Retro motor from iconic brand is now extremely rare & can be bought for a bargain – only 214 are left on UK roads
A RARELY seen motor that was once hugely popular in the UK can be yours for a bargain price.
In fact, the set of wheels is so seldom seen in 2024 that just over 200 are still in existence.
The iconic Vauxhall Carlton GSi 3000 super saloon was first released in 1986 and, at the time, was the model’s range topper prior to the release of the mythical Lotus Carlton.
At launch it boasted 177bhp with an impressive top speed of 134 mph.
Then, in 1990, its power was increased even more thanks to its increase to a 24-valve engine, resulting in 204bhp.
This wildly powerful 1990 version could reach 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds, while its top speed was increased to 149 mph.
Brimming with charm, the Carlton GSi 3000 is today considered fast and affordable, and also very rare.
According to How Rare Is My Car, just 214 Carlton models exist on UK roads – and many of those are believed to be the GSi 3000 and Lotus versions.
To that end, it’s claimed by Pistonheads that just 63 Carlton GSi 3000s are left.
However, we recently came across an example on eBay that’s up for sale for just £3,025.
The current owner has had it for 12 years and claims its been kept indoors and dry-stored for the entire time they’ve owned it.
The sporty Vauxhall, which has 117,000 miles on the clock, is described as a “great going car” that “starts, runs and drives 100%”.
Curiously, the owner even claims that 1992 F1 champion Nigel Mansell was the car’s first owner, although they admit they have no way of claiming this is true.
However, in the invoice history, they reveal “an N.Mansell” signature can be found.
This comes as a little-known Vauxhall model that rivals the BMW M3 for speed can be bought for £12,000.
Elsewhere, VW have revealed a special edition sporty hatchback with a curious colour scheme.