New Vauxhall Model announced on April 16 1956
Far removed from the first single-cylinder, 5 h.p. Vauxhall model seen on the roads on the roads of 1903, the new Vauxhall range – Velox, Wyvern and 10 cwt Coupe utility – offers performance combined with grace and beauty. – New features of the Velox and Wyvern include; wide-view windscreens with shimmer side pillars, wrap-around rear windows and new interior styling. Notable too is the improved braking system. – The new utility embraces practically all the features of the sedan models to provide a hard-working business vehicle that will double duty as a family car. – In appearance, the new Vauxhalls are smart – the restyled radiator grille is stronger and bolder. The improved glass area provides for greater vision; side windows are operated by winding handles. Illustrated above is the 15.63 hp 4 cylinders O.H.V. Wyvern. The Velox is of 23.44 h.p. 6 cylinder O.H.V. engine
15th April 1958. Completely New Vauxhall –
Completely changed in styling and engineering, the new Vauxhall Velox made its first Australian appearance this month at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. –For public release shortly by General Motors Holden, the Velox, with its ultra-low overall height and many advanced design features, styling, engineering and comfort, should have wide appeal for Australian conditions. – The new style Vauxhall body, an advance in integral construction, features a low, broad grill that emphasizes the width of the car, which has the traditional British Vauxhall “flutes” retained as side rubbing strips. Headroom, door space and seating are far better than in previous Vauxhalls, and the centre of gravity has been considerably lowered with a resulting big increase in comfort and road stability. – The new lower bonnet and the exceptional visibility provided both front and rear, enabling all four “corners” of the car to be seen from the driving seat. The novel full-width, three-piece windscreen greatly simplifies parking. –Although the same rating as the former Velox (2262 cc) the O.H.V. engine now fitted is rated at 23.4 h.p. and has a power output of 82.5 b.h.p. At 4400 r.p.m. Important New advances include “deep skirt” block construction; individual inlet ports which improve engine breathing; larger inlet valves and manifolds, giving greater efficiency at high speeds. – In addition, the new engine is fitted with the special Zenith 34VNT carburettor, which incorporates automatic choke adjustments. It has been developed for a greater economy and easier starting, under all conditions. – Bore and stroke are 3.125×3 inches, as formerly, but pistons are of improved design, with the piston pins offset 1/16th inch on the thrust side to minimise slap when the engine is cold. – The new gearbox features synchromesh on all three forward speeds, while the semi-floating Hypoid rear axle is of 4.11 ratio, compared with 4.125 on the previous Velox, and more massive rear axle shafts of the latest flanged type, are now fitted.
Two New Vauxhall Sixes 16th April 1958 – Two new Vauxhall cars – the six-cylinder Velox and Cresta models are to be released in Queensland this month. The models were released in some southern states last month. The new Vauxhalls incorporate important interior and exterior changes. Prices remain unchanged. – Both the Velox and the more luxurious Cresta are powered by the latest version of the Vauxhall six-cylinder overhead valve engine. Developing 82.5 b.h.p. and of rigid “deep skirt” crankcase construction, the motor features individual inlet and exhaust ports. – Each new model retains the traditional Griffin – a Vauxhall feature since 1903 – and has the following new features – A full wrap-around rear window; a new boot locking device; new radiator grille, a new bonnet emblem and a new two-tone body colour treatment
Transmission – Clutch: Hydrolasticaly controlled. 8-inch single dry plate. Gearbox: Three forward speeds (all synchromesh) 1 reverse. Steering Column gear shift. Gearbox Ratios First 2.886 to 1 – Second 1.635 to 1 -Top Direct. Reverse 3.050 to 1.
