Sunday, October 19, 2008

Ranting Stan's Sunday Drive: Vauxhall Victor FB

When I was a kid these cars seemed to be everywhere and, for some reason, virtually every one I remember was either an old English white with red seats or pale green with green seats - so it's a bit of a shame that I can't find a decent picture of one in either of those shades. Never mind, it was a handsome car whatever shade it came in and had something about it.

I guess it was influenced by US design as the shape and interior definitely had a feel similar to US models of the time, but despite all that it still seemed perfectly at home on British roads and drives. The model I particularly remember had immense bench seats front and rear with a column gear change. It was owned by an uncle who appeared to find driving it utterly effortless although I'm pretty sure it didn't have such luxuries as power steering fitted.

It was comfortable to ride in front or back with more than enough room to squeeze in two or three adults and five or six kids - as was common back in those days! It was a great family car. My uncle later acquired an estate version which was utterly cavernous, but like a lot of cars from that era, the Victor proved to be prone to rust which is probably why you don't see too many about these days.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stan love to see the old rides

Being in Canada we have a strong
connection with British cars

One of the first cars I learned to drive in was a 1969 Triumph Spitfire.

Anonymous said...

I had a 1964 model that sandy colour, I loved it. Very comfortable, but, being quite short I had to use a cushion to reach the peddles!
It cost me £185 in 1971 with a rotten chassis, got it welded & pranged it a year later & sold it for £40. Steve Timberlake, if you are reading this, where's my money!!!!

jimmy t said...

hi just bought one of these cars its real nice to drive never been wielded its black 1962