1965-1966 Opel Rekord B Coupe 1.7 (84 Hp)

The Opel Rekord B Coupe 1.7, producing 84 horsepower, was a variant of the Rekord B series produced between 1965 and 1966. Positioned as a more stylish and sporting alternative to the standard Rekord B sedan, the Coupe aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal. It occupied a middle ground within the Rekord B lineup, offering more performance than the base models but falling short of the larger-engined versions. The Rekord B series, built on the Opel’s ‘H’ platform, represented a significant step forward in design and engineering for the manufacturer, and the Coupe variant was a key part of that evolution.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Rekord B Coupe 1.7 was the Opel 1698 cc inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, internally designated with various codes depending on specific market and minor revisions, was a naturally aspirated unit featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, a design known as CIH (Camshaft In Head). The CIH design was a relatively modern approach for the mid-1960s, contributing to the engine’s smooth operation and reasonable power output. Fuel delivery was managed by a single carburetor, a common setup for engines of this era. The engine produced 84 hp at 5600 rpm and 132 Nm (97.36 lb-ft) of torque between 2600 and 3000 rpm. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels.

Fuel Injection and Valvetrain Details

The carburetor used in the 1.7-liter engine was typically a Solex or Pierburg model, chosen for its ability to provide adequate fuel mixture control for the engine’s displacement and performance characteristics. The CIH valvetrain employed two valves per cylinder – one intake and one exhaust – enhancing volumetric efficiency compared to older designs. The compression ratio was set at 8.8:1, a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available at the time. The engine’s oil capacity was 3 liters (3.17 US quarts / 2.64 UK quarts), and the cooling system held 8 liters (8.45 US quarts / 7.04 UK quarts) of coolant.

Driving Characteristics

The Rekord B Coupe 1.7 offered a driving experience that prioritized comfortable cruising over outright performance. While 84 hp was sufficient for the time, it didn’t translate into particularly brisk acceleration. The car’s weight, approximately 1,180 kg (2,600 lbs), contributed to a 0-60 mph time estimated around 13-14 seconds. The top speed was recorded at 153 km/h (95.07 mph). The engine’s torque curve provided reasonable responsiveness in everyday driving situations, but overtaking required careful planning. Compared to the larger-engined Rekord B models, the 1.7-liter version felt noticeably less powerful, particularly at higher speeds. However, it offered a more economical driving experience and was considered more accessible to a wider range of buyers.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Rekord B Coupe 1.7 was generally equipped with a fairly standard level of features for a vehicle in its class during the mid-1960s. Standard interior appointments included cloth upholstery, a basic dashboard layout with analog gauges, and manually operated windows and door locks. The Coupe’s interior was designed to be functional and comfortable, with seating for four passengers. Optional extras included a radio, whitewall tires, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Coupe typically featured more extensive chrome trim compared to the standard sedan, enhancing its visual appeal. The steering wheel was a two-spoke design, and the dashboard featured a combination of circular and rectangular gauges.

Chassis & Braking

The Rekord B Coupe utilized a body-on-frame construction, a common practice for vehicles of that era. The front suspension consisted of coil springs and a torsion bar stabilizer, providing a relatively comfortable ride. The rear suspension employed coil springs. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering a reasonable level of precision but requiring some effort at low speeds. Wheel rims were typically 14-inch steel wheels. The front and rear track width were both 1325 mm (52.17 in).

Market Reception & Comparison

The Opel Rekord B Coupe 1.7 was generally well-received by automotive critics and the public. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the 1.7-liter engine lacked the power to fully exploit the Coupe’s potential. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Ford Taunus Coupe and the Vauxhall Victor Coupe, the Rekord B Coupe offered a competitive combination of features and price. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.61 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg / 29.4 UK mpg / 10.4 km/l). The 1.7-liter engine was considered relatively reliable, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure optimal performance. The larger-engined Rekord B models, while more expensive, offered significantly better performance and were favored by drivers who prioritized speed and acceleration.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Opel Rekord B Coupe 1.7, while not the most powerful or technologically advanced vehicle of its time, remains a fondly remembered classic. Its combination of stylish design, comfortable ride, and reasonable reliability has ensured its continued presence in the classic car market. The 1.7-liter engine, while not known for exceptional longevity, proved to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Today, well-maintained examples of the Rekord B Coupe 1.7 are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, representing a piece of automotive history from a bygone era. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of Opel enthusiasts continues to support the preservation of these vehicles.