Opel
German Engineering for Everyone: From Sewing Machines to the Manta
Introduction
Opel’s story is a journey through the heart of European industrial history. Beginning as a sewing machine and bicycle manufacturer, it grew into Germany’s largest automaker and a volume leader for General Motors in Europe. Opel has always represented practical, well-engineered, and accessible cars for the masses. From the luxurious Kapitän to the iconic Manta sports coupe, Opel’s vehicles reflect German design and durability, often serving as the basis for models sold by sister brands like Vauxhall, Holden, and even Saturn in the US.
| Detail | Information |
| Founded | 1862 (as sewing machine co.), 1899 (cars) |
| Parent Company | Stellantis (formerly GM, PSA) |
| HeadQuarters | Rüsselsheim, Germany |
| First Car | Opel Patentmotorwagen System Lutzmann (1899) |
| Core Philosophy | German Engineering for Everyone |
| Key Role | General Motors’ European engineering and development hub |
Iconic Opel Engines
- CIH (Cam-In-Head) Engine (1965-1993): A unique design where the camshaft was in the cylinder head but driven by a long chain from the crank, used in a wide range of displacements and known for its durability.
- Ecotec Family (1990s-Present): A range of modern, efficient four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines developed under GM, known for their reliability and widespread use.
- 1.6L and 2.0L SOHC I4 (1970s-1980s): The workhorse engines of the Ascona and Manta, providing reliable performance.
- C20XE “Red Top” (1990s): A powerful, 16-valve DOHC engine used in performance models like the Calibra and Astra GSi, a tuner favorite.
Legendary Opel Models
- Opel Kadett (1962-1991): The people’s car. A practical, front-wheel-drive compact that evolved over generations and was sold as the Chevrolet Chevette and Pontiac LeMans in the US.
- Opel Manta (1970-1988): The iconic sports coupe. A rear-wheel-drive rival to the Ford Capri, it developed a massive cult following and remains a beloved classic.
- Opel Ascona (1970-1988): The successful family car. The platform shared with the Manta, also famous for its rally-winning Ascona 400 variant.
- Opel Kapitän / Admiral / Diplomat (1938-1977): The luxury flagships. Large, elegant sedans that represented Opel’s top-of-the-line offerings in the post-war era.
- Opel GT (1968-1973): The “mini-Corvette.” A beautiful, small, front-engine/rear-drive sports car with distinctive pop-up headlights.
- Opel Calibra (1990-1997): The style and tech leader. A front-wheel-drive coupe celebrated for its incredibly low drag coefficient and sleek design.
- Opel Astra (1991-Present): The modern compact benchmark. A consistent best-seller in Europe, known for its solid build quality and driving dynamics.
- Opel Corsa (1982-Present): The supermini staple. A hugely successful small car that has competed fiercely with the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo for decades.
GM’s European Engineering Backbone
For decades, Opel served as the engineering and development heart of General Motors outside of North America. Platforms and technologies developed by Opel in Rüsselsheim were adapted and used by brands across the GM empire. The Opel Omega became the Cadillac Catera, the Opel Astra was rebadged as the Saturn Astra, the Opel Insignia became the Buick Regal, and the Opel Corsa was sold in markets around the world under various names. This role made Opel one of the most influential volume car brands in the world, despite its primarily European market presence.