1971 Opel GT

There are not many cars that have a genuine lineage to the iconic Chevrolet Corvette, but the Opel GT has that credential.

Paint

Presentation and the first impression is everything as they say, and the Opel does not disappoint. Finished in Flame red, the lustre has deep gloss. There are a couple of curious scratches on the bonnet which has possibly appeared while the car has been in storage rather than road damage.

Bodywork

The restoration finish is of a high standard, with no ripples and imperfections. The curvaceous lines are faultless by sight, with tight shut lines and very solid lower flanks.

Dashboard

The dashboard is in physically fine mettle complete with no cracking and just age-related wear. The instruments are all functional, with the speedometer showing MPH. It is also fitted with an 80’s tape deck and radio.

The clock is said to be not functioning, the owner can supply a spare one for installation.

Electrics

All electrics on the car are functional, with the coolest feature worthy of a mention - the headlamps that swing 180 degrees. Naturally, there’s a video to watch this wonderfully hypnotic feature. The twisting mechanisms are in good working order as they known for issues. The original front spotlights were orange and have been replaced with clear items, which can act as daylight running lights.

The drive

As your consigner met up with the owner to photograph the car, the impact of seeing a small pert car busting in the early London traffic made a delightful sight. The handling and grip were reassured and obviously had no issue maintaining the legal speeds. The lowdown seats and intimate cabin amplify the sporty feeling.

Glass and trim

The glass and rubber are in good condition, with a recently applied tint to the rear items. There are small scratches on the nearside rear side glass.

Wheels and tyres

The original painted steel wheels are complemented by period chrome ring embellishments on well above legal mid-range tyres. The stylish chrome wheel hub centres caps are in good condition.

Seats and carpets

The carpets are immaculate, having been recently completely refurbished with new items with a fetching Opel GT motif. The seats are in excellent condition, with minor signs of wear. The rear access section finished in a similarly good condition.

Engine and gearbox

Powered by a 1.9-litre US spec engine coupled up to a four-speed gearbox, the well-proven block was more than enough to hurl the 900 kg car around. The engine has been well maintained, with start-up being instant and once running, smooth and quiet. The exhaust tone was suitably pleasing.

History and paperwork

As the norm for US imported cars, paperwork tends to be fairly light in content although the import documentation has evidence of the previous owner, which the current owner personally knew. There is the paperwork of new old stock and replica parts, along with images of the restoration process.

The car can be sold with a private plate if desired, this is something that the buyer can discuss after the sale.

We have actioned our usual checks;
- Photo ID of seller
- V5C
- HPi clear

Suspension and brakes

The use of the transverse leaf-spring is a clue to its Corvette heritage, with the rubber bushes in good condition. The control arms and subframe are in excellent condition as fitting the description of a high-quality restoration. The brakes were also renewed and don’t need a heavy shove to provoke them into action, no squeals or fade were evident.

Steering wheel gear stick

The steering wheel is an early 90's Momo D&W item which adds a little life to the interior. The gear knob is also an aftermarket fitment, with the wood finish on the knob and rubber gaiter in good order.