The Most Expensive Opel Cars of All Time
Opel, a name often associated with reliable, accessible vehicles for the masses, holds a surprising secret within its illustrious history. While many think of Kadetts, Astras, and Corsas as the brand's hallmarks, a deeper dive reveals a collection of rare, luxurious, and high-performance machines that command staggering prices in today's collector market. These aren't your everyday family cars; they are limited-production executive sedans, rally-bred homologation specials, and groundbreaking sports coupes that have left an indelible mark on automotive history and, consequently, on the wallets of dedicated enthusiasts. Join us as we explore the often-overlooked opulent side of the Rüsselsheim manufacturer and uncover the most expensive Opel cars of all time.
The Executive Elite: Opel Diplomat V8
At the pinnacle of Opel's luxury aspirations stood the Diplomat, particularly its V8 variants. Introduced in 1964 as part of the "KAD B" (Kapitän, Admiral, Diplomat) series, the Diplomat was Opel's answer to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW's executive saloons. The rarest and most coveted among these were the Diplomat A and B models equipped with powerful American-sourced Chevrolet V8 engines – a 4.6-liter (283 cu in) or a 5.4-liter (327 cu in) unit. These cars were not only luxurious, featuring plush interiors, automatic transmissions, and power steering, but also incredibly potent, offering performance that belied Opel's mainstream image. Production numbers, especially for the V8 models, were relatively low, making well-preserved examples exceedingly rare. Today, a pristine Diplomat V8, particularly the later Diplomat B with its more modern styling and refined driving dynamics, can fetch significant sums at auction, representing a bygone era of German-American automotive collaboration and ultimate Opel luxury.
Italian Flair, German Engineering: The Bitter CD and SC
While not strictly branded "Opel," the Bitter CD and its successor, the Bitter SC, are inextricably linked to Opel's most luxurious platforms and are undoubtedly among the most expensive vehicles to originate from this lineage. Designed by Erich Bitter, these cars combined exquisite Italian styling (often compared to the Ferrari 400i or Maserati Indy) with robust Opel engineering, primarily based on the Opel Diplomat's chassis and powered by its reliable 3.0 or 3.9-liter straight-six engines (and later, a 5.4-liter V8). The Bitter CD, produced from 1973 to 1979, was a hand-built grand tourer that offered exclusivity and performance in equal measure. Its successor, the SC, continued this tradition with a more angular design. With very limited production runs (only 395 CD units and around 500 SC coupes), these cars were rare from day one. Their unique blend of European design, Opel dependability, and sheer scarcity has elevated them into the realm of highly desirable collector's items, with prices often soaring well into six figures for immaculate examples.
Rally Legends: Opel Manta 400 and Ascona 400
For those who prefer their automotive history with a dose of adrenaline, Opel’s rally-bred homologation specials stand out. The Opel Manta 400 and Opel Ascona 400 are prime examples of Opel's foray into top-tier motorsport, built in limited numbers to comply with Group B rally regulations. The Manta 400, introduced in the early 1980s, was a formidable machine, powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve engine developing well over 200 horsepower in race trim. Its aggressive wide-body kit and rear-wheel-drive dynamics made it an iconic sight on rally stages. Similarly, the Ascona 400, with its victories including the 1982 World Rally Championship, cemented Opel's reputation in rallying. The extreme rarity of these homologation models – only 59 Manta 400s were ever built for Group B, and slightly more Ascona 400s – coupled with their storied racing pedigree, drives their value sky-high. Finding an original, unmolested Manta 400 or Ascona 400 today is a rare event, and when they do appear for sale, they command prices comparable to other iconic Group B cars, placing them firmly among Opel's most expensive offerings.
The "Baby Corvette": Opel GT
Few cars have captured the imagination quite like the Opel GT. Launched in 1968, this sleek, two-seater sports car was instantly nicknamed the "Baby Corvette" due to its striking resemblance to the Chevrolet Corvette C3, particularly its hidden pop-up headlights that manually rotated into position. The GT wasn't about brute force; it offered a spirited driving experience thanks to its light weight and choice of 1.1-liter or 1.9-liter engines. Its seductive, sculpted bodywork and relatively affordable price tag made it a popular choice for those seeking European sports car flair without the hefty premium. While not as outrageously priced as a rally homologation special or a V8 Diplomat, pristine, low-mileage examples of the Opel GT, especially early 1.9-liter models or the rare Aero GT concept, have seen a steady appreciation in value. They represent a unique chapter in Opel's history, demonstrating its ability to produce a truly desirable and timeless sports car that continues to charm collectors worldwide.
Conclusion: Beyond the Mainstream
Opel's legacy is far richer and more diverse than its common perception suggests. Beyond the millions of reliable family cars, lies a captivating lineage of exceptional automobiles. From the stately V8-powered Diplomat limousines that rivaled Germany's best, to the exotic, Italian-styled Bitter coupes, and the fire-breathing Group B rally machines, Opel has consistently pushed boundaries in luxury, performance, and design. These rare and highly sought-after models serve as a testament to Opel's ambition and engineering prowess. For the discerning collector, they represent not just a piece of automotive history, but a valuable and often breathtaking investment, solidifying their status as the most expensive Opel cars of all time.
