The Opel GT I 1.1 SR, produced between August 1968 and May 1970, represents the entry point into the iconic Opel GT lineup. This diminutive sports car, part of the first generation (GT I), was designed to offer an affordable and stylish sports car experience, heavily influenced by the American pony car trend of the era, but packaged in a distinctly European form. It was built on a shortened version of the Opel Kadett B platform, and the 1.1 SR variant served as the base model, appealing to buyers seeking a nimble and economical coupe. The GT quickly became a symbol of accessible performance and design flair for Opel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | GT |
| Generation | GT I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.1 SR (67 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 1968 |
| End of production | May, 1970 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 155 km/h (96.31 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp, 78.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.2 kg/Nm, 98.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 67 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.2 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 | 74.93 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 60.96 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 | CIH |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 853 kg (1880.54 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4112 mm (161.89 in.) |
| Width | 1580 mm (62.2 in.) |
| Height | 1224 mm (48.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2431 mm (95.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1255 mm (49.41 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1278 mm (50.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 927 mm (36.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 754 mm (29.69 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 129 mm (5.08 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.8 m (35.43 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 |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 13 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Opel GT I 1.1 SR is the 11SR engine, a 1078cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine, part of Opel’s CIH (Cylinder Head Inclined) family, featured a single overhead camshaft and a two-valve per cylinder configuration. Fuel delivery was handled by a single Solex carburetor, a common setup for the time. The 11SR produced 67 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 84 Nm (61.96 lb-ft) of torque between 4600 and 5400 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to the car’s balanced handling. The transmission was a standard four-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its simplicity and affordability. This configuration, while not particularly powerful, was known for its reliability and relatively easy maintenance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.1 SR variant of the Opel GT offered a distinctly different driving experience compared to the later, more powerful 1.9-liter versions. With only 67 horsepower propelling its 853 kg (1880.54 lbs) weight, acceleration was modest. However, the car’s light weight and well-tuned suspension made it surprisingly nimble and enjoyable to drive on winding roads. The four-speed manual transmission required frequent shifting to maintain momentum, but the gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s powerband. While not a high-speed performer, the 1.1 SR excelled in providing a connected and engaging driving experience, emphasizing handling and responsiveness over outright speed. Compared to the later models, the 1.1 SR felt more balanced and less prone to oversteer, making it a more forgiving car for less experienced drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Opel GT I 1.1 SR was positioned as the entry-level model, and its equipment reflected this. Standard features included cloth upholstery, basic instrumentation (speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge), and a three-spoke steering wheel. The interior was minimalist but functional, prioritizing a driver-focused experience. Optional extras included a radio, upgraded interior trim, and a limited-slip differential (though rare on the 1.1 SR). The exterior featured steel wheels with hubcaps, and a relatively simple trim package. The focus was on providing a stylish and affordable sports car, rather than a luxury-equipped grand tourer.
Chassis & Braking
The Opel GT I utilized a monocoque chassis construction, providing a good balance of rigidity and weight savings. The front suspension employed a double wishbone setup, while the rear featured a rigid axle with leaf springs. This suspension configuration provided a comfortable ride and predictable handling. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. While adequate for the car’s performance, the braking system was not particularly powerful by modern standards. The relatively narrow tires (5J x 13) contributed to the car’s nimble handling but also limited grip in demanding conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel GT I 1.1 SR was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its stylish design and engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted the engine’s lack of power, particularly when compared to larger-displacement sports cars of the era. Compared to the later 1.9-liter GT models, the 1.1 SR offered significantly less performance but also boasted better fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. The 1.1 SR appealed to buyers who prioritized style, handling, and affordability over outright speed. It was seen as a good entry point into sports car ownership, particularly for younger drivers.
Legacy
The Opel GT I 1.1 SR, while the least powerful variant of the first-generation GT, holds a special place in automotive history. Its combination of stylish design, nimble handling, and affordability made it a popular choice among enthusiasts. The 11SR engine, while not known for its high performance, proved to be remarkably reliable, and many examples are still on the road today. In the used car market, the 1.1 SR is often the most affordable way to experience the Opel GT, making it an attractive option for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its simplicity and ease of maintenance also make it a popular choice for restoration projects. The GT, in all its forms, remains a beloved classic, and the 1.1 SR represents a significant chapter in its story.
