal and the best gear change of any car I've ever owned.
It wasn't so great at cornering, but I soon learned to curb my enthusiasm.
I also found the relatively large boot space very useful as well.
Looking back it was noisy and not particularly comfortable, but that mattered little to a 19 year old sailor!
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![]() ![]() | Rough and untidy with bundles of character |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1974 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1976 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.1 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Previous car | Triumph Herald |
| Date of Entry | 28th August, 2008 |





