1986 Vauxhall Cavalier - Low Mileage/Three Former Keepers
The Vauxhall Cavalier is a family of cars produced by Vauxhall Motors between 1975 and 1995, becoming one of Britain’s best-known saloon and hatchback ranges and an important part of the manufacturer’s success during the 1980s. The second-generation Cavalier, introduced in 1981, brought a more modern, aerodynamic design and was offered in sporting SRi form, establishing a particularly desirable performance-orientated version of the model.
Milestone Classics are delighted to offer this wonderfully preserved 1986 Vauxhall Cavalier SRi, a five-door hatchback presented in its original two-tone Astral Silver and Anthracite finish, complete with the distinctive red coachline and detailing associated with the car. Now showing less than 49,000 miles, this is a particularly appealing example of the sporting Cavalier, retaining an impressive level of originality throughout.
First registered in May 1986 by Robin Hood Garage, Penge, the Cavalier has had just three former keepers from new. Its early history is unusually well documented, with Mr Trevor Simpson acquiring the car new and retaining it until 1986, when it passed to Mrs Una Brookman. She cherished the car for an extraordinary period, keeping it until 2020 before it was acquired by Mrs Lynn Green. In 2022 it passed to Mr Paul Gabel, who has continued its careful preservation through to 2026.
The car has clearly been appreciated not simply as transport but as an important example of an increasingly rare 1980s performance Vauxhall. It has attended numerous classic and enthusiast events and was awarded the ‘People’s Choice’ Award at Wrose Carnival in 2022. The history folder also contains numerous exhibitor cards from other shows, providing a fascinating record of the car’s life within the enthusiast community.
Powered by Vauxhall’s 1.8-litre fuel-injected four-cylinder engine producing 115bhp and paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, the SRi offered a welcome injection of sporting character into the Cavalier range. Today, it provides an enjoyable combination of usable performance, practical five-door accommodation and unmistakable 1980s styling.
Particularly pleasing is the car’s originality. It retains its original two-tone paintwork, dealer plates, rear window sticker and many of the distinctive details that made the SRi such a recognisable model. It has been stored indoors in recent years, including dry, heated storage under its current keeper, helping to preserve its remarkably original presentation.
Accompanying the car is the correct Vauxhall maintenance folder containing the operation manual and audio manual, together with a substantial collection of previous MOT certificates dating back to 1993 and original tax discs. The documentation provides a valuable insight into the car’s continued care and ownership history.
This is a Cavalier SRi that really needs to be seen in person. Its remarkable originality, wonderfully documented ownership history and impressive presentation make it a particularly interesting example of a sporting Vauxhall from the 1980s, and one that can still be used and enjoyed as intended.
Milestone Classics are delighted to present this charming and increasingly rare Cavalier SRi. Viewing is by appointment only and is highly recommended.
PRICE: £15995