11. Paul Pietsch Classic: Legendary Opel coupés and electrified Opel Astra Sports Tourer attract attention

•   125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel: Manufacturer in the anniversary year with Opel Admiral, Kadett GT/E, Monza and Calibra on a big Black Forest tour
• “Forever forward since 1899”: Current Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid leads the field

This year's Paul Pietsch Classic , which came to a close on Saturday afternoon on the market square in Offenburg, Baden, was varied in every respect. Beforehand, the participants had covered many kilometers in their shiny vintage cars in changeable weather through picturesque villages, along scenic valleys, and over the heights of the Black Forest. Always in the thick of it: Opel Classic with real icons of the past decades. To mark the anniversary of "125 years of automobile manufacturing at Opel," the brand drove up with classics from the 1960s to 1990s, including the Admiral V8, Kadett GT/E, Monza, and the "aerodynamics world champion" Calibra. True to the anniversary motto "Forever forward since 1899," a current model was also present - in a prominent position. The highly efficient, electrified Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid was used as the lead vehicle on both days of the rally.

"Paul Pietsch Classic is an unforgettable experience every year. Even the odd rain shower cannot harm the beauty of this region and the classic cars that are on the road here," says Opel Classic manager Leif Rohwedder, who conquered the stages together with Motor Klassik editor Peter Michaely in a bright yellow Opel Calibra 4x4 2.0i 16V, built in 1990, looking back on the past two days.

From Offenburg through Black Forest: Sporty Opel classics inspire

111 teams started on Friday to complete the scenic circuit through the Black Forest. From Offenburg, the route first led towards Kaiserstuhl, then turned through the Elztal and went via Schramberg and Schiltach back to Offenburg. On day 2, the regularity rally also lived up to the motto of its namesake Paul Pietsch - "For the love of motorsport" - and his connection to his homeland. Here, the participants passed landmarks such as Appenweiher, Sasbach, Gaggenau and the Bühler Höhe - exactly the right terrain for the streamlined, 110 kW (150 hp) Calibra sports coupe.

But the crews of the other Opel Classic vehicles also showed what their style icons can do. For example, auto motor und sport editor-in-chief Birgit Priemer and former editor-in-chief Bernd Ostmann mixed up the field in a 1977 Opel Kadett GT/E specially designed for sporting use. In addition to the sporting ambitions, the enjoyment factor was not neglected. "It is always impressive how much positive attention the Opel brand attracts from visitors to the Paul Pietsch Classic. Many people still have fond memories of Opel Kadett GT/E. It sparks a lot of passion, even at the side of the track," says Birgit Priemer, looking back on the experience.

Current compact class bestseller from Rüsselsheim also impressed with its dynamism and efficiency: the organizers of Paul Pietsch Classic were able to make themselves comfortable in an Opel Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid with 133 kW (180 hp) system output and a powerful 250 Newton meters of torque. Electrified station wagon led the field - responsibly and resource-efficiently with a purely electric and thus locally emission-free range of up to 65 kilometers according to WLTP 2 (EAER City according to WLTP 2 : 65-66 km).

[1] Values ​​of a vehicle depend not only on efficient use of fuel by vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.

[2] Stated range was determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning, and thermal preconditioning.

Oldtimer rally Hessen-Thüringen: Corso with the Opel Corsa

• Naughty little ones: Opel Corsa A and B mix in the classic field
• Famous drivers: TV star Roman Knizka and racing ace Jockel Winkelhock at the start
• Something new: This year celebrates the next generation Opel Corsa premiere
• Real street cruisers: 1938 Opel Admiral and Admiral A V8 also present

All-New Opel Corsa-e & Opel Corsa A

2019 is not only the anniversary year "120 years of automotive construction at Opel", but also the year of birth of the sixth Corsa generation. Therefore, the Rüsselsheim manufacturer presents a colorful Corsa Corso at the 23rd ADAC Oldtimer rally Hessen-Thüringen. It includes representatives of the first two generations of the small car classic, which has so far sold over 13.6 million copies. A bright red Opel Corsa GSi directs the film, TV and theater actor Roman Knizka. In addition, Opel brand ambassador and Le Mans winner Jockel Winkelhock moves an Opel Corsa A Cup in a manner appropriate to the species. In addition to the Corsa Corso, Opel Classic also brings two flagships to Weimar: the Admiral in the distinctive Art Deco design of 1938 and the 190 hp Admiral A V8 from 1965. Both road cruisers are optical and acoustic delicacies and absolute rarities. The eight-cylinder controls Opel communications chief Harald Hamprecht. His copilot is the President of the ADAC Hessen-Thüringen, Matthias Feltz.