Engine Specifications – Six Cylinder Overhead Valve – R.A.C. and S.A.E. rating 23.44 hp. Max b.h.p 82.5 at 4.400 r/p.m r.p.m. Bore 3 1/2 inches. Stroke 3 inches Compression Ratio: 7.8 to 1
15th December 1952 The Garage and Motor Trader. Road impressions of the 1957 Vauxhall Velox – The new short-stroke “oversquare” engined Vauxhall Velox gave a very impressive performance during this months road test. – (late last year the first move of the changeover was made when completely new styled Vauxhalls were produced – powered with the pre-war long-stroke engines) -Over the test course, the new Velox confirmed its claims to comfort with flexibility. It was particularly easy to handle in every way – it cornered well, held “tight” at fast speeds, and ironed out corrugations at 40 m.p.h. Without discomfort. – The 23.4 hap. 6 cylinder motor gave the impression of power coupled with ability. Although no attempt was made to drive the vehicle at maximum speed. ( the manufacturers claim a top speed of over 80 m.p.h.) It was found tat speeds between 65 – 70 m.p.h. Could be maintained with no apparent effort, whilst roadability left nothing to be the desired Steering was delightfully light, and answered readily to the touch, and when required the braking system operated smoothly and efficiently. On the ability score, it must be said that for those who like a turn of speed, the Velox can “turn it on” at will.
Perhaps the most amazing thing about the Vauxhall Velox’s performance is its ability to hold slow speeds in top gear without labouring, both when climbing and during level running. – Apart from the “oversquare” advantages, the new Vauxhall engine has many other points of notable advance in design, engineering, and operation. – Combining to give more power from less petrol, and longer life, these points include – larger ports and improved manifold; larger valves and better cooling; more generously proportioned main, big and small end bearings; exceptionally rigid crankshaft with main and big-end bearings overlapping longitudinally; “Commonality” or exchangeability of parts of the Wyvern and Velox “square” engines. – Many special Vauxhall features, such as six-phase carburation, positive lubrication of cylinder bores, and double thermostat control of cooling, are retained, while longer cylinder bore life is claimed for the new Vauxhall cylinder boring technique. – Passenger comfort in this car is good, with some refinements, such as armrests, etc, usually seen only in a more expensive make of car. – The Velox body styling overall is modern and attractive, and incorporates a number of unique features, the boot compartment (of very ample proportions), for instance, is both locked and unlocked by operating a button located inside the rear seat compartments obviating the need for a separate key. The bonnet is opened by unique “disappearing” handles located on each side, and the entire cover can be removed if desired. The wind-up windows are spring-loaded push-up-and-down type and remain in position similar to the sash type window. Unfortunately, the windows do not retract below the level of the aperture, and so do not provide the most comfortable armrest on the driving side for the driver when doing long a long trip. The provision of an inside armrest on the drivers’ side door panel would solve this problem.- The tunnel type ventilation for passengers was found to be most effective – good air circulation is possible even in wet weather without the risk of water entering the car. – No attempt was made to check petrol consumption during the test, but according to manufacturers, the vehicle will average 30.m.p.g
Road impressions of the 1957 Vauxhall “Velox” series 5EP – the garage and motor trader – The new Vauxhall Velox for 1957 gave a very impressive performance during this months road test over a distance of 250 miles of city and country running. The vehicle used was kindly loaned by the Brisbane metropolitan distributors, Motors Pty. Ltd. – Over a course to Maroochydore via Dayborough, Woodford, Maleny, and Montville, and return via the Bruce Highway, the new Velox confirmed its claims to comfort combined with flexibility. It was particularly easy to handle in every way – it cornered well and ironed out corrugations without discomfort. – The 1957 Velox has been restyled for appearance, and its higher compression engine with a new type of carburettor undoubtedly gives increased efficiency with greater economy. – The well known 6 cylinder o.h.v. “Square” engine of 2.262 cubic inch capacity has been retained but has been given improved performance and acceleration by an increase in compression ratio to 6.8 to 1. Although no attempt was made to test high-speed performance due to the newness of the vehicle being tested there can be no doubt that the Velox would cruise at 65 – 70 m.p.h., with no effort, whilst readability left nothing to be desired. The steering was delightfully light and answered readily to the touch, and when required the braking system operated smoothly and efficiently. On the score of performance, it is indicated by the smart acceleration that for those who like a turn of speed, the Velox can “turn it on” at will. – Perhaps the most amazing thing about the Velox’s performance is its ability to hold low speeds in top gear without labouring, both when climbing and during level running. – New styling with a handsome new front end, makes it the best looking Vauxhall yet. The rear end has also been improved by a new single unit for the tail and stop lamps, reflectors and blinking turn indicators. – The new smart interior offers many improvements for added comfort and safety. A two-speed electric wiper replaces the previous mechanical type, gives better visibility in heavy .rain. The front door operates automatic switches for the interior roof light. The instrument panel has two new outstanding features – a quickly read disc type speedometer instead of the former needle pattern unit, and an electric thermometer instead of the previous capillary tube instrument. – No attempt was made to check petrol consumption during the test, but according to the manufacturers, the vehicle will average 30 m.p.g.
