The Vauxhall Nova 1.3 S was a small, front-wheel-drive hatchback produced by Vauxhall between 1983 and 1987. Part of the first generation Nova range (1983-1993), it represented Vauxhall’s entry into the supermini segment, aiming to replace the aging Chevette and compete with popular models like the Ford Fiesta and Austin Metro. While not officially sold in the United States, the Nova was a significant vehicle in the UK and European markets, known for its affordability, practicality, and relatively sporty handling, particularly in the ‘S’ trim level. The Nova, and its Opel Corsa counterpart, were instrumental in establishing Vauxhall/Opel as major players in the small car sector.
Vauxhall Nova 1.3 S: A Detailed Overview
The 1.3 S variant was a popular choice, offering a step up in performance and equipment compared to the base models. It appealed to younger drivers and those seeking a more engaging driving experience. The Nova’s design, while simple, was modern for its time, and its compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The Nova was a key model for Vauxhall, helping to modernize their image and broaden their customer base.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Nova 1.3 S was a 1.3-liter, inline-four cylinder petrol engine, designated the 13SB. This engine produced 70 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 101 Nm (74.49 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. While not a powerhouse, this output provided adequate performance for its intended purpose. The engine featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain and utilized a carburetor fuel injection system, common for vehicles of this era. The power-to-weight ratio of 10.7 kg/Hp and a power per litre of 54 Hp/l contributed to a reasonably lively driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 11.9 seconds, and it could achieve a maximum speed of 103.15 mph (166 km/h). The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy was rated at 9.3 l/100 km urban, equating to approximately 25.3 US mpg.
Design & Features
The Nova 1.3 S was typically offered as a three or five-door hatchback, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. The body style was a traditional hatchback, prioritizing practicality and space efficiency. The ‘S’ trim level included several features designed to enhance the driving experience and appearance. These often included upgraded interior trim, sporty seats, and sometimes, alloy wheels. Safety features were relatively basic by modern standards, reflecting the automotive technology of the 1980s. Front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, providing responsive handling. The Nova’s compact dimensions – a length of 3955 mm (155.71 in), a width of 1541 mm (60.67 in), and a height of 1358 mm (53.46 in) – made it well-suited for navigating crowded city streets. The drag coefficient of 0.39 was typical for cars of this period.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Nova |
| Generation | Nova |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 S (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1983 |
| End of production | 1987 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2-4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 166 km/h (103.15 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54 Hp/l |
| Torque | 101 Nm @ 3800 rpm (74.49 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 13SB |
| Engine displacement | 1297 cm3 (79.15 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3 l (3.17 US qt | 2.64 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 750-770 kg (1653.47 – 1697.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1215-1230 kg (2678.62 – 2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max load | 460-465 kg (1014.13 – 1025.15 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3955 mm (155.71 in.) |
| Width | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Height | 1358 mm (53.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2341 mm (92.17 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Vauxhall Nova 1.3 S, while a relatively simple car by today’s standards, played a significant role in the European automotive landscape of the 1980s. Its affordability, practicality, and enjoyable driving characteristics made it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers. The Nova’s success helped solidify Vauxhall’s position in the competitive supermini market and paved the way for future generations of small cars from the brand.
