Background
The Opel Kadett C GT/E was introduced to the public at the 1975 Frankfurt Motor Show. It is powered by a 16-valve engine capable of putting out 225 horsepower and was developed for Group 4 rallying.
Driven by Walter Röhrl, the Kadett made its Group 4 rally debut in 1975 San Remo Rally, however it had braking problems at the time which forced Röhrl to pull out. Three of the Opel Euro Händler Team’s Kadetts also entered the RAC Rally in the same year, where all three of the cars retired from the race due to mechanical problems. One of the most impressive results the Kadett achieved was earned by Röhrl in 1976 Monte Carlo Rally, where he finished in 4th place behind three Lancia Stratos. Despite the problems it faced, the Kadett remained a favourite among privateers in many European Rally Championships before it was eventually succeeded by the Opel Ascona 400.
This Car
Original registered in Sweden in 1980 with Reg KMF 568.The car was built to contest the 1980 Swedish Rally Championship as Group1 spec for Bengt Nilsson by Opel Team Sweden. It’s most notable result was 9th Overall on the Internation Swedish Rally in 1980, now WRC Rally Sweden. The Kadett finished ahead of rally legends Ingvar Carlsson and Kalle Grundel and just behind Bjorn Waldegaard, Hannu Mikkola, Timo Salomon and Per Eklund. It remained Rallying in Sweden for 20years until being imported to UK by Chris Birkbeck who restored the car.
Bought by Richard Philipson in 2013 the car’s ex Works Opel Team Sweden heritage was brought to the fore and it was restored to period livery and has been exhibited several times at Goodwood Festival of Speed. During his 5-year tenure it also competed and finished some adventure endurance Rallies including Sahaura Challenge, Carrera Mediteranee, Baltic Challenge and selected Welsh Historic Rally Events.
Purchased by the current owner at end of 2020, it’s presently competing in the British Rally Championship National Cup where it has had good results.
Technical Specification
Engine: 1979cc, 4 cylinder, 8v Single Camshaft in head.
Induction: Fuel Injected multi point.
Transmission: 2WD.
Power output: 200 hp approx.