Absolute Classic Cars. 1996 Vauxhall Calibra SE5 - FSH, 52k miles and 1 of 233 examples built - SOLD

Originally ordered as a dealer demonstrator for the Vauxhall main dealer, Barton Motors of Chorley this stunning Calibra SE5 was registered on the 29th Febuary 1996 and sold to its first keeper, a Mr J Iddon on the 19th August '96 whom from the comprehensive history file, cherished the car for some 16 years, the car having just 2 further keepers during this time. One of just 233 examples produced, believed one of just 7 examples currently registered on the road, this SE5 is devoid of any unwanted 'add-ons' and is offered, as GM intended, with the following model specific SE5 specification:
2.0 litre (C20NE) 8 valve engine developing 115ps
5 speed manual gearbox, Getrag F16
Finished in Two-coat Solid Black
Full Cream leather interior
16" BBS alloys - Factory finished in champagne and fitted with new tyres (7mm)
Lowered suspension
ABS
Grundig 4870 radio/cassette with 10 disc autochanger
Drivers / Passenger airbags
Clock with Outside temperature
Tilt & Slide sunroof
Electric windows / mirrors
Central Locking
Additional instrumentation
Dealer extras:
Front and rear mudflaps
Headlight protectors
Walking around the exterior of this stunning Calibra SE5, the body work remains in excellent condition, the two-coat, base and clear lacquer, solid black paint presents wonderfully, with just a few indiscernible marks, commensurate to her low mileage and whilst there aren't many cars that can make black paint look so good; excentuating the cars lines further, we would simply say ....'wow, she looks fantastic'! Panel gaps are consistent around the car, lenses are free from damage, the original champagne coloured 16" BBS alloys look stunning (fitted with a matched set of new tyres) and with factory lowered suspension, dealer fit options (mudflaps and headlight protectors), its wonderful to offer such an example, no silly add-ons; she's just as she left the factory!
The same, factory original specification, continues when opening the doors. The cream leather sports seats remain in fantastic condition and with ample adjustment they provide the perfect driving position for either spirited driving or a relaxed country cruise and we can say from experience (having owned a V6 many moons ago) the Calibra suprisingly, offers reasonable space for rear passengers too. All the Interior electrics work, just as they should, with the additional instrumentation, for oil pressure and battery condtion, plus Outside temperature and the Time and supplied with her original Grundig 4870 + 10 disc autochanger (currently fitted with a modern 'bluetooth' enabled stereo) and her newly fitted set of factory tailored over mats one could easily be mistaken for stepping into a much new car.
Mechanically the Calibra is in great condition too. Showing just over 52k miles she starts on the button, the 4 cylinder engine settling down nicely and shows great oil pressure. Out on the open road the 2 litre C20NE engine performs perfectly, crisps changes through the 5 speed gearbox and nicely balanced steering and suspension.....factory lowered on the SE5. At some time, propbably due to the lack of GM availablity, the Calibra was fitted with a Sportex system and having had her on the ramp to inspect, note underbody pics and video we're delighted to report that she remains in superb original condition here too.
A great car to drive and simply to admire its clear this Calibra SE5 has been cosseted and well cared for by her previous owners. The supporting history folder includes the factory book packs including model specific suppliments, invoices (back to '97 and in excess of £6,500) and stamped servicing at 9662 miles, 16649 miles, 23084 miles, 33792 miles, 36252 miles, 38700 miles, 40795 miles, 47131 miles, 51448 miles, plus pre-launch and production brochures etc, plus two sets of key, it's clear this Calibra SE5 wants for nothing.....though naturally we'll still be passing her to our independent engineer for a full inspection / service and she'll come with a new MOT, offering further peace-of-mind for the new owner.
A remarkable example, this Vauxhall Calibra SE5 is an absolute gem, one of the rarest models built and with just 52k miles, we've yet to see any example of a Calibra good as this; an attention grabber, ready for any collector and one we think you'll fall in love!

[@stephenbishop8374]

Very nice 👌

[@joergdetlev5124]

Wonderful car, i'm proud to say I have a Titanium silver one.

[@absoluteclassiccars5050]

Fabulous cars, keep enjoying yours 👍