Lot details
Registration No: JMJ905N
Chassis No: 9F37REX111999
Mot Expiry: Sept 2011

The Firenza was a distinctive two-door Coupe based on the Vauxhall Viva, produced from 1970 to 1975. By 1972, the line-up included a 2279cc Sport model producing 122bhp, versions of which were campaigned with success by Dealer Team Vauxhall (DTV). However, overall the range was recognised as a trifle dull and in need of a more dramatic figurehead - enter the High Performance (HP) Firenza. The 2.3-litre OHC Slant Four engine was uprated to 131bhp courtesy of 175 Stromberg carburetters, high-lift camshaft and free-flow tubular exhaust manifold. Suspension was uprated and lowered, the brakes improved and five-speed ZF dog-leg gearbox installed. The newcomer rode on Avon Safety Wheels and all examples were finished in Silver Starfire and featured a largely black interior with silver-grey cloth seats. Last, but certainly not least, was the dramatically-styled GRP nose, housing two pairs of Cibie headlamps behind toughened glass covers - a distinctive feature that understandably earned the model its nickname of `Droopsnoot'. The model was launched with great panache by a celebrity race at Thruxton, which was won by Barrie `Whizzo' Williams. The bad news for Vauxhall, but good news for anybody that now owns an HP, is that a mere 204 examples were sold versus the projection of 30,000!

The 1975 Droopsnoot offered is painted in the correct hue of Silver Starfire and even decalled as per the Thruxton race cars. It was restored in the 80's (as featured in a six page article in the Classic Cars issue of August 1989), and has been owned by enthusiasts ever since; even spending several years in a private Dutch collection. The engine is reportedly standard apart from a Blydenstein camshaft and Janspeed exhaust manifold. The car is equipped with a Lumenition ignition system and electric fuel pump. We are informed that the exhaust has been recently replaced, the cam belt renewed and the Stromberg carburettors overhauled. The Avon Safety wheels and polished rims have been retained and their 205/60x13 tyres are said to be almost new. The striking Vauxhall is equipped with full harness belts and comes complete with original handbooks, service book and sales invoice from Marshall Wingfield. In the vendor's words, "a well documented example of a rare car".

PLEASE NOTE: Since the catalogue went to press we have been informed by an ex-committee member of the Droop Snoot Group that the shade of silver with which this lot has been finished is too dark to be considered Silver Starfire.