Opel Rekord

Introduction

The Opel Rekord is a mid-size family and executive car produced by Opel from 1953 to 1986. Spanning several generations, the Rekord became one of Opel’s best-selling models, offering practicality, comfort, and affordability. It was known for its durability and wide appeal, serving both as a family car and as a reliable choice for professionals across Europe.

Exterior

The Opel Rekord’s exterior design evolved significantly over its long production history. Early models featured classic rounded styling typical of the 1950s, while later versions adopted more angular and modern lines in the 1970s and 1980s. Body styles included sedans, station wagons, coupés, and even vans, giving customers a variety of choices. Chrome details and Opel’s distinctive front grilles were signature elements.

Interior

Inside, the Rekord was designed to be spacious and comfortable, catering to both families and executives. The interior varied depending on the trim, with basic versions offering simple materials and higher trims featuring wood or metallic accents, upgraded upholstery, and more advanced dashboards. The generous cabin and large cargo space in wagon variants enhanced its practicality.

Safety Features

Safety in the Opel Rekord improved with each generation. Early models had minimal equipment, but later versions introduced seatbelts, crumple zones, and stronger body structures. By the 1980s, features like disc brakes, headrests, and better crash protection became standard, reflecting the growing importance of passenger safety.

Engine Trims

The Opel Rekord was available with a wide range of engines throughout its lifespan, from economical 1.5L and 1.7L units to more powerful 2.0L and 2.2L engines in later models. Diesel options were also offered in later generations. Transmission choices included manual and automatic gearboxes, appealing to different markets and customer preferences.

Maintenance

Maintenance of the Rekord was generally simple and affordable, which contributed to its popularity. Regular oil changes, brake checks, and rust prevention were key to keeping it reliable. Its mechanical simplicity made it easy to repair, and parts were widely available across Europe. Today, classic car enthusiasts still restore and maintain Rekord models as part of Opel’s heritage.

Competitors

The Opel Rekord competed with cars such as the Ford Taunus, Peugeot 504, Renault 20, and Volkswagen Passat. Its combination of affordability, space, and reliability made it a strong contender in the mid-size segment for over three decades.