Description
Three years after the introduction of the Kadett A, its successor followed. Such a short runtime is somewhat unusual, but Opel understood that they had a success story with the Kadett B, and it did them no harm. The B-type remained in production until July 1973 and achieved a total production of 2. 6 million units.
Basically, the B was a further development of its predecessor. The standard engine was enlarged from 1000cc to 1100cc and now delivered 45 (N) or 50 (S) horsepower. The body had become a lot more spacious and the program was expanded. In addition to the two-door coach and the four-door sedan, a two- or four-door coupe, the Kadett LS, and a three- or five-door station wagon, the Caravan, were also available. With such diversity, it was clear that Opel had launched an attack on its biggest competitor in its own country, Ford.
In 1968 Opel made some important changes. The rear axle got coil springs instead of leaf springs, the dashboard got a safer upholstery, the ventilation was improved and there were larger taillights. Several other versions followed later. For example, the successes in the Monte Carlo rally led to a rally version with 60 hp (1100 SR engine) or 90 hp (1900S engine) on board. from 1967 an Olympia version could be supplied for customers with a desire for more luxury. In addition, there was even an F-coupe.
In 1968 GM opened its transmission plant in Strasbourg, so that from that year a version with a three-speed automatic could be ordered.
In 1971 the Kadett B was modified for the last time. The entire interior became matte black (it was believed at the time to improve safety), carbon monoxide emissions were reduced, the DC alternator was replaced by an AC alternator, the oil bath air filter was replaced by a paper filter element and a version with a 1200S engine was introduced of 55 hp, the "Kadett 1. 2". The Opel 1500, 1700 and 1900 CIH engines have been available in the B-Kadett, but these have been ordered sparingly and are now rare.
Our Opel Kadett is still a very nice copy that is completely stainless. It is a white coupe with red leatherette upholstery. It drives, shifts, steers and brakes well. Under the hood you see a dry engine. A beautiful 1970s coupe.
