Vauxhall car books - history and models

Vauxhall Cars 1945-1964 (Nostalgia Road)

Vauxhall Iron Works, originally marine engine manufacturers, was founded on the South bank of the River Thames in 1867. After facing difficulties at the end of the 19th century, the company began producing motor vehicles in 1903. This marked the beginning of its success, which grew rapidly when it moved to a new factory in Luton, Bedfordshire, in 1905.

In the two decades following World War II, as Britain rebuilt, Vauxhall produced some of its most iconic models. By introducing the L-Type, E-Type, PA-Type, HA Viva, FB Victor, and PC Cresta, Vauxhall became one of the world's most respected car manufacturers.
This book narrates Vauxhall's remarkable post-war years, covering models from the L-Type to the PC Cresta.

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Vauxhall Cars 1945 to 1995

This book provides a comprehensive pictorial history of all Vauxhall cars produced from 1945 to 1995. It is an essential reference for comparing models like the Viva, Victor, Ventora, and Viceroy.

Organized into several chapters, the book is a nostalgic journey for postwar car enthusiasts. It features extensive illustrations, including line drawings, black-and-white and color photographs, and interior details.
All models are covered, along with sports derivatives, limited editions, vans, estates, and coupes. The book also includes sections on motorsport achievements and TV/movie appearances. Contemporary factory advertising slogans are highlighted throughout. In addition to historical content, the book provides technical specifications, key production changes, and production figures.

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Vauxhall Cars

Vauxhall cars have been a key part of British motoring for over a century. The company gained a strong reputation early on with models like the Prince Henry, the 30/98, and the 1914 Grand Prix cars. In the 1930s, Vauxhall moved into the mainstream market, leading in innovation.

After 1945, Vauxhall became one of Britain's top car manufacturers, producing family cars like the Velox, Cresta, and Victor, and later the successful Viva range of smaller cars. From the mid-1970s, Vauxhall increasingly used designs from its German counterpart, Opel. Popular models included the Astra, Cavalier, Nova, and Carlton, with the notable 176mph Lotus Carlton.

This illustrated book explores Vauxhall's history from its start in 1903 to the modern city cars and SUVs that continue to lead its product lines in the 21st century.

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Vauxhall Cars 1965-1984 (Nostalgia Road)

This book continues the remarkable story of Vauxhall, a British institution. Over a 20-year period, the brand's entry-level model evolved from the basic HA Viva to the sporty Nova, and at the higher end, to the PC Cresta. This era saw the introduction of famous models like the Cavalier, Astra, and Chevette, while traditional models like the Victor and Viscount were discontinued.

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Vauxhall Cars of the 1960s and 1970s

Vauxhalls were a significant part of the British motoring scene in the mid-20th century. Known for their solidity, reliability, and respectability, they were designed to meet buyers' expectations and the global ambitions of General Motors, Vauxhall's parent company.

This book covers over two decades of Vauxhall history, from the late 1950s to the late 1970s. During this time, Vauxhall produced many memorable models, including some classics. The book details the styling, engineering, and specification changes of the Victor, Cresta, and Viva ranges, along with their variants. It provides full technical specifications for each model and examines engine development during this period. Additionally, it offers advice on purchasing these models.

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Auto - Architect - The Autobiography of Gerald Palmer (1911-1999)

This illustrated book explores the life and career of Gerald Palmer (1911-1999), a notable British car designer known for his significant contributions to the automotive industry. Born in England, Palmer spent his early years in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), where his father was the chief engineer for the state railways.

Returning to England in 1927, Palmer began an engineering apprenticeship with Scammell, a commercial vehicle manufacturer, while studying at the Regent Street Polytechnic. During this time, he designed and built the 'Deroy' sports car for racing driver Joan Richmond, demonstrating his innovative spirit and engineering skills.

In 1936, Palmer joined the Morris drawing office at Cowley, contributing to the development of the MG Y-type. In 1942, he moved to Jowett Cars in Bradford, where he led the design of the Jowett Javelin, a pioneering model with a flat-four engine and unitary body construction.

Palmer returned to Morris in 1949, designing models like the MG ZA Magnette and Wolseley 4/44. By 1952, he became chief engineer at the British Motor Corporation (BMC), overseeing the development of the Riley Pathfinder and Wolseley 6/90. After leaving BMC in 1955, Palmer joined Vauxhall Motors, contributing to the Victor and Viva ranges before retiring in 1972.

This second edition, published five years after Palmer's death in 1999, provides a thorough review of his impact on the motor industry. It includes previously unpublished photographs, offering readers a visual journey through Palmer's influential designs and lasting legacy.

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