Opel GT Review: Rediscovering the Mini-Corvette

Ever dreamed of owning a slice of automotive history that looks like a shrunken Chevy Corvette but drives like a nimble European roadster? The Opel GT, produced from 1968 to 1973, might just be that hidden gem. This two-seater sports car turned heads back in the day with its sleek lines and pop-up headlights, and today, it’s a collector’s delight for those craving affordable classic thrills.

Blending German engineering with a dash of American flair, the Opel GT was Opel’s first post-war two-seater, built on the humble Kadett platform. Over 100,000 units rolled off the line, mostly exported to the U.S. through Buick dealers. If you’re curious about modern brand ties, check out who owns Peugeot – it’s all part of the Stellantis family now, which swallowed Opel in 2017.

Exterior Vibes: A Head-Turning Design That Screams ’60s Cool

Picture this: a low-slung coupe with flowing curves, hidden headlights that flip up like a secret agent gadget, and a fastback roofline that echoes the iconic Corvette Stingray. The Opel GT’s steel body was crafted in France before final assembly in Germany, giving it that exotic Euro appeal without the fiberglass fuss.

First impressions? It’s compact at just over 13 feet long, weighing around 2,000 pounds – light enough to feel agile on twisty roads. No trunk lid means luggage sneaks in behind the seats, adding to its quirky charm. Collectors love the bright colors like sunny yellow or fiery red that pop against chrome accents.

Cabin Confessions: Cozy Quarters with a Sporting Soul

Slide into the Opel GT’s bucket seats, and you’re greeted by a minimalist dashboard – round gauges, a three-spoke wheel, and just enough room for two. Space is snug, with high-backed fronts that hug you during corners, but don’t expect family-friendly legroom in the “rear” area; it’s more for bags than buddies.

Comfort meets basic tech here: no fancy infotainment, but optional radios kept the vibes alive. The cabin feels premium for its era, with decent build quality that holds up in well-maintained classics today. Have you ever felt that raw, unfiltered driving connection? That’s the GT’s interior magic.

Power Play: Engine Choices and That Thrilling Drive

Under the hood, choices boiled down to a 1.1-liter inline-four churning out 67 horsepower or the popular 1.9-liter option with up to 102 hp (dropping to 83 hp in later U.S. models due to emissions rules). Pair it with a four-speed manual for fun shifts or a three-speed auto for easier cruising.

Hit the gas, and you’ll experience a smooth buildup – 0-60 mph in about 10-11 seconds, topping out at 112-116 mph. Handling shines with rack-and-pinion steering that’s light and precise, delivering neutral cornering and a comfy ride on stiff springs. As one reviewer noted, it’s “extremely pleasant and enjoyable to drive,” perfect for winding backroads.

Sipping Fuel: Economy That Won’t Break the Bank

In a world of gas-guzzlers, the Opel GT sips like a champ. Real-world figures hover around 25 mpg, thanks to its lightweight build and efficient four-cylinder engines. Commuters back then loved it for highway hauls without frequent fill-ups.

What is the fuel economy of the Opel GT? Expect mid-20s in mixed driving, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious enthusiasts even today. No EV range here, but its simplicity means low maintenance costs for classic owners.

Safety Smarts: Basic Protection with Retro Reliability

Safety in the ’60s meant front disc brakes, rear drums, and good roadholding from radial tires. No airbags or ABS, but the GT’s balanced chassis helped avoid trouble, earning praise for neutral handling that keeps you planted.

Is the Opel GT reliable? Built on proven Kadett parts, it’s sturdy if rust-free – check floors and rockers. Expert opinions highlight its dependability, with simple mechanics that DIY fans adore. For crash data, vintage models predate modern ratings, but it’s no tank.

Trim Talk: Options, Prices, and Bang for Your Buck

Base models started affordable, around $3,000 new (about $25,000 today adjusted). The GT/J trim, introduced in 1971 for Europe, stripped chrome for a cheaper vibe but kept the 1.9-liter punch.

Higher-spec versions added fog lights, limited-slip diffs, and autos. Value shines in resale – clean examples fetch $10,000-$20,000 now, with rare 1.1-liters commanding more. It’s a steal compared to pricier classics, offering strong investment potential.

Thumbs Up and Down: The Honest Pros and Cons

• Pros:
• Eye-catching design that still draws compliments
• Fun, engaging drive with precise handling
• Excellent fuel efficiency for a sports car
• Affordable entry into classic ownership
• Reliable mechanics based on everyday Opel parts
• Cons:
• Limited cargo and passenger space
• Modest power by modern standards
• Prone to rust in untreated examples
• No modern safety tech
• Parts can be tricky to source outside Europe

Rival Roundup: How the Opel GT Stacks Up

How does it compare to the Ford Capri? The GT beat it to market but lacked the Capri’s longevity and variety. Against the Datsun 240Z, it’s outgunned in power but wins on charm and affordability.

Mini-Corvette vibes aside, it’s lighter and more nimble than American muscle. For something different, consider modern alternatives like the 2025 Toyota Venza for crossover comfort, but nothing matches the GT’s pure retro joy. Dive deeper into its story at Hagerty’s profile on forgotten classics. For performance insights, check MotorTrend’s collectible take.

Perfect Match: Who Should Snag an Opel GT?

This car’s for weekend warriors, classic collectors, and budget thrill-seekers. Families? Skip it – no back seats worth mentioning. Commuters appreciate the economy, while off-roaders might laugh at its pavement prowess.

If you’re a first-time classic buyer craving something unique, the GT fits like a glove. Most drivers overlook this hidden gem, but once you drive one, you’ll wonder why it’s not more famous.

Wrapping It Up: Is the Opel GT Worth the Hunt?

The Opel GT blends stunning style, peppy performance, and everyday usability into a package that’s timeless yet approachable. Sure, it’s not a speed demon, and space is tight, but its driving joy and collector appeal make up for it.

Ready to relive ’60s motoring magic? Hunt down a rust-free example, take it for a spin, and see if it steals your heart. In a sea of forgotten classics, the Opel GT deserves a revival – it might just be your next garage star.