Vauxhall Viva GT HB

Background

In the absence of any official motorsport sponsorship by General Motors globally, and by its Vauxhall Motors subsidiary specifically, a group of London-based Vauxhall dealers decided to start an organisation to financially support racing and rallying of Vauxhall cars. Dealer Team Vauxhall, commonly known as DTV was established in January 1971.

Initially the racing program was run by Bill Blydenstein, an engine tuner and racing driver, and the rallying program by Chris Coburn. In 1976 Blydenstein became responsible for both racing and rallying. From 1978 on, the focus was entirely on rallying.

Vauxhall models developed by DTV for racing and rallying include the Viva, Firenza, Magnum, Victor, and Chevette.

Drivers included Gerry Marshall, Will Sparrow, Barrie ‘Whizzo’ Williams, Jimmy McRae, Pentti Airikkala and others. Rally co-drivers included Rodney Spokes, Nigel Raeburn and Don Barrow.

Will Sparrow drove a Viva GT on the Daily Mirror RAC 1971. Chris Coburn campaigned a Viva GT in the 1968- 1972 British Rally scene.

This Car

This 1968 GT was built as a tribute to the Gerry Marshall championship winning car with engine and chassis originally tuned by Gerry Johnstone ex Blydstein and DTV Manager.

It was used for sprinting initially but has now been upgraded into a full works spec replica rally car as used by Chris Coburn and Will Sparrow.

There are now only a few GT HB rally cars left in the U.K.

Technical Specification

Engine:                   2300cc, big 8 valve head, Cosworth forged pistons.

Induction system:   Naturally aspirated, twin 48 Dellorto carburettors.

Transmission:         5 speed ZF gearbox, HPA axle, LSD, AVO suspension.

Power output:         180 BHP