Chevette HSR

Lore & Background

The Chevette HSR was a rally-focused model based on the standard Chevette hatchback, which had been launched in the UK in 1975. The standard Chevette used a 1.3-litre engine and rear-wheel drive, a layout that became unusual as most competitors adopted front-wheel drive. The HSR variant was developed for competition, capitalizing on the Chevette's light weight and good performance. It featured a distinctive 'droopsnoot' nose inspired by the Pontiac Firebird, similar to the design used on the Firenza. The HSR was produced in limited numbers to meet homologation requirements for rallying, and it remains a rare sight in road-going trim.

Reader's Guide

The Chevette HSR holds significance as a homologation special that allowed Vauxhall to compete in rallying during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was based on the Chevette, which was one of the first British-built hatchbacks of its size and had been the UK's best-selling hatchback from 1975 to 1978. The standard Chevette's rear-wheel drive and 1.3-litre engine provided a good platform for performance tuning, and the HSR variant took advantage of this. The model's rarity and competition pedigree have made it a sought-after collector's item. Its legacy is tied to the broader Chevette range, which included hatchback, saloon, estate, and van versions, and which remained on sale until 1984, even after the introduction of the Vauxhall Astra in 1980. The HSR specifically represents the sporting aspirations of the Chevette line, which was marketed with the slogan 'It's whatever you want it to be!'

Did You Know?

• The Chevette HSR is a rare rally model in road-going trim.
• The Chevette used a 1.3-litre overhead valve engine from the Viva HC.
• The Chevette remained rear-wheel drive while most competitors switched to front-wheel drive.