Why Hasn’t the Vauxhall Frontera Gained Classic Car Status?
When it comes to classic cars, some models achieve iconic status while others are left behind. One such example is the Vauxhall Frontera, which has yet to graduate from being a common sight on online marketplaces to becoming a highly sought-after collector’s item.
The Frontera: A Forgotten Gem
The Vauxhall Frontera was a 4×4 vehicle from the early 1990s, a time when SUVs were more than just larger cars with a higher driving position. Despite its impressive features, such as a separate chassis, low-ratio gears, and selectable four-wheel drive, the Frontera was often criticized for being more suited to the road than serious off-roading.
However, I must admit that I was drawn to its appearance when I first saw it. And now, after all these years, I believe the Frontera has shed its naff image and emerged as a true classic car. But it seems that not everyone shares this sentiment.
The Frontera’s Lack of Recognition
Unlike other 4×4 vehicles that can be found on specialist classic car websites, the Frontera is more commonly seen on platforms like eBay Motors and Facebook Marketplace. This may be due to its perceived lack of status as a classic car, as well as its rarity in the market.
Currently, there is a well-maintained Frontera Sport for sale on eBay. It boasts desirable features such as a three-door design, a removable roof, and only 34,000 miles on the clock. The asking price is £2300, but I believe it could be negotiated for slightly less if the buyer promises a quick sale and a good home for the vehicle.
A Car for the Unexceptional
While I’m personally not in the market for a Frontera, I can’t help but think it would be a perfect choice for events like the Festival of the Unexceptional. This year, a Toyota Hilux won the overall prize at the festival, raising eyebrows due to its growing reputation as a classic car.
On the other hand, the Frontera, despite being praised by Autocar’s road testers in its heyday, has failed to achieve the same recognition. Even models like the Land Rover Discovery and the Toyota Hilux from the same era command significantly higher prices than the Frontera, despite offering similar performance and being more common in the market.
The Fair Price Debate
So, is it fair to value a Frontera at £2300 while demanding ten times that amount for other alternatives that are objectively no better and possibly more common? It’s a question worth considering. While I won’t be purchasing a Frontera myself, I believe it deserves more recognition and appreciation in the classic car community.
