Opel Kadett GT/E Coupe
The Opel Kadett C GT/E represented the sporting pinnacle of Opel's compact car range during the 1970s. While the standard Kadett was a practical, affordable compact, the GT/E transformed it into a genuine sports car with the addition of Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection — a cutting-edge technology for a mass-market car in 1975. The 1.9-liter OHC engine produced 105 horsepower, which in the lightweight Kadett body meant sprightly performance rivaling many more expensive sporting machines. The GT/E's real claim to fame was its rallying success. Piloted by Walter Röhrl among others, the Kadett GT/E won the European Rally Championship and proved itself on stages from Monte Carlo to the forests of Finland. The rally homologation requirement meant that road-going GT/Es received proper sporting upgrades: stiffer suspension, wider wheels, front disc brakes, and distinctive black bodywork with contrasting color stripes. Today, the Kadett GT/E is recognized as one of the great European pocket rockets of the 1970s, offering an analogue driving experience that modern hot hatches can only dream of replicating.
Rust is the biggest enemy — check sills, floors, inner wings, and rear wheel arches thoroughly. The CIH engine is robust and well-supported. Bosch injection components may need specialist attention. Rally-spec parts are very valuable. Verify GT/E authenticity as conversions exist.
The GT/E designation stood for Grand Tourisme Einspritzung (injection). Built primarily as a rally homologation special. The 2.0-liter CIH engine was later offered for even more performance. Rally versions produced up to 230 hp.