Vauxhall Viva II (HB) gallery (1966–1970)

Produced from 1966 to 1970, the Vauxhall Viva HB represented a dramatic evolution in design and engineering, introducing fashionable transatlantic Coke-bottle styling with undulating waistlines. The HB generation was substantially larger and more refined than its predecessor, boasting an advanced coil-sprung rear suspension setup with four trailing links and a Panhard rod, which dramatically improved road holding and ride quality. The body range was significantly broadened to include two-door and four-door saloons, a three-door estate, and the athletic Viva GT two-door fastback coupe. Engine choices began with the standard 1,159 cc inline-four and expanded to include Vauxhall's advanced overhead-camshaft Slant Four powerplants in 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre displacements, producing up to 104 bhp in twin-carburettor GT trim. Transmissions included a four-speed manual and a three-speed Borg-Warner automatic. A mild facelift in 1968 updated the dashboard ergonomics, safety fittings, and braking system. The model proved hugely popular across Europe, Canada (sold as Envoy Epic), and Australasia.