Vauxhall : Viva HB
Model Introduction
Launched in 1966, the Vauxhall Viva HB marked a bold break from its predecessor’s boxy styling, adopting sharp, transatlantic-inspired lines that hinted at Vauxhall’s ambition in the small family car market. Developed on an entirely in-house platform rather than sharing GM’s continental underpinnings, the HB offered a choice of frugal 1.1-litre or punchier 1.2-litre engines, and was praised for its light, precise handling. The range expanded to include more luxurious SL trims and sportier models, while the HB’s clean styling made it a favourite with customisers of the era. Built at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant, it proved a strong seller in Britain and key export markets, and set the stage for the later HC generation.
Magazine Articles
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A sporting Viva? You're kidding...
Hear this, o ye who dared to suggest Vauxhall would never see the light
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GT
It's General Motors v Ford!
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Get the wagons in a cirle
Ford Cortina Mk2 Estate v Vauxhall Viva HB Estate v Hillman Hunter Estate
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Q-Car
Brabham Viva
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Giant Test
DAF 44 v Vauxhall Viva
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Q-Car : Blydenstein Viva
more performance and economy from the king of the Vauxhall tuners
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Track Testing the Shaw & Kilburn Viva
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Topless Cortina & Viva
Crayford Auto Developments
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Coburn Viva Estate
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Giant Test
Austin 1300 Super De Luxe v Ford Escort 1300 Super v Hillman Avenger Super v Vauxhall Viva SL
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Vivacious Viva
Coburn Estate
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Viva la difference!
Bill Blydenstein's 110mph Vauxhall Viva GT
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Used Car Test
No.322 1969 Vauxhall Viva SL 2-Door WLU836G