Since 1982: Six generations Opel Corsa

Opel succeeds with a small car a big hit. Corsa A completes the offer below the cadet from 1982 and shows impressively how strong the Rüsselsheim can create a lot of space even on a small area, the driving pleasure is not too short and the economy is right. Opel Corsa impressively continues the democratization of individual mobility in all its generations (A to E).

Opel Corsa impressively continues the democratization of individual mobility in all its generations (A to E).

This year, the sixth generation starts. This is based on a completely new lightweight construction - starting point for a significant increase in efficiency. Whether with gasoline and diesel engines or for the first time in a purely electric version - every new Opel Corsa benefits from its low weight: Driving dynamics increase, fuel consumption drops.

All-New Opel Corsa-e

From A to B: Opel Corsa at the Rally Hessen-Thüringen

Opel Corsa A & Opel Corsa B

The launch success of the Opel Corsa A in Spain, Italy and France 1982 is a successful dress rehearsal for the performance in Germany in 1983. In this model, Opel has perfected the technique of making a car outside small and large inside. With a transversely mounted front-wheel drive unit, the Opel engineers succeed in creating the best conditions for the occupants. The good knee and legroom in all places is also due to the thoughtful design of the seats. Due to the full foam seats and the spring reinforcement of the chassis residual vibrations are swallowed. The adjustment of the backrest to anatomical conditions ensures fatigue-free and disc preserving sitting. Reinforced side cushions give better lateral support.

1983: Opel Corsa Cup

From 1988 a car followed dynamically like a motorcycle: ultra-compact, 820 kilos light, with cheeky wheel arches, sports seats, 100 hp and 188 km/h. First Opel Corsa GSi was born. Increased performance adapted the Opel technicians chassis and brakes. So the sporty Corsa is specially tuned with harder spring rate and reinforced shock absorbers and equipped with larger and ventilated front disc brakes. From this now much sought-after classic Opel brings two copies at the start.

1988: Opel Corsa A GSi 

1983 witnessed the model Opel Corsa Cup its premiere. In the ONS Opel Junior Cup, successor to the Kadett Cup introduced in 1979 for amateur pilots and junior racers, Kadett D and Corsa A competed against each other. Kadett 1.3 made 75 hp, Opel Corsa Cup version 83 hp. In 1985, races and rallies were raced for the first time. The winner of the Junior Cup received Opel Corsa 1.3 S. at the end of the year.

 Opel Corsa B Swing - five-door version

Opel Corsa B - three-door version

Five-door version of the Opel Corsa B (1993 to 2000) with its station wagon similar hatchback has been created compared to the coupe-oriented three-door more for the family-oriented clientele. The second-generation Corsa shines with features that make some mid-size sedans of its time miss. For example, it has a crash-test-proven safety passenger compartment with double steel tubes in the side doors, support ramps in the seat frames, height-adjustable seat belts front and rear, standard driver and passenger airbag and belt tensioner front. Equipped is the attractive small car with a powerful 1.0 liter three-cylinder engine with 12 valves and extremely low consumption.

Opel ECOTEC Compact 3-cylinder 1.0-liter 12V engine

Since 1899: automobile construction at Opel in Rüsselsheim

Opel has been building automobiles for 120 years. What began in a workshop in Rüsselsheim am Main with a total of 65 handcrafted Opel patent motor car "System Lutzmann" became a mass phenomenon with more than 70 million vehicles built to date. From the very first moment on, Opel had taken up the cause of producing cars as efficiently as possible, thereby making them affordable for large groups. Thus Opel started as the first German manufacturer already 1924 with the particularly economical production line production, whereby the Opel 4/12 HP "tree frog" as well as all later Opel 4 HP variants became sales hits. With the Opel P4 and the cadet (already with self-supporting body) produced the Rüsselsheimer already in the thirties genuine, technologically leading people's car. Made in Germany and German engineering spirit were affordable and experienced. In this tradition is also and especially the Opel Corsa.

!NEW! Holden unveils sleek next-gen Commodore Supercar concept

• Next-generation Holden Commodore to debut in 2018 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship
• Details to ensure ease of transition to next-gen Commodore for all Holden teams revealed

2018 Holden Commodore Supercar concept

Holden has revealed the first official concept image of the next generation Commodore race car, which will be introduced into the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship in 2018.

The stunning computer-generated image is the work of talented GM Design Australia Exterior Design Manager Peter Hughes.

2018 Holden Commodore Supercar concept

“What an incredible-looking race car, it carries on the tradition of Commodores looking awesome on and off the track and ushers in a new era for our brand,” Holden’s Executive Director – Marketing, Mark Harland said.