January 15 1954
Holdens Australian Except for 10 pound – Cost of overseas components used in Holden cars and utilities was only as little at 10 pounds a vehicle last year. General Motors Holden’s Ltd managing director (Mr E.C.Daum) said early this month. – Mr Daum said that the Vauxhall Motor Co,. Acting as agents had shipped to Australia about 1,034,000 Pounds worth of machinery to expand the manufacture of Holden’s. – It had shipped only 450,000 Pounds worth of components for Holdens. – These figures would clear up any misunderstanding caused by reports that Vauxhall Motors shipped 1,400,000 pounds worth of material and equipment for use in the production of Holden Vehicles.
March 1957 Vauxhall Victor – Vauxhall Motors new model the Victor, appeared on the road in Britain at the end of last month. – The four-cylinder, 75 m.p.h. four doors Victor will sell in Britain for (pounds) 728/17/- including tax. – The makers claim petrol consumption of about 40 m.p.g. with normal driving. – The 1 1/2 litre motor (bore 3.12 inches stroke 3 inches) is slightly over the square. The standard compression ratio is 7.8 to 1, which yields 55 brake horsepower at 4.200 revolutions per minute. – The Victor has synchromesh
Sept 1958 Modified Vauxhall at lower price version – A slightly modified version of the Vauxhall Victor was introduced to the Queensland market last month. With some of the trimmings eliminated, the standard model sells at approx (Pounds) 43 less than the special. Price of the standard model is (pounds) 1072/18/6, including sales tax.
Jan 15th 1959 Vauxhall Prices Down – Price reductions for all Vauxhall models were announced by General Motors Holden’s to become effective from December 22. – The reductions ranging from (pounds 20 to 35 off list prices, were as follows (Pounds) – Victor Standard 850 now 840 – Victor Super 163 895 now 875 – Velox 1,145 now 1,110 – Cresta 1,195 now 1,170. – These prices are metropolitan list prices and do not include sales tax
Feb 15th 1960 New Vauxhall – A press report from London states that Vauxhall has begun production of an entirely new car based on the Victor. – It is named the Envoy, and a station wagon version is named the Sherwood. – The new models will be for export only, the first going to Canada. – Vauxhalls have produced 2000 of them and production rate is at the rate of 100 a day. – It will have a development of the Victors 4 cylinder engine, but no other details have yet been released.
1957 – New Vauxhall “Victor Super” New Vauxhall “Victor Super” Is distinctive
Queensland Sept 16th 1957 – A British car entirely new in conception and design was previewed this month by General Motors-Holden’s to its dealer organization. – The car, the 4-cylinder, 4- seater “Victor Super” Vauxhall will be released in all States on September 26. – The “Victor Super”, with its low overall height – only 58 in. is claimed to be the first car of moderate size to feature both panoramic windscreen and wrap-around rear window. – With its 50 in. track, 98 in. wheelbase, and 166 1/2 in. Overall length, the vehicle has a remarkably small turning circle of 34 feet. Extremely low centre of gravity – 23 inches- contributes towards stability.