Vauxhall 27 HP classic car for sale

History of the Vauxhall 27 HP

The Vauxhall 27 HP emerged in the early 20th century as part of the brand’s efforts to compete in the grand tourer segment. Built at a time when Vauxhall still operated as an independent British manufacturer, the model reflects pioneering engineering and design philosophies of the era. Engines with considerable displacement embodied Vauxhall’s ambition to produce powerful and durable automobiles, catering to affluent clients who valued both performance and prestige. Vehicles like the 27 HP were often custom-bodied, resulting in significant variety and exclusivity among surviving examples.

Model History

Within Vauxhall’s portfolio, the 27 HP was positioned as a flagship before the General Motors acquisition. Its production spanned years when Vauxhall was creating larger and more performance-oriented vehicles. The model can be seen as a spiritual successor to earlier, smaller-displacement Vauxhalls, while it preceded the post-war models that shifted the brand towards more mass-market offerings. The bespoke nature of many 27 HPs means that each model might boast unique features according to the coachbuilder and original buyer.

Highlights and Statistics of the Vauxhall 27 HP

What distinguishes the 27 HP in the classic car landscape is its engine size, considerable torque for its period, and its adaptable chassis, which allowed for a variety of custom bodies. Rarity is intrinsic—the production numbers were low, and even fewer examples survive today, often restored with care to maintain authenticity. In pre-war British motoring circles, the model is respected for its engineering robustness, suitable for both stately touring and reliability trials.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Due to the era’s reliance on specific coachbuilders, nearly every Vauxhall 27 HP delivered became unique. Special bodies, one-off luxury appointments, and bespoke interiors marked many units as genuine collector’s pieces. Limited production runs and surviving examples with original bodies by prominent British coachbuilders demand particular attention among enthusiasts.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Given their age and the technology of the time, Vauxhall 27 HPs require specialised knowledge for maintenance. Engine lubrication, vintage electrics, and braking systems can present challenges. Authenticity of components and previous restoration quality significantly impact reliability and drivability. Periodic attention to chassis and wooden body frames—susceptible to rot and wear—remains crucial.

Engine, Transmission, and Handling

With a powerful multi-litre straight-six engine, the Vauxhall 27 HP delivers ample torque for effortless cruising, even by contemporary standards. While acceleration is modest by modern measures, the vehicle’s overall composure on secondary roads and its stability at speed impressed period reviewers. Gear changes are manual and require familiarity, as unsynchronised gearboxes are standard. The car’s considerable weight, coupled with primitive braking and suspension, demands attentive handling, especially in damp or uneven conditions. Among known surviving vehicles, those with provenance from sporting events or retained bodywork by renowned British coachbuilders such as Mulliner or H.J. Mulliner demonstrate the greatest collector interest, particularly when documented with period photographs or race history.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Custom coachwork determined both interior and exterior aesthetics, resulting in a wide variety. Interiors frequently featured leather and rich hardwoods, while exteriors ranged from formal limousines to rakish sports tourers. Noteworthy extras included period-correct lighting units, folding windshields, spoked wheels, and bespoke paint jobs reflecting owner preferences. Dashboards commonly combined brass and nickel elements, and available accessories could include luggage racks, running boards, and auxiliary horns.

Other Notable Aspects

Vauxhall 27 HPs occasionally appear in historic motoring events and period-accurate rallies across the UK and Europe. Continued support from enthusiast clubs helps owners maintain authenticity with rare spare parts and restoration advice.

Summary

The Vauxhall 27 HP encapsulates a distinct era in British automotive history, defined by engineering ambition and bespoke craftsmanship. Low production numbers and a tradition of unique coachwork guarantee exclusivity, while contemporary market data reflects both the rarity and high regard for this model among classic Vauxhall aficionados.