Opel

Introduced in October 1962, the Opel Kadett A marked Opel’s return to the compact car market after an absence of more than twenty years. Developed under strict secrecy as the “perfect Anti-Volkswagen,” it was designed to challenge the dominance of the Volkswagen Beetle with a more modern layout, greater interior space and improved practicality. The Kadett was built at Opel’s new Bochum factory and was offered as a two-door saloon, the practical Car-A-Van estate and, from 1963, a stylish coupé. Power came from a newly developed 993 cc overhead-valve four-cylinder engine, available in 40 hp and later 48 hp “S” versions. Combined with a fully synchronized four-speed gearbox, the lightweight Kadett offered lively performance and excellent fuel economy. Buyers appreciated its spacious interior, large luggage compartment and efficient water-cooled engine, which provided better heating and comfort than many rivals.

1963

Introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1965, the Opel Kadett B was larger, more spacious and more versatile than its successful predecessor. Available as a two- or four-door saloon, estate and coupé, it offered buyers an unusually wide choice in the compact car class. Power came initially from a 1.1-litre four-cylinder engine, while larger 1.5, 1.7 and 1.9-litre engines were later added, culminating in the sporty Rallye Kadett models. The Kadett B also introduced technical improvements such as front disc brakes, a dual-circuit braking system and a more sophisticated rear suspension. Although some critics found its styling rather conservative, customers appreciated its practicality, competitive pricing and generous interior space. With more than 2.6 million units built between 1965 and 1973, the Kadett B became one of Opel’s greatest sales successes and firmly established the Kadett as a major rival to the Volkswagen Beetle.

1967

1969

1970

Introduced in 1973, the Opel Kadett C was the fourth generation of Opel’s popular compact car and the last Kadett to feature rear-wheel drive. Although similar in size to its predecessor, it offered cleaner styling and a wide range of body styles, including two- and four-door saloons, a coupé, estate and the practical Kadett City hatchback introduced in 1975. Engine choices ranged from economical 1.0 and 1.2-litre units to sporty fuel-injected 2.0-litre versions in the Rallye and GT/E models. An unusual addition was the Kadett Aero of 1976, a limited-production open-top model built by Baur, featuring a targa-style roll bar and removable roof panels. Although expensive and produced in small numbers, it has become one of the rarest and most sought-after Kadett variants. With more than 1.7 million units built, the Kadett C was a major success.

See also: Vauxhall Chevette

1973

1977

1978