Models · Vauxhall / Opel
Vauxhall VX220 / Opel Speedster buying guide
Vauxhall's mid-engined roadster, built from 2000 to 2005 on a bonded aluminium chassis with a glassfibre body, with a 2.2 normally aspirated engine and, from 2003, a 2.0 turbo. Many have been crashed or modified, and the checks focus on the structure, the engine's timing drive and the cooling.
The versions
- 2.2 normally aspirated four-cylinder, 147hp, with a timing chain; 5,267 built
- 2.0 turbo four-cylinder from 2003, 200hp, with a timing belt; 1,940 built
- VXR220 (2004): 220hp turbo, a limited run of around 60 cars
- Five-speed Getrag manual, rear-wheel drive, fabric roof
What to check on a VX220
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Timing chain or belt
What to look for: On a 2.2, listen at a cold start for a rattle from the engine, which should be quiet. On a Turbo, look in the history for a timing belt change within the last four years. On either, ask whether the tensioner and water pump were done at the same time. On a 2.2, check the oil level more than once, as the dipstick is unreliable.
Why it matters: The 2.2's timing chain should be rattle-free; a rattle means it needs replacing immediately, and replacement around every 60,000 miles is recommended. The Turbo's belt is due every four years, with 40,000 to 60,000 miles quoted for mileage. The 2.2 uses some oil, so its level matters.
The front crash box and accident repairs
What to look for: Look under the front clamshell at the crash box structure at the front of the chassis for distortion or repair. Check for cracks where the rear of the front clamshell meets the windscreen, and check the floor for damage from incorrect jacking.
Why it matters: Many VX220s have been crashed. The crash box is the key structure to check, and damage to it can write a car off. Clamshells are available, so a replaced clamshell isn't a problem in itself if the structure beneath is sound.
Rear suspension ball joints and hub bolts
What to look for: Ask for receipts showing the rear track control arm ball joints and the rear hub bolts have been replaced. Look at the dampers for leaks and the alloy spring mounts for corrosion.
Why it matters: Seized rear track control arm ball joints can lead to sudden suspension collapse, and the rear hub bolts can weaken and snap, so specialists recommend replacing both if not done recently. Dampers wear quickly and the car is very sensitive to alignment.
Also in the full guide
- Header tank, radiator and hoses
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the VX220
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Vauxhall / Opel.