Saving Lives: 50 years of Seat Belts in all Opel Vehicles

• Ahead of the times: In 1973, Opel introduced seat belts as standard across range, three years before they became mandatory
• Start 1968: Opel Kadett, Admiral and Diplomat already available with front seat belts
• Comfortable: Opel Omega 1986 - first car with height-adjustable belts as standard
• Fine-tuned: New Opel Astra Electric with further developed “belt anti-lock braking system”

Newly developed electric motor, class-leading IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with a total of 168 LED elements, head-up display or natural voice recognition "Hey Opel" – first electrified Opel Astra is full of technical highlights. But the engineers have also further developed compact class bestseller in less visible areas. One safety specific feature now makes new Opel Astra Electric even safer: adaptive belt force limiter. It controls the belt force, which acts on the body during an impact, even more precisely in order to reduce injuries as far as possible and at the same time protect the driver as much as possible.

Adaptively controlled restraint system uses sensors to recognize severity of accident and optimally adapts belt force to course of crash. A plus in safety that can make all difference. Despite all airbags and assistance systems: “Seat belt is still the most important lifesaver in the car,” says Peter Schüßler, Manager of Passive Restraint Systems at Opel in Rüsselsheim. And the most important of all safety features is celebrating an even-number anniversary this summer: 50 years ago, in 1973, Opel began to install three-point belt systems with practical one-hand operation as standard in all models – and that three years prior to wearing seat belts became compulsory in Germany. A lot has happened in 50 years: an average of 15 metres of seat belts are installed in every Opel model. In total, after five decades, this results in around 750 million metres of seat belt webbing. This corresponds to 18 circumnavigations of equator.

Safety comes first at Opel: Seat belt as a lifesaver

As early as the 1960s, Opel engineers were testing seat belts as a life-saving restraint system in cars. As early as April 1968, Opel Kadett, Admiral and Diplomat, among others, could be ordered with front seat belts. Classic Opel Manta A coupé followed in October 1970. Opel lifesaver was also available as standard in sporty models – for example in Opel Kadett B Rallye from 1967 and in Opel Commodore A GS a year later.

At same time, Opel actively campaigned for acceptance of seat belts early on and thus assumed a pioneering role. In 1969, Opel engineers demonstrated results of their accident research programme to representatives of media at Dudenhofen Test Centre. 

Most important message: more than half of all accident victims could still be alive if they had worn seat belts. At the beginning of 1972, Opel’s management sent a letter to all employees, asking them to wear their seat belts – and offered all employees discounted belts for retrofitting. Offer proved hugely popular with 12,000 sets being provided within a very short time.

Significance recognised early on

General public were somewhat more reluctant to accept seat belt as an indispensable part of vehicle safety. Millions of people initially refused to “buckle up” when it became compulsory to wear seat belts as of January 1, 1976. At that time, many considered it to be too cumbersome to wear a seat belt. Especially when car was used by different family members and the seat belt had to be adjusted in each case. This problem was soon solved by the automatic seat belt retractor. For a long time, however, there seemed to be no cure for various prejudices such as: Belt curtails personal freedom, and its safety effect is questionable. But the concerns were silenced when the number of road fatalities began to fall.

Simultaneously, the safety specialists were constantly improving the systems. In 1986, Opel Omega was first car in world to offer height-adjustable seat belts at front and rear seats as standard. In 1991, Opel presented belt tensioner in Opel Astra F, followed by full-size airbag and active safety systems such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Airbags, in particular, further reduce risk of injury significantly – assuming that driver and passengers are actually buckled up. One system restrains body in event of a collision, other cushions impact. Seat belt absorbs around two-thirds of energy of an impact. First belt force limiters were used from 2000s to avoid peak loads. Other improvements increase comfort, such as electric seat belt feeder in convertibles.

Crucial millimetres: Collapsible steering column

Opel engineers identified another key factor for more safety back in 1960s: safety steering column. Preventing steering wheel and column from penetrating passenger compartment is still one of starting points of safety strategy. In event of an impact, steering column collapses slightly. In this way, system, in combination with seat belt and airbag, enables a dynamic crushable distance of up to 100 millimetres – crucial millimetres that minimise the risk of injury.

Adaptive belt force limiter now installed in Opel Astra Electric has an even more refined “anti-lock braking system” for belt. “Belt force is electronically controlled during the course of the impact,” the specialists explain. “In order to measure biomechanical load acting on the chest, four sensors are installed in THOR crash test dummy.” In earlier versions, only single measurements were possible. This increase in sensitivity was made possible by the latest generation of crash test dummies, which have been in use since 2020.

Sensors galore: New dummies provide crucial insights

Development of the safety belt is inextricably linked to the further development of the intelligent high-tech dummies that are used in tests to simulate the effects of an impact on the human body before a safety system is approved for series production. Youngest generation is known as THOR.  Abbreviation stands for “Test device for Human Occupant Restraint”. Equipped with over 120 sensors, THOR electronically senses and communicates what happens to it in event of an impact. With this dummy’s help, adaptive belt force limiter was developed, which was first used in Opel Mokka and now in Opel  Astra. It is another milestone in decades-long development of passive safety features. And possibilities are far from exhausted.

New challenges posed by automated driving

From 2026, for example, consumer protection tests are to evaluate injury values that consider the more fragile bone structure of senior citizens. Team in Rüsselsheim also has its sights firmly set on more distant future: Automated driving will alter a lot completely. Above all, because vehicle occupants will no longer necessarily sit facing forwards, but may face each other. And some could even be lying down. Seat belts could be fully integrated into seats. “We are already working intensively on what this means in detail for the restraint systems,” explains Peter Schüßler. With automated driving, the success story of seat belts, which has lasted for five decades, will then enter a new era of saving lives.

