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Opel Kadett E CC 1.2 (55 Hp)
Overall Rating
Opel Kadett:
The Opel Kadett is a small family car produced by the German automobile manufacturer Opel from 1936 until 1940 and then from 1962 until 1991 , when it was succeeded by the Opel Astra.
Originally, the Kadett was Opel's smallest model; however, as it grew in size with each generation , the Opel Corsa became GM/Opel's entry-level model.
The first Opel car to carry the Kadett name was presented to the public in December 1936 by Opel's commercial-technical director, Heinrich Nordhoff, who would in later decades become known for his leadership role in building up the Volkswagen company. Production was interrupted in 1940 by World War II....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E CC Overview:
Opel Kadett (E CC). With 84 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 840 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 17 s). The top speed reaches 155 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
1.2 (55 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Extremely basic performance, primarily suited for urban environments where speed is not a priority.
Fuel Economy
Decent economy for a small petrol engine of its time, but not exceptional, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Wide range of engine options from economical diesels to potent GSI hot hatches.
- • Practical and spacious interior for its class, especially with the CC body style.
- • Generally robust and reliable for its era, with many parts still available.
- • Affordable to purchase and maintain, making it a good budget classic.
- • Good trunk space for a hatchback, offering versatility for families or cargo.
Cons:
- • Outdated safety features compared to modern cars, lacking advanced driver aids.
- • Basic interior quality on lower trims, with hard plastics common.
- • Rust can be a significant issue on older models, requiring careful inspection.
- • Performance on base engines is very modest, struggling on highways.
- • Ride comfort can be firm on sportier GSI models, prioritizing handling over plushness.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(D: 1983 - 1984).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | Opel |
| Model: | Kadett |
| Generation: | E CC |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.2 (55 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1984 |
| End of production: | 1986 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 55 Hp @ 5600 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 46 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| Torque: | 84 Nm @ 3600 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 12SC, 12ST More details about the engine 12SC, 12ST |
| Engine displacement: | 1196 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 2 |
| Fuel injection system: | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity: | 2.75 l |
| Coolant: | 5.7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 79 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 61 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 9:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 17 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 155 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 10 kg/Nm, 100 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 16.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 840 |
| Max. weight: | 1345 |
| Max load: | 505 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1385 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 485 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 52 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3998 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1663 mm mm [27mm more] |
| Height: | 1400 mm mm [20mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2520 mm mm [6mm more] |
| Front track: | 1400 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1406 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.5 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Disc [bad for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Drum [bad for performance and cooling.] |
Your first impression of the Opel Kadett in one word? Go!