Description
Late 60’s Opel was looking for a very sporty version of the Kadett B. Racing driver Ragnar ‘Ragge” Eklund was responsible for Opel’s sportscar division in Sweden where they eventually developed the car. Where they had experimented with small engines in Germany, Eklund though it might be a good idea to spoon the new fierce 1900S engine into the small light car. The Swedes then proceeded to build a prototype and ship it out to Germany: And thus the Rallye legend was born.
Untuned the 1900S delivers 90 hp and with some weight-sparing measures is good for some very attractive performance. The additional lights, wider wheels, mainly black bonnet and dark interior and headlining gave the Kadett a very sporty appearance as considered back then. Potential buyers could barely contain themselves at the Opel dealership with the huge amount of extras, such as a sturdier suspension pack with rear coil springs and even a 106 hp Sprint version.
The Kadett Rallye we have here is a rare original example in a very special condition. We do not have to explain that Kadett Rallye’s used to be subjected to a heavy life back then and as a rule in the subsequent decennia were flogged to death. This red Rallye is the exception to that rule.
This Rallye was supplied to its first owner in Sweden in 1969. He specified Opel to fit Recaro seats before he took possession. Over the years this chap enjoyed his Opel and also took great care in maintaining it. Maintenance and repairs were meticulously carried out and the original booklet with mileage and maintenance data is even still present as are lots of other pieces of documentation. That first owner enjoyed his Kadett until 1994 after which he garaged the car for the next twenty years. At this time during a visit by a good friend they both decided it was once more time to revive the Kadett. This good friend bought the car and subjected it to a thorough inspection. He then restores the car in a mechanical sense back to peak shape. Since then he has used the car sparingly during the summer for pleasure trips out.
Externally this Kadett B Rallye is in unique shape: the paintwork is almost entirely original baring a few touched-up patches of stone chip and a few blemishes on top of the left front arch. We see the small dent behind the driver’s door as a little scar being part of this Kadett’s unique history. The paintwork has developed a delightful amount of characteristic patina.
The interior too is entirely original, including the aforementioned Recaro sports seats. They have a wonderful sit and offer a good view of the dashboard with its large gauges showing you the most important information. The extra meters under the centre console underline the sporty character of this Opel with rallying genes.
Under the matt black bonnet, its authenticity credentials continue. Mechanically the car is in a fantastic state and has impressive original looks to match. No restored parts, only well maintenance and a regular thorough clean is responsible for it current appearance.
There are numerous invoices from its early days as well as road maps, a guarantee certificate and other documents from its first owner. We have no hesitation in stating that this is one of the most complete and original remaining Kadett B Rallye’s around!
