Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2
The front-wheel-drive fleet favourite that humbled the Ford Sierra.
- Power
- 90 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.8 s
- Top speed
- 107 mph
- Est. value
- $1k–$9k
About the Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2
The Mk2 Vauxhall Cavalier was a transformative model for General Motors in the UK, moving to a modern front-wheel-drive J-car platform. Its conventional styling appealed to conservative fleet buyers who were initially alienated by the radical 'jelly mould' Ford Sierra, allowing the Cavalier to become Britain's second best-selling car in 1984 and 1985. The 1.6-litre 'L' trim was the quintessential rep-mobile of the 1980s, offering class-leading performance and efficiency for its time. Today, it is a rare and nostalgic survivor of the era when the family saloon dominated British motorways.
Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 specs
The Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 produces 90 bhp (67 kW) and 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.8 seconds and has a top speed of 107 mph (172 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Cavalier |
| Generation | Mk2 |
| Trim | 1.6 L |
| Years | 1981–1988 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 90 bhp (67 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.8 s |
| Top speed | 107 mph (172 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 980 kg (2,161 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 92 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 worth?
A typical Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 is estimated to be worth $1,200 – $9,000 (about £895 – £6,700).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Vauxhall Cavalier Mk2 fun facts
- The Mk2 Cavalier was so successful in the UK that Vauxhall's Luton plant actually exported left-hand-drive versions badged as Opel Asconas back to Continental Europe.
- Engineers designed the car for easy maintenance, including a sliding clutch shaft that allowed a full clutch change in just 65 minutes without removing the gearbox.
- While the saloon and hatchback were built in Luton, the estate version used rear body panels imported all the way from Holden in Australia.