Vauxhall Viva HC 2300 (110 Hp)

The Vauxhall Viva HC 2300, produced between 1972 and 1973, represents a significant evolution in the Viva lineage. As the third generation of the Viva, the HC model aimed to address criticisms leveled at its predecessors, offering increased space, improved comfort, and a more modern design. While the Viva nameplate had been a staple of the British automotive market since 1963, the HC variant, particularly the 2300cc engine option, represented a move upmarket, attempting to compete with larger family saloons. The Viva HC was exclusively a European market vehicle; Vauxhall, as a brand, did not have a significant presence in North America. However, understanding the HC’s development provides insight into the broader trends of British automotive engineering during the early 1970s.

Vauxhall Viva HC 2300: A Detailed Overview

The Viva HC was a direct response to changing consumer demands and the need for a more competitive offering in the small to medium-sized family car segment. The previous Viva models, while popular, were often criticized for their cramped interiors and somewhat dated styling. The HC addressed these concerns with a larger body shell, a redesigned interior, and a wider range of engine options, culminating in the potent 2300cc variant. This model aimed to provide a blend of practicality, affordability, and respectable performance for the British motorist.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Viva HC 2300 is its 2.3-liter (2279 cm³ or 139.07 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder engine. This engine produced 110 horsepower (Hp) at 5200 rpm and 190 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque at 3000 rpm, equating to 140.14 lb.-ft. The engine featured a naturally aspirated configuration and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain. The power-to-weight ratio of 7.4 kg/Hp and 134.6 Hp/tonne indicates a reasonably sprightly performance for a vehicle of its era. Similarly, the torque-to-weight ratio of 4.3 kg/Nm and 232.6 Nm/tonne suggests good responsiveness. The engine’s 8.5:1 compression ratio was typical for the time, balancing performance with the fuel quality available. The engine required 4.6 liters (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) of engine oil and 8 liters (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) of coolant for optimal operation. The drivetrain consisted of a rear-wheel drive configuration coupled with a 4-speed manual transmission.

Design & Features

The Viva HC was available as a 2-door or 4-door saloon (sedan). The body style represented a significant departure from the earlier Viva models, adopting a more angular and contemporary aesthetic. The HC’s design incorporated larger windows and a more spacious cabin, addressing a key criticism of previous models. While safety features were relatively basic by modern standards, the HC did offer improvements over its predecessors, including a reinforced passenger safety cell. Interior appointments were functional and focused on durability, with vinyl upholstery and simple instrumentation being common. The trunk (boot) space offered a maximum capacity of 346/566 liters (12.22 cu. ft.), providing ample room for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4138 mm (162.91 in.) in length, 1643 mm (64.69 in.) in width, and 1348 mm (53.07 in.) in height – positioned it squarely within the compact family car segment. The wheelbase measured 2461 mm (96.89 in.), contributing to a stable ride.

Technical Specifications

The Vauxhall Viva HC 2300, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid and dependable offering in the early 1970s British automotive landscape. Its combination of improved space, respectable performance, and affordability made it a popular choice for families seeking a practical and reliable saloon. Though largely unknown outside of Europe, the Viva HC played a role in the evolution of Vauxhall’s model range and reflected the design and engineering trends of its time.