Sixty years have passed since the birth of the ancestor of the Opel Astra. It was the summer of 1966, in fact, when the German car manufacturer launched the third generation of the Rekord, completely redesigned. Not only did it offer improved comfort and featured innovative body styles and characteristics, but it also enjoyed a wide range of versions. Two- and four-door sedans, coupes, three- and five-door station wagons, and a sporty convertible: there was something for everyone.
Read more Antonelli, enough track limits: “My father ‘threatened’ to twist my neck”
Opel Rekord C turns 60
Under the hood, CIH engines with overhead camshafts of four and six cylinders powered the Rekord C. The range included eight engines, with power outputs from 43 kW (58 hp) to 78 kW (106 hp) with displacements ranging from 1.5 liters to 2.2 liters. Aside from the engine, there were several innovations. Thanks to the modern chassis, the front track width was increased from 1,325 to 1,400 millimeters. An improvement in suspension damping increased both driving comfort and safety. And that’s not all. Because leaf springs were no longer used on the rear axle, instead coil springs came into play, as well as double wishbones and a Panhard rod.
Production record
The Rekord was the only car in its category in which all versions were equipped with a dual-circuit braking system and a standard brake booster that facilitated rapid deceleration of the vehicle. The market appreciated it greatly: by the end of production, in December 1971, over 1.25 million units of the third generation Rekord had rolled off the production line. In short: the Rekord C was the first model of the German brand to exceed one million units. Today, it is Astra’s turn to carry on its legacy: it is available with battery electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, or diesel engines.
Read more Renault at Viva! Festival for the fifth year in a row
Click here to add Formula Passion as a preferred source on Google Discover: you will find our content more easily!
Read more Vowles surprises on the Williams crisis: “One of the best things that could have happened to us”