“I can’t wait to see it out on the track claiming race wins next year.”

The Supercars version of the cutting-edge next-gen Commodore is currently undergoing an intensive and rigorous design and development process being undertaken in partnership between Holden and its official factory racing team, Triple Eight Race Engineering.

The design work to compliment the sleek and sophisticated design of the road-going Holden Commodore includes advanced simulation and aerodynamic evaluation using sophisticated Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling.

In releasing the Supercars concept, Holden has also confirmed the next-gen Commodore will be homologated with the current, successful V8 engine for the 2018 season only.

A new, twin-turbocharged V6 engine, suitable for Supercars’ Gen 2 regulations, is currently undergoing development in partnership with the General Motors Performance and Racing Center, in Pontiac, Michigan.

Triple Eight Race Engineering will seek approval from Supercars to run a V6 powered Commodore as a wild card entry at selected rounds next season before a full rollout for the 2019 season.

The V6 engine will then be accessible to all Holden teams via a favourable leasing program.

The staggered introduction ensures a greater ease in transition to the new model Commodore bodywork for all Holden teams.

It also allows Holden and Triple Eight Race Engineering to assist Supercars’ technical department with development of its programs ensuring the turbocharged V6 can achieve parity with the existing, naturally aspirated V8s.

This will maintain the competition’s integrity with the introduction of Supercars’ new Gen 2 regulations.

“Our sport prides itself on Supercars being the closest competition in the world, and the phased introduction of the next-generation Commodore will ensure that is maintained,” Triple Eight Race Engineering team principal, Roland Dane said.

Supercars Australia Chief Executive Officer James Warburton applauded Holden on the stunning new 2018 Commodore and the manufacturer’s V6 engine development program for Gen 2.

“It is a pragmatic and sensible approach by Holden and Triple Eight Race Engineering in introducing the new Commodore and a twin-turbocharged V6 powered engine to the sport,” Warburton said.

“Importantly it is a win for all the current Teams in terms of the simplicity and market relevance for an easy transition to the new Commodore in 2018.

“This phased introduction sets a clear path forward for not only Holden but existing and new manufacturers in the sport.”

Development of the new Commodore Supercar continues, with construction of the first car well underway and ready to undertake Supercars Aero Validation in the fourth quarter of 2017.

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

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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! 50 Years of Innovation: Opel Design Studio First of its Kind in Europe

• Advanced Studio started its creative work at Opel in Rüsselsheim in 1964
• Architecture and concept was modeled after GM studio in Warren, Michigan
• Design icons from Opel GT to Opel Monza Concept

1964 was a year of Olympic Games – the XI Winter Games were opened in Innsbruck, and just a few months later, the Olympic flame burned at the XVIII Summer Games in Tokyo. And Rüsselsheim also extended an invitation to a special celebration. For the first time, guests were able to visit the new Opel Design Studio in building N10. For many of them it was also the last time, because after the grand opening, the futuristic-looking facilities were again closed to the public. From June 1964, forms, colors and functions of the brand’s cars were developed and decided here. “It’s easier to get into Fort Knox than into N10,” said an insider back then.

The new, ultra-modern Opel Styling facility that opened in 1964 in the N10 building was directly inspired by GM Styling in Detroit. This new set-up propelled Opel to the leading edge of automotive design in Europe.

The formal opening of the building marked a milestone in European automotive history. It was the largest design studio owned by an automaker in Europe. Up until then, most European car manufacturers often commissioned external specialists for the development of new concept cars. Northern Italy, in particular the area around the capital of the Piedmont region, Turin, was regarded as the mecca of automobile design. Pietro Frua, Guiseppe “Nuccio” Bertone and Pininfarina had all set up their coachbuilding enterprises between the Alps and the Apennines. They were responsible for the design of many of the car manufacturers’ new models and concepts.

First studies from European car manufacturers

The idea for Opel’s own design studio came from US parent company GM. In Warren, Michigan, near company headquarters in Detroit, GM Styling had already been working on the future of the automobile since the late 1950s. The first attention-getting concept car had been presented even earlier: after the Art & Color Section established in 1927 and headed by Harley Earl was re-named GM Styling in 1937, just one year later GM presented the Buick Y-Job – the first genuine concept vehicle in automotive history. The goal had been to develop a new, large convertible for the Buick brand to present to the public. The building in Warren was now built on the Rüsselsheim premises, identical in form, layout and function, just on a smaller scale.