Real Opel Classics at the ADAC Oldtimer Tour Hessen-Thüringen

• Open-air experience: through the Rheingau and Taunus in the red Opel Rekord C Cabrio
• Sports stars: Sleek Opel GT, Kadett GT/E and Manta GSi at the start in Oberursel
• State-bearing: Opel Diplomat V8 plus Kadett GSi from former Chancellor Schmidt
• State-of-the-art: ADAC organization team on the move in the new Opel Astra plug-in hybrid

Opel Kadett C GT/E

Summer, sun, classic rally: After two years of "Corona pit stops", ADAC Oldtimer Tour Hessen-Thüringen starts again from June 16th to 19th . And for the anniversary of “160 years of Opel”the brand with the lightning bolt comes up with a strong group of automotive classics. Real sports stars from the Opel GT and the Kadett GT/E to the Manta GSi are at the start, as are state-of-the-art models such as the Opel Diplomat V8 and the Kadett GSi, which former Chancellor Schmidt drove in his free time. Shortly before the start of summer, of course, a timelessly beautiful open-air classic should not be missing: the Opel Rekord C Cabrio will attract many admiring glances at the side of the track - just like the latest addition to the Opel family. ADAC organization team is on the road at the vintage car rally in a completely new Astra plug-in hybrid , showing how driving fun can be combined with a sense of responsibility in a state-of-the-art and elegant way.

Opel Astra Hybrid and Opel Kadett GSi 

Rüsselsheim rally stars of the ADAC Hessen-Thüringen 2022 at a glance:

• Opel Rekord C Cabrio, built in 1967, 55 kW/75 hp
• Opel GT, 1968, 66 kW / 90 hp
• Opel Diplomat V8, 1975, 169 kW / 230 hp
• Opel Kadett GT / E, 1977, 85 kW / 115 hp
• Opel Manta GSi Exclusiv, 1988, 81 kW / 110 hp
• Opel Kadett GSi, 1991, 85 kW / 115 hp
• Opel Astra Hybrid, 2022, 133 kW/180 hp system performance (as organization vehicle)

Timelessly beautiful: Opel classics from four decades in the Rheingau and Taunus

Field of participants in the 2022 edition of the ADAC Hessen-Thüringen starts on both days of the rally in Oberursel. On the first stage on Friday, June 17th, the riders will go through the beautiful Rheingau; on Saturday, vintage car drivers will circle their automobile treasures via Wetzlar and Butzbach through the Taunus and Wetterau back to Bad Homburg. Skill is required instead of "lead foot", because the routes are peppered with special tests.

Opel Rekord C Cabriolet

Opel Rekord C Cabriolet is perfect for cruising along the scenic roads - and at the same time represents a real rarity. Because the bright red convertible didn't just roll off the assembly line in 1967, it was specially modified by the traditional Cologne-based coachbuilder Karl Deutsch for open-air fans. Cheapest basis in the form of a two-door Rekord C cost 7,590 marks at the time, the conversion costs another 4,000 marks. Exclusive creations of the Deutsch company remain beautiful, special and rare – only around 50 of these elegant convertibles are built.

Opel GT, Kadett GT/E and Manta GSi provide a sporty, fast flair at the classic car outing. "Only flying is nicer": This slogan has now become a classic - just like the advertised car. Opel GT thrilled the public right from the start and is still one of the most coveted coupés in the world with its exciting "Coke Bottle Design". A total of 103,463 examples were built from 1968 to 1973. The 66 kW/90 hp red GT, which is starting in Oberursel, is the world's oldest existing GT.

Opel GT

Second version of the Opel Kadett GT/E was presented to the public for the first time at the IAA 1977 and was primarily intended to make entry into motorsport particularly easy. The competition vehicle, which was consistently trimmed for sporty use, still inspires enthusiasts today with its equipment from the two-liter engine with electronic fuel injection to the ZF five-speed gearbox and limited-slip differential to the sporty tuned and reinforced chassis. Eye-catching white and yellow paintwork was standard.

Opel Manta B GSi Exclusiv

Its enduring popularity ensures Opel Manta B a special place in the company's automotive history. No other model stayed on the market longer than the second generation Manta. Presented in autumn 1975, the sleek coupé rolls off the production line 557,940 times in 14 years. For many years, the Manta B was Germany's best-selling sports car. Special model Manta GSi Exclusiv refined by Irmscher puts the “shiny” crown on the Manta success story: with light alloy wheels in an exclusive design, three-part painted rear wing and round double headlights.

Opel Diplomat V8

Strongest model in the Opel field of participants in this year's Hessen-Thüringen Rally is the Opel Diplomat B V8 . With its 5.4-liter eight-cylinder engine (169 kW/230 hp), the long-wheelbase version of the Opel flagship reached speeds of around 200 km/h, making it one of the fastest touring sedans of its time. Diplomat also lives up to his name, as the vehicle was used by American President Gerald Ford on his state visit in 1975. Last, but not least, another state-of-the-art example completes the field: the Kadett GSi , painted metallic black with 85 kW/115 hp was purchased in 1991 by none other than former Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, who used the car for five years for private trips together with his wife Loki. Opel Kadett GSi was able to reach the then prestigious mark of 200 km/h top speed not least because of its aerodynamic qualities with a trailblazing drag coefficient of 0.30.

