Opel Icons We Still Dream About: 10 Classics That Make Our Mouths Water

Opel may have a reputation for being solid and down-to-earth – but don’t forget that the brand has also produced cars that make your heart beat a little faster. We’ve handpicked 10 of the most irresistible Opel models of all time – from retro rockets to hidden gems. Ready for a nostalgic ride?

Opel GT (1968–1973) – “The Little Corvette”

“Nur Fliegen ist schöner” (“Only flying is better”), the slogan declared – and it made sense. With its long hood, pop-up headlights, and muscular rear, the GT looked like a mini Corvette – and it almost drove like one too. One of the most beautiful European sports cars of the ’60s, period.

Opel Manta A (1970–1975) – Coupé with Cult Status

Before memes and jokes turned the Manta into a punchline, it was a serious rear-wheel-drive coupé with loads of style. The first-generation Manta was sleek, raw, and unmistakably ’70s-cool – and today, it has a loyal fan base to prove it.

Opel Monza GSE (1983–1986) – Luxury and Speed in One Package

A grand tourer with digital instruments and a six-cylinder engine? Yes, please. The Monza GSE was far ahead of its time – and with room for four and the kind of style that would make an ’80s German action hero proud, it was perfect for the Autobahn and big dreams alike.

Opel Kadett C GT/E (1975–1979) – The Original GTI Rival

Lightweight, quick, and born with rally DNA. The Kadett C GT/E was Opel’s answer to the early Golf GTI – and it could seriously drive! Yellow bodywork with black striping and oversized headlights made it just as wild in appearance as it was on the road.

Opel Calibra (1989–1997) – ’90s Aerodynamics to the Max

When the Calibra launched, it boasted the world’s lowest drag coefficient for a production car. And it showed. Its futuristic design, powerful V6 engine, and all-wheel drive in the Turbo version make it a true ’90s icon – with serious comeback potential.

Opel Ascona 400 (1980–1984) – The Group B Legend

The Ascona 400 was born for rallying and built with help from Cosworth. With over 140 horsepower (in the street version!) and wild fender flares, it became a core part of Opel’s rally DNA. This isn’t just a car – it’s a chapter of motorsport heritage.

Opel Omega Lotus (1990–1992) – Wilder Than It Looks

It may look like a tidy executive car – but under the hood lurks a Lotus-tuned monster with 377 hp and a top speed of over 280 km/h. The Omega Lotus was Opel’s wild card, outpacing luxury brands and striking fear into German autobahn patrols.

Opel Rekord Coupé (1967–1971) – Retro Elegance with an American Touch

With its two-door body and curved sides, the Rekord Coupé looked like a cross between Detroit and Rüsselsheim. A piece of understated ’60s class that today stands as a collector’s dream.

Opel Astra OPC (2002–2017) – The Angry Hatchback

The OPC versions of the Astra are anything but boring. Sharp handling, thirsty for petrol, and a soundtrack made for car nerds. The latest OPC, with over 280 hp and a mechanical LSD, was a true hot hatch – with a German twist.

Opel Speedster (2000–2005) – The Forgotten Lotus

Did you know Opel built a lightweight sports car in collaboration with Lotus? The Speedster was hardcore, uncompromising, and insanely fun. With rear-wheel drive, low weight, and zero gimmicks, this was Opel’s rebel – and it deserves way more hype.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.