In the early 1960s, GM Styling was the biggest and most powerful design organization in the world. By 1956, GM Styling’s 1,200 staff members had settled into the brand new building designed by Eero Saarinen at GM’s Technical Center in Warren, near Detroit. Opel benefited considerably from GM’s power and vast expertise.

However, the Rüsselsheim design studio’s task was much more complex. It was to develop not only the design language of new model lines, but its sharp minds and visionaries were to reach out beyond the confines of daily business and research the design of future vehicles. Design was seen as strategic focus for future success, not as an end in itself. And this is exactly what made the difference. While others at best developed the shape of a new body, in Rüsselsheim thought was being put into design language and emotions, including aspects like what kind of statement, what character does the customer expect from the car of the future.

Clare M. MacKichan, founder of Opel Styling in Rüsselsheim, sits in the middle of his staff for one of their first meetings in their new building. They made Opel Styling the most advanced and powerful automotive design organization in Europe.

Advanced Studio was a department in N10, free from daily design work, charged not with working on what should be on the road tomorrow or the day after, but with developing possibilities and opportunities for products that would win over customers years down the road. This was a real challenge. Because as a designer back then said, if you are a step ahead of the mainstream’s taste, you are moving around on the precipice to boredom. Take a brave step further, and you have made yourself inaccessible to most people. Or to put it more bluntly: had someone entered the king’s palace in the 19th century with a tablet PC, that person would have had to reckon with being thrown in jail for subversive behavior. Maybe that is why some automobile studies look boring and uninspired just a few years after their premiere.

Opel’s design team led by Erhard Schnell (standing right) try out the future Opel GT’s interior at Opel’s brand new Advanced Studio.

The Opel design studio’s task made it unique in Europe. It quickly turned into a European school for automobile design that had a magical attraction for the best in the industry. The studio’s personnel list from the past reads like a Who’s Who of the automotive design world: Anatole Lapine, Erhard Schnell, George Gallion, Charles M. ‘Chuck’ Jordan, Herbert Killmer, Chris Bangle, Murat Nasr and Hideo Kodama. And more than a few made their way to other manufacturers during their career after other brands had also established their own design studios years later. Many ideas, forms and design statements in automobiles originated in Rüsselsheim and reach back into the 1960s.

Following the stunning success of the Experimental GT at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Opel decided to put the car into production. While engineers were developing the chassis and powertrain of the future Opel GT, designers adapted its shape for production, which required creating new sketches and clay models.

Opel GT production started in 1968. But Opel designers had further ideas and the Advanced design team under Erhard Schnell (speaking with Hans Seer) prepared a proposal for an Aero GT with a targa roof, here as a clay model, for the 1969 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The list of design icons created by the Opel Advanced Design Studio in these 50 years can hardly be topped in its diversity. The Opel Experimental GT was the first masterpiece of work the young, committed team presented just one year after the new design studio was opened. The bold sports car already made its debut in 1965 at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). Thereafter in quick succession followed the Opel CD, a streamlined coupé with a V8 engine in 1969, the GT2 with sliding doors in 1975 and the extremely aerodynamically optimized Tech1, whose drag coefficient of Cd 0.235 was an absolute sensation in the early 1980s. The women and men from the Advanced Design Studio team presented their latest work at the last IAA in Frankfurt. The Opel Monza Concept shows design solutions and technical approaches that will appear in the brand’s model lines in the coming years.

Opel Monza Concept (2013)

!NEW! Opel at Nürburgring 24 Hours Race – The legend lives on

Nürburgring 24 hours: ten Opel Astra OPC Cup cars compete in the world’s toughest endurance race on June 21 and 22. 

There are venues that hold an outstanding place in their respective sports. Without a doubt, the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife is one of the world’s most famous motor racing circuits – especially when the legendary ADAC Zurich 24h-race takes place there for the 42nd time on June 21 and 22, 2014. Opel, one of the most successful marques in the race at the “green hell,” will be represented by ten Astra OPC Cup cars, alongside numerous privately owned race cars.

Opel Astra OPC Cup - Racing car

Successful racing cars from Rüsselsheim have a long tradition in the 36-year history of the VLN endurance racing championship. Nine champions have driven to victory in an Opel, with the Rüsselsheim-based manufacturer responsible for 17 outright wins. With 594 class victories, Opel is the third most successful brand. The overall victory at the 2003 24 hours by Manuel Reuter, Timo Scheider, Marcel Tiemann and Volker Strycek in their Opel Astra V8 Coupé remains a memorable moment in motor racing.

Opel Astra V8 Coupé winning the 24 hours race at the Nürburgring in 2003.