Opel Kadett E GSi

Compact class fit for the future: All-new Opel Astra as a plug-in hybrid

Last Kadett generation already showed what the compact class from Opel has always been able to do. Innovations and state-of-the-art technologies in models that customers otherwise only know from higher vehicle classes - Opel has remained true to this credo to this day. This also applies to the latest compact class generation with the lightning bolt, which combines tradition with modernity: while the completely new Astra is reminiscent of earlier Opel icons with small visual reminiscences, it is also a highly modern design gem with an Opel Vizor and a fully digital Pure Panel. In addition, the newcomer, which has also been available from dealers for a month, is being driven electrified as the Astra Hybrid for the first timebefore. Plug-in hybrid provides a system output of 133 kW/180 hp and a strong maximum torque of 360 Newton meters (energy consumption according to WLTP: 1.1 l/100 km, CO 2 emissions 26-24 g/km; each combined ). Organizers of the Hessen-Thüringen Rally can cover up to 60 kilometers (according to WLTP ) emission-free with the Opel Astra Hybrid purely electrically.

All-New Opel Astra Hybrid

Made in Germany: Opel Celebrates 120 Years of Automobiles

• When the horses moved under the bonnet: Opel starts with Patentmotorwagen in 1899
• Mobility for the masses: Doktorwagen, Laubfrosch and Kadett pave the way
• From Lutzmann to Insignia; 120 years of car manufacturing in Rüsselsheim
• Company goal until this very day: Opel democratises technologies

The first Opel: Patent Motor Car, System Lutzmann, 1899

Opel is one of the carmakers with the richest tradition in the world. Next year, the brand will celebrate 120 years of automobiles. After listening to the advice of her sons Karl, Wilhelm and Friedrich, Sophie Opel decided to start producing cars in 1899 – four years after the death of company founder Adam Opel. What started in a garage in Rüsselsheim am Main with 65 hand-made Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann”, has long become a mass phenomenon will more than 70 million vehicles built to date. From the very beginning, Opel championed the cause of producing cars as efficiently as possible and thus making them affordable for a broad audience. For example, Opel was the first German manufacturer to introduce the especially economic assembly line production as early as 1924. This helped the Opel 4/12 PS “Laubfrosch” and all later Opel 4 PS variants become bestsellers. The Rüsselsheim-based company already produced technologically-advanced vehicles for the masses with the Opel P4 and the Kadett (already with a self-supporting body) in the 1930s. Made in Germany and German engineering became affordable and accessible. Opel even stayed true to this democratising of mobility when developing a sports car: An affordable dream car hit the roads in 1968 in the Opel GT.

The brand has played a leading role in all segments – models such as the Opel Kadett, Rekord and Kapitän characterised the period of reconstruction and the period of the economic miracle. Stylish icons such as the Opel GT, Manta and Monza then followed. In the 1980s and 1990s models such as Corsa, Astra and Zafira then became bestsellers and symbols of reunification. After the fall of the Berlin Wall and the opening of the plant in Eisenach, Opel became more popular than ever before. The first generation Astra was produced 4.2 million times between 1991 and 1998 making it the most built Opel model ever. Until this very day, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker is firmly anchored in the centre of society and offers technologies that are normally reserved for expensive premium cars. Innovative solutions such as the IntelliLux LED Matrix light in the compact Astra (Car of the Year 2016) as well as in the Insignia flagship, the AGR-certified active ergonomic seats (available in many carlines) or the extensive array of assistance systems for more safety and comfort (all carlines) are typical for Opel.

From Lutzmann to Opel Doktorwagen: The pioneering years

Opel joins the ranks of the automotive pioneers of the late 19^th century that include Daimler, Benz and Peugeot by buying Friedrich Lutzmann’s motor car factory. In the spring of 1899, the first Opel patent motor car “System Lutzmann” is built in Rüsselsheim. Two years later, a converted Lutzmann wins the Heidelberg-Königstuhl “Mountain Race” by beating “16 other vehicles made by well-known German carmakers”. Overall, the development in the automotive industry is fast and furious. While the first models are direct descendants of horse-drawn carriages, Opel launches an ultra-modern small car for an extremely competitive price in 1909. The 4/8 hp Opel Doktorwagen already has an Opel engineered and Opel built 4-cylinder in-line engine. In the adverts, Opel promises that it is ideal for “Doctors, veterinarians and lawyers”. The Doktorwagen is available for prices between 4,000 and 5,000 Mark while many other cars made during this period cost 20,000 Mark. It transforms the motor car from a prestigious toy for the rich and the famous into an affordable mobility solution for a broad audience.

4/8 hp Opel Doktorwagen from 1909.

From Opel Laubfrosch to Kadett: Mass mobility

Friedrich – who had since been promoted to chief engineer – and his brother Wilhelm introduce the assembly line production at Opel in 1924. Ford were the first company to introduce this cost-cutting method in America in 1913. Opel always had a keen eye for developments in other countries. Adam Opel became fascinated by the sewing machine during his years of travel in France and later the System Darracq provided a major boost for car manufacturing in Rüsselsheim. The Opel brothers then launch the innovative 4/12 PS “Laubfrosch”. The two-seater with a top speed of 60 km/h is available for 3,900 Goldmark thanks to assembly line production. Later, the “car for everyone” is available for 1,930 Reichsmark. In the following years, an entire vehicle family is created based on the Laubfrosch technology. In total, 119,484 Opel 4 PS models are made until 1931.

