2004 Vauxhall VX 220

MODEL HISTORY

The Vauxhall VX220, branded as the Opel Speedster in Europe, was a mid-engined, targa-topped, two seat sports car introduced in July 2000. It was built in both RHD and LHD versions at the Lotus Cars plant in Hethel, Norfolk. First presented at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1999, it went into full production the following year.

In October 1999, Lotus agreed to develop and produce the Vauxhall VX220 (and Opel Speedster) on the new Series 2 Elise chassis. Whilst the new Elise would use a 1.8-litre Toyota engine, the VX220 was designed to use a 2.2-litre GM Ecotec engine from the Astra. In order to accommodate production of the new cars, Lotus expanded its Hethel factory to a capacity of 10,000 cars, with around 3,500 slots allocated to VX220 and Speedster production.

The VX220 utilised an aluminium chassis tub that weighed only 72kg, with bodywork made entirely of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP). The entire car weighed only 875kg which made it 100kg lighter than the similarly sized Toyota MR2. At launch, the VX220’s all-aluminium alloy 2.2-litre engine produced 145hp, making it considerably more powerful than the Elise was at launch.

As an answer to calls for a more powerful version of the VX220, a new 2-litre turbocharged version of the Ecotec engine was introduced, which produced 200hp. The turbo version was able to reach a top speed of 150 mph and accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds. The car was hailed by the motoring press as a great drivers' car and won several accolades, including Top Gear's ‘Car of the Year’ in 2003.

EQUIPMENT

Black Sapphire pearlescent paintwork, Red leather upholstery, Removable soft top in black, Leather transmission tunnel, Leather Momo steering wheel, Push button start, ABS, AP Racing/Brembo brakes, Blaupunkt Lausanne CD33 radio, VX220 carpet mats, Spare key, Original bill of sale.

EXTERIOR

This ultra low mileage VX220 Turbo presents beautifully throughout having been under the careful ownership of only two keepers since December 2004. The Black Sapphire paintwork retains a deep shine across every panel, the car clearly having been cherished all its life. On closer inspection there are no scrapes or scuffs to the bumpers or arches, and the removable black soft-top is pristine. The paintwork is very consistent all round with no evidence of any previous poor repair. The 17-inch alloy wheels are unmarked and the underside is also notably fresh. An exemplary VX220 Turbo in one of the finest colour combos, and a car we know well having sold it to the current owner.

INTERIOR

This cossetted example was spec’d new with red leather seats, both in beautiful condition having seen only 5k miles of use. The interior still feels incredibly fresh and is free from any scuffs or marking to the delicate trims or entry sill covers. Finer details such as the gear knob and steering wheel both present like new, and in the footwells the exposed floorpans are well protected by a set of genuine VX220 overmats. A truly timewarp cabin and a fabulous place to enjoy some twisty B roads, especially with the roof off.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The VX220 Turbo is equipped with a 2-litre turbocharged powerplant delivering just shy of 200hp. Beneath the rear lid the engine bay is very clean and tidy, just as you would expect. Despite its super low mileage the car has been serviced at the following mileages: at 1,686 – 2,912 – 3,235 – 4,632 – 5,317 – and most recently at 5,380 miles in May 2024. The timing belt and water pump were replaced in July 2021 and the car further benefits from a recent mechanical inspection and brake fluid change. MOT’d until April 2025, she’s good to go.

HISTORY FILE

This surely unrepeatable example was first registered in September 2004. It has now driven just 5,840 miles in the hands of only 2 keepers since December that year. It was first registered to the supplying dealer, Archie Moss Vauxhall, before being sold to the first private owner as a pre-registered vehielce three months later, the odometer reading just 4 miles at that time.

The car has remained garaged since new and has only ever been driven on high days and holidays to preserve its amazing condition. Since arriving with us it has been fully serviced and inspected for the new keeper’s peace of mind. The accompanying History File is complete with a raft of invoices and MOT certificates verifying the car’s low mileage. All handbooks are present, including the original service booklet, and even the original bill of sale from Archie Moss Vauxhall is still on file.