Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Opel

Opel is one of the most iconic automotive manufacturers in Europe, with a legacy of innovation, mass production, and accessible transportation. Founded in Germany in the 19th century, Opel has built everything from bicycles and sewing machines to sports cars and electric vehicles. Its influence has spanned the German auto industry and beyond, with partnerships, mergers, and technology that have shaped the modern car.

Origins: Sewing Machines and Bicycles (1862–1898)

Opel was founded by Adam Opel in 1862 in Rüsselsheim, Germany. The company originally manufactured sewing machines, achieving great success and becoming one of Europe’s largest producers. By the 1880s, Opel expanded into the booming bicycle market, quickly becoming a leading manufacturer.

After Adam Opel’s death in 1895, his five sons took over and made the pivotal decision to enter the automobile industry by the late 1890s, aligning with growing interest in motorized vehicles across Europe.

Opel’s First Cars (1899–1914)

Opel began car production in 1899 in partnership with the French carmaker Darracq. These early cars were Opel-badged Darracqs assembled in Germany. By 1906, Opel began designing and producing its own vehicles independently.

The First Opel-Designed Car

In 1902, Opel built its first wholly original automobile powered by a two-cylinder engine. The company focused on luxury and reliability in these early years, competing with other pioneers such as Benz and Daimler.

Racing Heritage

Opel quickly entered motorsport, seeing racing as a way to improve technology and gain public attention. The company gained a reputation for durable, fast touring and racing cars in the pre-WWI era.

Expansion and Mass Production (1914–1930)

Opel was Germany’s largest car producer by 1914. After World War I, the company focused on mass production and affordability. Opel introduced assembly line production in 1924, the first German company to do so.

Laubfrosch (“Tree Frog”)

In 1924, Opel launched the Opel Laubfrosch, a small, green-painted car that was affordable and widely popular. Inspired by the Ford Model T, it signaled a shift toward cars for the masses and was a key step in Opel’s climb to market leadership.

Acquisition by General Motors (1929)

In 1929, General Motors (GM), the American automotive giant, acquired an 80% stake in Opel and completed the purchase in 1931. Under GM, Opel gained access to international markets and advanced technologies, becoming GM’s European stronghold.

Opel Olympia (1935)

Opel released the Olympia in 1935 — one of the world’s first mass-produced cars with a full all-steel body. The Olympia was praised for its strength, lower weight, and increased safety, setting a new standard for car construction.

World War II and Recovery

During World War II, Opel’s factories were repurposed for military production, building trucks and aircraft parts. The company suffered extensive damage from Allied bombing, particularly the Rüsselsheim plant.

After the war, Opel resumed civilian production with remarkable speed. By 1947, the company was building trucks and later passenger cars such as the Olympia and Kapitän models, helping to rebuild the German economy.

Postwar Growth and 1960s Success

Opel thrived in the 1950s and 1960s, establishing itself as a top automotive brand in Germany and across Europe. Its lineup ranged from economical city cars to executive saloons, combining German engineering with American-influenced styling.

Key Models of the Era

• Opel Rekord – A mid-size family car that became one of the best-selling models of its time.
• Opel Kapitän – A large executive saloon offering comfort and performance for business users.
• Opel Kadett – Revived in 1962 as a small, affordable car that competed directly with the Volkswagen Beetle.

Opel GT (1968–1973)

The Opel GT was introduced in 1968 as a stylish, compact sports car with sleek “mini-Corvette” design. It featured pop-up headlights and a 1.9L engine, and it became an instant classic.

Innovation and Global Presence (1970s–1980s)

Opel continued to innovate throughout the 1970s and 1980s, expanding its lineup and technological offerings. The company was deeply integrated into GM’s global operations and often shared platforms with Vauxhall (UK) and Holden (Australia).

Opel Manta and Ascona

The Opel Manta was a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe aimed at younger buyers. The Ascona was its sedan sibling, competing in the compact segment. These models were popular across Europe and often used in rallying.

Opel Corsa (1982–Present)

Launched in 1982, the Opel Corsa became one of the most important cars in Opel’s history. It was a small, front-wheel-drive hatchback that offered practicality, economy, and modern styling. It remains in production today under various generations.

Challenges and Modernization (1990s–2000s)

The 1990s and early 2000s saw Opel face increasing competition from Japanese and Korean manufacturers. Quality concerns and shifting consumer preferences led GM to reorganize Opel’s strategy and investments.

Omega and Vectra

Opel’s large sedans, such as the Omega and Vectra, were modern and spacious but struggled in premium markets. The Omega served as the basis for the Cadillac Catera in the U.S., but with mixed success.

Technological Focus

Opel invested in new technologies like turbocharging, common-rail diesel engines, and environmental systems. Despite financial losses at GM, Opel remained a vital part of its global R&D efforts.

GM Sells Opel to PSA Group (2017)

In a landmark decision, General Motors sold Opel (and Vauxhall) to France’s PSA Group (Peugeot/Citroën) in 2017. The sale ended GM’s 88-year ownership and allowed Opel to pursue new synergies with PSA’s platforms and technologies.

Transition and Revival

Under PSA, Opel quickly returned to profitability by streamlining its lineup, improving efficiency, and introducing new models based on PSA platforms. The Opel Grandland and Crossland SUVs marked a turning point.

Electrification and Stellantis Era (2021–Present)

In 2021, PSA merged with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) to form Stellantis, one of the largest automotive groups in the world. Opel now benefits from shared technologies, especially in electric vehicles (EVs).

Electric and Hybrid Models

• Opel Corsa-e – A fully electric version of the popular supermini, launched in 2020.
• Opel Mokka-e – A stylish compact crossover with a fully electric drivetrain.
• Combo-e, Vivaro-e – Electric vans for the growing commercial EV sector.

Design Evolution

Opel unveiled its new design philosophy with the Opel Vizor front end and digital cockpit concept. The new Mokka and Astra showcase this bold new look, with an emphasis on efficiency, tech, and sustainability.

Opel’s Global Presence

While Opel has retreated from some non-European markets under GM, the brand is re-expanding into territories under Stellantis. It aims to compete in electric and compact segments while remaining true to its roots in practicality and innovation.

Conclusion

From sewing machines to electric cars, Opel’s journey has spanned more than 160 years of technological evolution. As a pioneer in German automobile history and a key player in Europe’s mass-mobility movement, Opel continues to evolve with the industry. With electrification, bold design, and global integration under Stellantis, Opel is forging a path toward a cleaner, smarter, and more connected automotive future.