4/12 hp Opel “Laubfrosch” (Tree Frog), 1924

What these revolutionary cars are for the 1920s, the Kadett is for the 1930s. Automotive progress is taking huge steps. The Kadett replaces the successful Opel P4 and celebrates its debut with a self-supporting steel body, single-wheel front suspension, 4-cylinder four-stroke engine and hydraulic drum brakes. The prices are well below those of the direct competitors. In 1938, the “normal” Opel Kadett limousine is available for an affordable 1,795 Mark.

The Kadett nameplate is revived in 1962 and Opel ups the ante even further with the Kadett A. While many competitors still rely on two-stroke or air-cooled rear-mounted engine, the newcomers shines with the comfort of a water-cooled 4-cylinder unit, a quiet 4-speed transmissions and body styles ranging from coupé to Caravan.

From Olympia Rekord to the “KAD” models: Prosperity increases

The first all-new Opel after the war is the Olympia Rekord and it sounds in a new era with its ponton-style body and chrome plated shark mouth. The design takes cues from that of large American limousines – and is perfect for the economic miracle that is just beginning. Those who are successful want to show it again. And a new type of vehicle also makes its debut with the Olympia Rekord Caravan – a lifestyle estate for the whole family. An all-new Opel Kapitän arrives in 1954, the Opel Rekord P2 is introduced in 1960 and the Rekord A follows in 1963 with disc brakes and soon afterwards with 6-cylinders. No matter whether as a coupé, estate or limousine – the mid-size Rekord becomes synonymous with the new middle class in the young Federal Republic of Germany. Opel produces 882,433 Rekord A by 1965. This success opens the door for the “big three” and in 1964 the “KAD” – for Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat – arrive in the luxury class. The second generation of these KAD models can even boast a unique level of driving comfort thanks to the legendary de Dion rear axle. Opel introduces the safety steering column in all passenger car models in 1968. Innovations to help cope with the growing amount of traffic.

From the Opel GT to the Calibra: New sportiness

Opel Experimental GT was shown on a slightly slanted platform at the IAA in 1965 to emphasize the two-seater’s dynamic shape.

Opel becomes the first European manufacturer to open a true, modern design studio in June 1964. And only one year later, the first concept car from a European manufacturer, the Experimental GT, celebrates its debut at the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show. A further 36 months later, the serial production Opel GT is available from Opel dealers and marks the birth of a sports car legend. The icon is affordable for a broad audience thanks to mass production technology and the GT is the next hit from Rüsselsheim. The company sticks to this approach in the coming years. Opel Manta shares its technology with the Ascona when it is launched in 1970 and the Calibra “borrows” the Vectra’s technology from 1989.

The top-of-the-range variant of the aerodynamics world champion (Cd of 0.26), the Calibra Turbo 4x4 delivers 204 hp and offers the driving performance of sports cars twice its price.

From Opel Corsa to Ampera: Bestsellers and trendsetters

In 1982, Opel made a huge splash with a small car. Corsa A rounded off the company’s offering by sitting neatly under the Kadett. Opel Corsa was an impressive display of getting the most out of a small space without compromising on driving pleasure or cost effectiveness. Every single generation of the Corsa (A to E) has driven and continued the democratisation of individual mobility. To date, almost 14 million Corsa have been registered.

And next year the next generation will follow adding a new chapter to the story – with a fully electric version of the Corsa.

Just as the Corsa has shaped the small car segment, the Zafira has defined the compact van segment with room for seven since 1999. The third row of seats that disappears entirely under the boot floor is simply a stroke of genius. Owners of models made by competitors have to painstakingly remove the additional heavy seats when the boot space is required. Seven people can easily fit into the 4.32 metre long Zafira. Alternatively, the compact van can double as a transporter in a matter of seconds by folding award the seats and created a 1.56 by 1.15 metre loading area with a total capacity of up to 1,700 litres.

The current Opel Zafira is also a master of metamorphosis doubling as a transporter and a lounge on wheels thanks to the Flex7 ^Plus seating system.

A further trendsetter follows in the footsteps of the Corsa and Zafira after celebrating its world premiere at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show: The Opel Ampera, a car that redefines electro-mobility. The 2012 Car of the Year drives electric and also has its own source of power on board with the range extender. This makes the Ampera just as independent from loading stations as a conventional passenger car. 

Opel presents the next generation of the electric car at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The Ampera-e has an all-electric NEDC range of 520 kilometres thanks to its 60 kWh state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery. And the 150 kW/204 hp electric motor gives it sports car-like acceleration. The next electric car from Rüsselsheim will follow next year already and electro-mobility will get another boost with the Corsa-e – out of the niche and on to the road.

From Opel Astra to Insignia: New efficiency

Opel discovers the new lightness of being with the launch of the current generation Astra in 2015. The compact car weighs up to 200 kilogrammes less than its predecessor did. The engine offering follows the downsizing strategy: with smaller displacement and turbocharging, lower fuel consumption and higher efficiency. For the first time, the Astra is available with a highly efficient 3-cylinder direct injection petrol unit and the revolutionary IntelliLux LED Matrix light. The innovative system turns night into day without glaring other road users – a unique feature in the compact class.

Opel Astra convinces customers and experts alike and is voted “Car of the Year 2016”.

