The Vauxhall Nova CC 1.2 S is a supermini car that was produced between 1988 and 1990. Part of the Nova CC generation, it represented Vauxhall’s entry into the increasingly competitive small car market in Europe. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding the Nova provides insight into the automotive landscape of the late 1980s and early 1990s, particularly its significance as a budget-friendly and practical vehicle for European consumers. The Nova was a direct replacement for the aging Vauxhall Chevette and aimed to offer a more modern and efficient alternative.
Vauxhall Nova CC 1.2 S: A Detailed Overview
The Nova CC (for ‘Coupé’ and ‘Comfort’) was a significant model for Vauxhall, offering a range of trim levels and engine options. The 1.2 S variant, with its 58 horsepower engine, was positioned as a sporty and economical choice. It appealed to young drivers and those seeking a reliable and affordable mode of transportation. The Nova’s design and engineering reflected the trends of the era, prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. It was a common sight on European roads during its production run and remains a popular classic car among enthusiasts today.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Nova CC 1.2 S is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, displacing 1196 cm³ (72.98 cubic inches), produced 58 horsepower. While not a powerhouse, this output was adequate for the Nova’s lightweight frame, resulting in a weight-to-power ratio of 12.7 kg/Hp. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain and utilized a carburetor fuel injection system – a common setup for vehicles of this era. The naturally aspirated engine delivered a power per litre figure of 48.5 Hp/l. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The Nova’s front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to its relatively good handling and fuel efficiency. The engine’s modest power output and the car’s light weight allowed for a respectable driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Nova CC was a three or five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its compact dimensions – measuring 3622 mm (142.6 inches) in length and 1535 mm (60.43 inches) in width – made it easy to maneuver in tight city streets. The Nova’s interior was designed to maximize space, offering seating for five passengers. The trunk (boot) space varied depending on the rear seats being up or folded down, ranging from a minimum of 260 liters (9.18 cubic feet) to a maximum of 1150 liters (40.61 cubic feet).
Safety features were relatively basic by modern standards, reflecting the automotive safety regulations of the late 1980s. The Nova CC 1.2 S was equipped with ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. Steering was handled by a steering rack and pinion system. The vehicle rode on 165/65 R14 tires mounted on 4.5J x 14 inch wheel rims. The Nova’s design was functional rather than flamboyant, with a focus on practicality and affordability. Its simple lines and compact proportions made it a recognizable and popular vehicle in its time.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Nova |
| Generation | Nova CC |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 S (58 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1990 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 78.9 Hp/tonne |
| Power | 58 Hp |
| Power per litre | 48.5 Hp/l |
| Engine displacement | 1196 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 72.98 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.8 mm |
| Cylinder Bore (in.) | 3.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 62.9 mm |
| Piston Stroke (in.) | 2.48 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 3.17 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 2.64 UK qt |
| Coolant | 6.1 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 6.45 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 5.37 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 735 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs) | 1620.4 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1215 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 2678.62 lbs |
| Max load | 480 kg |
| Max load (lbs) | 1058.22 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 260 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum (cu. ft.) | 9.18 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1150 l |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum (cu. ft.) | 40.61 cu. ft. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 450 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) (lbs) | 992.08 lbs |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 365 kg |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes (lbs) | 804.69 lbs |
| Length | 3622 mm |
| Length (in.) | 142.6 in. |
| Width | 1535 mm |
| Width (in.) | 60.43 in. |
| Height | 1364 mm |
| Height (in.) | 53.7 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2343 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 92.24 in. |
| Front track | 1320 mm |
| Front track (in.) | 51.97 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1300 mm |
| Rear (Back) track (in.) | 51.18 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in.) | 5.51 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.4 m |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) (ft) | 30.84 ft |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 4.5J x 14 |
The Vauxhall Nova CC 1.2 S, while a relatively simple vehicle by today’s standards, played an important role in the European automotive market. Its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency made it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers. Today, it is remembered as a classic example of a 1980s supermini and remains a cherished vehicle among car enthusiasts.
