Opel GT 1900

Opel GT 1900

The Opel GT represents General Motors' European answer to affordable sports cars like the MG and Triumph, offering distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics at an accessible price point. Designed by Clare MacKichan (who also designed the C2 Corvette) and styled by Erhard Schnell, the GT featured swooping curves, hidden pop-up headlights, and fastback proportions that earned it the nickname 'mini Corvette.' The dramatic styling was far more exotic than the mechanical components beneath.

The GT was based on Opel Kadett B mechanicals, using a 1.9-liter inline-four producing 90 horsepower in European spec (emissions controls reduced this to 83 hp in North America). While not particularly powerful, the GT's light weight of just 2,050 lbs created sprightly performance and excellent handling. The suspension used unequal-length A-arms up front and a live axle with coil springs at the rear, providing responsive handling that was praised by period reviewers.

The interior was driver-focused with a full complement of gauges, sport seats, and excellent visibility despite the low seating position. The most distinctive feature was the manual pop-up headlight mechanism, operated by a lever between the seats that rotated the headlights 180 degrees into position. This mechanical simplicity was charming but could be tiring in frequent use. The rear-wheel-drive layout and well-balanced chassis made the GT entertaining to drive on twisty roads.

Production totaled 103,373 units built between 1968 and 1973, with most assembled by Brissonneau & Lotz in France due to capacity constraints at Opel. The GT was sold widely in North America where it found a receptive audience seeking European style at American prices. Today, the Opel GT has a devoted following with values rising for well-preserved examples. The combination of distinctive styling, affordable pricing, and engaging driving experience makes the GT an accessible classic with significant charm.