The Insignia A is the first Opel that can recognise traffic signs from 2008 and offers the intelligent AFL+ lighting system. Just like the Astra, the second generation of the Opel flagship has been trimmed for efficiency. The new generation Insignia is lighter, more economic and simultaneously much more spacious. A highlight feature of the Insignia GSi, Country Tourer, Grand Sport and Sports Tourer is the adaptive all-wheel drive with torque vectoring that can accelerate the rear wheels individually in a split-second depending on the driving situation. The Opel Insignia is the first vehicle made by a volume manufacturer to offer this technology in the mid-size segment.

From Opel Mokka to Grandland X: SUV phenomenon

SUV is the buzzword of the hour in the automotive industry. Customers want to sit a little bit higher to have a better overview and to enjoy the flair of long-distance travel and adventure. Opel recognised this trend at a very early stage and proposed a unique offer in the B-segment. The cool sub-compact Opel Mokka is also available with all-wheel drive and proves to be extremely popular from the very start. It is joined in the compact class by the Opel Crossland X and the Opel Grandland X in 2017. All members of the X-Family are available with the AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) active seats. Ergonomic and comfortable seats have been a part of the Opel DNA for a long time – 120 years ago the Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” already proudly sported leather upholstery.

Large Opel Models Delight at the Bodensee Klassik 2017

• Spectators applaud the historic Opel Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat fleet
• Opel VP Sales & Aftersales Peter Küspert in the Opel Diplomat B V8 presidential limousine
• Actors Roman Knižka and Tim Wilde shine as approachable Opel celebrities
• Brand ambassador Joachim Winkelhock celebrated in rare Opel Kapitän A V8

Line-up: All-New Opel Insignia Grand Sport with its legendary ancestors, a 1976 Opel Diplomat, a 1956 Opel Kapitän and a 1990 Lotus Omega.

The 6^th edition of the Bodensee Klassik took place on picturesque circular routes starting in Bregenz and the competitors crossed over the borders between Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The spectators once again got their money’s worth and could enjoy the large Opel flagships ranging from the Kapitän to the Admiral and Diplomat right up the new Insignia Grand Sport.

The Opel fleet was led by a Diplomat B V8 with an extended wheelbase. It was used as one of the presidential limousines when US President Gerald Ford visited Germany. Opel Vice President Sales & Aftersales Peter Küspert was behind the wheel of the Diplomat during the Bodensee Klassik. “This is a piece of living automotive history. Our Diplomat is a really impressive car and the V8 engine ticks over beautifully. The spectators were gripped and listened attentively – and so did I,” said Küspert, who was joined in the car by Roman Knižka. Elsewhere, fellow actor Tim Wilde shared the cockpit of the rare Opel Kapitän V8 – this engine was normally reserved for the Opel Admiral and Diplomat and only 130 Kapitän V8s were produced – with Opel brand ambassador and racing legend Joachim Winkelhock.

The route of the 6^th Bodensee Klassik spanned around 600 stunning and challenging kilometers on scenic side roads through Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Each stage started and finished in Bregenz, state capital of the Austrian federal province of Vorarlberg. Day one saw the participants drive to Bad Waldsee in Upper Swabia. On day two, the rally headed to Kempten and back. And on the third and final day the 180 classic cars drove through beautiful Vorarlberg and the charming Appenzell.

The Opel models at the Bodensee Klassik

• Number 11, 1976 Opel Diplomat B V8 extended wheelbase
• Number 12, 1966 Opel Kapitän A V8
• Number 13, 1956 Opel Kapitän / Opel Senator A
• Number 14, 1991 Lotus Omega
• Number 15, 1966 Opel Admiral A V8
• Number 16, 1972 Opel Commodore B GS/E

!NEW! Eight Decades of Big Opel Cars: Flagship Parade at Techno Classica

• Flagships at the Opel stand: From 1937 Admiral to the new Insignia
• Center of classic car world: Techno Classica in Essen from April 5 to 11
• Joint effort: Opel Classic and Alt Opel IG share exhibition stand

Opel flagships at Techno Classica: From Opel Admiral to All-New Opel Insignia Grand Sport

.

Opel’s big boys have got their sights firmly set on the 29^th Techno Classica in Essen, where Opel Classic and the enthusiasts from Alt Opel IG (vintage Opel owners club) will exhibit big cars from Rüsselsheim from both past and present. “The Opel Flagships” is this year’s motto and the cars will be on show at the stand with a total surface area of 400 square meters in Hall 2. The legendary pre-WWII Admiral that celebrated its premiere in 1937 is the spearhead of the Opel fleet. It is hard to imagine that the wonderful art déco style chassis is already 80 years old when you see it up close. The journey through time continues with the two millionth Opel produced, a 1956 Kapitän. Typical representatives of the KAD models such as a 1968 Diplomat A and a 1970 Opel Admiral – two true street cruisers – are also present. The 1978 Senator A is a typical design from the somewhat more matter-of-fact 1970s, whereas the new Opel flagship, the Insignia Grand Sport, demonstrates Opel’s current design philosophy of “Sculptural artistry meets German precision”.

Eight decades of “Big Opels”: Legendary 1937 Opel Admiral and All-New Opel Insignia Grand Sport.

From 1937 to 2017: From the Opel Admiral to the new Opel Insignia Grand Sport

The large Opel cars can look forward to enjoying the limelight at the Techno Classica in Essen – just like they did in Rüsselsheim 80 years ago. To mark the 75^th anniversary of the Adam Opel AG on February 17, 1937 the company presented two visionary newcomers: The Admiral and the Super 6. Both cars were equipped with modern engine technology. Inline sixes with displacements of 3.6 and 2.5 liters and 75 hp and 55 hp respectively. The Admiral was the first member in a line of luxurious models that continued for 40 years. The Super 6 paved the way for the popular 1938 Kapitän.

Ten years later the first post-WWII Kapitän left the plant and the economic miracle saw it rise meteorically. The Opel Kapitän was one of the bestselling six cylinders in Germany and became an international bestseller with 60 percent of all Kapitäns being exported. The Kapitän built on November 9, 1956, and on display in Essen plays a special part in the success story. As the two millionth Opel ever built, its roof was painted in gold and it also sports 24-carat gold plated decorative elements. Opel was the first German and European carmaker to surpass the two-million mark.

The Opel upper class was completely overhauled in 1964. The “Big Three” were called Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat and for the first time in its history Opel offered V8 engines. The ranking order in the premium class was determined by equipment and engine size. The Kapitän and Admiral initially came with Opel’s proven 100 hp, 2.6 liter six-cylinder engine, whereas the Diplomat’s engine was sourced from the United States. The flagship of the KAD series featured a 4.6 liter V8 with 190 hp. As of the spring of 1965 both the Kapitän and the Admiral could optionally be ordered with the 4.6 liter V8 engine and automatic transmission used in the Diplomat. To this very day the Kapitän and Admiral V8s are models with a special status: Only 113 units of the Kapitän and 622 units of the Admiral were built.

The members of the second KAD range were completely overhauled from 1969 – and grew in all areas. The Kapitän once again represented the entry-level KAD model. Its 2.8 liter inline six delivered 132 hp. Above it, sat the comfortable Admiral that delivered 145 hp at the 2800 S variant and 165 hp as the Admiral 2800 E. The top-of-the-line engine was the 5.4 liter V8 with 230 hp that came as standard in the Diplomat.

40 years after the Admiral made its debut, the company brought another new big Opel to market. From 1977, the Senator was the spearhead of the model portfolio. The Senator and its coupé sibling the Monza were the first Opel cars with independentl rear suspension and space-saving mini-block coil springs.

Another four decades down the line, eighty years after the Admiral, the time has come for another major debut: The new Opel Insignia Grand Sport will make its first home appearance at the Techno Classica.

The all-new Opel Insignia is in extremely good shape. It has the sporty elegance of a large coupé, its completely new architecture makes it uncompromisingly spacious and truly fun to drive, and it offers exemplary safety and comfort features just as a true flagship should. Not only does the second-generation Insignia impress with its breathtaking lines on the outside and great wellness atmosphere on the inside, it also provides the widest range of intelligent technologies reaching from the trendsetting Opel IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights and the very sophisticated all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring to ultra-modern driver assistance systems and a refined head up display. In addition, the Insignia comes with Opel-typical first-class connectivity with smartphone integration which now offers a new Opel OnStar feature – the Personal Assistant which allows Opel Insignia occupants to book hotel rooms^[1] and search for parking^[2] via an OnStar Advisor. Overall, the new Opel Insignia wows with high agility and driving precision, more space and a superb price-performance ratio that now more than ever make it a contender to be reckoned with, even for premium brand models.

^[1] Via booking.com. E-mail address and credit card required.
^[2] Via Parkopedia

!NEW! Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann and KAD Models on Bodensee Klassik Rallye

Bodensee Klassik: Opel Kapitäns, Admirals and Diplomats excite spectators

Ready to go: Opel Kapitäns, Admirals and Diplomats at the Bodensee Klassik 2015.

Opel’s presence at the “Rallye of the south for oldtimers and youngtimers”, as the organizers of the Bodensee Klassik describe the event, was impressive this year. Numerous well-known faces took the opportunity to get behind the steering wheels of the cars with the race numbers 66 to 72 with the Opel KAD models mainly powered by mighty V-8 engines.

Eye-catcher: Two Opel Diplomat A V8 Coupés leading the Opel team at the Bodensee Klassik 2015.

The Opel team was led by Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann who reached the finishing line in his very own Diplomat A Coupé. German TV star Tim Wilde took the wheel at the start of the race before handing over to Neumann during the course of the rallye.

“I have always been fascinated by the combination of the timelessly elegant coupé body of the Diplomat and the legendary Chevrolet Small Block V8,” said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “I have been the proud owner of this car for roughly six months now and I am delighted when I get the opportunity to take this icon for a spin.”

The V-8 cruiser with a 5.4-liter, 230 hp engine was built in 1967 and is the last of the exclusive vehicles ever produced by body makers Karmann. A second car of the mini-series of only 347 vehicles also competed with racing legend Joachim Winkelhock at the wheel. Two V-8 Opel Admiral As with 4.6 liter, 190 hp engines, race numbers 68 and 69 and German actor Gesine Cukrowski on board also took to the course through Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Advanced Design Director and passionate Opel GT fan Friedhelm Engler was behind the wheel of a 1969 Opel Kapitän B, mastering the winding roads around Lake Constance with ease.

Stars and cars: Actress Gesine Cukrowski and TV star Tim Wilde driving for Opel.

Last but by no means least a mighty 1976 Diplomat B with a 5.4-liter engine and an unmistakable sound only created by a V-8 rounded off the presence of the KAD models. However, Opel had a further surprise up its sleeve. A small, light Opel Corsa A with race number 72 darted through the field. The Corsa owned by Opel Classic was essentially the speedboat in Opel’s fleet of cruisers and a fitting addition to the old and youngtimer rallye that excited spectators in the Lake Constance region.

Grand final: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann (on right) and deputy editor-in-chief of Auto Bild Klassik, Frank B. Meyer, on stage.

