VAUXHALL CALIBRA BODY KIT STYLING

Vauxhall Calibra (1989–1997)

The Vauxhall Calibra made a bold entrance into the market in 1989, offering coupé styling on a family car platform. Based on the Vauxhall Cavalier (Opel Vectra A in Europe), the Calibra was Vauxhall’s attempt to add a touch of European flair and design to its otherwise sensible lineup—and it largely succeeded.

Design & Styling

The Calibra’s biggest selling point was undoubtedly its looks. Designed by German stylist Erhard Schnell, it boasted one of the most aerodynamic shapes of its time, with a drag coefficient of just 0.26—a record for a production car when launched.

Its sleek, low-slung profile, frameless doors, and distinctive front end gave it a premium feel, and it turned heads in a way few Vauxhalls had before or since. Even today, a well-kept Calibra still has visual appeal.

Performance & Driving

Early models came with 2.0L 8-valve and 16-valve engines, offering up to 150 bhp, and later versions included a 2.5L V6 and even a turbocharged 4x4 variant producing 204 bhp. Performance ranged from brisk to genuinely quick:

• 2.0 16V (C20XE): ~150 bhp, 0–60 mph in ~8.5 seconds

• Turbo 4x4: ~204 bhp, 0–60 mph in ~6.8 seconds

• 2.5 V6: Smooth and refined, but not as fast as the Turbo

The 4x4 system on turbo models improved grip but added complexity and weight. Unfortunately, reliability of the transfer box was a known issue, and many have been converted to FWD since.

Handling was decent but not razor-sharp—more a grand tourer than a pure sports car. The ride was composed, and it was a competent cruiser, especially on motorways.

Interior & Practicality

Inside, the Calibra inherited much of its dashboard and interior layout from the Cavalier, which meant solid ergonomics but not much flair. It seated four in comfort, and the boot was surprisingly spacious for a coupé.

Standard equipment improved over the years, with later models offering air conditioning, leather, and even digital dashboards on select trims.

Reliability & Ownership

Mechanically, the Calibra was sound, sharing parts with the Cavalier. The 2.0 16v (C20XE) engine is particularly beloved for its robustness. However, rust can be an issue, and as mentioned, the 4x4 models are prone to drivetrain problems.

Parts are generally available, but pristine examples—especially of the Turbo—are becoming rare and collectible.

Legacy & Classic Appeal

The Calibra is enjoying a resurgence in interest. For many, it represents peak '90s Vauxhall, blending affordability with style and a dash of performance. It never quite matched the dynamic ability of rivals like the Honda Prelude or Ford Probe, but its looks and straight-line speed give it enduring appeal.

Clean, unmodified examples—especially Turbos or early 16Vs—are becoming sought after in the classic car world.

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