60 years since the premiere of the first Opel GT

When we look at this icon of automotive design, it immediately becomes clear that it is a vivid example of the popular design credo, according to which “Fine art meets German precision”. Every visitor to the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1965 was deeply impressed by the appearance of the Opel Experimental GT, and journalists and experts admired the unique concept with a mid-mounted engine and the original pop-up headlights piese auto online.

60 years since the premiere of the first Opel GT

The Experimental GT was originally developed as a high-tech laboratory on wheels for testing chassis and engine components and was never intended for series production. But after the hysteria it caused in the press and the public, the concept quickly began to take on real marketing dimensions. Opel thus set a precedent, and the 1968 GT became the first European concept car to go into series production. It became a role model in the automotive industry, setting the future trends for the concept of an affordable dream sports car.

Opel was the first car manufacturer to demonstrate its innovative strength with a concept car created entirely in its own design facilities. “In addition to having a fantastic appearance, the Opel sports car was designed primarily to impress with sophisticated aerodynamics,” says then GT designer Erhard Schnell. “Even the headlights were hidden to reduce aerodynamic drag.”

The Experimental GT followed a new design style, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Bottle Shape”, which can also be seen reflected in the Corvette design of the time. An elegant front end with retractable headlights, tapered side parts in the door area and protruding rear fenders that flow into the rear end with sharp dividing edges and round brake lights – these are the key styling features of the model. The cockpit is unusually spacious and functional, with a full range of equipment arranged in an impressively shaped dashboard with switches, a sports steering wheel and a short gear lever. Behind the seats there is a luggage rack, and behind it there is a folding panel under which the spare tire and jack are located.

Unfortunately, the GT didn't share the same muscle as its American counterparts and had to make do with a 1.9-liter engine from the Opel Rekord, albeit a modified one. In the end, however, the car received a strong international response, which undoubtedly had a very beneficial effect on Opel's image.

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

The Experimental GT was originally developed as a high-tech laboratory on wheels for testing chassis and engine components and was never intended for series production

Opel was the first car manufacturer to demonstrate its innovative strength with a concept car created entirely in its own design facilities