!NEW! Bodensee Klassik: Opel CEO Neumann enters with Diplomat V8 Coupé

• KAD rarities: Opel takes part with rare Kapitän, Admiral und Diplomat models
• CEO at the wheel: Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann drives his own Diplomat A V8 Coupé
• Well-known guest: German TV stars Gesine Cukrowski and Tim Wilde in Opel team

Strong team: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann will take part in the old-timer rallye “Bodensee Klassik” with his own Diplomat V8 Coupé.

Opel will be present with some very special car when the fourth Bodensee Klassik starts in front of the festival hall in Bregenz, Austria at 14.00 CET on May 7. Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann will also be in the field with his very own Diplomat A V8 Coupé. The list of rarities from Rüsselsheim also includes a further, very rare Diplomat A Coupé with a 5.4-liter V8 engine with 230 hp and equally rare Admiral A and Kapitän A models with eight-cylinder power under the long hood. A Diplomat B and a Kapitän B round off the offer for old-timer fans.

In total, 180 classic cars will take part in the tour taking them through parts of Germany, Austria and Switzerland before reaching the finish in Bregenz on May 9. The Opel CEO is not the only famous face to take to the wheel of one of the cars from Rüsselsheim. TV stars Gesine Cukrowski and Tim Wilde along with Opel Brand Ambassador and racing legend Joachim Winkelhock will also be at the start and complete the Opel-Classic-Team.

The two Diplomat A V8 Coupé are members of an exclusive series consisting of only 347 unit produced by Osnabrück-based body makers Karmann from 1964 onwards. The vehicle identification number of Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann’s 1967 coupé ends in 347 – clearly identifying it as the last of the exclusive vehicles ever produced.

Interesting course: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann is looking forward to the rallye with 180 classic cars that will take the field through Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

“I have always been fascinated by the combination of the timelessly elegant coupé body of the Diplomat and the legendary Chevrolet Small Block V8,” said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “I have been the proud owner of this car for roughly six months now and I am delighted when I get the opportunity to take this icon for a spin.”

Powerful engines: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann will swap his Insignia OPC with 325 hp for his Diplomat Coupé with 230 PS for the “Bodensee Klassik“.

The KAD models of the first series taking part in the Bodensee Klassik are all powered by various versions of the famous GM V8 engine that celebrated its debut 60 years ago and has been built over 100 million times to date.

Powerful engines: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann will swap his Insignia OPC with 325 hp for his Diplomat Coupé with 230 PS for the “Bodensee Klassik“.

Neat appearance: The Coupé, built by body specialist Karmann, was based on the Diplomat V8 sedan. The roof was shortened, the front doors extended and a welded steel plate replaced the rear doors.

!NEW! Opel at Techno Classica 2015 – Design as a Brand Value

• Exciting: Ten rare Opel models at vintage car show in Essen
• Innovative: Opel Design Studio first of its kind in Europe
• Ground-breaking: Style icon Experimental GT celebrates 50^th birthday
• Opel design philosophy: “Sculptural artistry meets German precision“ 

Exciting curves. Opel Experimental GT was shown on a slightly slanted platform at the IAA in 1965 to emphasize the two-seater’s dynamic shape.

Opel showcases ten design icons and concept cars at this year’s Techno Classica in Essen (15.-19.04.). The rare models on display range from the Experimental GT, the Diplomat A coupé and the Genève Study to the GTC Concept, and – as an example of Opel’s current design language – the new Corsa. The exhibit demonstrates that exciting design is one of Opel’s core brand values, a message underlined back in 1964, when Opel opened the first design studio owned by a European automaker. It was there that, for the first time, professionally trained designers and modelers – not just design draftsmen and model makers as had been the norm until then – began creating and developing the design of future vehicles. Opel welcomes all the friends of the brand, as well as all those interested in automotive history, to its 650 m2 stand in Hall 2 at Essen.

Originally, the Opel Genéve Concept that made its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in 1975 was to be powered by a Wankel engine. But the oil crisis in the early 1970s and the engine’s high fuel consumption halted this project. 

The beginnings of automobile design

Opel’s classic collection comprises about 500 cars that embody more than 150 years of the brand’s engineering expertise and embrace various style and design eras. Opel entered the automotive world in 1899 with the Patent Motor Car “System Lutzmann”. While horse-drawn carriages initially served as the starting point for motor car engineering for all manufacturers, immediately after the turn of the century the first approaches to developing specific automotive design characteristics quickly took shape.

Opel engineers were already experimenting with the streamlined shape back then and Opel models from this era often carried the sobriquet “Torpedo”, highlighting their streamlined frontal design. The influence of such design on the shape of future cars was continually growing.

Pioneer of forms. The Design Studio opened in 1964, called N10 internally, set standards for progressive work and quickly turned into a hothouse of creativity for European designers.

In 1964, Rüsselsheim-based Opel was the first European automaker to open its own design center, still called “styling studios” back then. It accommodated the first design organization owned by an automaker outside North America. Just one year after operations began, the first product from the team of Opel designers and modelers made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1965. Their stunning Opel Experimental GT was the first true concept car from a European automaker. Hardly anyone had expected such a sporty concept car from Opel. And even less expected was that the Rüsselsheim carmaker would bring such a trend-setting vision to the road: in 1968, Opel presented the production-ready GT sports car. Today, the Opel GT is one of the most coveted Opel cars on the classic car market.

Showpiece. Opel Experimental GT was first shown at the IAA in 1965, causing quite a sensation.

