Opel GT (Original 1968)

The Opel GT is a two-seat sports car introduced by Opel in 1968. Its styling was unmistakably like the Chevrolet Corvette C3 of that year. Their design involved famous GM stylists such as Clare McKichan (known for mid-1950's Chevy) and Chuck Jordan (known for many vehicles, including the 1960's Camaro, Corvair Monza and the Corvette StingRay).

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 Cam-In-Head (CIH) engine, which produced 102 hp (SAE) at 5200 to 5400 rpm. The model run of the Opel GT was from 1968 to 1973.

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.

During 1968 to 1973, a total of 103,463 cars were sold. The Opel GT can be seen in reruns of some episodes of the last season of Get Smart. Agent Maxwell Smart drove a GT in several episodes.

// Extracted from Wikipedia (see full text clicking here)//

Video:

Opel GT

On February 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 Red Line.

The car will be replacing the Opel Speedster in the European lineup, however, it will not be sold in right hand drive in the UK. The situation is similar with Holden in Australia.

// Extracted from Wikipedia (see full text clicking here)//

Video: