1990 VAUXHALL CAVALIER 1.6 L 5 Door Hatchback
1.6 L 5 Door Hatchback
Price
£6,995
Used CarDealer: RFH Classics Ltd
21 vehicles listed
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Vehicle Specifications
Description
With us at RFH Classics we are delighted to now offer this particularly interesting 1990 (H) Vauxhall Cavalier 1.6 L 5 Dr Hatch in the unmistakably '90s shade of Nordic Blue with a complementary Blue cloth interior. These modestly specified family cars were once an everyday sight but now rarely seen on the road. Our checks on How Many Left, showed just three 1990 built Cavalier L remained licensed in the UK at the end of 2025, with 79 declared SORN.
With just 36,910 miles recorded and an unusually personal history file, this car could be one of the lowest mileage cars available today and offers an opportunity to enjoy again a classic from the British roads of the early 90's. This Cavalier is quite rare in its own right but what makes this one a little different and appealing is that it belonged to the Vauxhall designer David Reibscheid. The Oggelsby's of Harpenden sales invoice confirms that it was supplied new on 10 September 1990 for the discounted price of £8,750, a figure that could well have been for the staff discount scheme.
In our history folder we have two of David's handwritten journals, with entries dating back to 1974. These detail the vehicles he purchased, along with fuel purchases, costs, consumption calculations and even the petrol stations used and reveal a longstanding relationship with Oggelsby's. For the Cavalier, the journal shows the collection on 10th September with just seven miles on the clock.
David continued documenting his fuel purchases through to January 2015, when he recorded 36,756 miles. Subsequent mileage records indicate very little use, with regular MOT visits to Vauxhall dealer Thurlow Nunn showing in later history. The initial registration arrangement is something of a mystery.
The car was invoiced to Mr C Kenningham care of David's address, while the first V5 records Mr Kenningham at a Luton address. The family tell me David was the car's only driver, an account supported by the journals. It was registered in David's name on 23 January 1993 with the original paperwork retained to document the change.
I first met David in March 2025 after he initially contacted us about selling the car. During our chat we discovered a shared connection to Vauxhall as my father had also worked for them on its R&D test tracks. David showed me some of his drawings and sketches and his family have kindly provided a couple of these to accompany the car and its history.
Supporting the low mileage is the original Service Book with supplying-dealer stamps from 1990 to 1999, the last entry at 23,658 miles on 2 June 1999. The original silver Vauxhall Wallet containing the vehicle handbook and booklets covering the audio system, vehicle security, assistance, warranty and AA membership is also here. The digital MOT history records 34,717 miles in 2006, progressing to 36,892 miles in October 2024.
Today's 36,910 miles therefore represent little more than 2,000 miles covered over the last 20 years. Our history folder brings together surviving MOT certificates, the MOT history print, service club details and period motoring items. These include fuel conversion charts probably used for David's calculations, an original 97.6 Chiltern radio sticker together with receipts for parts fitted during our recent recommissioning.
It is a fascinating collection that gives this everyday family hatchback a particularly individual story. The car presents beautifully and is complemented by the understated L specification, factory wheel trims and contrasting moulding and bumpers. Inside, the cloth trim with matching door trims is in lovely condition.
The simple yet functional dashboard, manual glass sunroof and original Philips radio with electric aerial all contribute to a wonderfully nostalgic cabin. We have now serviced the car and replaced the cambelt and water pump followed by a thorough clean ready for its next owner. Its 1.6-litre petrol engine and five-speed gearbox make it an approachable classic to use and enjoy, while the 5 Dr layout retains the practicality that made these cars such popular family transport.
The car will be supplied with a fresh MOT, our 3-month warranty and a clear vehicle history certificate. We recommend the use of premium unleaded E5 fuel in our classic vehicles. RFH Classics are Bedfordshire's largest independent classic vehicle dealer, with over 35 years' experience supplying quality vehicles to customers throughout the UK.
Unable to visit us? UK delivery is available and we can also assist with export where required. A detailed walk-around video can be viewed on our website.
To find out more or arrange a viewing, contact RFH Classics today. Visitors are always welcome to our Bedfordshire showroom, although we kindly ask that you call us first as we can occasionally be off-site collecting or delivering vehicles. Call: 01462 338755 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rfhclassics.co.uk
About the VAUXHALL CAVALIER
The Vauxhall Cavalier was a quintessential British family car, dominating UK roads for two decades through its three generations. Renowned for its practicality, robust build quality, and straightforward mechanics, the Cavalier became a household name, serving as reliable transport for millions. Whether in saloon, hatchback, or estate form, it offered a comfortable and unpretentious driving experience, cementing its reputation as a dependable workhorse. Today, it holds a nostalgic appeal for many, often sought by enthusiasts as a modern classic or by those seeking a simple, affordable vehicle.
Why Buy a Used Vauxhall Cavalier?
- **Nostalgic Appeal and Modern Classic Status:** The Cavalier, particularly the Mk2 and Mk3, is increasingly seen as a cherished modern classic, offering a tangible link to UK motoring history and a unique ownership experience.
- **Simple, Robust Engineering:** Built in an era before excessive electronics, the Cavalier is known for its durable engines and uncomplicated mechanicals, making it relatively easy and affordable to maintain.
- **Affordable Entry Point:** While pristine examples are gaining value, many Cavaliers can still be acquired for a relatively low purchase price, offering excellent value for money for a reliable classic.
- **Practicality and Comfort:** Even by modern standards, the Cavalier provides a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, making it a practical choice for everyday driving or as a weekend classic.
Typical Price Range
All prices are approximate and subject to change based on condition, mileage, specification, and market conditions.
- Pre-1990 (Mk2): £2,000 – £5,000 — These are increasingly rare, often purchased either as restoration projects or as well-preserved, low-mileage examples.
- 1990–1993 (Early Mk3): £1,500 – £4,000 — Represents a range from decent, everyday runners to well-maintained examples with lower mileage.
- 1994–1995 (Late Mk3): £2,500 – £8,000 — Covers good condition late models, including more desirable SRi and V6 variants, which command higher prices for their performance and rarity.
Common Issues to Check
- Rust is a major concern; pay close attention to wheel arches, sills, boot floor, subframe mounting points, and around the fuel filler cap.
- Check for electrical gremlins, particularly in the dashboard, windows, and central locking, which can become temperamental with age.
- Inspect suspension components for wear, including bushes, shock absorbers, and springs, as these can affect ride comfort and handling.
- Examine brake lines and components for corrosion, especially on older models, and ensure the handbrake operates effectively.
- Look for oil leaks from the engine (rocker cover, sump) and gearbox, which are common on higher mileage examples.
Running Costs
- Fuel Economy: 25–35 mpg (highly dependent on engine size, driving style, and maintenance).
- Insurance Group: 7–15 (typically lower due to age and parts availability, but can vary for performance models like the SRi or V6).
- Servicing: Generally inexpensive due to simple mechanics and readily available parts, making it a good choice for DIY enthusiasts or local independent garages.
Which Variant Should I Choose?
- Cavalier LS/GL: Ideal for those seeking a no-frills, dependable daily driver or a restoration project, offering excellent value and practicality.
- Cavalier CD/CDX: Suited for buyers who appreciate a bit more comfort and a few extra features, such as electric windows and better trim, without sacrificing reliability.
- Cavalier SRi: Perfect for enthusiasts looking for a sportier driving experience with a slightly firmer suspension, more aggressive styling, and more powerful engines.
- Cavalier V6: The top-tier performance model, appealing to collectors and those who desire a more refined and powerful engine note with enhanced luxury features.
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