Rüsselsheim-based automaker Opel continues to present its brand history with virtual tours. Those who want to learn more about the automotive history of the brand over 160 years can go on a journey in the past by clicking on the Opel Classic Collection. With the addition of the themes “Concepts and Designs”, “Golden Sixties” and “Touring Cars”, a total of 360 different concepts are presented to the 8-degree virtual tours at the Opel Museum.
Leif Rohwedder, Director of Opel Classics, stated that Opel has always produced cars with advanced technologies: “Opel has always been a brand that combines the future with its deep-rooted past to develop cars that stir emotions. With three new virtual tours, visitors can now delve deeper into the world of Opel. "So they can learn many exciting facts and even some secrets about designs, sports cars and iconic classic cars."
Prototypes, concept cars and design work add color to any classic car collection. Many of Opel's unique and innovative vehicles have also survived. For example, an exact copy of the 1938 Opel Kadett with two seats, which could be considered the ancestor of the Kadett and Astra models, which was developed under the code name “Strolch” at that time, is one of them. The experimental GT model is also a legend. This sports car work caused a stir at the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show IAA. It was also the first concept car from a German manufacturer. Another important vehicle that stood out in this tour was the 444 HP Astra OPC X-treme and GT X Experimental with carbon bodywork and gull-wing doors. The German brand introduced the "Visor" front of today's Opel models for the first time with its all-electric SUV design in 2018.
The virtual “Touring Cars” tour stirs the emotions of the visitors and raises the adrenaline. Opel does this by having a long history and an extremely rich motorsport heritage. Opel's first racing car first appeared on the start line in 1899. Apart from rally cars, touring cars optimized for the best performance also reveal Opel's strengths.
The German brand has many successful racing legends with the models it has developed. Among these models, the Opel Rekord C “Black Widow” or the Kadett GSi 1989V DTM, which has excited its fans on the racetracks since 16, are among the prominent examples. Opel entered the German Touring Car Masters with the specially developed Astra V2000 Coupé from 8 and immediately took the second place. Other races followed, such as the legendary 24 Hours at the Nürburgring. Equipped with high technologies, Astra triumphed in 2003. The champion car was then preserved in its original form, including track dirt and champagne stains from the victory parade.
The “Golden Sixties” has a slightly more relaxed but equally fascinating history. Shiny chrome parts, white sidewall tires and large windows reveal the fascinating design spirit. The classic cars of this era represent immortal beauty and personal freedom.
One of the Opel icons that marked the 10-year period of the Woodstock Festival was the 1962 Opel Rekord P2 Coupe, also known as the “Race Boat”, which stood out with its short roof and long rear design during the days when the moon landing and color television were on the agenda. In 1965, an extremely elegant model was added to Opel's luxury class models. Body maker Karmann produced the Diplomat V8 Coupé, the most special vehicle in the German manufacturer's product range. The fact that it is a special vehicle was also reflected in its production numbers. Only 1967 were produced until 347. Introduced in the same year, the Rekord B has become a legendary car, both in terms of its pioneering “CIH” engine and in terms of those who prefer this car. Sepp Herberger, Technical Director of Germany's football team that won the 1954 World Cup, was among those who preferred the Opel Rekord B model.
Opel Classic themed tours: “Alternative Propulsion, Rally Racing, Sound Twenties, Transport for All, 160 Years of Opel, Concepts and Designs – New, Golden Sixties – New, Touring Cars – New”