Vauxhall Nova GSi
The facelifted flagship that defined the 1990s British hot hatch scene.
- Power
- 100 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.9 s
- Top speed
- 117 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$21k
About the Vauxhall Nova GSi
The Vauxhall Nova GSi arrived in 1990 as the facelifted successor to the GTE, serving as the performance flagship for the final years of Nova production. It featured a revised front end with a body-coloured grille, clear indicator lenses, and a more modern dashboard, while retaining the punchy 1.6-litre multi-point fuel-injected engine. Known for its lightweight construction and direct handling, it offered a raw driving experience that made it a favourite among enthusiasts and tuners alike. Today, original, unmodified examples are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by collectors of 1990s 'fast Vauxhalls'.
Vauxhall Nova GSi specs
The Vauxhall Nova GSi produces 100 bhp (75 kW) and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 117 mph (188 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Nova GSi |
| Trim | 1.6i |
| Years | 1990–1993 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 2,873 built |
| Engine | 1.6-litre 8-valve inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 100 bhp (75 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.9 s |
| Top speed | 117 mph (188 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 820 kg (1,808 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 122 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 Nova GSi worth?
A typical Vauxhall Nova GSi is estimated to be worth $4,200 – $21,000 (about £3,100 – £15,000).
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 Nova GSi rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Nova GSi is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 Nova GSi fun facts
- The GSi replaced the GTE nameplate in the UK to align with Opel's European naming strategy for its performance models.
- It is easily identified by its distinctive three-spoke alloy wheels, deep front bumper, and wrap-around rear spoiler.
- Despite its popularity, very few survive today due to a combination of severe structural corrosion and the 1990s trend for heavy modifications.