Last year, Opel revived this grand Nordschleife tradition with its Opel Astra OPC Cup. The racing version of the Astra OPC, which has been optimized for the 2014 season to combine high performance and professional technology at an affordable price, provides the technical basis for the Cup models.

Opel Astra OPC Cup - Racing car

However, the 24-hour race on the Nordschleife is more than just an extremely demanding race. It is also the site of one of the largest events in international sports and attracts some 200,000 fans every year to a gigantic party for everyone lucky enough to be there.

The tension increases: The legendary ADAC Zurich 24h-race takes place on the Nürburgring for the 42nd time.

The 42nd ADAC Zurich 24 hours starts at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2014.

!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.

!NEW! Buick Celebrates Four Decades of Regal

2014 Buick Regal

The addition of the Regal nameplate to the Buick family goes back more than 40 years, but even today, the Regal’s heritage as a sporty, mid-size luxury vehicle is strong as ever.  

The 1973 Buick Regal featured unique rear opera windows

Introduced in late 1972 as a 1973 model, the Century Regal, as it was originally called, served as an upmarket model in the Century line and one of GM's first “personal luxury” cars. Designed with sporty suspension characteristics and luxuries aimed primarily at the driver, the ‘73 Regal coupe sold 91,557 units helping Buick surpass its 1955 all-time sales record.

Launched with a standard 350 cu. in. V-8 engine, the Regal would soon carve a niche as a powertrain innovator. Among one of the first to react to the initial Arab oil embargo, the 1975 Buick Regal was the only mid-size vehicle in the United States to forego a standard V-8 engine in favor of a V-6.

The 1975 Buick Regal was the only mid-size car to offer a more fuel-efficient V-6 engine.

“The Buick team was on the leading edge and reacted to the need of more fuel-efficient engines,” said General Motors Heritage Center manager Greg Wallace. “Engineers worked around the clock to get the V-6 program up and running in a fraction of the time it typically took, while making sure to retain Buick’s reputation for reliability.”

Just a few years later, beginning with the 1978 Regal, Buick would lead a vanguard on turbocharging for better fuel economy. This expertise would later be used in creating Regals that would be recognized as some of the most powerful and significant cars of the 1980s.

Throughout four decades, and now in its fifth generation, the Regal carries on its sweeping design, dynamic driving experience and powertrain leadership. Today’s Regal is equipped with its most-powerful standard engine, a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 259 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of toque. To help make the most of traction in all driving conditions, it is also available with advanced all-wheel-drive system that incorporates an electronic limited-slip differential and HiPer Strut front suspension.

A 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology is also available, delivering EPA-estimated ratings of 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.

With today’s focus on all-passenger comfort, safety and technology, the latest Regal comes standard with an eight-inch color touch display featuring IntelliLink in-vehicle connectivity. Leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control are all standard. A host of new radar- and camera-based safety features are available, including Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking.

Generation 1 – 1973-1977

Large swooping body lines and opera windows were among Regal’s fashion cues at the start of the personal luxury era. The 1975 Regal was the only mid-size car in the United States to come standard with an efficient V-6 engine while maintaining comparable V8 performance.

1975 Buick Regal Coupe

Generation 2 – 1978-1987

Downsized from the previous generation, the 1978 Regal offered a 3.8-liter turbocharged V6, making Buick the first mainstream brand to offer a turbocharged engine. This ingenuity would pave the way for iconic Buick’s of the 80s including the highly desired Grand National and legendary GNX.

Key to the Buick Grand National’s success was its sophisticated 3.8-liter turbocharged V6, producing 245 horsepower for 1987.

Generation 3 – 1988-1996

Continuing the trend of scaled down cars in the U.S., the Regal’s third generation was again smaller and would usher in front wheel drive. Power would come from an all six-cylinder engine lineup including the award-winning 3800 V6 engine.

1992 Buick Regal Gran Sport Sedan and Custom Sedan

1992 Buick Regal Gran Sport Coupe

Generation 4 – 1997-2004

Back to its roots, the 1997 Regal again became an upmarket version of the Buick Century. The ‘97 Buick Regal GS debuted with the brand’s first supercharged V6, rated at 240 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

2004 Buick Regal

Generation 5 – 2008-2014

After a brief hiatus, the Regal would first return to the Chinese market for 2008. A high-output, dynamically optimized GS model would return for 2012. Introduced in 2013, the 2014 model is the first Regal to offer all-wheel-drive. Combining sport sedan handling with some of the most power-dense and technically advanced engines in the brand’s history, the Regal is helping to attract younger, new buyers to Buick.

2014 Buick Regal GS