Opel GT
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The Opel GT is a two-seat sports car introduced by Opel in 1968. Its styling was unmistakably like the Chevrolet Corvette of that year. Although they were both designed by Larry Shinoda, the Opel GT came first and is regarded as his "favorite" in his memoirs.
General information
The Opel GT was equipped with a base 1.1 L OHV straight-4 engine, which produced 67 hp (SAE) at 6000 rpm. However, most buyers chose an optional 1.9 L CIH engine, which produced 102 hp (SAE) at 5200 to 5400 rpm. Some of the early 1968 models also came with a 1.5 L engine. In 1971, due to emissions regulations, Opel reduced the compression ratio of the U.S.1.9 L engine and output fell to 83 hp (SAE). There was also a GT/J model, which was a less expensive version of the 1900GT. Standard transmission was a manual 4-speed. A three-speed automatic was available with the 1.9 L engine. The model run of the Opel GT was from 1968 to 1973. Opels produced after 1973 had Opel GT bodies but Isuzu engines, and are not considered to be the same model as the classic Opel GT.The Opel GT used a steel unibody and a conventional front-engined, rear-wheel drive layout. The Cam-In-Head (CIH) engine was mounted far back in the chassis to improve weight distribution. Front suspension consisted of double A-arms and a transverse leaf spring. A live axle and coil springs were used in the rear. The power-assisted braking system used discs in the front, drums in the rear. Steering was unassisted.
One unusual feature of the Opel GT was the operation of the pop-up headlights. They were manually operated, by way of a large lever along the center console next to the shifter. Unlike most pop-up headlights, they rotated about a longitudinal axis.
The Opel GT had neither an externally accessible trunk nor a conventional hatchback. There was a parcel shelf behind the seats that could only be accessed through the main doors. Behind the parcel shelf was a fold-up panel that concealed a spare tire and jack.
The interior of the Opel GT was surprisingly large for a car its size, owing to the large greenhouse. Headroom and legroom were sufficient for those over 6 ft tall.
During 1968 to 1973, a total of 103,463 cars were sold. The most collectible GTs are probably the first 1,453 cars made in 1968 and the ones with the 1.1 L engine, which totaled out at 3,573 cars. 10,760 of the later cars were the cheaper model (GT/J) which lacked nearly all chrome parts and less standard features. In some markets, items like a limited slip differential, front and rear anti-sway bars, heated rear window and engine bay light were standard, although most cars were shipped without them.
Classic GTs today
The Opel GT shared many parts with other Opel models, mostly the Kadett B. Opel also used variants of the CIH engine from 1966 to 1995, so most parts are somewhat available. Also, in the USA and Europe, there are companies which specialize in Opel GT parts and services; including some new body parts. Some of the rarest and most costly parts are the ignition switches, rear trim strips and 1968-1970 rear axle bearings.One can fairly easily adapt larger engines, transmissions and brakes from newer Opels. For example, a fuel-injected 2.0 L engine (110 hp DIN) and a 5-speed Getrag manual transmission from an Rekord E or Manta B may be used to improve both fuel economy and performance.
There are many GT owner clubs in countries such as the USA and Germany.
Modern Opel GT
On February 1, 2006, Opel issued a press release announcing the upcoming production of a new Opel GT, most likely to be a 2007 model. The car shares the GM Kappa platform with the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky. Unlike its platform mates, the 2.0 L, 260 hp direct injection turbocharged Ecotec four-cylinder engine will be the only engine offered, rather than optional. It will also feature 18 inch wheels, and a folding cloth top similar to those found on the Solstice and Sky. In fact, since GM's Saturn division will be sharing models with Opel, the GT is in fact their version of the Saturn Sky. The car will be replacing the Opel Speedster in the European lineup.
References
External links
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