Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type
A scaled-down slice of Detroit for the British family man.
- Power
- 45 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 37.2 s
- Top speed
- 72 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$21k
About the Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type
The E-Series Wyvern represented a radical departure for Vauxhall, ditching pre-war carryover styling for a modern, American-influenced 'Ponton' monocoque body. While the initial 1951 launch used an aging 1.4-litre unit, the 1952 introduction of the 1.5-litre 'square' engine provided the necessary torque to handle its increased weight. Its styling, featuring a prominent chrome grille and curved windscreen, was heavily inspired by the 1949 Chevrolet, reflecting General Motors' ownership. Though performance was modest, the Wyvern offered impressive interior space and a smooth ride that made it a staple of 1950s British roads.
Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type specs
The Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type produces 45 bhp (34 kW) and 104 Nm (77 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 37.2 seconds and has a top speed of 72 mph (116 km/h).
| Make | Vauxhall |
|---|---|
| Model | Wyvern |
| Generation | E-Type |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1951–1957 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,508 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 45 bhp (34 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 104 Nm (77 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 37.2 s |
| Top speed | 72 mph (116 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,027 kg (2,264 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 44 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 Wyvern E-Type worth?
A typical Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $21,000 (about £6,700 – £16,000).
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 Wyvern E-Type rarity in CarSpot
The Vauxhall Wyvern E-Type is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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 Wyvern E-Type fun facts
- The Wyvern's bonnet was uniquely hinged, allowing it to be opened from either the left or the right side, or removed entirely.
- The name 'Wyvern' is believed to have originated from a misidentification of the heraldic griffin found on the Vauxhall badge.
- The E-Series was the first Vauxhall to feature a one-piece curved windscreen, a luxury feature for a mass-market car in the early 1950s.