The Opel Kadett B Coupe 1.1 SR, produced between 1965 and 1973, represented a significant step forward for Opel in the compact coupe market. Positioned as a sporty, entry-level offering within the broader Kadett B range (which included saloons and estate versions), the 1.1 SR aimed to attract younger buyers seeking affordable style and a degree of performance. The Kadett B itself was a crucial model for Opel, contributing to the company’s growing success in post-war Europe and establishing a reputation for reliability and value. The Coupe, and specifically the 1.1 SR variant, offered a more dynamic alternative to the more practical saloon models, capitalizing on the growing demand for personal transportation and leisure vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Kadett |
| Generation | Kadett B Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 SR (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1965 |
| End of production | 1973 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm, 112 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 84 Nm @ 4600-5400 rpm (61.96 lb.-ft. @ 4600-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 11SR |
| Engine displacement | 1078 cm3 (65.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 61 mm (2.4 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4182 mm (164.65 in.) |
| Width | 1573 mm (61.93 in.) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2416 mm (95.12 in.) |
| Front track | 1250 mm (49.21 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1274 mm (50.16 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 173 mm (6.81 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Kadett B Coupe 1.1 SR was the 11SR engine, a 1078cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine, while relatively small by modern standards, was a robust and reliable design. It featured a single overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain and utilized a single downdraft carburetor for fuel delivery. The longitudinal engine placement, coupled with rear-wheel drive, was a common configuration for European cars of this era. The 11SR produced 68 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 84 Nm (62 lb-ft) of torque, providing adequate, though not overwhelming, performance for its intended market. The engine’s simplicity contributed to its durability and ease of maintenance. The four-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection between the engine and the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.1 SR’s driving experience was characterized by its light weight and nimble handling. While not a particularly fast car, the 68 horsepower engine provided sufficient power for comfortable cruising and spirited driving on winding roads. The four-speed manual gearbox allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful Kadett variants, such as those equipped with larger engines, the 1.1 SR felt less stressed and more forgiving. The rear-wheel drive layout contributed to a balanced feel, although it also required a degree of driver skill, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The gear ratios were tuned for acceleration and fuel economy, rather than outright top speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.1 SR trim level offered a step up in features compared to the base Kadett Coupe. Standard equipment typically included a more comfortable interior trim, often featuring patterned cloth upholstery, and a more comprehensive instrument panel. Chrome trim around the windows and on the bumpers added to the car’s aesthetic appeal. Optional extras included a radio, whitewall tires, and a sunroof. The interior was relatively basic but functional, prioritizing practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly marked gauges for speed, fuel level, and engine temperature.
Chassis & Braking
The Kadett B Coupe utilized a body-on-frame construction, which was typical for cars of its era. The front suspension featured independent double wishbones with a transverse stabilizer bar, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employed a trailing arm setup with a transverse stabilizer bar. Braking was provided by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for the car’s weight and performance, the braking system lacked the sophistication of more modern designs. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kadett B Coupe 1.1 SR was generally well-received by automotive critics and buyers alike. It was praised for its affordability, reliability, and stylish design. Compared to other cars in its class, such as the Ford Escort and the Hillman Imp, the Kadett offered a good balance of performance, economy, and practicality. The 1.1 SR variant was often seen as a more appealing option for younger buyers than the larger-engined models, offering a sporty image without the higher running costs. Fuel economy was a strong point, making it an attractive choice in a period of rising fuel prices. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked refinement and that the interior was somewhat spartan.
Legacy
The Opel Kadett B Coupe 1.1 SR holds a significant place in automotive history as a representative of the affordable, stylish coupes of the 1960s and early 1970s. The 11SR engine proved to be remarkably durable, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, well-maintained Kadett B Coupes, particularly the 1.1 SR variant, are becoming increasingly collectible. The car’s simplicity and ease of maintenance make it a popular choice for classic car enthusiasts. The Kadett B Coupe laid the foundation for Opel’s continued success in the compact car segment and helped to establish the brand’s reputation for building reliable and affordable vehicles.
