The Opel Rekord C 1.5, producing 58 horsepower, with a 4-speed manual transmission, was a mainstay of the Rekord C range produced between 1966 and 1969. This variant represented the entry point into the Rekord C lineup, offering affordable and practical transportation for the average European family. The Rekord C itself was a significant model for Opel, building upon the success of its predecessors and establishing the Rekord as a popular mid-size car. It was built on the platform designated as the Rekord C, representing a substantial redesign over the Rekord B, with a more modern aesthetic and improved mechanicals. The 1.5-liter model, in its manual form, was particularly popular for its balance of economy and usability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Rekord C 1.5 was the Opel inline-four cylinder engine, designated with various internal codes depending on the specific year and market. This 1,492 cc (91.05 cubic inches) engine featured a cast iron block and cylinder head, with a two-valve per cylinder configuration. The valvetrain employed Opel’s CIH (Camshaft In Head) design, a relatively advanced system for the time, contributing to improved breathing and efficiency. Fuel delivery was managed by a single carburetor, a common setup for vehicles of this era. The engine produced 58 hp (43 kW) at 4,800 rpm and 103 Nm (75.97 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm.
The 4-speed manual transmission was a fully synchronized unit, providing smooth gear changes for the driver. The transmission was connected to a traditional rear-wheel drive system, with a longitudinal engine layout. This configuration was typical for European sedans of the 1960s, offering a balance of handling and packaging efficiency. The gear ratios were tailored to provide reasonable acceleration and cruising ability, prioritizing fuel economy and everyday usability over outright performance.
Engine Specifications
The engine’s bore and stroke measured 82.5 mm (3.25 inches) and 69.8 mm (2.75 inches) respectively, resulting in a compression ratio of 8.2:1. The engine required 3.3 liters (3.49 US quarts) of engine oil, specified to meet the standards of the time. The cooling system held 7.2 liters (7.61 US quarts) of coolant. The naturally aspirated engine design meant that all power was derived from atmospheric pressure, without the aid of turbocharging or supercharging.
Driving Characteristics
The Rekord C 1.5 with the 4-speed manual transmission offered a driving experience focused on practicality and ease of use. Acceleration was modest, with a top speed of approximately 133 km/h (82.64 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 18 kg/hp meant that the car wasn’t particularly quick, but the available torque provided sufficient power for everyday driving situations. The manual transmission allowed the driver to maintain control over the engine’s power band, making it easier to navigate hills and overtake slower vehicles. Compared to potential higher-spec Rekord C models with larger engines, the 1.5-liter version prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. The handling was typical of rear-wheel drive sedans of the era, with a tendency towards oversteer if pushed hard, but generally predictable and stable in normal driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rekord C 1.5, as the entry-level model, was equipped with a relatively basic level of standard features. The interior typically featured cloth upholstery, with vinyl trim on the seats. The dashboard was functional and straightforward, with a simple instrument cluster displaying essential information such as speed, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Standard equipment included basic lighting, windscreen wipers, and a heater. Optional extras included a radio, upgraded upholstery, and whitewall tires. The trim level was generally consistent across the 1.5-liter models, with limited customization options available.
Chassis & Braking
The Rekord C featured a robust chassis construction, with a separate body-on-frame design. The front suspension utilized a double wishbone setup, providing a comfortable ride and reasonable handling. The rear suspension employed a rigid axle with trailing arms and coil springs, a common configuration for rear-wheel drive cars of the time. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The steering system was a cone worm with recirculation balls, offering a reasonable level of precision and feedback. The standard tire size was 175/75R13, providing adequate grip for the car’s performance capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Rekord C 1.5 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its practicality, affordability, and reliability. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Ford Taunus and the Volkswagen Passat, the Rekord C offered a good balance of features and value. Fuel economy was rated at 11 liters per 100 kilometers (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l), which was competitive for the time. Reliability was generally good, with the 1.5-liter engine proving to be durable and long-lasting. However, some critics noted that the car’s performance was somewhat lacking compared to its rivals, particularly those with larger engines. The Rekord C 1.5 appealed to a broad range of buyers, including families, commuters, and those seeking a reliable and affordable mode of transportation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Rekord |
| Generation | Rekord C |
| Type | 1.5 (58 Hp) Manual 4-speed |
| Start of production | 1966 |
| End of production | 1969 |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 133 km/h (82.64 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 58 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Torque | 103 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm (75.97 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1492 cm3 (91.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.8 mm (2.75 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1045 kg (2303.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1480 kg (3262.84 lbs.) |
| Max load | 435 kg (959.01 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4550 mm (179.13 in.) |
| Width | 1758 mm (69.21 in.) |
| Height | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2668 mm (105.04 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.74 m (38.52 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
Legacy
The Opel Rekord C 1.5, particularly the manual transmission version, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable classic car. Many examples are still on the road today, testament to the quality of engineering and construction. While parts availability can be a challenge, a dedicated community of enthusiasts ensures that spare parts and technical expertise remain accessible. In the used car market, the Rekord C 1.5 is valued for its affordability, simplicity, and classic styling. It represents a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era of automotive design and engineering, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a piece of automotive history.
