A CLASSIC car enthusiast has revealed how he rescued a worse-for-wear motor from a scrapyard and spent six years restoring it – before his hard work finally paid off.
Rory Clague, from Gloucester, was recently crowned Lancaster’s Pride of Ownership winner for 2025 after presenting his stunning Vauxhall Nova.
Rory Clague’s six-year restoration of a scrapyard Vauxhall Nova earned him the Pride of Ownership[/caption]
Rescued from a scrapyard, Rory’s Vauxhall Nova was transformed into an award-winning classic[/caption]
The Nova’s custom rebuild, from race-tuned engine to bespoke metalwork, showcases Rory’s dedication[/caption]
With only 766 left in the UK, Rory’s restored 1985 Vauxhall Nova stands as a rare gem[/caption]
Rory’s journey with his Nova is not just about cars – it’s a testament to creativity and determination[/caption]
Now considered a classic, the 1985 saloon – once a regular sight on British roads – has been whittled down to just a few hundred with valid MOTs, according to How Rare is My Car.
In fact, the precise number is recorded at 766 – with Rory’s likely one of the better ones.
During its peak years, Vauxhall sold around 500,000 Nova units between 1983 and 1993 – positioning it as a strong rival to the Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 205, and Renault 5.
For Rory, the Nova holds plenty of sentimental value as it was his very first car.
Speaking to Lancaster Insurance, he revealed how he rescued this specific model from a scrapyard in 2016 and has since fully restored every element of it – all of which was engineered and built by himself.
But for Rory, who has dyslexia and has always struggled with academics, the restoration has meant much more to him than just merely upgrading an old car.
“This Nova is more than just a car, it’s a personal passion project that I’ve brought back to life when it thought its days were numbered,” Rory said.
“Growing up with dyslexia, I always found it easier to learn by doing and express myself through hands-on work rather than academics, which led me naturally into more practical and creative outlets.
Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is
Rory Clague
“Building this car was more than a restoration – it was a way to channel my strengths and creativity into something I’m proud of.”
The extensive six-year restoration all took place at Rory’s workshop and involved bespoke engineering and a full custom build – featuring upgraded metalwork, a concrete grey respray and a race-tuned 1.6-litre 8v engine.
He added: “From the custom engineering to the race-ready build, every detail reflects my dedication to both preserving its heritage and pushing the boundaries of innovation.
“What I love most is the intrigue it sparks. Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is.”
Lancaster’s Pride of Ownership award is highly coveted by classic car owners, as it recognises not only their craftsmanship and dedication, but the stories that make classic cars so meaningful to their owners.
The award is voted for by classic car enthusiasts who visit the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show.
Yvonne Gosney from Lancaster Insurance said: “The Vauxhall Nova 1985 is a rarity on the classic car scene, especially in saloon form.
“Rory has restored this gem to such a high standard, and we’d like to congratulate him as this year’s Pride of Ownership win – and for his exceptional craftsmanship to bring this 40-year-old vehicle back to life.”
Not only did the Nova win the 2025 Pride of Ownership award but was also proudly showcased at the Silverstone Festival in 2023 and 2024.
For those heading to this year’s festival – which takes place between 22 and 24 of August – the Nova will be back there once again.
SHADOWY PAST
This comes as a petrolhead recently revealed the secret history of his extremely rare modern classic motor – claiming the model is infamous in some parts of the country.
Car enthusiast Paul Rees is a lifelong fan of the iconic Vauxhall Carlton – a nameplate that spanned decades from the late 1970s to the early 1990s.
But when he bought an ultra-rare Vauxhall Lotus Carlton, a super saloon with a top speed of 176 mph, he was unaware of its notorious past.
