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The Opel GT (1968-1973)
R&T noted in June 1968 that the “sporting image” continues
to be very “in” at that time, and the overall trend was towards
larger engines, chrome flashing, wooden-appearing steering wheels
and “GT” lettering. All these applied to Opel’s newest model that year.
R&T’s judgments withstanding, the US-export version Opel GT
never got a truly fair evaluation, largely because GM de-tuned
its production-version engines and deleted its anti-sway bars.
Opel GT, original Prototype version, 1965
"Opel GT" (Dec 1968)
"Production version of a show car loses something in the translation"
Road & Track's initial look at the production model Opel GT
largely focused on changes to the its look (from the initial
prototype that was displayed at the Frankfurt Auto Show in 1965).
On the upside, they noted its "efficient aerodynamic shape,"
rotating headlights, doors that extended to the roofline, and interior
features like a padded dash and high seat backs. Criticism included
comparisons to the initial prototype, which was "longer and smoother"
(Note: This article was reprinted in the Brookland's "Portfolio" series)
"1.9 Opel GT" (June 1969)
"Not bad but not up to expectations"
Opel GT, as seen in “Get Smart,” 1969
Road & Track's road test of the initial production version GT was largely positive but also featured some reservations.
Starting with mention of Opel's pre-WWI racing history, it was described as "essentially a Rallye Kadett living in
a new set of clothes" and "the sports-car equivalent of the Kadett". Compliments extended to the "generous
torque" and "excellent gearbox" of the 1.9 liter 4-speed drivetrain, with a top speed of 113mph and fuel economy
at 27.5 miles per US gallon, and to the original configuration of disc/drum brakes which made a good impression.
R&T also noted that while the steering was light and "really feels good," the handling of the US-version chassis
(which deleted the Euro-versions' sway bars) was "at best mediocre". (This is no surprise to present-day GT owners,
who have found it necessary to install upgrades like poly bushings and other chassis stiffeners like sway bars,
to control wheel lift and restore a sports-car road feel).
The body was "commendably rigid and free of rattles," the driving position and access to levers and controls
"just where we like them" was also summarized in the statement that "all things considered we feel the GT's
interior is rather nice and attractive." In conclusion, R&T noted that its mechanicals weren't exotic or unfamiliar,
and that "there's a Buick dealer in nearly every village" in case service was required.
(Note: This article was reprinted in the Brookland's "Portfolio" series)
"5 GT Cars" (July 1971)
"Comparing the Datsun 240Z, Fiat 124 Sports, Opel GT,
MGB GT and Triumph GT-6: A closer contest than we expected"
For the first time an Opel GT made the cover of Road & Track.
It was easy to overlook, among four other models
(which R& T considered to be rivals in the $3500 sport-coupe price class).
As only 20% of the focus of this article, comments regarding
the Opel GT were brief. Although the power cut of its
1971 model-year engine was noted, it was still "a crisp little package"
Cover Photo, July 1971 issue
that was "extremely well put together" with the best brakes and lightest
weight and it returned the best fuel economy of the group.
However, scoring based on a point system placed it 3rd, after the Dastun and Fiat, ahead of the MG and TR.
R&T found it notable that the GT was the personal favorite of one reviewer, who nevertheless scored the Datsun higher.