The premium-class models from Rüsselsheim’s KAD series are now just as sought after as the Opel GT. Within this model range, the 1965 Diplomat A Coupé occupies a very special place. Like the Experimental GT, it is celebrating its 50th birthday this year and it is a true rarity. Just 347 of these coupés, based on the Diplomat V8 sedan, were built by the Osnabrück coachbuilders Karmann between 1964 and 1968.

The Diplomat A V8 Coupé was not just luxurious, it was one of the fastest grand touring cars of its time

Opel again caused a sensation with another study at the 1969 IAA in Frankfurt. The Opel CD (Coupé Diplomat) thrilled industry experts with its striking, tapered form. The fiberglass body was based on a platform about 30 centimeters shorter than the Diplomat B, together with a wheelbase of 2.5 meters. For demonstration purposes, the glass dome that served as the cabin roof could be folded back as a whole with the windshield. The lattice model displayed at the Techno Classica gives an insight into what was at the time highly innovative technology in the Opel CD.

In 1975 another breath-taking concept study made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show – the aptly named Genève Concept. Designers in Advanced Engineering again created a two-seat sports coupé, this time adopting a mid-engine principle. The shape was even more tapered and streamlined and it was, of course, again fitted with pop-up headlamps.

Opel has continued presenting exciting studies in the small-car segment. At the Geneva Motor Show in 1982, the Corsa Spider, a small two-seat roadster penned by Opel designer Hideo Kodama, was unveiled. It was the forerunner of a completely new small-car range below the Kadett, which debuted in the fall of 1982 as the Corsa. With sales totaling more than 12.4 million units, this model range is today one of the most popular in the small car segment.

With the Opel Insignia study in 2003 and above all with the unveiling of the Opel GTC Concept in 2007, a new design era began at Opel, summed up by the phrase: “Sculptural artistry meets German precision”. Sculpted body surfacing and 3D headlamps are signature styling motifs of the studies created by Chief Designer Mark Adams.

As the latest example of this new design language, the fifth generation Opel Corsa will be displayed at the Rüsselsheim automaker’s stand. The new Corsa shares similarities with the successful lifestyle-oriented Opel ADAM, such as its low grille. And with its wing-shaped headlamps and that signature Opel, ‘blade’ body side, it represents the current, further evolution of Opel design.

!NEW! Techno Classica: Opel Celebrates 50th Anniversary of KAD Models

• 26^th year of world’s largest vintage car show again records high visitor numbers
• From classic to modern: Today’s top model Insignia OPC with 325 hp on exhibit
• Experts from Opel and Alt Opel vintage car club on site

Techno Classica 2014: Opel celebrates 50th anniversary of KAD models (Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat).

KAD – this acronym defined Opel‘s upper class range in the 1960s and 1970s. The tradition-rich brand celebrates the anniversary of its ‘Big Three’ at the 26th Techno Classica in Essen (March 26 - 30): Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat are 50 years old. At the same time, Opel’s current top-of-the-line model builds the bridge to today: the 239 kW/325 hp Insignia OPC is also on display.

Automotive elegance in 1964: Opel’s premium class trio

Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat: the elegant trio from the 1960s and 1970s at the Opel booth in Hall 2 is sure to turn visitors’ heads. Opel presents eleven versions – some extremely rare – of these classic cars, including one of only four 4-door Diplomat V8 convertibles built as well as a Diplomat V8 with a long wheelbase which was used during the state visit of US President Gerald Ford in July 1975. A black Kapitän from 1969, a former Swiss police car in Bern, is also on exhibit.

Techno Classica 2014: Opel Kapitän, 1969 (former Suisse Police car).

“Vintage cars fascinate people more and more. That’s my impression when watching the crowds of visitors,” says Uwe Mertin, Manager Opel Classic Europe. “The vintage car enthusiasts also have a very high level of expert knowledge, the enormous amount of detailed know-how they possess is really impressive.” Especially popular with show visitors is the extremely rare convertible version of the ‘Diplo’. Stylized miniature models of various vehicles are also visitor favorites at the Opel booth. They are in the typical colors of the 1960s and 1970s and give a good idea of colors popular back then that car buyers preferred for their exterior vehicle lacquer.

Techno Classica 2014: Opel Diplomat Convertible, 1971

Performance that impresses: The Big Three from then and today’s most powerful

The full-scale eye-catcher at the Opel booth is the black Insignia OPC Sports Tourer. It shows Opel’s idea of what absolute top performance is, 50 years after the Kapitän, Admiral and Diplomat. The Insignia OPC’s stylish bodywork encapsulates state-of-the-art technology including an enhanced OPC chassis, electronically controlled all-wheel drive system and a 239 kW/325 hp 2.8 V6 Turbo engine with 435 Nm maximum torque. The boldly styled front and rear, with signature OPC design elements such as distinctive saber-tooth detailing at the front and the tailpipe trim integrated in the rear, underline its power and evoke visions of high-speed laps around the Nürburgring. The cabin welcomes OPC drivers with pure motorsport ambience. Recaro performance seats, the OPC gearshift knob and a completely new main instrument panel and center console exude premium flair.

Techno Classica 2014: Opel Diplomat B with long wheelbase, 1976 and Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer.

It has become a tradition at the Techno Classica for Opel to present itself together with the Alt Opel IG vintage car club. The biggest Opel fan club in the world has been the Rüsselsheim automaker’s partner at the most important vintage car trade show for years, and once again provides expert discussion partners to answer visitors’ questions about the Opel brand vintage models.