Thought I'd better make myself known to the Club.
I learned to drive in my parents' 1972 Vauxhall Viva DL a four door in Henley Blue (NSO396K). Once I started work I was all for buying anything from the classifieds I remember getting all fired up over an MG Magnette that was offered locally for £20! I was told that would not be an option and then lusted after a TR4A in racing green, this was not to be and my mother said she'd help with a deposit if I'd buy something 'sensible'.
So it was that the local Vauxhall dealerships managing director's wife was trading in her Viva, and it was offered to us. With a £600 loan from the bank (I worked for them so got a sweet deal on the interest rate) and a deposit from my mother I became the proud owner of a 1972 Vauxhall Viva 2 door in silver (a much rarer colour then than now). The reg was OSO22L I'm pretty sure it ended up in the local scrapyard as the last time I saw it it was very much the worse for wear.
I dabbled briefly with an MG Midget before moving on the a 1968 Viva GT, unfortunately after doing an engine rebuild and clutch replacement I did was all young men do, I crashed it Oh well I did at least recoup my outlay on the money I put into it. Given the side impact it suffered and we walked away from it, I was impressed by the quality of the construction.
Next came a 1971 Vauxhall Victor 2000SL loved that one too but alas it didn't last.
My next to last Viva was a 1978 1300GLS 2 door YMJ437S which was traded for some landscaping work.
My last Viva was actually a Magnum Sportshatch it was shortly after this that I left the UK to work abroad and the car was traded for a Saab 900i for my sister.
There have been plenty of other cars along the way but I always have a soft spot for the Viva.
I joined the club as I may be heading back in next next 6 months and will be looking for a Viva again. My ideal would be another 1300GLS (would love and estate version) or the 2.3liter Magnum Estate.
All the best,
Murray