Opel GT

The Opel GT is a classic sports car that was produced by the German automaker Opel from 1968 to 1973. It was a two-seater coupe that was designed to compete with other sports cars of the era, such as the MGB GT and the Triumph GT6.

The Opel GT featured a unique design with a sleek, aerodynamic body and pop-up headlights, which gave it a distinctive look on the road. Speaking of pop-up headlights, they are very interesting. They are operated manually via a large lever along the center console next to the gear shifter.

Photo: "Opel GT 1.9 Deluxe, 1970 - DT60281 - DSC_0874_Balancer" by Lav Ulv

The driver controls the headlights by pulling that lever. The headlights rotate in the same direction, counterclockwise, around the longitudinal axis. Thanks to that lever next to the gear shifter, a story is circulating among classic car lovers that Opel GT owners have a more stronger right hand. (Interesting observation 😀 )

Engine, Specs and Handling

Under the hood, the Opel GT is powered by a range of engines, including a 66 ci (1.1-liter) inline-four and a 116 ci (1.9-liter) inline-four, producing 67 and 102 horsepower, respectively. This allows the Opel GT to reach a top speed of around 115 mph (184 kph), making it a relatively quick and nimble car for its time.

One of the key features of the Opel GT is its handling and cornering abilities. The car has been praised for its precise handling and responsive suspension, allowing drivers to push the car to its limits on twisty roads and racetracks. The Opel GT also has a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution, which contribute to its overall performance and driving dynamics.

Styling

In terms of styling, the Opel GT is a true head-turner. Its sleek and aerodynamic body, combined with its pop-up headlights and sporty proportions, gave it a futuristic and aggressive look that was ahead of its time.

The car's design was influenced by the American muscle cars of the 1960s, but also had a European flair that set it apart from the competition. Because of this influence and the similarity in appearance with the C3 Corvette, the Opel GT was dubbed the "Baby 'Vette" in the US.

Photo: "Opel GT" by Falling Outside The Normal Moral Constraints

The interior of the Opel GT is simple and functional, with a driver-focused layout and comfortable seating for two passengers. The sports steering wheel visually contributes to the overall driving experience. Although the Opel GT is not a luxury car, it offered a decent level of comfort and convenience for its price.

Production Numbers and Commercial Result

One of the questions that often comes up when discussing the Opel GT is how many were actually made. While exact production numbers vary depending on the source, it is believed that 103,373 Opel GTs were produced during its five-year production run. This relatively low production number adds to the car's exclusivity and desirability among collectors.

Photo: "Opel GT (1973)" by SG2012

Despite its satisfying performance and stylish design, the Opel GT was not a commercial success for Opel. The car faced stiff competition from other sports cars in its segment, like Datsun 240Z, and sales were limited by its relatively high price tag and limited availability.

However, the Opel GT has since gained a cult following among car enthusiasts and collectors, who appreciate its unique design and driving experience.

Today, the Opel GT is considered a classic car and a collector's item, with well-maintained examples fetching high prices on the used car market. The car has also been featured in various movies, TV shows, and video games, further solidifying its status as a beloved sports car from the late 1960s.

Opel GT in Today's Market

Now, if you're in the market for an Opel GT, you may be pleasantly surprised by the price range. These babies can be found for anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a fixer-upper to upwards of $40,000 for a pristine, fully restored model.

Of course, the price you pay will depend on the car's condition, mileage, and, of course, the ever-important factor of supply and demand.

Owning an Opel GT is like owning a piece of automotive history—a reminder of simpler times when cars were made with just the right amount of flair and panache.

So, if you're feeling fancy and want to roll down the street in style, why not consider adding an Opel GT to your collection? Just be prepared to shell out a few bucks, but hey, who can put a price on looking this good? 

Finally...

In conclusion, the Opel GT was a groundbreaking sports car that offered a winning combination of performance, style, and driving dynamics. While it may not have been a sales success during its production run, the Opel GT has since become a cherished classic car that continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.

Its sleek design, agile handling, and powerful engines make it a timeless and iconic sports car that stands out even to this day.