Vauxhall Calibra SE5 Review – UK’s Last Automatic? | Rare ’90s Classic Coupe

In this Vauxhall Calibra review, we take a close look at the rare SE5 automatic — one of the last classic Vauxhalls left on the road in the UK.

🚗 Vauxhall Calibra SE5 – The Forgotten Coupe That’s Aging Like Fine Wine 💙🕰️

Say hello to the Vauxhall Calibra SE5, a sleek, cobalt blue coupe that once aimed to bring style and practicality to the everyday driver. Powered by a 2.0L 8-valve petrol engine making 115 bhp and 170 Nm of torque, this rare SE5 spec comes with an even rarer 4-speed automatic gearbox, making it 1 of only 4 left in the UK — and the only one currently taxed and road-ready. It's not fast (0–60 in 10 seconds), but it oozes character, simplicity, and a smooth retro charm that’s hard not to love.

📊 Specs & Features:
You get front-wheel drive, a full four-seat cabin, and a surprisingly large boot — this thing was built on a Cavalier chassis after all. Inside, the SE5 adds bonus gauges (oil pressure, ammeter), an airbag for the driver (sorry passengers 😅), and some surprisingly luxurious touches for a '90s coupe, like a red cross emergency kit, triangle, and original space saver spare that's never been used. With just 48,000 miles, it's an immaculate survivor. The cobalt blue paint paired with a freshly restored light cream interior really makes it pop.

🧠 Final Thoughts:
The Calibra SE5 is a rare sight, a time capsule from when Vauxhall dared to build something with coupe styling on family car underpinnings. It's not a fire-breathing turbo or a 16-valve screamer — but it’s honest, dependable, and has become more collectible in its unmodified, pristine condition. A full-on nostalgia hit with loads of charm.

⭐ Final Rating:

Future Classic: 7.5/10
Daily: 4/10
Wallet Hurt: 5.5/10
Fun: 4/10

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