1972-1975 Opel Rekord D 1.9 S (97 Hp)

The Opel Rekord D 1.9 S (97 hp) was a variant of the Rekord D series produced between 1972 and 1975. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Rekord D lineup, it aimed to provide a balance between performance and affordability. The Rekord D itself was a significant model for Opel, representing a move towards more modern styling and engineering, built on the H-platform, and sharing components with other General Motors vehicles of the era. The 1.9 S trim offered a step up from the base models, appealing to buyers seeking a slightly more spirited driving experience without the expense of the larger-engined or more luxurious versions.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Rekord D 1.9 S was the 19S engine, a 1,897 cc (115.76 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produced 97 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 147 Nm (108.42 lb-ft) of torque at 3,800 rpm. It featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a carburetor, a common setup for the time, though less efficient than fuel injection. The engine had a compression ratio of 9.8:1. Bore and stroke dimensions were 93 mm (3.66 in) and 69.8 mm (2.75 in) respectively. Engine oil capacity was 3.8 liters (4.02 US quarts / 3.34 UK quarts) and the cooling system required 7.1 liters (7.5 US quarts / 6.25 UK quarts) of coolant.

While a four-speed manual transmission was standard, the 1.9 S was also available with a three-speed automatic transmission. This automatic was a General Motors-sourced unit, known for its durability but relatively simple design. It featured a torque converter and planetary gearsets. The automatic transmission contributed to a more comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments, but at the cost of some performance and fuel economy compared to the manual version.

Driving Characteristics

The Rekord D 1.9 S, when equipped with the manual transmission, offered reasonably brisk acceleration for its time. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint took approximately 14 seconds. The automatic transmission version saw a slight decrease in performance due to the inherent losses in the torque converter and the less-than-optimal gear ratios for maximizing acceleration. The power delivery was relatively linear, with peak torque arriving at 3,800 rpm. This meant that the engine was reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, but lacked the outright punch of larger displacement engines. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional driving feel, though it also meant that the car was susceptible to oversteer if pushed hard in corners.

The automatic transmission, while providing convenience, altered the driving experience significantly. Gear changes were not particularly quick or smooth by modern standards, and the transmission tended to hunt for gears on inclines. However, it made the Rekord D 1.9 S a more accessible and comfortable car for a wider range of drivers.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 1.9 S trim level offered a step up in features compared to the base Rekord D models. Standard equipment typically included cloth upholstery, a basic instrument cluster, and a two-spoke steering wheel. The interior was functional and relatively spacious for its time. Optional extras included a vinyl roof, upgraded audio systems, and power-assisted steering. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with clearly marked gauges for speed, fuel level, coolant temperature, and battery voltage. The quality of materials used in the interior was typical for a mid-range European car of the early 1970s – durable but not luxurious.

Chassis & Braking

The Rekord D 1.9 S utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs and wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a live axle with leaf springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride, but handling was not particularly sharp. The car weighed approximately 1,065 kg (2,347.92 lbs) in its base form.

Braking was accomplished via disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. This was a common configuration for cars in this price range at the time. While adequate for normal driving conditions, the braking system lacked the stopping power and fade resistance of more modern systems. The car had a turning circle of 11.4 meters (37.4 ft).

Market Reception & Comparison

The Opel Rekord D 1.9 S was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable family car. It offered a good balance of performance, fuel economy (11.6 l/100 km or 20.3 US mpg), and affordability. Compared to the larger-engined Rekord models, such as the 2.1 or 2.8, the 1.9 S was less powerful but more fuel-efficient. It also cost less to maintain, thanks to its simpler engine design. Compared to the diesel-powered Rekord models, the 1.9 S offered more responsive acceleration but lacked the fuel economy of the diesel. The 1.9 S competed with other mid-size sedans from manufacturers like Ford, Vauxhall, and Volkswagen.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Opel Rekord D 1.9 S, while not a particularly rare or collectible car today, remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. The 19S engine is known for its reliability and relative simplicity, making it relatively easy to maintain. Parts availability is generally good, although some components may be difficult to find. The automatic transmission, while not as sporty as the manual, is also considered to be durable. The Rekord D 1.9 S represents a significant piece of automotive history, embodying the design and engineering trends of the early 1970s. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the Rekord D 1.9 S can fetch reasonable prices, appealing to those seeking a classic European sedan with a practical and reliable powertrain.