Opel Calibra

Introduction

The Opel Calibra is a sporty coupé produced by Opel between 1989 and 1997. Designed to replace the Opel Manta, it combined sleek aerodynamics, stylish looks, and advanced engineering. At its launch, the Calibra was praised for being one of the most aerodynamic cars in the world, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.26. It was marketed as a performance-oriented yet practical coupé, appealing to enthusiasts and style-conscious drivers.

Exterior

The Calibra’s exterior was its defining feature, with smooth, flowing lines and a low, wide stance. Its aerodynamic shape gave it a futuristic look compared to rivals of its era. Pop-up headlights were not used, making it stand out from many 90s sports cars, instead featuring slim, integrated lamps. Alloy wheels, subtle spoilers, and sporty body kits were available on higher trims. The design remains iconic as a symbol of 1990s European coupé styling.

Interior

Inside, the Opel Calibra offered a driver-focused cabin with seating for four. The dashboard was simple yet modern, with clear instruments and ergonomically placed controls. Depending on the trim, the interior ranged from practical cloth upholstery to premium leather with sporty accents. While rear-seat space was limited, it provided reasonable comfort for a coupé, and the hatchback design allowed for generous cargo space.

Safety Features

The Calibra incorporated safety features suitable for its era. These included reinforced crash structures, seatbelts, and later models added airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Its low stance and stable handling also contributed to safe driving dynamics. While not as advanced as modern vehicles, it offered solid protection for the 1990s.

Engine Trims

The Calibra was offered with a wide range of engines, from economical 2.0L four-cylinder units to high-performance V6 engines. The most notable was the turbocharged 2.0L engine with all-wheel drive, delivering strong acceleration and rally-inspired performance. Transmissions included 5-speed manuals and 4-speed automatics, catering to different driving preferences.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Calibra is straightforward but requires attention to aging components, as many are now classic cars. Routine servicing includes oil changes, timing belt checks, and suspension care. The turbo and V6 models require more specialized attention, but parts availability remains good thanks to Opel’s extensive network and enthusiast support.

Competitors

The Opel Calibra competed with sporty coupés such as the Toyota Celica, Honda Prelude, Ford Probe, and Volkswagen Corrado. It stood out for its aerodynamic efficiency and blend of performance with everyday practicality. Today, the Calibra is regarded as a collectible classic of the 1990s coupé era.