The world’s biggest private collection of classic Vauxhalls is to throw its doors open to the public for one day only, and, for 2008, Vauxhall will also be celebrating 10 million Astra sales since the model first appeared in 1980.

This year, the Vauxhall Heritage Centre’s annual open day, run to coincide with the Luton Festival of Transport, will mark the history of its best seller. A range of Astras will be on display dating back to the Mark 1, including specials such as the 4S rally car and an ex-BTCC racer. Vauxhall will also make a feature of the car’s predecessors – the Chevette and the Viva, both of which were built at the current Astra’s home – GM’s Ellesmere Port factory.

Based at the Heritage Centre in Park Street, Luton (England), the event takes place on Sunday 8th June, 2008, with free entry, and while the Astra will take centre stage, visitors can also view the company’s 50-plus strong collection of classic Vauxhalls.

From the very first 1903 Vauxhall through to ‘modern’ classics such as the last ever Monaro, the Heritage Collection contains over a century’s worth of classic Vauxhall models, including favourites such as the Lotus Carlton, the racy VXR 220 and the latest addition to the fleet, a 1975 Vauxhall HP Firenza ‘Droop Snoot’ awaiting light restoration.

There will also be entertainment throughout the day for all the family, including a BTCC racing simulator plus children’s activities.