SPARK S6745 Opel Kadett C GTE 1976 %

Spark — S6745 | Opel Kadett C GT/E (1976)

Unveiled in the autumn of 1975 at the Frankfurt Motor Show for the 1976 model year, the Opel Kadett C GT/E Coupe stands as one of the definitive compact European performance icons of the 1970s. Conceived as a homologation special for Group 1 and Group 2 touring and rally competition, it stood out with its striking two-tone yellow-and-matte-black paint scheme (bright signal yellow on top and matte black on the lower body and hood). Tipping the scales at a lean 900 kg (1,984 lbs), it featured a traditional rear-wheel-drive layout with a well-located live rear axle, anti-roll bars, and an optional limited-slip differential.

Power was provided by the proven 1.9-liter (1,897 cc) CIH (Cam-in-Head) inline-four engine borrowed from the Manta, fed by Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection. Delivering 115 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 152 Nm of torque, it was mated to a close-ratio 4-speed manual gearbox (with a heavy-duty 5-speed ZF transmission available for competition). Agile and delightfully communicative to drive, the Kadett GT/E sprinted from 0 to 100 km/h in roughly 8.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph), creating an enduring legacy across historic motorsport and club rally stages.