Why does the Vauxhall name still exist in the UK, given that Vauxhall cars are identical to Opel cars?

Question

Even the name is the same, so Vauxhall Zafira = Opel Zafira for example.

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

because it is 2 different factories: one in Germany (Opel) and sister one in Ireland (Vauxhall) and they produce the same cars

Answer 2

Vauxhall has a lot more brand history in the UK than Opel. It's that simple.

Answer 3

Why not.?

Answer 4

Its all down to 'badge engineering' for the various home markets. Vauxhall for the British Isles market & Opel for the rest of the European markets. The Astra is built at Ellesmere Port (Cheshire) for all markets.The Vectra was built at Luton until the factory was closed. Holden ( Australian) used to build the Monaro 5.7 & 6 litre which is re-badged for the UK market

Answer 5

because vauxhall and opel are partners! Doh

Answer 6

Some years ago they were going to call all Vauxhall cars and vans Opel.
The British and other buyers were more accustomed to the Vauxhall name and the idea was dropped for this country.
It is only a brand name.
Vauxhalls have been identical to Opels in England for over 40 years.

Answer 7

In the UK Vauxhall, like Ford, are perceived as British brands even though they are American.

Answer 8

Opel is German Vauxhall is British - do I need to say more?
How about calling both General Motors - American - which is the parent company?
RoyS.

Answer 9

Try reversing the question, why is the Opel name still used?
It's because we like to think the cars are designed and built in our own country.

Answer 10

OPel is the name favoured in europe!....same company.

Answer 11

Vauxhall are simply the U.K "brand" for General motors,the same as Chevrolet is to the U.S.A, Holden in Australia etc.
It's purely a "badge" exercise as the name Vauxhall is more familiar to us "Brits!"