In Brief:

• A tidy and low mileage example of limited edition 'Diamond' trim Nova
• Finished in Black over a cloth interior
• Owned by the current keeper for the last 21 years
• Just 1 former keeper - owned for 17 years
• Genuine 24,869 miles from new

Auctioneer's Notes:

A remarkably well-preserved example of the limited-edition 1988 Vauxhall Nova Diamond, this charming 1980s supermini presents as a genuine low-mileage, one-family ownership time capsule. Showing just 24,869 miles, it has clearly led a sheltered life, with the accompanying paperwork helping to trace its story from new. The original purchase invoice confirms that the car was supplied in 1988 at a cost of £6,500, equivalent to approximately £22,624.50 in today’s purchasing power. With its period Diamond trim, attractive presentation and wonderfully complete history, this Nova offers a rare opportunity to acquire an increasingly nostalgic and collectible example of Vauxhall’s popular supermini.

Maintenance & Condition:

Despite having been off the road for an extended period, the car remarkably still runs and drives and presents in beautiful condition both inside and out. The current mileage of 24,869 is supported by the older MOT history, with the last MOT pass recorded in 2007 at 22,375 miles. SORN records show that the vehicle was placed on SORN between 2008 and 2012, following another period off the road between 2006 and 2007. This limited use helps explain the car’s impressive preservation and low mileage.

History:

The history file is a particular highlight. It includes the original bookpack and service record, with the pre-delivery inspection ticket stamped in August 1988. The first few service vouchers have been removed, and the file is further supported by old MOT history, maintenance manuals, information booklets and the original 1988 purchase invoice. 

Notably, all of the documentation is signed by the first keeper. A letter to the DVLA from 2004 is also included, confirming the transfer of the vehicle from the original keeper to her son, The Vendor, after she chose to cease driving. This gives the car a lovely, traceable one-family ownership story from new. 

The Model:

The Vauxhall Nova was one of the defining small cars of the 1980s, offering simple mechanicals, economical running costs and light, easy handling. The Diamond was a limited-edition variant, positioned as a more stylish and better-equipped version of the popular supermini.

Typically powered by Vauxhall’s 1.2-litre petrol engine, the Nova Diamond offered modest but lively performance, with period road manners that made it popular as both a town car and an economical everyday hatchback. Diamond-specific details included upgraded patterned cloth upholstery, special trim touches, exterior decals and attractive period styling enhancements.

Sale Insight:

Surviving Novas in original, low-mileage condition are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly limited-edition variants with strong provenance. This example’s one-family ownership, original purchase invoice, early documentation, old MOT history and remarkably low mileage make it a highly appealing modern classic.

With nostalgia for 1980s and 1990s hot hatches and superminis continuing to grow, this Nova Diamond stands out as a beautifully preserved and highly characterful survivor.

Estimate:

£5,000-£6,000