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Opel Kadett (1973-79)

All Model Production Total: 1,701,076
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Price New: The new price of a 1973 Opel Kadett in the UK was approximately **£1,200**.
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Rivals: In 1973, the Opel Kadett faced competition from several other cars. Here are the approximate new prices of some of its main rivals at that time:

### Ford Escort Mk1
- **Starting Price**: Around £1,100

### Vauxhall Viva HC
- **Starting Price**: Around £1,050

### Morris Marina
- **Starting Price**: Around £1,000

These prices made the Opel Kadett a competitive option in the market, offering a blend of affordability and performance.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are approximately **85 Opel Kadett models** still licensed on the roads in the UK, with an additional **125 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)**.
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PLEASE NOTE: The information provided below is given in averages across Northern Ireland at the date specified. Petrol reflect average prices for four star fuel in litres.

Road Tax: In 1973, the cost of road tax for a vehicle like the Opel Kadett in Northern Ireland was based on the engine size. For a car with an engine size over 1,550cc, the annual road tax was approximately **£40**.
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Petrol: In 1973, the average cost of four-star petrol in Northern Ireland was approximately **38.7 pence per litre**.
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Insurance: In 1973, the average cost of insurance for a new Opel Kadett in Northern Ireland would have been approximately **£30 to £50** per year. This cost could vary based on factors such as the driver's age, driving history, and location.
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Opel Kadett (1973-79)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Opel Kadett (1973-1979) had a few common faults that owners often encountered:

1. **Rust**: This was a significant issue, especially in the body panels and undercarriage.
2. **Engine Problems**: Smaller engines were known to be rough, and there were issues with the camshaft in some models.
3. **Cooling System**: Problems with the cooling system were not uncommon, leading to overheating.

Despite these faults, the Kadett was known for being economical and great to drive.
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Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.

The Opel Kadett has gone through several generations over its production span:

1. **Kadett I (1936-1940)**: The first generation, produced before World War II.
2. **Kadett A (1962-1965)**: The post-war revival of the Kadett.
3. **Kadett B (1965-1973)**: A larger and more modern version.
4. **Kadett C (1973-1979)**: Known for its rear-wheel-drive layout.
5. **Kadett D (1979-1984)**: The first front-wheel-drive Kadett.
6. **Kadett E (1984-1991)**: The final generation before it was succeeded by the Opel Astra.
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Trim Levels
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) was available in several trim levels:

1. **Standard**: The base model with essential features.
2. **Kadett L**: Offered additional comfort and equipment.
3. **Kadett Berlina**: Introduced in May 1977, featuring the larger 1.6-litre "S" engine and enhanced trim and equipment.
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Engines
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) was available with a variety of engines:

1. **993 cc OHV I4**: Producing around 40 hp.
2. **1196 cc OHV I4**: Producing around 60 hp.
3. **1584 cc CIH I4**: Producing around 75 hp.
4. **1897 cc CIH I4**: Available in some sporty models.
5. **1979 cc CIH I4**: Available in later models.
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Performance
The Opel Kadett GT/E (1975-1979) was known for its impressive performance for the time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Engine**: 1.9-litre cam-in-head engine, later expanded to 2.0 litres.
- **Power**: Initially 105 bhp, later models had 115 bhp.
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in around 9.0 seconds.
- **Top Speed**: Approximately 110-118 mph.

The Kadett GT/E was praised for its excellent handling and road holding, making it a desirable model both then and now.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You can find spare parts for the Opel Kadett (1973-1979) at several online stores in the UK and Ireland:

1. **[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/opel-kadett-carparts)**: Offers a wide range of parts for various Kadett models.
2. **[AutoDoc](https://www.auto-doc.ie/spares/opel/kadett/kadett-c)**: Provides affordable spare parts for the Kadett C.
3. **[EU-Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/opel/kadett/kadett-c-coupe)**: Specializes in parts for the Kadett C Coupe.
4. **[Car-Parts.ie](https://www.car-parts.ie/car-brands/opel/kadett-c-parts)**: Another option for finding the spare parts you need.
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Specialists
There are several garage services in Northern Ireland that can help with your Opel Kadett (1973-1979):

1. **[RMS Motoring Forum](https://rmsmotoring.com/forum/threads/79-opel-kadett-c-build-built-show-smash-to-road-rocket.226075/page-8)**: This forum has a community of classic car enthusiasts who can recommend local garages and services.
2. **[Classic & Sports Car](https://www.classicandsportscar.com/guides/classic-cars-a-to-z/opel-kadett-1973-79)**: They have a directory of classic car specialists, including those who work on Opel Kadetts.
3. **[Honest John Classics](https://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/opel/kadett-c/specs/)**: They provide reviews and recommendations for classic car services.
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Racing
The Opel Kadett C (1973-1979) did compete in racing events. It was particularly popular in rallying and circuit racing due to its rear-wheel-drive layout and lightweight design. Here are some highlights:

1. **Rallying**: The Kadett C was used in various rally events, including the San Marino Rally, where it achieved notable success.
2. **Circuit Racing**: The Kadett C GT/E was a popular choice for circuit racing, especially in Group 2 and Group 4 categories.

Opel did release special editions of the Kadett C specifically for motorsport:

1. **Opel Kadett C GT/E**: This was a high-performance version with a 1.9-litre engine, later expanded to 2.0 litres, producing up to 115 bhp.
2. **Opel Kadett C Coupé Gr.4**: This model was built to Group 4 racing specifications, featuring a 2.0-litre engine with up to 260 hp.

These special editions were designed to excel in rallying and circuit racing, making them popular choices among motorsport enthusiasts.

There are a few famous drivers associated with the Opel Kadett C in motorsport:

1. **Walter Röhrl**: A legendary rally driver who had success with the Kadett C GT/E, particularly in events like the Monte Carlo Rally and the Portugal Rally.
2. **Rauno Aaltonen**: Another renowned rally driver who competed with the Kadett C GT/E alongside Walter Röhrl.
3. **Chris Esser**: CEO of PROsport Racing, who has raced with the Kadett C Coupé Gr.4 in events like the ADAC 1000 km race.

These drivers helped to cement the Kadett C's reputation in the world of motorsport.
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Valuation
The value of a 1973-1979 Opel Kadett in the UK today can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and any modifications. Generally, you can expect prices to range from **£1,000 to £10,000**.
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Clubs
There are clubs in both Ireland and Northern Ireland for Opel GT enthusiasts. Here are a few options:

### Northern Ireland:
1. **[The Association of Old Vehicle Clubs in Northern Ireland](https://www.carandclassic.com/clubs/the-association-of-old-vehicle-clubs-in-n-ireland-ltd)**: This association includes 29 clubs catering to old motor cars, motorcycles, tractors, and commercial vehicles.
2. **[V8 Owners Forum](https://www.v8forum.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12057)**: While not exclusively for the Opel GT, this forum has members who own and restore Opel GT models.

### Ireland:
1. **[Opel Owners Club of Ireland](https://www.facebook.com/groups/totalopel/)**: This Facebook group is dedicated to Opel owners in Ireland, providing a platform for discussion, events, and support.

These clubs and communities can provide valuable resources, support, and connections with other Opel GT enthusiasts.
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