1997 Vauxhall Vectra – Classified of the Week

Don’t let the fact that this is a Vauxhall Vectra fool you into thinking it’s a boring, humdrum, run-of-the-mill motorway mile muncher. Oh no. This is no ordinary Vectra. This is a 1997 2.5 SRi that has been breathed on by Courtenay Sport. That means over 200bhp of ’90s V6 muscle and a level of exclusivity reserved for much more exotic metal.

Following the announcement of the government’s consultation regarding modernising vehicle standards and the discussions is therefore prompted, we thought we would pay homage to the fettlers this week and search the Car and Classic classifieds for a suitably modified machine. What we came up with was this substantially tweaked Vectra for sale and boy has it seen some work since it rolled out of the factory as a standard B series, 2.5 SRi 24 years ago.

Pretty much universally (and possibly unfairly) derided as boring and uninspiring the Vectra started life in 1995, not only as a replacement for the Cavalier but also as Vauxhall’s answer to the Ford Mondeo. Despite its initial success the Vectra received only a lukewarm response from the motoring press, a general sentiment that would shadow the car for its entire life. With myriad engine and trim options available from the get go there was a lot of choice, but it’s the 2.5 V6 where things get interesting.

Originally pushing out around 170bhp the V6 SRi was the top of the range Vectra (not counting the limited production GSi model) and was equipped with the usual interior trim accoutrements and exterior bells and whistles. As mentioned, however, this particular Vectra is far from original. Its first port of call was renowned Vauxhall specialists Courtenay Sport where it was professionally converted to GSi spec. This meant the engine was considerably tinkered with to significantly up the power to a dyno-proven 222bhp. Along with new camshafts, modifications were also made to the air box and throttle body, all wrapped up nicely with an engine map, and now the car is a bit of an animal. A new clutch and flywheel were also fitted to better cope with this extra oomph.

Vectras were never praised for their handling but that has been addressed here as Spax coilovers replace the original setup. New droplinks have also been installed and so steering this beast is now much improved. Upgrades have not been limited to the oily bits either and the exterior and interior of the car have also benefited from subtle enhancements, including Recaro seats, bodykit and wheels. It has all been done well, without being too in your face.

The current owner has since continued the modifications with the addition of a £2,000, full stainless exhaust system and affirms that the car “wants for nothing.” The fact that this Vectra has been professionally upgraded speaks volumes. This isn’t just a case of bolting on a cat-back exhaust and a pod air filter – this is modification done properly and you can rest assured that things aren’t going to fall off or explode.

Even though this isn’t a factory GSi, it still has all of the kit and caboodle commensurate with the marque, and with less than 4,000 of those cars ever produced, it’s a short list indeed. This one however has gone above and beyond that badge and all that it connotates and so in a way it could arguably be deemed even more exclusive. Whichever way you look at it though, this is a seriously unique and fast version of a ’90s retro family favourite and does wonders for that somewhat stoic reputation. And at less than £7,000 it’s a lot of car for the money.